Planning a trip to Mount Kailash from the USA might seem overwhelming, but our ultimate guide makes it easy and enjoyable. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know: how to get there, the best itineraries, when to visit, what documents you’ll need, packing tips, and how to budget for your adventure. Dive into our guide to get excited and ready for an unforgettable journey to this sacred mountain.

Where is Mount Kailash Located? How Far is It from the USA?

Mount Kailash is nestled in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, close to the borders of Nepal and India. Standing proudly at 6,638 meters, it's the main peak of the Gangdisê Mountains and about 1,200 kilometers from Lhasa.

From the USA, the distance to Mount Kailash is approximately 12,000 kilometers in a straight line. The journey usually involves flying from major US cities to international hubs like Beijing or Kathmandu, and then continue with a specialized trip to this sacred destination. It’s a thrilling adventure combining long-haul flights and overland travel to reach one of the world’s most spiritually revered spots.

How to Get to Mt. Kailash from the USA? Via Lhasa or Kathmandu

Traveling from the United States to Mount Kailash in Tibet offers two exciting routes. You can fly from the US to mainland China and then continue to Lhasa, or you can travel from the US to Kathmandu in Nepal and make your way to Mount Kailash. Regardless of the route you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable journey to the world’s highest plateau.

(1) USA to Mount Kailash via Mainland China and Lhasa

To reach Tibet via mainland China, you’ll first need to fly from your US location to a Chinese city. Direct flights are available from major US cities like San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York to key Chinese airports such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Additionally, there are indirect flights to many other cities across China. You can easily find a route that best fits your travel plans.

Once you’re in mainland China, you have two main options to reach Lhasa. The quickest and most convenient way is to take a direct flight, with departures from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Kunming, Xining, and more. These flights to Tibet take about 2 to 8 hours, making them ideal for travelers with limited time.

Alternatively, you can take a popular train to Tibet, departing from gateway cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Lanzhou, Xining, Chengdu, and Chongqing. The train journey ranges from 20 to over 50 hours, but it rewards you with breathtaking views of northern Tibet as you cross the Kunlun and Tanggula mountain ranges.

After arriving in Lhasa, you can embark on an overland journey west to Mount Kailash. The four-day trip takes you through Gyantse, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp, eventually reaching Darchen, the village at the foot of Mount Kailash. The drive across the plateau offers breathtaking landscapes, making it a journey of excitement and discovery.

(2) USA to Mount Kailash via Kathmandu

Another option for traveling to Tibet is to start in Kathmandu. Regular flights run from the United States to Nepal, and you can find the best deals on global flight comparison sites.

Once in Kathmandu, you have two routes to Mount Kailash. The first option is to fly to Lhasa and then follow the classic overland route to Mount Kailash. The flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa takes about 90 minutes, crossing the Himalayas. Nepal is the only country with direct international flights to Tibet.

Alternatively, you can travel overland from Kathmandu into Tibet and head directly to Mount Kailash via Gyirong. This shorter route is ideal for those with limited time, though it may mean missing other landmarks in Tibet.

Our Most Recommended Mt. Kailash Itinerary for USA Tourists: 15 Days, 16 Days or 17 Days

(1) 15 day Lhasa to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar Tour

This is the most popular itinerary among our clients traveling to Mount Kailash. It features an ultimate overland journey from Lhasa to Mount Kailash, including a 3-day kora trek and a visit to Everest.

Your adventure begins with your arrival in Lhasa, where you'll acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy sightseeing, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. Then, you’ll set off on a scenic four-day drive to Darchen, the gateway to Mount Kailash. Along the way, you’ll visit Gyantse and Shigatse and take in the stunning views at Everest Base Camp.

Once you reach Darchen, you’ll embark on a rewarding 3-day trek around Mount Kailash, soaking in its spiritual beauty and significance. This journey combines breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable adventure in western Tibet.

(2) 16 Days Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour during Saga Dawa Festival

This 16-day Mount Kailash tour is perfect for those wanting to experience the Kailash Saga Dawa Festival and its unique spiritual atmosphere. It offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the sacred 4-day Kailash kora and, if conditions allow, even touch the holy mountain.

Following the same route as the 15-day Lhasa to Mount Kailash tour, this itinerary adds an extra day of trekking around Mount Kailash. On this additional day, you’ll trek to the west slope of the mountain, getting an up-close view of its majestic beauty. Conditions permitting, you may also have the chance to explore the glaciers and touch the rock surfaces of Mount Kailash, deepening your spiritual experience.

