Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal, a country steeped in natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This 10-day tour, starting and ending in New Delhi, combines flights, road trips, and cultural exploration, offering a unique glimpse into Nepal’s treasures.
Your adventure begins with a morning flight from New Delhi to Lucknow, followed by a scenic drive to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in western Nepal. Upon arrival at Lucknow airport, your guide will assist with luggage and group arrangements. The 190-kilometer journey to Nepalgunj offers picturesque views, with stops for light snacks and refreshments. Check into your 4-star hotel and enjoy a comprehensive briefing about the tour’s schedule and highlights. Dinner will be served at the hotel, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
Meals: Snacks, Dinner
Max Elevation: 123m
Accommodation: 4-star hotel (sharing basis)
Start the day early with a flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot, a picturesque Himalayan town. Due to the unpredictable weather in this region, delays are possible. After arrival in Simikot, settle into a dormitory-style guesthouse and take some time to acclimatize to the altitude. If conditions permit, you may take a helicopter trip to Hilsa, the border town.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 2910m
Accommodation: Guesthouse (dormitory style)
Important Note: An additional day is allocated to manage potential flight delays and ensure a smooth transition.
Experience a thrilling helicopter ride from Simikot to Hilsa, showcasing dramatic Himalayan landscapes. Cross the Karnali River via suspension bridge to reach the Nepal-China border. After clearing immigration formalities, board a bus for a short drive to Taklakot, a vibrant border town. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing to the higher altitude and enjoying local amenities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 4025m
Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel
Important Note: Carry essentials like water bottles and snacks, as facilities at Hilsa are limited.
Dedicate the day to rest and acclimatization in Taklakot. Explore local markets to purchase travel essentials such as trekking poles or gloves. Engage in light activities to familiarize yourself with the altitude and take advantage of your hotel’s comfortable amenities. This day ensures you are well-prepared for the challenging days ahead.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 4025m
Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel
Today’s highlight is the journey to the sacred Lake Mansarovar. After breakfast, drive across the serene Tibetan Plateau, stopping at Lake Rakshas Taal, known for its mythical significance. As you approach Lake Mansarovar, catch your first glimpse of the majestic Mount Kailash. Upon arrival at Chiu Gompa, check into your guesthouse and explore the lake’s tranquil beauty. Participate in a parikrama (circumambulation) of the lake by bus, covering 90 kilometers.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 4590m
Accommodation: Guesthouse (sharing basis)
Important Note: Holy dips in the lake are not permitted; pilgrims can use lake water for rituals.
Embark on the first day of trekking after a drive to Darchen, the starting point of the Mount Kailash parikrama. A short bus ride takes you to Tarboche, where the trek begins. Hire ponies or porters if needed, and follow the 12-kilometer trail to Dirapuk. Marvel at the South Face of Mount Kailash and pass through Yam Dwar, the “Gateway to Moksha.” Upon reaching Dirapuk, admire the North Face of Mount Kailash and settle into your guesthouse for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 5210m
Distance: 12 km trek
Accommodation: Guesthouse (sharing basis)
Optional Activity: Consult your guide for a trek to Charan Sparsh, a challenging 3-kilometer route to touch Mount Kailash’s base.
Brace yourself for the most demanding day of the trek, covering 22 kilometers from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk. Begin early to witness the golden sunrise over Mount Kailash before ascending to Dolma La Pass (5630m), the trek’s highest point. Visit the sacred sites of Shiva Tsal and Gauri Kund at the summit. The descent to Zuthulpuk is gentler, allowing you to enjoy the serene surroundings. Rest at your guesthouse upon arrival.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 5630m
Distance: 22 km trek
Accommodation: Guesthouse (sharing basis)
Important Note: Non-trekkers can stay in Darchen and explore nearby sites.
Complete the trek with a short 6-kilometer walk to Chongdo, where vehicles await to take you back to Darchen. Rejoin the group and drive to Taklakot, reminiscing about your trekking adventure along the way. Celebrate the completion of the Kailash parikrama with refreshments and shared stories.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 4575m
Distance: 6 km trek + 105 km drive
Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel
Optional Activity: Visit local Tibetan markets for souvenirs.
After breakfast, drive to the Nepal-China border and cross back into Nepal. From Hilsa, take a helicopter to Simikot, followed by a connecting flight to Nepalgunj. Depending on the weather, delays may occur. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, drive to Lucknow and check into a hotel near the airport for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Elevation: 2910m
Distance: Multiple segments by road, helicopter, and flight
Accommodation: Hotel near Lucknow airport
Important Note: Pack essentials as Hilsa offers limited facilities.
Conclude your journey with a morning flight from Lucknow to New Delhi. Reflect on your experiences, from sacred landscapes to vibrant cultural encounters, as you return home.
Meals: Breakfast
Max Elevation: 123m
Accommodation: Not applicable
This comprehensive 10-day tour offers an incredible mix of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and spiritual enrichment, making it a truly unforgettable experience.