Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Kathmandu is the heart of Nepal and its capital, lying at about 1,350 m above sea level. A Peregrine guide will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in a private vehicle, where your trekking guide will be waiting. You can either rest for the day or stroll around the bustling streets of Thamel or any nearby attractions.

Logistics: Your guide will brief you on the Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot itinerary. They will also be collecting your passport for the Tibet group visa and processing permits for restricted areas. Make sure to double-check your gears and purchase any items that you are missing immediately in the city.

Kathmandu does not lie at a high enough altitude to cause acclimatization issues for most travelers, but you will soon be at a much higher altitude. Today’s preparation is to ensure you have all the essential gear in place and that your body is well-rested. You might enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner in the evening and an early bedtime.

Tip: Stay hydrated and avoid anything too spicy on the very first day to give your body time to adjust to a new environment.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trip Preparation

Today, you will explore the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, and make final preparations for the trek. You will visit some of Kathmandu’s iconic cultural sites that showcase Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. You might see the historic “Bhaktapur Durbar Square”, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, or the massive Buddhist shrine, Boudhanath.

After the city tour, you will focus on the logistics for the upcoming Mount Kailash Trek. Your guide will obtain the necessary permits and group Tibet visa if not already in hand. Keep extra passport photos and your travel documents ready, as they may come in handy.

Organize your duffel bag and make sure you have all the necessary gear, including sleeping bags, a down jacket, and water purification tablets. Pack light but thoroughly, as the trek will be in a remote place with few shops around. Check and organize everything for the trek by evening, and rest early to charge yourself for the start of your Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

Today’s journey takes you from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in the flat Terai near the Indian border. Have an early breakfast, then head to the airport for the short flight. As the plane descends, the green hills and distant Himalayan peaks give way to vast, sunlit plains, and the air grows noticeably warmer. In about an hour, you’ll land in Nepalgunj, sitting around 150 meters above sea level, where the humid, tropical climate feels very different from Kathmandu.

Logistics: In Nepalgunj, your guide meets you and drives you to the hotel. Spend the afternoon resting, exploring the streets, or visiting the local markets at your own pace.

Nepalgunj thrives as a trading center, with strong Indian influences in its food, clothing, and daily life. You can walk through the local market, filled with spice stalls, colorful textiles, and small food vendors. The town also has a small zoo and a few temples scattered around. The heat can be intense, so drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion. This stop mainly positions you for tomorrow’s flight to Simikot. All flights depart early, so plan for an early night.

Tip: Keep your day pack ready with essentials such as your passport, permits, camera, and a jacket. Rest well despite the warm climate, using a fan or air conditioning if available, as Simikot offers only basic facilities and limited comfort.

Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot and Trek to Dharapuri

Today, you leave before dawn and head to the airport for your flight to Simikot. The planes are small, often seating only 18 passengers, and pilots fly only in good weather, so that departure times can change. The 40- to 45-minute flight offers stunning views as the aircraft passes over deep river valleys and rugged mountain ridges. The Himalayas stretch across the horizon, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the journey.

Landing on Simikot’s short gravel runway is unforgettable. Stepping outside, you immediately notice the cooler, thinner mountain air. At roughly 2,950 meters above sea level, the altitude is a significant change from Nepalgunj. The scenery around the small town highlights the dramatic shift to the highlands, and the crisp air signals that you have reached the start of the trekking section.

After meeting your local trek crew in Simikot, you start the trekking section of the Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot. The trail climbs gently above the town, winding past wheat and barley fields on rocky ground. Within the first hour, you reach a small pass at about 3,150 meters. From there, you can see the surrounding peaks and the Humla Karnali River far below.

Take your time on this climb, as even a short ascent can leave you winded at this altitude. From the pass, the trail descends for roughly an hour through pine forests toward the village of Tuling, continuing onward to Majgaon.

The descent is enjoyable, but the rocky steps require careful footing. Along the way, you encounter local villagers of both Hindu and Buddhist heritage tending to cattle or carrying supplies, as no roads reach this remote area. The sights, sounds, and everyday rhythms of these communities make the first day of trekking vivid and memorable.

