Ngari Loop with Mt. Kailash Kora Mt.Everest Tour 19 Night 20 Days

Your second day in Lhasa begins with an exploration of the illustrious Potala Palace, a grand architectural wonder that serves as the winter palace of the Dalai Lama. This majestic palace complex, initially constructed in the 7th century by the 33rd great king of Tibet, boasts a rich history and holds immense cultural significance. Inside the Potala Palace, you will encounter invaluable treasures such as the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet. It's a place where history and spirituality converge, offering you a profound glimpse into Tibetan heritage.

After a fulfilling morning, you'll pause for a delightful local lunch. Your journey then continues to the Jokhang Temple, a sacred place of worship founded by the 33rd great king of Tibet in the 7th century. Inside the temple, you'll encounter a revered statue of Buddha Sakyamuni depicted at the tender age of twelve. Outside, you'll witness devoted pilgrims engaged in prostration as an expression of their deep spiritual devotion.

The temple is surrounded by Barkhor Street, where you can join pilgrims and locals in a kora, a religious act of walking around a sacred building or mountain, enhancing your understanding of Tibetan traditions. This area also boasts an old market, offering an opportunity to explore and engage with the vibrant local culture.

To further immerse yourself in the local experience, you can savor Tibetan tea at a traditional tea house, engaging in conversations with the welcoming locals. The day concludes with a delightful welcome dinner, adding a taste of Tibetan hospitality to your Lhasa adventure.

Optional:

With time permitting, you may choose to visit Tibetan handicraft art or the Tibetan Traditional Medicine Center with a tour guide. You also have the option to upgrade your experience and enjoy the Tibetan Culture Show in the evening (starting from USD 60).

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Your third day in Lhasa will lead you to the picturesque Dadong Village, celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in the region. Located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Lhasa's bustling center, Dadong Village is a well-preserved ancient Tibetan settlement nestled in scenic valleys. Upon your arrival, your exploration will commence with a visit to the Nyimatang Monastery, a sacred site that traces its origins back to the 11th century. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this historical place.

A leisurely walk through the village will provide insights into the rhythms of rural life in Lhasa, offering you a glimpse of the local culture and traditions. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to meet with a local Tibetan family, engaging in enriching interactions and savoring a meal thoughtfully prepared by the family, providing a taste of genuine Tibetan hospitality.

In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to the renowned Sera Monastery, one of the 'great three' Gelug monasteries of Tibet. One of the highlights of your visit is the Monks' debate, a fascinating intellectual exchange that typically occurs between 3 to 5 in the afternoon. Here, you'll witness lively discussions and debates on various aspects of Buddhist philosophy.

Additionally, you'll explore the Tibetan religious scripture printing house, an essential center for preserving and disseminating Buddhist teachings. Inside the monastery, you'll encounter three intricate sand Mandalas and the vibrant Rock Painting of Buddha, offering a deeper understanding of Tibetan religious art and culture.

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Your day kicks off with a picturesque drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, offering a journey through diverse landscapes and encounters with some of Tibet's most captivating natural and cultural wonders. Along the way, you'll ascend the Gampala Pass, standing at an elevation of 4,790 meters. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the stunning Yamdrok-Tso, or Yamdrok Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,400 meters. The lake's serene waters are framed by the backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains, with Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar, rising to a towering height of 7,191 meters, as the highest mountain near Lhasa.

Continuing your journey, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the Korola Glacier as you drive alongside it. Further along, at Manak Dam Lake, you can partake in a cherished Tibetan tradition by hanging prayer flags at the picturesque Simila Mountain Pass.

Arriving in Gyantse, a historic city that was once Tibet's third-largest, you'll embark on a cultural exploration. Your visit includes the renowned Pelkor Monastery, a site of great spiritual significance, and the Gyantse Kumbum, a stunning multi-tiered stupa celebrated for its intricate artwork and architecture. While in Gyantse, you'll also savour the opportunity to admire the panoramic views of Gyangtse Fortress from a distance.

After approximately one and a half hours of driving, you'll reach Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Here, you may explore traditional Barley Mills and take in the picturesque landscapes of Barley Fields, particularly enchanting during the summer season.

