Mount Kailash, also known as Kailash Parvat, is a sacred mountain in Tibet, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon practitioners. Located in the remote south-western corner of Tibet, it stands as a symbol of spiritual significance. The mountain is situated in the Himalayan range, about 1,200 kilometers from Lhasa, with Lake Manasarovar at its southern foot. This lake is the highest freshwater lake in the world and an important pilgrimage site. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the area to experience its spiritual ambiance.

The road from Lhasa to Mount Kailash covers about 1,200 kilometers. The route primarily follows the well-paved G318 Friendship Highway, with sections of gravel and dirt roads once you veer off the main highway towards Kailash. While the journey is long, it offers spectacular views of the Himalayan landscape, including lofty mountains and pristine lakes. Travelers can expect a bumpy but scenic ride with varying road conditions.

The Kailash Kora is a spiritual pilgrimage walk around the sacred mountain. There are two routes: the inner kora, which is shorter and takes one day, and the outer kora, which is a 52-kilometer trek and takes about three days to complete. The outer kora, which is recommended for most tourists, takes trekkers through stunning landscapes and includes a challenging ascent to the Dolma La Pass at 5,636 meters. The trek can be physically demanding, but it is a rewarding spiritual journey.

Mount Kailash lies at 6,638 meters above sea level, and the kora route reaches an altitude of 5,636 meters at the Dolma La Pass. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to spend a few days in Lhasa, where you will begin your journey, to adjust to the altitude. On the way to Kailash, stop in Saga to further acclimatize before undertaking the kora. Hydration, protein-rich food, and adequate rest are essential for adjusting to the high altitudes.

To travel to Mount Kailash, travelers need several permits. The first is the Tibet Travel Permit, required to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), which is arranged by your tour operator after booking your tour. In addition to this, you will need the Alien’s Travel Permit to travel outside Lhasa and reach Mount Kailash. Other permits such as the Frontier Pass and Military Permit may also be necessary, and your guide will arrange these once you arrive in Lhasa. It is important to note that personal applications for these permits are not allowed.

The best times to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are from April to June and from mid-September to early October. During spring, the weather is stable and mild, offering clear views of the mountain. Summer brings heavy rains, making roads muddy and travel difficult. Autumn, with its stunning scenery, is particularly ideal for trekking, while winter can be challenging due to deep snow, making the region difficult to access.

The Kailash Kora is one of the most physically demanding treks in the world. Over three days, trekkers cover about 52 kilometers, with each day requiring a distance of 14 to 20 kilometers. The terrain is rugged, with rocky paths and steep ascents, particularly when climbing to the Dolma La Pass. The trek is not recommended for novice trekkers; a good level of physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience are necessary. Even experienced trekkers may require trekking poles to assist with the challenging climbs.