Rising from the remote Trans-Himalayan plateau of western Tibet near the sources of four great Asian rivers, Mount Kailash (6,638 m) is among the world’s most sacred landscapes. Revered for over two millennia in Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon traditions as the cosmic axis, it remains unclimbed out of spiritual respect, while nearby Lake Manasarovar symbolizes purification and awakening. Once part of the ancient kingdom of Zhang Zhung, this region continues to draw pilgrims seeking profound spiritual depth.

In Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, devotion lives on in the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple, where pilgrims still circle the Barkhor. South of the city, Samye Monastery—Tibet’s first monastery founded in the 8th century—stands as a mandala-shaped symbol of Buddhism’s establishment in Tibet, surrounded by meditation sites such as Drak Yerpa, Chimpu Hermitage, and the sacred retreat valley of Dak Yangdzong.

This 12-day pilgrimage offers gradual acclimatization, careful coordination, and meaningful cultural interpretation, ensuring a safe, reflective, and spiritually grounded journey through Tibet’s most revered landscapes.

This route follows the "Northern Route" through the Tibetan plateau, allowing for progressive acclimatization before reaching the high-altitude trek.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3,650m)

Arrival and initial acclimatization. Rest is the priority. In the late afternoon, enjoy a gentle walk at the Barkhor Circuit to witness the evening devotion at Jokhang Temple, immersing yourself in the Mandala of Lhasa.

Day 2: The Heart of Tibetan Buddhism

Morning visit to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibet. Afternoon exploration of the Potala Palace. And pujas, practices.

Day 3: Flight to the High Plateau & Lake Manasarovar

Flight from Lhasa to Ngari Gunsa Airport (NGQ). Meet your team and drive (approx. 3–4 hours) across the Barkha plain. First glimpse of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar (4,590m). Overnight in a guesthouse near Chiu Gompa.

Day 4: The Waters of Purification: Manasarovar

A day for rituals and meditation. Visit Chiu Gompa, where Guru Rinpoche spent his final days in Tibet. Practice by the lake shores, facing the southern face of Kailash, serves as the "outer" preparation for the Dakini practices.

Day 5: Gateway to the Dakinis: Darchen to Khado Singdong

Short drive to Tarboche (Yama Dwar). Begin the trek into the Lha Chu Valley. Visit Chhoku Gompa before reaching the sacred rock of Khado Singdong (Lion’s Face). Establish the connection with the site. Return to Darchen for the night.

Day 6: Khado Singdong – The Path of the Wisdom Dakini

Return to the Lha Chu Valley. This day is dedicated to the Wrathful Wisdom of Senge Dongma. Meditation near the "holy drips" and the lion-shaped rock formations. Practice focuses on clearing spiritual obstacles. Return to Darchen.

Day 7: Khado Singdong – Silence and Absorption

A full day of puja and silent contemplation. Explore the nearby meditation caves where historical yogis are believed to have attained realization. Return to Darchen.

Day 8: Khado Singdong – Arya Tara & Medicine Buddha

Final practice day. Practice focued on Medicine Buddha and Arya Tara. Final return to Darchen.

> for Days 5–8, Please be advised that these four days involve repetitive trekking at high altitude (4,700m – 4,850m). Each day requires a round-trip walk of approximately 10–12 km (6–7 miles) between the trailhead and the sacred site. We will try to minimise walking with the drive as far as the authorities allow.

Day 9: Return to the Sacred Mirror: Manasarovar

Bid farewell to the mountain and return to the shores of Manasarovar.

Day 10: Flight to Lhasa – Guru Rinpoche Day

Drive to Ngari Gunsa for the return flight. As it is Guru Rinpoche Day, the evening in Lhasa includes a special Guru Yoga puja, honoring the master.

Day 11: Integration and Rest in Lhasa

A "buffer" day for gentle recovery. A time for rest, laundry, and optional visits to local handicraft centers or the Norbulingka.

Day 12: The Compassion of Tara & Departure

Morning visit to the Drolma Lhakhang (Tara Temple) at Netang, associated with the master Atisha. Afternoon transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for the flight to Kathmandu, descending from the high plateau to the lush valley below.