After descending to the valley floor, the trail levels and runs along the Karnali River. The path rises and falls gently, a type of terrain locals call “Nepali flat,” meaning it undulates without significant climbs or drops. You move through lush greenery and pass terraced fields of barley, buckwheat, and potatoes that provide for the nearby villages.

By early afternoon, after about four to five hours of walking, you reach Dharapuri at roughly 2,300 meters. This small settlement sits beside the river and offers a few simple lodges or campsites for overnight stays. Once you set up your tent or check into a teahouse, take some time to rest and listen to the nearby rushing river.

Tip: Although this first day involves a net loss in elevation, it still helps your body adjust to the altitude. The sun in the mountains is intense, so remember to drink plenty of water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen while walking along the trail.

Day 5: Dharapuri to Kermi

You begin the day with an early start, heading west along the Karnali River Valley. The trail is mostly gentle, with only minor ups and downs. You walk for about five to six hours, covering a moderate level of difficulty. The scenery remains green and peaceful, with the river flowing alongside and small villages dotting the valley.

The trail follows the riverbank for most of the day, rising and falling gently in stretches of what locals call “Nepali flat.” The landscape slowly changes as the gorge tightens in places, with steep rocky slopes towering above—the Karnali River thunders below, carving its way through narrow channels. At times, the trail climbs above the river, giving expansive views of the water rushing through the gorges, then descends back to the flat riverside paths. Walking close to the river, you feel a refreshing breeze and hear the constant rush of water, adding a natural rhythm to the trek.

The trail takes you past small hamlets and terraced fields where locals grow barley, buckwheat, rice, and potatoes. Kermi, your stop for the day, is one of the first villages along the route with a predominantly Buddhist population. Stone chortens and colorful prayer flags mark the village, giving it a distinct spiritual character. You should arrive in the early to mid-afternoon, at about 2,860 meters above sea level.

Once in Kermi, take time to rest and recover from the walk. If you have the energy, you can make a short detour to the natural hot springs, about a 30-minute walk from the village. The warm water soothes tired muscles, a welcome relief after two days on the trail. Another option is to visit the two local monasteries. Laikyo Gompa dates back several centuries, while Lhundrup Choeling Gompa is newer, having been built within the last 100 years. Both attract very few visitors, so you can enjoy a quiet, authentic atmosphere. In the evening, you stay in either a tented camp, a simple homestay, or a teahouse. The night is calm, with the distant roar of the Karnali River and occasional calls of jackals from the surrounding hills.

Tip: Even though the village sits under 3,000 meters, temperatures drop at night, so layer up before sleeping. Use this relatively easy day to stretch and rest, letting your body acclimatize before the more challenging trails ahead.

Day 6: Kermi to Yalbang

You leave Kermi today and walk towards a more challenging section of the trail. The path climbs steadily out of the village. For about two hours, you pass through a relatively steep pass, climb out of the Kermi village, and gain several hundred meters in elevation.

The higher altitude makes your every step heavier than before. When you reach a small pass, stop and rest for a while. The view from there is spectacular. The Karnali gorge stretches toward Kermi, the river sparkling far below. The scenery shifts from lush valley to rugged highland terrain.

From the ridge, the trail drops to a large iron suspension bridge over the Salli Khola, or Salli River. The bridge sways as you cross, so step carefully. After the bridge, the path mostly descends or remains flat for the rest of the day. The most challenging climb is behind you. You walk through a quiet pine forest.

The Karnali River glimmers far below in the canyon. Along the trail, you may encounter caravans of mules or dzopas carrying goods. These pack animals have served local communities here for generations. Watch out for animals emerging from tight bends and give them enough space to pass safely.

By evening, you reach the village of Yalbang at around 2,879 meters. The town is home to Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery, the largest in the region. About 130 monks live here. A massive rock at the entrance is inscribed with Tibetan mantras, greeting everyone who arrives. If time allows, visit the monastery for the afternoon prayer session around 4 PM.