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Your day begins with a visit to the esteemed Tashilunpo Monastery, which holds the distinction of being the traditional residence of the Panchen Lama, a spiritual leader of great importance in Tibetan Buddhism. This grand monastery, founded in 1447 by the 1st Dalai Lama, stands as a symbol of both history and cultural significance in Shigatse.

Leaving Shigatse behind after obtaining your Alien's Travel Permit, you'll embark on a journey to Lhatse, a quaint town where you can indulge in a well-deserved lunch. As you venture onward, you'll traverse two significant mountain passes Tsola Pass, standing at an altitude of 4,600 meters, and Gyatsola Pass, an even more elevated point at 5,248 meters. These passes provide unique vantage points to savor the stunning vistas that surround you.

Shortly after entering the Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve, you'll be treated to the grand panorama of the Himalayas from Gawula Pass, reaching an elevation of 5,198 meters. The drive then proceeds along the New Zigzag road, taking you to the renowned Everest Base Camp, perched at an elevation of 5,200 meters. Here, you'll have the opportunity to draw closer to the towering magnificence of Mt. Everest, gazing upon its awe-inspiring peak. If time and weather permit, you may be graced with the mesmerizing sight of the sunset casting golden hues upon the Everest peaks, an enchanting experience that adds to the allure of this iconic location.

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The sixth day of your journey begins with a truly mesmerizing experience: a sunrise view of the majestic Mount Everest from the iconic Everest Base Camp. This awe-inspiring sight, however, is contingent upon favorable weather conditions, so you're in for a real treat if nature smiles upon your endeavor.

Continuing your drive towards Saga, you'll have the opportunity to witness the world's 14th-highest peak, the magnificent Mt. Shishapangma, which graces you with its splendid presence along the route. Your journey also includes a captivating stopover at Lake Peikutso, a high-altitude lake that offers a serene and picturesque setting. It's an ideal location to rest and soak in the tranquil surroundings before resuming your expedition towards Saga.

Adding an element of wildlife adventure to the itinerary, there's a chance for wildlife sightings along the way, including encounters with wild donkeys and antelope. This part of your journey allows you to appreciate the stunning view of Mt. Kailash just before reaching Saga.

Overnight in Saga, Guesthouse [B/-/D]

Notes: Far view of Mt. Everest

In the lake area, there are unique birds and animals of the Tibetan plateau, such as Tibetan antelope, wild horses, etc.

Your journey from Saga to Manasarovar offers a unique and diverse experience. Along the way:

From Saga to Zhongba, covering 145km, you'll pass several ruined monasteries. From Zhongba to Paryang, a 78km stretch, you'll encounter a photogenic section with dunes, a lake, and mountains. This is a prime location for photography, where you can capture desert dunes and snow-capped mountains in the same shot.

Paryang to Hor Qu spans 223km, providing a pleasant 4-hour drive with many snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas in the south. After crossing over the Mayum-la Mountain Pass (5220m), you will soon get your first magical views of Mt. Kailash, just before the town of Hor Qu (4620m).

It's 22km to the settlement from Hor Qu and the checkpoint of Barkha. Lake Manasarovar comes right after.

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On the eighth day, in the morning, your journey will take you to the holy Lake Manasarovar, situated at an elevation of 4558 meters. Among the three holy lakes in Tibet, Manasarovar Lake is revered as the holiest. It is believed that the sacred waters of Manasarovar have the power to cleanse the soul of troubles and obstacles. Here, you can partake in various spiritual activities, such as leisurely "kora" (a circumambulation or pilgrimage walk) around the lake, meditation in the serene lakeside setting, or even take a holy dip to experience the purifying properties of the water.

In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to visit the Chiu Monastery, which dates back to the 8th century. Although the monastery is located to the west of Manasarovar Lake, it stands between the holy lake and the ghost lake. From the vantage point of the monastery perched on a mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of both lakes. It's said that Guru Padmasambhava, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, once meditated in a cave within the temple, and you can even find his footprints there. An especially enchanting experience can be had in the late afternoon when the setting sun's rays are reflected in the temple, creating a unique and spiritually evocative atmosphere.

This part of your journey promises a deep and immersive experience in the sacred and mystical landscapes of Tibet, offering the opportunity for spiritual reflection and connection with the region's rich cultural and religious heritage.

