A life-transforming 10-day helicopter pilgrimage to the spiritual heart of the universe — the eternal home of Lord Shiva.
Mount Kailash (6,638m), the axis mundi, stands in the remote Tibetan plateau as the physical manifestation of Mount Meru. Revered across multiple religions, it is considered by Hindus to be the eternal abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Beside the mountain lies Lake Mansarovar (4,650m), the highest freshwater lake in the world, born from the mind of Lord Brahma.
This sacred 10-day expedition by helicopter combines Kathmandu's cultural legacy with quick high-altitude transfers via Nepalgunj and Simikot, ensuring a safer and highly focused spiritual journey. The highlight is the 3-day Kailash Parikrama (52 km circuit) crossing the formidable Dolma La Pass and passing the sacred Gauri Kunda.
Click on any day to view the path, elevation details, and highlights.
Arrive at Kathmandu Airport. Our representative will meet and transfer you to the hotel. A detailed group briefing will take place at 06:00 PM to prepare you for the sacred journey ahead.
Participate in a full day of sightseeing at Pashupatinath Temple (abode of Shiva), Guhyeshwari Temple (Shakti Peetha), Jal Narayan (sleeping Vishnu), Patan Durbar Square, and Banglamukhi Temple. In the evening, transfer to Kathmandu airport and fly to Nepalgunj near the Indian border (1-hour flight).
Catch an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot (approx. 1 hour). Immediately transfer to a helicopter for a scenic 20-minute flight to Hilsa, flying over deep gorges of the Karnali River and green Himalayan hills. Land in Hilsa and settle into the guesthouse.
A short 30-minute walk from the hotel to the Hilsa border immigration office. Complete customs procedures, cross the suspension bridge into Tibet (China), where our luxury A/C coach will be waiting. Drive 30 minutes to Taklakot/Purang town.
A mandatory day designed entirely for rest and acclimatization to ensure physical preparedness for high altitudes. Enjoy a warm breakfast and take a relaxed stroll through the local market, keeping physical exertion to a minimum.
Drive 70 km through breathtaking Tibetan scenery. Catch your first glimpse of Rakshas Taal, followed by the turquoise expanse of Lake Mansarovar. Upon arrival, take a holy dip in the crystalline waters, conduct prayers, puja, and havan ceremonies on the lake shore.
Drive 38 km to Darchen, then proceed to Yama Dwar (Tarboche) – the starting point of the Kailash Parikrama. Cross through the Gateway of Death to leave behind wordly attachments. Trek 12 km (approx 5-6 hours) alongside the Lha-Chu river to Derapuk, enjoying views of the West Face and finally the stunning Golden North Face of Mount Kailash.
The most challenging day of the yatra. Trek 22 km (8-10 hours) starting at dawn. Ascend to the highest point of the pilgrimage, Dolma La Pass (5,600m), representing spiritual rebirth. Descend past the beautiful, emerald-green Gauri Kunda (Parvati's lake) and trek on to the cave of miracles at Zuthulpuk.
Trek 3 hours to conclude the Parikrama near Darchen, where the vehicle awaits. Drive back to the Nepal-Hilsa border (approx. 2 hours). Cross immigration and walk back into Nepal to rest in Hilsa overnight (or fly to Simikot if weather permits).
Take an early morning helicopter flight to Simikot, connect to Nepalgunj by flight, and drive 4 hours in our A/C vehicle to the Lucknow Airport (departure flights must be scheduled after 5:00 PM).