Sit quietly at the back of the hall and listen as the monks chant the scriptures. The monastery also runs a small school and health clinic, making it a central part of village life. You stay in simple but comfortable accommodation, either in a tent or a basic lodge. The night air is colder and drier here, a clear sign that you are moving deeper into the trans-Himalayan terrain. The crisp evening highlights the area’s remoteness and the quiet rhythm of village life.

Tip: For a unique cultural and spiritual significance, visit the monastery’s prayer session in Yalbang village. Also, make sure to refill your water bottles and stay hydrated. You will trek to an even higher elevation tomorrow.

Day 7: Yalbang to Tumkot

You will continue on your trek to a more remote region along the Karnali River today. After leaving the village of Yalbang, the trek will be relatively flat and easy, taking you to a gentle path above the river, passing a small town called Yangar. The tricky part starts after leaving the village of Yangar. You will notice the lush pine forests giving way to more scrub and rocks, and the climate getting drier as you progress. You pass through a trail cut into a cliffside, making it look almost like a three-sided tunnel through the rocks, displaying the ingenuity of trail builders in these remote mountains.

After passing through these rocky sections, you cross a large wooden suspension bridge over the Karnali River to climb the barren hillside. The climb is not as steep as it was yesterday, but you see barely any green vegetation around here. Along the way, you might pass by Muchu village (lies slightly off the main route), which is one of the last sizeable villages before the border. There are some shops and a police checkpoint here, so if any member of the group needs supplies or needs to check in with authorities, we can stop for a short while. After Muchu village, you will reach Tumkot, which lies about 3,300 m above sea level. Tumkot is a small, scattered village home to Dhungkar Choezom Monastery, affiliated with the Sakya tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery is located at the top of the hill, overlooking the entire village, so visiting it requires a 20- to 30-minute uphill walk. If you have enough energy, you can climb up to the monastery and see its ancient artifacts while also receiving a blessing from the residing monks. It’s worth the effort.

Reaching and settling in Tumkot will have taken about 5 to 6 hours of trekking. The atmosphere here is a high-altitude desert with colder nights, clearer skies, and sparse vegetation. Your stay will be very simple here, likely in a camp or a rustic homestay.

Logistics: Tonight, your guide will check everybody’s health. If you have any feelings of altitude sickness or other health conditions, report immediately.

Tips: Wear extra layers and a warm hat to bed, as nights are colder here and there are few wood fires. Try to eat well and rest well too, as you will need energy for tomorrow’s high pass.

Day 8: Tumkot to Yari

You continue on the trail and follow the Karnali river, though it is now a small stream as you near its headwaters. Today, the trail begins on the gentler side, compared to the previous days, from Tumkot to Yari, for about 6 to 7 hours. Along the way, you will notice that the trees have almost disappeared, with only low juniper bushes and alpine scrub visible in the rocky hills, a typical high-altitude Tibetan-plateau-like terrain. Wear a sunhat and reapply sunscreen regularly, as the air is dry and the sun can be super-hot here.

After crossing through a windswept valley with sparse vegetation and animals like yaks and goats, you will arrive at Yari village, also known as Yari Valley near Thado Dunga, most likely mid-afternoon. The village of Yari is the last sizeable village before you arrive at the Tibetan border. You will find a Nepal Police checkpoint here, and possibly other customs officials, as this place has historically been a trade route into Tibet. In Yari, you will find a couple of stone houses, seasonal shops, and maybe some small tea houses for trekkers and traders to rest.

Logistics: Tonight might be your final night of camping or staying in a basic lodge in Nepal. Check that all your documents and gear are correctly organized for crossing the Tibet border tomorrow. Your guide will brief you about the crossing process and what to expect.

It is normal to feel a slight headache or trouble sleeping at altitudes over 3,600m. Drink plenty of warm fluids (ginger tea or soup can alleviate it to some degree). Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages entirely. Rest well tonight, as you will be crossing a 4,600 m pass tomorrow.

Tip: Add extra layers to your daypack and some snacks because tomorrow’s trek is going to be challenging. Layer up as the evening can be cold and often windy, and rest early tonight. The excitement builds up for the second phase of your Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot, which officially starts tomorrow, as you leave Nepal and enter Tibet.