(3) 17 Days Kailash Manasarovar Full Moon Tour & Guge Kingdom Exploration

Building on the classic 15-day route, this extended tour offers the chance to delve deeper into the mysterious Guge Kingdom, one of Asia’s hidden treasures, in addition to exploring Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

Starting from Lhasa and following the route to Everest Base Camp, you'll visit Tibet’s key landmarks. Then, venture into western Tibet's Ngari region for an in-depth exploration of the Guge Kingdom before embarking on the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. This 17-day Mount Kailash adventure combines breathtaking landscapes with cultural and historical exploration, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience across the Tibetan Plateau.

For USA Tourists, Try the Best to Visit Mt. Kailash during April to October

The best time to visit Mount Kailash is during spring and autumn, from April to May and September to October. These seasons provide ideal trekking conditions in Tibet, with clear skies, minimal rain, and plenty of sunshine. However, temperatures can still be chilly, so pack warm clothing for the journey.

Summer, from June to August, is also a good time to visit, despite the monsoon season. The higher altitudes in the far west experience less rainfall than central and eastern Tibet, so the trek remains accessible. Light showers are possible, but heavy rain is uncommon, ensuring a smooth trek.

Winter, from December to March, is not recommended for visiting Mount Kailash due to harsh, cold weather. Travel becomes difficult, and roads are often blocked by heavy snow.

For USA Tourists to Mt. Kailash, Obtain Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit First before You Go

Before traveling to Mount Kailash, you’ll need several permits. The first is the Chinese Visa, required for entering China. If you’re entering Tibet via mainland China, you can obtain this visa at your local Chinese Embassy. However, if you’re entering through Kathmandu, Nepal, you’ll need a Chinese Group Visa, which must be obtained through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Next, you’ll need the Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet and visit Lhasa, and the Alien’s Travel Permit for areas outside Lhasa. For Mount Kailash, you’ll also need a Military Permit and Foreign Affairs Permit, which allow access to military-controlled areas.

While this may seem complicated, you don’t have to worry about handling these permits yourself. Once you book your Mount Kailash tour with us, we’ll take care of all Tibet travel documents on your behalf. Just contact us at least 20 days in advance to ensure a smooth process.

Packing for Mt. Kailash Tour from the USA: Warm Clothes are Essential

Mount Kailash can be a chilly place to visit in Tibet, so it's important to pack warm clothing, even if you visit during the summer. The best approach is the "onion" principle: wear several thin layers of clothing to stay warm. This way, you can adjust your layers as needed to remain comfortable as temperatures change.

Start with a breathable inner layer, such as a thin t-shirt or long underwear, to wick away moisture and keep you comfortable. The middle layer should be warm and capable of trapping heat, like a fleece, wool sweater, or quilted jacket, to maintain your body temperature without overheating. For the outer layer, bring a raincoat or windproof jacket, especially if you're traveling during the colder months, to shield against wind and rain.

A warm hat, gloves, and woolen socks are also necessary to protect against the chill. Trekking pants are crucial for lower body protection. Strong, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for navigating the rugged terrain.

Additionally, personal items such as toiletries, sunblock, lip balm, and moisturizer are required. You should also pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic cream, and headache medications. If you take regular medication, bring enough for your trip plus an extra week, and check with your doctor that it’s safe for high-altitude trekking in Tibet.

The Best Way to Budget Your Travel Cost: Joining Our Mt. Kailash Small Group Tour

There are several ways to reduce the cost of your trip from the US to Mount Kailash, and joining one of our small group tours is a great option. By participating in a group tour, you share the costs of the guide, driver, and vehicle with other travelers, which helps lower the overall expense.

Our Mount Kailash small group tours are thoughtfully designed and follow classic routes like the 15-day Lhasa to Mount Kailash itinerary. They come with fixed departure dates and offer the best local prices. With our tours, you'll benefit from guaranteed Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary documents, knowledgeable Tibetan guides, experienced drivers, and comfortable accommodations. Enjoy a worry-free and memorable journey to the holy mountain with us.

Conclusion

A Mount Kailash tour from the USA is a remarkable adventure that needs some thoughtful planning. You can reach Mount Kailash either through mainland China or Kathmandu, Nepal, and the best time to visit is from April to October. For a smooth and cost-effective experience, joining our Mount Kailash tour is your best option. We provide guaranteed travel documents and valuable support throughout your journey. If you have any questions or are ready to book your tour, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help make your trip unforgettable!