Tour of Nepal: A Spiritual Himalayan Adventure

Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through Nepal and Tibet, culminating in the awe-inspiring vistas of Mt. Kailash and the sacred Lake Manasarovar. This overland adventure offers a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. Designed for those seeking a fulfilling and leisurely travel experience, this tour is a gateway to the heart of the Himalayas and the soul of ancient traditions.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,334m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where a tour representative will warmly greet you. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s vibrant streets and local markets, soaking in its cultural charm. Rest overnight at a comfortable 3-star equivalent hotel, sharing accommodations with fellow travelers.

Meals: Vegetarian Dinner

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Kathmandu’s revered religious sites. Visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue to the Budhanilkantha Temple, renowned for its stunning statue of the reclining Vishnu. Return to the hotel for lunch and a briefing session in the evening. Optionally, experience a scenic mountain flight offering unparalleled views of the Himalayas.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Drive to Dhunche or Shyabru Besi (126-145 km)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic yet challenging drive to Dhunche or Shyabru Besi. The route traverses winding mountain roads, offering glimpses of Nepal’s picturesque countryside. Check into a basic dormitory-style guesthouse upon arrival and relax for the evening.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Journey to Keyrong (4,130m) via Rasuwagadhi

Following breakfast, drive to Rasuwagadhi, the border between Nepal and Tibet. Complete immigration formalities and cross the border on foot before boarding a Chinese bus to Keyrong. Admire the pristine mountain scenery and settle into a dormitory-style guesthouse for the night.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Acclimatization in Keyrong

Spend the day acclimatizing to the high altitude in Keyrong. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the local marketplace and surrounding areas. Participate in a brief orientation to prepare for the upcoming journey. Rest overnight in a dormitory-style guesthouse.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Drive to Dongba (4,626m)

Enjoy a scenic drive to New Dongba, passing through the mesmerizing landscapes along the Brahmaputra River. Stop for lunch in Saga town before continuing the journey. Upon arrival, check into your dormitory-style guesthouse and rest for the night.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Travel to Lake Manasarovar (4,599m)

Begin this momentous day with a drive to the sacred Lake Manasarovar. En route, cross the Mayumla Pass (4,800m) and complete customs formalities. Witness the first glimpse of Mt. Kailash from the lake’s shores. Check into a guesthouse near Chiu Gompa and explore the serene surroundings of the lake and monastery.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 8: Spiritual Activities at Lake Manasarovar; Drive to Darchen (4,731m)

After breakfast, take a holy dip in Lake Manasarovar and perform spiritual rituals on its banks. Visit the nearby Lake Rakshastal during the drive to Darchen. Optional excursions to Ashtapad can be arranged based on local permissions. Overnight stay in a guesthouse at Darchen.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 9: Start Parikrama; Trek to Dirapukh (4,909m)

Drive to Yam Dwar, the starting point of the Mt. Kailash parikrama. Begin a 12-km trek to Dirapukh, either on foot or with the assistance of ponies. Enjoy stunning views of the north face of Mt. Kailash. Overnight in a dormitory-style lodge at Dirapukh.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Packaged Snacks for Lunch, and Light Dinner

Day 10: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La Pass (5,630m)

Embark on the most challenging section of the trek, crossing Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the journey. Descend to Gauri Kund, a sacred lake, before continuing to Zuthulphuk. Spend the night in a basic dormitory-style guesthouse.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Packaged Snacks for Lunch, and Light Dinner

Day 11: Complete Parikrama; Drive to Dongba

Conclude the trek with an 8-km walk to Darchen, where a vehicle will transport you to Dongba. En route, complete the remaining 30% circumambulation of Lake Manasarovar. Check into a guesthouse in Dongba for the night.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 12: Return to Keyrong

After breakfast, drive back to Keyrong, retracing the route through the scenic Tibetan landscape. Rest overnight in a dormitory-style guesthouse.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu via Rasuwagadhi

Complete customs formalities at Rasuwagadhi before returning to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, concluding this spiritual and adventurous Himalayan tour.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast

This meticulously planned itinerary ensures a balanced experience of spiritual immersion and physical adventure, making it an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.