Day 9: Yari to Hilsa via Nara La Pass

Today brings one of the hardest sections of the trek as you cross Nara La at 4,620 meters. You leave Yari before sunrise and begin the climb in the early morning light. The trail rises steadily at first, then steepens as it zigzags toward the pass. Loose gravel and exposed rock dominate the terrain. As you gain height, the valley behind you grows smaller. Brown, wind-shaped mountains surround the trail. Vegetation fades, and the landscape feels stark and open. The thin air slows your movement, so you keep a steady rhythm and take brief stops when needed. Careful pacing becomes essential as the altitude increases and the pass draws closer.

Near the top of Nara La, prayer flags come into view along with small piles of stones left as offerings by past travelers. When you reach the pass, the land opens in every direction. To the north, the brown hills of the Tibetan Plateau stretch far into the distance. Behind you, the valley drops sharply toward

Yari, with the village appearing small below and snow-covered peaks rising farther back. Strong winds sweep across the pass, so you do not linger long. After taking a few photos, you begin the descent. The trail drops in a long series of zigzags across loose gravel and rock. Careful foot placement matters here. The descent takes another few hours before you reach the bottom of the pass and more stable ground.

As you descend, the Humla Karnali River comes back into view below the trail. After about two hours, you reach Hilsa at roughly 3,647 meters. The settlement sits beside the river and consists of a few stone buildings and seasonal tents. This marks the end of the trekking section in Nepal. You stay overnight in very basic accommodation. The Chinese border lies just across the river, though you will cross it the following day.

Tip: Use the evening to rest after the long climb. Drink plenty of water and eat a warm meal. Keep your passport and documents ready for the morning border formalities.

Day 10: Cross into Tibet: Hilsa to Purang

Bid farewell to your Nepali team (if they are not continuing) and make preparations to cross the border early in the morning. Walk a short distance across the bridge from Hilsa to arrive at a Chinese immigration post. You will find that the infrastructure here, on the Tibetan side, is more advanced. The road condition is better, and there are more facilities.

Logistics: The Chinese official will check your visa and permits, which may take some time. You will also meet your Tibetan guide and driver here. You officially start your overland tour in Tibet.

After you receive the immigration officer’s okay to proceed in Tibet, you will take a short drive (about 1.5 to 2 hours, roughly 30km) to Purang, also known as Taklakot. The drive there offers a scenic view as you pass through the Karnali River gorge into the Tibetan plateau, with its smooth asphalt road and wide-open valleys surrounded by reddish-brown hills. Though Purang (3,772 m) is a small Tibetan town, it is an important trading hub in Tibet. Your stay will be at a guesthouse or a hotel, a luxurious stay to say the least, after the camping in the remote villages, so check in there. Rest in the afternoon and acclimatize to Tibet’s environment, as the air and climate there might feel drier and cooler than in Hilsa, which sits at a similar altitude.

If you still have energy, walk through Purang’s markets. During the summer months, the town stays busy with trade. Local Tibetans, Nepali traders, and Indian pilgrims move through the streets buying and selling goods: shops stock food, supplies, and everyday items for travelers and locals alike. You can also visit Purang Gompa, an old monastery known for its detailed Buddhist frescoes. The space feels quiet and focused. You can light a butter lamp and observe daily religious life without crowds.

Tip: Purang is also a good place to buy supplies for the coming days, including snacks, instant noodles, and drinks, as several small shops operate here. This short stay allows your body to adjust to conditions in Tibet. Eat lightly and avoid unnecessary exertion. At night, you sleep in a proper bed, a noticeable change after basic lodging. The rest helps prepare you for the drive to Lake Manasarovar the next day.

Day 11: Drive from Purang to Lake Mansarovar

Today, you will set out on a drive to one of the holiest lakes in the world, Lake Mansarovar. After breakfast, get ready for the road ahead. The lake is about 80 kilometers away, but the winding mountain roads make the drive at least 3 to 4 hours. You follow open, rugged terrain, climbing gradually toward a high pass at around 5,000 meters.

