Kailash Manasarovar is not only a sacred destination for pilgrims but also a popular spot for tourists visiting Tibet. While the holy kora trek around Mount Kailash is a must-do, the region offers many other remarkable experiences. In this article, we’ll explore seven highlights in Kailash Manasarovar. Read on to get inspiration and make the most of your next visit to this extraordinary place.

No.1: Take the Kora Trek around Mount Kailash

Whether you are a believer or an ordinary tourist, taking the kora trek around Mount Kailash is an experience you shouldn't miss. The trek covers approximately 52 kilometers and usually takes three days to complete for most tourists. It is not only a test of willpower but also an opportunity to admire Mount Kailash up close.

Starting in the small village of Darchen, located just below the southern slopes of Mount Kailash, the trek heads west and then north, ascending through the valley to the first stop at the famous Drirapuk Monastery. On the second day, the trek continues over the high pass of Dolma La (5,630 meters), the highest point of the route, before descending to the Zutulpuk Monastery.

The final day of the trek is mostly downhill from Zutulpuk Monastery, where you spend the second night, and ends back in the village of Darchen, where you started. Trekking through the lush valley, this final stretch is the easiest part of the trek and offers a relaxing conclusion to this challenging hike around the sacred mountain.

No.2: Do the Yatra around Lake Manasarovar

Lake Manasarovar is a sacred site in Tibet, revered by Hindu pilgrims who believe it was created in the mind of Lord Shiva and manifested on earth as Lake Manasarovar. In Tibetan Buddhism, the lake is considered the place where Maya Devi conceived Gautama Buddha. Both religions hold that bathing in or drinking from the lake can cleanse the sins of an entire lifetime.

The kora route around the lake is approximately 100 kilometers long, and pilgrims typically take about five days to complete the trek. Tibetans have been performing this ritual kora around the sacred lake for over 2,000 years. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning Buddhist monasteries and enjoy breathtaking scenery. It’s a deeply enriching experience that combines spiritual significance with natural beauty.

No.3: Meet Pilgrims along the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Route

While trekking the kora around Mount Kailash or alongside Lake Manasarovar, you're likely to encounter fellow pilgrims on their spiritual journey. Some may pass by quickly, while others move more slowly, often performing prostrations—a practice intended to purify the mind and body, particularly from pride.

Engaging with these pilgrims is a wonderful opportunity to gain insights into Tibetan Buddhism and culture. Many are eager to share their stories and experiences as they complete their sacred circuit. You'll hear firsthand accounts from pilgrims not only from Tibet but from all corners of the globe, enriching your journey with their diverse perspectives.

No.4: Visit Five Monasteries around Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is actually surrounded by five monasteries, and these unique high mountain gompas are an amazing sight as you trek around this remote and desolate place.

(1) Chuku Monastery: The first monastery you’ll encounter is Chuku Monastery, located on the outer kora route, a short hike up the valley from Tarboche. This monastery is home to three intriguing relics: the Chuku statue, the Conch Shell, and the Teapot. Legend has it that when an invading army attempted to steal these treasures, divine intervention caused the statue to become too heavy to carry, the conch shell to fly back to the monastery, and the teapot to boil with blood instead of tea.

(2) Drirapuk Monastery: The second monastery on the outer kora route is Drirapuk Monastery, where you’ll spend the first night of the three-day trek. Restored in 1986 from its ruined state, the monastery features a long row of white stupas and houses numerous statues and Buddhist relics that have been preserved for centuries.

(3) Zultripuk Monastery: The third monastery, Zultripuk, is the second stop for trekkers. Situated on the west bank of the Zhong Chu River, this monastery was built around sacred stone formations believed to have been created by Milarepa. It also includes Milarepa’s Cave, where he spent many years meditating. The cave is marked by a stone slab said to bear Milarepa’s hand and footprints.

(4) Selung Monastery: On the inner kora route, you’ll find Selung Monastery, perched at 5,020 meters above sea level. Originally built as a meditation spot for monks, it is the first monastery on the inner circuit. After leaving Selung, the route loops around the smaller Mount Yinjietuo before descending to Gyangzha Monastery.

(5) Gyangzha Monastery: At 5,060 meters above sea level, Gyangzha Monastery is first Buddhist monastery established close to Mount Kailash. It holds significant importance as the most revered monastery in western Tibet.

No.5: Attend the Kailash Saga Dawa Festival

The Saga Dawa Festival, held annually at the base of Mount Kailash during the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar, is one of Tibet's most significant ceremonies. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, with the belief that all actions, whether good or bad, are multiplied thousands of times during this auspicious period.

The festival lasts an entire month, with the initial days being the most important. One of the highlights is the striking prayer flag pole at Tarboche, which is taken down, its prayer flags replaced, and then re-erected in a perfect upright position. After these ceremonies, pilgrims set off around the kora route of Mount Kailash.

If you are interested in traditional Tibetan festivals, don’t miss this grand event when traveling to Mount Kailash. The next Kailash Saga Dawa Festival will be held on June 11, 2025, and it is a unique opportunity to experience the holy and lively atmosphere with locals.

No.6: Appreciate Kangkyam Glacier around Kailash Kora

While trekking the Mount Kailash kora, don't miss the chance to visit the Kangkyam Glacier, one of the few remaining moving glaciers in the world. This glacier descends from the north face of Mount Kailash and is about a two-hour round-trip hike from Drirapuk Monastery. At the glacier's tongue, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the sheer north face of Mount Kailash, creating a stunning backdrop for this rare and beautiful natural phenomenon.

No.7: Enjoy Tirthapuri Hot Springs After Completing the Kora

Just northwest of Mount Kailash, you'll find Tirthapuri Monastery, famous for its soothing hot springs. Located on the banks of the Sutlej River, this spot is a favorite for pilgrims after completing the kora. The hot springs are perfect for easing the aches and pains from the trek.

After a relaxing soak, take some time to explore the monastery. You'll find the stone footprints of Guru Rinpoche in the assembly hall, believed to be left by Padmasambhava when he visited Tibet to spread Buddhism. It’s a wonderful place to relax and reflect on your journey.

Join Our Mount Kailash Tour to Smoothly Enjoy the Best Highlights

With so many incredible sights and experiences in Kailash Manasarovar, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. The best way to explore this region is to join our Mount Kailash tour, featuring well-designed itineraries that showcase the best of the area.

We offer a variety of small group tours, including the popular 15-day Lhasa to Mount Kailash tour. This tour not only includes the 3-day Kailash kora and a visit to Lake Manasarovar, but also stops at the renowned Mount Everest and other Tibetan highlights. If you want a more in-depth exploration of Kailash Manasarovar, we can arrange a customized tour to ensure you don't miss any of the highlights that western Tibet has to offer.

No matter which option you choose, we promise a smooth and memorable Mount Kailash tour. You'll enjoy quality-assured services, guaranteed travel permits, seasoned local Tibetan guides, and more.

Conclusion

Exploring Kailash Manasarovar is a journey filled with spiritual and natural wonders. From the sacred kora trek around Mount Kailash to the soothing hot springs at Tirthapuri Monastery, each highlight offers a unique experience. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking spiritual fulfillment or an adventurer, these highlights will make your trip enriching and memorable. For more questions, please feel free to contact us or book your Tibet tour with us now!