Travel Blog

Touching down in Kathmandu, the air feels thick with history and anticipation. The city, a blend of ancient and modern, serves as the gateway to a spiritual adventure that promises both physical challenge and profound insight. After navigating the bustling streets from Tribhuvan International Airport to our hotel, we take a moment to relax. Later, we explore Thamel, the heart of tourist Kathmandu, where narrow alleys are lined with vibrant shops, cozy cafes, and a medley of languages. The day concludes with a welcome dinner, where we meet our guides and fellow travelers, sharing stories and expectations for the journey ahead.

Our second day is devoted to Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural heritage. We start with a visit to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city. The stupa’s eyes seem to follow you, a reminder of the watchful presence of the divine. Next, we head to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, where the air is thick with incense and chanting. After lunch, we visit Boudhanath Stupa, a massive mandala and one of the largest stupas in the world. The peaceful hum of monks reciting prayers and the sight of pilgrims walking clockwise around the stupa set a contemplative mood for our upcoming pilgrimage.

Leaving Kathmandu behind, we drive towards Syabrubesi, the starting point of our Tibetan journey. The drive is an adventure in itself, winding through lush valleys and terraced fields, with the occasional glimpse of snow-capped peaks. After hours on the road, we arrive in the quaint village of Syabrubesi, where we rest and prepare for the border crossing into Tibet.

Today, we cross the border into Tibet at the Kyirong port. The change in landscape is immediate and striking – from Nepal’s green hills to Tibet’s stark, majestic terrain. After completing immigration formalities, we drive to the town of Kyirong. The rest of the day is spent acclimatizing to the higher altitude, exploring the local area, and enjoying the first taste of Tibetan culture.

Our journey continues with a drive to Saga. The scenery along the way is breathtaking, with vast plains framed by towering mountains. The long drive is punctuated by stops to take in the stunning views and capture photographs. Arriving in Saga, we settle into our accommodations and prepare for the next leg of our journey.

Excitement builds as we head towards Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Upon arrival, the serene beauty of the lake, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, leaves us in awe. We take a ritual dip in the holy waters, believed to purify the soul and body. The reflection of Mount Kailash in the lake’s clear waters is a sight to behold. We spend the night near the lake, soaking in the tranquility and spiritual ambiance.

After a peaceful morning by the lake, we drive to Darchen, the base camp for the Mount Kailash Kora (circumambulation). Darchen is bustling with pilgrims from various corners of the world, all here for the same sacred purpose. The day is spent preparing for the trek, arranging supplies, and acclimatizing to the altitude.

The real adventure begins today as we start the Kora around Mount Kailash. The first leg of the trek leads us to Dirapuk, offering breathtaking views of the north face of Mount Kailash. The trail is challenging but rewarding, with every step bringing us closer to the sacred mountain. We arrive at Dirapuk by evening, resting in a simple guesthouse with stunning views of Mount Kailash.

The second day of the Kora is the most challenging but also the most rewarding. We trek over the Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the journey at 5,630 meters. The ascent is steep, but the sight of prayer flags fluttering at the pass and the panoramic views make it worth the effort. Descending into the valley, we continue to Zutulpuk, where we spend the night in basic accommodations, reflecting on the spiritual significance of our journey.

We complete the Kora today, trekking back to Darchen. The trail is easier, following a river and passing through verdant meadows. The sense of accomplishment as we finish the circumambulation is profound. Back in Darchen, we celebrate with a group dinner, sharing stories and experiences from the trek.

We begin our return journey with a drive back to Saga. The familiar landscapes pass by, offering one last chance to absorb the beauty of Tibet. Arriving in Saga, we rest and prepare for the next day’s journey back to Kyirong.

The drive back to Kyirong is filled with a sense of nostalgia as we retrace our steps through the Tibetan plateau. We arrive in Kyirong by evening, where we spend the night, preparing for our return to Nepal.

Crossing back into Nepal, we make our way to Kathmandu. The journey is long but comfortable, and the sight of the familiar Nepali landscape is a welcome change. Back in Kathmandu, we settle into our hotel, enjoying the comforts of the city after days of rugged travel.

Today is a free day to relax and explore Kathmandu at our own pace. Some of us visit the vibrant markets, while others opt for a quiet day at the hotel or a visit to one of the city’s many temples. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey we’ve undertaken and the friendships we’ve forged.

Our journey comes to an end as we prepare for our departure. The experiences of the past 15 days have left an indelible mark on each of us. From the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, this trip has been a profound adventure, offering not just physical challenges but deep spiritual insights. As we bid farewell to Nepal, we carry with us memories that will last a lifetime, and a renewed sense of connection to the world and ourselves.

This 15-day trip from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is more than just a travel experience; it’s a journey of the soul. Each day brought new challenges and rewards, from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the tranquil shores of Lake Mansarovar and the sacred Kora around Mount Kailash. The physical exertion, the stunning landscapes, and the deep spiritual connections made this trip unforgettable. Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment, adventure, or a break from the routine, this journey offers something for everyone. It’s a testament to the enduring power of pilgrimage and the beauty of the natural world.