From here, you might catch your first distant view of Mount Kailash, its snow-capped dome rising above the plateau. To the side, Lake Rakshastal appears in deep blue, a striking contrast to the turquoise waters of Mansarovar just beyond. The scenery along the way provides a sense of the sacred landscape you are about to enter.

After descending from the pass, you arrive at the shores of Lake Mansarovar, sitting at about 4,558 meters above sea level. The lake is immense, and its waters shine a brilliant turquoise under the sun. Rolling hills surround the lake, and to the south, the majestic Gurla Mandhata Mountain rises to nearly 7,694 meters.

Many people consider Lake Mansarovar a spiritual milestone. Bathing in its icy waters is believed to wash away sins and bring blessings. Your destination for today is near Chiu Gompa, a small monastery perched on a hill beside the lake. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mansarovar, making it an ideal spot to pause, reflect, and take in the sacred surroundings.

By afternoon, you arrive at a simple guesthouse near Lake Mansarovar. The rest of the day is meant to move at a slow pace so your body can adjust to the altitude. At 4,558 meters, the thin air can make even short walks tiring. Sip warm fluids and take gentle steps as you settle in. The lake itself radiates calm and peace. Spend time absorbing the view without pushing yourself too hard. The quiet waters and surrounding hills create a serene atmosphere that encourages rest and reflection.

Tip: Night temperatures drop sharply, even in summer, so wear thermal layers and a wool hat before sleeping. If you step outside, the sky stretches wide above the plateau. Stars shine clearly, creating a stunning and unforgettable display over the high mountains.

Day 12: Morning at Lake Mansarovar and Drive to Darchen

You wake to a breathtaking view of Lake Mansarovar as the early sun spreads a warm golden glow across its still waters. The calm scene sets a gentle tone for the morning, inviting quiet reflection. Many travelers gather at the lake to perform puja and offer prayers, while others sit silently, meditating by the shore.

If your beliefs guide you, you may choose to enter the icy water. Do so carefully, as the lake is extremely cold year-round, and the high altitude increases the physical risks. Move slowly and remain aware of your body’s limits. Even without participating in religious rituals, the atmosphere is serene. Soft chanting from pilgrims often drifts across the water, and you can watch Tibetan locals making offerings along the shoreline. The combination of quiet devotion and natural beauty creates a powerful, unforgettable experience.

After a peaceful and serene morning, it is time to depart for Darchen, a town that lies at the foot of Mount Kailash. The drive covers about 40 km and takes roughly one hour. Darchen sits at 4,675 meters above sea level and serves as the starting point for the Mount Kailash trekking circuit, known as the “kora.” Originally a small nomadic campsite, Darchen has grown into a bustling town during the pilgrimage season, with several guesthouses visible.

When you arrive at Darchen, check into your guesthouse and take a moment to settle in. Signs of modern life become more visible compared to the remote areas near the lake, as cellphone signals appear, vehicles move along the streets, and pilgrims from many countries walk through the town. The mix of locals and visitors gives Darchen a lively, active feel without losing its unique character.

The rest of Day 12 remains free for acclimatization and preparation. Your body already adjusts to the high altitude, but the next three days will challenge you the most as you trek around Mount Kailash. Use this time to carefully organize your gear. Pack only what you need for the three-day kora, including water, snacks, extra layers, a camera, and basic first-aid supplies. Leave any extra luggage with the transport or at your hotel. Yak and porter services are available in Darchen, and your guide will likely arrange yaks to carry heavy gear during the trek.

Tip: In the evening, take a short walk around the town to keep your muscles active, but avoid pushing yourself too hard. Eat a hearty dinner and try to go to bed early. Excitement might make it hard to rest, but tomorrow you begin the kora around Mount Kailash, the highlight of your Simikot Kailash tour.

Day 13: Kailash Kora: Darchen to Dirapuk

The Kailash Parikrama officially begins today. Tibetan tradition holds a belief that walking around Mount Kailash is a sacred act that brings spiritual reward to those who complete it. After an early breakfast, you drive about 15 minutes from Darchen to Tarboche, also called Yam Dwar. This point marks the start of the kora trail. Pilgrims often stop here to offer prayers before moving forward. The name Yam Dwar means “Gateway of the God of Death” and serves as the ceremonial entry to the sacred path.

