Day Trips from Mount Kailash. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Destinations from Darchen

Lake Manasarovar (Mapam Yumtso): A sacred freshwater lake, visited as part of the Kailash pilgrimage. It is revered in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Transportation: A short drive (20-30 min) from Darchen via your tour vehicle. Always part of the organized Kailash tour. Independent travel is not an option. Time: A few hours to half a day for shore, Chiu Monastery, and photos. Full kora takes 4-5 days.

Rakshas Tal Demon Lake

Description: A saltwater lake adjacent to Manasarovar. It contrasts with its sacred counterpart.
Transportation: View it from the road between Darchen and Manasarovar. Your vehicle passes by.
Time: A brief stop for photos. Limited time due to barren surroundings.
Legend describes it as the abode of demons.

Further Adventures

Deepen your exploration of Tibet's remarkable landscapes and cultural heritage.

Natural Escapes

The entire region has a vast natural escape.

High-Altitude Beauty

Kailash Kora itself: This main "natural escape" immerses you in rugged high-altitude landscapes for several days. It is the core outdoor experience.
Views of Gurla Mandhata: A magnificent peak (7,694m / 25,243ft) visible en route to and from Kailash and near Lake Manasarovar.
Its towering presence constantly reminds of the majestic Himalayan environment.

Cultural Excursions

Cultural sites complement the natural beauty of the region.

Monasteries & Hot Springs

Chiu Monastery: Perched on a hill overlooking Lake Manasarovar. It gives panoramic views.
Tirthapuri Hot Springs: A sacred site with hot springs, caves, and a monastery.
Transportation: A dedicated drive west of Darchen. A half to full day excursion.

Multi-Day Extensions

Guge Kingdom and Tsaparang

Description: Ruins of an ancient kingdom with stunning monasteries and cave dwellings.
Suggested Route: A 3-4 day extension from Kailash, continuing west from Darchen.
Permits: This extension needs additional military and public security permits.
Time: Not a brief visit, plan for multiple days.

Mount Everest Base Camp Tibet Side

Description: Visit the northern base camp of Mount Everest. Views of the world's highest peak.
Transportation: Multi-day drive (typically 2-3 days from Lhasa to EBC).
Suggested Route: Complete this before or after the Kailash leg, usually starting from Lhasa.
Permits: Additional permits needed for EBC access.

Connecting Your Journey

Kathmandu, Nepal:Often combined with a Tibet trip via the Gyirong land border.
Major Chinese Cities:Explore Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, or Xi'a for cultural and historical exploration after Tibet.
Experience modern amenities and different cultural insights.
Extend your travels seamlessly.

Lhasa - EBC - Kailash - Nepal Border:A comprehensive overland itinerary (approx. 18-22 days).
This combines major Tibetan highlights with the Kailash pilgrimage.
Lhasa - Kailash - Guge Kingdom - Lhasa:A full western Tibet loop (approx. 20-25 days).
This includes the historical Guge Kingdom.

Booking Day Trips

Explore and book various day trips and excursions to enhance your travel experience. Many tour operators offer customized itineraries. Find Day Trips on GetYourGuide

Day Trips from Mount Kailash