After arriving at Tarboche, you start the trek north along the Lha Chu River valley. The first day remains relatively easy, with gentle climbs and no steep sections, which gives your body time to adjust to the trail. The valley opens widely around you, and red and brown cliffs rise on both sides, revealing the landscape’s strength and scale.

Far above the trail, you notice Chhuku Gompa, a small monastery set on the hillside. The monastery acts as a clear marker, and you can pause for a short while to take in the view. Each step on the path feels purposeful, bringing you closer to Mount Kailash. You may catch sight of the west face of Mount Kailash and may feel excited, but hey, the real spectacle comes as you pass a bend and arrive at the Dirapuk area.

You reach Dirapuk in the evening after about five to six hours of trekking (around 11 to 12 kilometers in distance). The village sits at roughly 5,120 meters. Mount Kailash’s north face rises sharply nearby, often capped with snow, and a small stream runs through the village. The air feels thinner here, and you can notice the difference from lower elevations. You’ll be staying in a very basic guesthouse or fixed camp with dormitory-style beds, and shared pit toilets with minimal facilities. Mild headaches, shortness of breath, or tired legs are common at this height.

Tip: Even if you don’t feel very hungry, try to eat a little. Your body needs energy to cope with the high altitude. It’s very cold here, so tuck your water bottles inside your sleeping bag to keep them from freezing overnight. Later, if you can, step outside for a moment. Mount Kailash rises under a sky full of stars, quiet and majestic, a reminder of why this mountain has inspired reverence for centuries.

Day 14: Kailash Kora: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma-la Pass

Today is the most challenging part of the Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot. You start before dawn to climb toward Dolma-la pass, which sits around 5,650 meters. The trail rises steeply from Dirapuk, and even a steady pace feels tiring at this altitude. After a couple of hours, you reach a rocky area called Shiva-tsal. Pilgrims leave small offerings here, symbolizing letting go of the past.

From Shiva-tsal, the final push to the pass is very demanding. When you reach Dolma-la, prayer flags flutter in every direction. Take a short pause to feel the spiritual energy of the place. Dolma is the Tibetan name for the goddess Tara, and this spot holds deep significance. The air is thin and cold, so don’t linger too long, but absorb the view and the sense of achievement.

The trail drops sharply after the Dolma-la pass, and the footing can be tricky, so watch where you step. Not long after, you reach Gauri Kund, a small lake with deep green water, a sacred place to Hindus (said to be the bathing place of the Goddess Parvati). The path continues downward for several kilometers. Your legs will feel heavy, but take your time and focus on steady steps.

The higher-altitude strain slowly eases as the air becomes easier to breathe at lower elevations. By early to mid-afternoon, the trail flattens near a stream, and you arrive at Zuthulpuk at about 4,790 meters. This village is home to the “miracle cave” of Milarepa, with a small monastery built around it. Accommodation here is extremely simple, but after a day like this, comfort is secondary.

Tip: Keep drinking water and stay warm. You’ve crossed the hardest part of the trek, so take the evening to rest and reflect on what you’ve accomplished.

Day 15: Kailash Kora: Zuthulpuk to Darchen, Drive to Paryang

In the morning, you wake up with a sense of relief. The hardest part of the trek is behind you, and the feeling of accomplishment is strong. You and your fellow pilgrims get ready to finish the kora. From Zuthulpuk, the trail back toward Darchen is much easier. It takes about three to four hours to cover roughly 14 kilometers. Most of the path is flat or gently descending.

The route follows the river out of the valley, and the landscape gradually opens up. At one point, the canyon narrows. You pass many walls, which are low stone walls carved with prayers, and a few dry riverbeds. Later, the trail widens into the plains. Darchen comes back into view, and the distant Lake Manasarovar area appears once again, welcoming you toward the final stretch.

By late morning, you see the endpoint of the trek. It is usually marked by prayer flags or the spot where vehicles wait to pick up trekkers. With the kora complete, you meet your driver and get into the vehicle. After a short rest and perhaps a light lunch, the overland journey back toward Nepal begins. You drive northwest at first, retracing part of the route along the shores of Lake Manasarovar, then turn eastward.

The drive to Paryang is long, about 240 kilometers, but the roads are generally in good condition across the Tibetan plains. You will likely spend five to six hours on the road this afternoon. The route takes you across high plateaus and over one or two passes, including Mayum La at around 5,200 meters. Along the way, you pass the occasional nomadic camp and see herds of sheep, goats, and yaks grazing in the wide-open landscape.

Paryang sits at about 4,600 meters and serves as a convenient midway stop for travelers. You will arrive here in the early evening, ready to stretch your legs after the long drive. Accommodation is in a simple guesthouse. Since Paryang is lower than Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash, you may notice a little more ease in breathing. It is still high altitude, so take your time walking around.

Logistics: After several days of camping with very basic facilities, the guesthouse offers a small sense of comfort. You might have the chance for a basic shower or enjoy a slightly more varied dinner, which makes the evening feel like a well-earned pause before the next leg of your journey.

Tip: Take a break at the rest stops to stretch your legs and drink plenty of water during the long drive. As you leave the Kailash region behind, take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve experienced. Soon, you will approach the Nepal border and the next stage of your trip.

Day 16: Drive from Paryang to Saga

After breakfast, you set off again, heading east and then turning south across the Tibetan Plateau. Today’s destination is Saga, a relatively large town by Tibetan standards, about 250 kilometers from Paryang. The drive will take around five to six hours.

The journey offers wide, open views of Tibet’s rugged landscape. You pass stretches of dry grassland where nomadic herders tend yaks and sheep. In summer, you may spot black tents pitched near streams and see flocks grazing nearby. The scenery changes slowly, giving a clear sense of the vastness of the plateau as you make your way toward Saga.

The route takes you across the broad valley of the Brahmaputra River, which is called the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet. At one point, you cross a high bridge spanning this mighty river. After that, signs of habitation become more frequent, signaling that you are getting closer to Saga. Saga sits at about 4,400 meters and serves as a military and transport hub. After several days in remote areas, arriving here feels like stepping back into a more settled world. You’ll find shops, small restaurants, and even cellphone coverage. It’s a convenient place to rest, resupply, and prepare for the final stretch toward the Nepal border.

When you reach Saga, you check into a guesthouse or hotel. It is still basic, but a step up from the previous stops. The rest of the day is free to relax and recover from the long drive. Some travelers take the chance to have a refreshing shower or pick up fresh fruits and snacks for the next day. The air feels a little easier to breathe here since the altitude is lower than Kailash, though 4,400 meters is still high, so pace yourself.

Tip: If you are in the mood for something different, Saga may offer a bit more variety. You might find fresh vegetables or even a chilled soda. Enjoy the relative comfort. This is your last night in Tibet, so double-check your belongings and keep your travel documents ready. Tomorrow, you will leave China and cross back into Nepal.

Day 17: Drive from Saga to Gyirong Town

Today, you leave the high plateau and head down toward the greener border region. The drive from Saga to Gyirong, also spelled Kyirong, covers about 300 kilometers. It is a long day on the road, but one of the most scenic stretches of the journey. In the morning, you depart Saga and travel southwest toward the Nepal border.

The road winds over a series of mountain passes, so expect plenty of twists and turns. One of the highlights is the Lalung La pass, sitting at around 5,124 meters. If the weather is clear, the view from here is incredible. You can see the northern Himalayas, including Shishapangma, Tibet’s only eight-thousand-meter peak. On obvious days, even distant Mount Everest can peek above the smaller peaks.

Further along, you may spot Peiku Tso, a large alpine lake with striking blue waters. Snow-capped mountains rise behind it, creating picture-perfect scenery. There are plenty of roadside spots to stop and take photos, so be ready to capture some of the most memorable views of your journey.

As the drive continues, you begin descending from the dry, high-altitude plateau into lower, greener lands. The scenery changes quickly. Barren tundra and rocky slopes give way to forested hills and streams. You cross another high pass before the road winds down into the Gyirong Valley. The air becomes warmer and easier to breathe as trees appear along the hillsides and waterfalls tumble into the valleys below.

By late afternoon, you reach Gyirong Town, sitting at about 2,700 meters. After days spent above 4,000 meters, this feels almost tropical. You can relax a bit and enjoy the contrast in climate, greenery, and the slower pace of life in this border town.

Gyirong Town is the last settlement on the Chinese side and a key stop for travelers going to and from Nepal. You will likely stay at a local hotel here. After the sparse amenities of far-west Tibet, the comforts in Gyirong are very welcome. Electricity is usually available, hot water is often provided, and some hotels even offer Wi-Fi. The valley is green and humid, with pine forests lining the hillsides. It is a refreshing change after days in the dry plateau.

Logistics: Your guide will collect your Tibet Travel Permit and any remaining group visa paperwork in preparation for tomorrow’s border crossing.

Tip: This is your final night in Tibet. If you have any Chinese yuan left, you can use it to buy snacks or small souvenirs, since it won’t be accepted in Nepal. Make sure to pack your bags carefully, protecting fragile items for the bumpy roads ahead.

Day 18: Cross Border: Gyirong to Kathmandu

This morning, you travel from Gyirong Town to the Nepal-China border. The drive takes about 20 to 30 minutes along a winding road down to the Friendship Bridge. At the Chinese immigration post, you complete your exit formalities and say goodbye to your Tibetan guide and driver.

Next, you walk across the Friendship Bridge, which spans the Bhote Koshi River gorge. It is a symbolic moment, marking your return to Nepal. On the Nepal side, at Rasuwagadhi, sitting at around 1,800 meters, Nepali officials stamp your passport. Border procedures can take some time due to paperwork and queues, so patience is essential. Vehicles from Tibet cannot enter Nepal, so you will switch to a Nepali vehicle here for the rest of your journey.

Once all border formalities are complete, you meet your Nepali driver and guide. From Rasuwagadhi, Kathmandu lies about 130 kilometers to the south. The distance may not seem far, but the road is narrow and mountainous, so the drive often takes 6 to 7 hours. You follow the Pasang Lhamu Highway through Langtang National Park, tracing the course of the Trishuli River.

The scenery is striking, with deep valleys, terraced hillsides, and small farming villages passing by as you descend. You will stop for lunch at a roadside town along the way. Afterward, the road continues through the foothills, with some rough patches and occasional traffic as you get closer to populated areas.

By late afternoon or evening, you reach the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley and then the city itself. Coming back to the city’s bustle can feel jarring after the quiet of the mountains. Once at your hotel, a hot shower and a soft bed will feel especially satisfying. In the evening, you might gather with your group for a well-deserved dinner to celebrate completing the trek.

Tip: The road from the border to Kathmandu is winding, so if you are prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to take precautions. Keep a light rain jacket handy as well in case of showers. Tonight, enjoy the comforts of the city. You have completed an epic journey that spanned the high Himalayas of both Nepal and Tibet.

Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu

Today marks the end of your 19-day Mount Kailash Trek via Simikot. If your schedule allows, you can use the morning to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or rest at your hotel. Take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve experienced.

It is hard to believe how much you have seen and done in less than three weeks. You visited remote villages in Nepal, crossed high Himalayan passes, and stood beside the sacred lakes and peaks of Tibet. Along the way, you encountered local cultures, traditions, and spiritual practices that make this trek truly unique. This final day is the perfect time to pause and appreciate the journey you have completed.

When it’s time for your flight, you will be taken to Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu. Plan to arrive at least three hours before departure, as the airport can get busy. As you say goodbye to Nepal, carry with you all the memories of your adventure. Remember the challenge of the high passes, the quiet moments beside Lake Manasarovar, the awe of standing before Mount Kailash, and the companionship shared with fellow travelers and pilgrims. This journey through Nepal and Tibet will stay with you long after you leave.

Tip: Make sure to check that all your documents are there, and your things are not left behind in the hotel. Keep your documents and valuable souvenirs in your carry-on bag. With a heart full of adventure and spiritual enrichment, you depart Kathmandu, marking the end of this extraordinary tour.