The ninth day begins with an eco-bus ride (included in the package) to Sarshung Valley, marking the start of your trekking adventure. In Sarshung Valley, you'll meet up with your team of porters and yaks (additional costs apply), which will be instrumental in the days ahead. This trek covers approximately 15 kilometres, following the path along the picturesque Lachu River Valleys.

Throughout this trek, you'll be treated to stunning views of both the western and northern faces of the majestic Mt. Kailash. The day's journey culminates with a visit to the Drirapuk Monastery, where you'll spend the night. This part of the pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual essence of the region while immersing yourself in its natural beauty and the profound presence of Mt. Kailash.

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The tenth day is the most challenging segment of the Kora, with the ascent to the Dromala Pass, standing at an impressive 5630 meters, demanding endurance and determination. At the pass's summit, you'll take a well-deserved break, savoring the breathtaking vistas. The descent leads you into a sprawling valley where you'll pause for a nourishing lunch at the Shabjay Dakpo nomadic tent, offering a taste of local hospitality. Along the way, you'll find respite at a teahouse, refueling for the journey ahead.

The trail eventually leads to Zultulpuk, a significant site with historical and religious importance, associated with revered figures Milarepa and Naro Bonchung. The Zutulpuk Monastery is a focal point, where you'll encounter the footprint and handprint of Milarepa within the cave. This day's challenging trek is not only a test of physical endurance but also a spiritual and historical journey, providing a deeper connection with the region's rich heritage.

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The eleventh day marks the final leg of the trek, offering a well-deserved break as it's a relatively easy 9-kilometer hike to complete the Kora around the sacred Mt. Kailash. According to Buddhist beliefs, encircling a holy mountain like this can absolve one of sins and miseries, and the hardships endured on this journey add to the sense of happiness and fulfillment.

After completing the Kora, you'll take an eco-bus back to Darchen, covering approximately 3 kilometers, marking the end of the spiritual trek. From Darchen, a drive will take you to the revered Lake Manasarovar, the holiest lake in Tibet, situated about 40 kilometers southwest of Darchen. Weather permitting, you'll be treated to the splendid beauty of Lake Manasarovar and, if you're up for it, a lakeside trek.

The day culminates with a journey to Zhongba, offering a serene and spiritual conclusion to your pilgrimage around Mt. Kailash.

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On the 12th day, your morning journey will take you on a 4-hour drive to the Guge Kingdom (Tsaparang) via Zanda. As you approach Zanda, you may start to feel like you're entering a world that resembles an "earth forest," where the landscape takes on an otherworldly appearance.

The ruins of the Guge Kingdom are situated on the banks of the Langchen Tsangpo Valley, located 18 kilometres west of Zanda. This historical site covers an extensive area of about 180,000 square meters. The structures within the kingdom are divided into three levels: the upper, middle, and lower floors, serving as the palace, temple, and residence, respectively. These ancient ruins are rich in cultural relics, offering insights into the history and culture of the region.

In the evening, as the sun sets, its warm glow bathes the castle in a golden light. Against the backdrop of the clear blue sky, the ancient golden castle and the earthen mountains seamlessly merge into a captivating sight. The Guge Kingdom's enigmatic historical background enhances the awe-inspiring nature of its majestic architecture, creating a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience.

This part of your journey provides an opportunity to explore the historical and cultural treasures of the Guge Kingdom, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, making it a significant and captivating stop on your itinerary.

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On the thirteenth day, the road will lead you through the Earth's Forest, a terrain that might remind you of driving on the surface of Mars. The Earth Forest in Zanda Valley is a breathtaking and imposing natural wonder, with its unique rock formations. Following this, you will enter a plateau meadow, with snow-capped mountains in the distance, inviting you to explore their majestic beauty. This plateau meadow is not only scenic but also a habitat for Tibetan wild asses, which are easily spotted large wild animals on the plateau.

As you approach Gar (Ali) County, you will notice that the Gangdise Range consistently appears on your right. The name "Gangdise" translates to the "King of Mountains" in the Tibetan language, and it is often referred to as the "Axis of the World." The presence of this impressive mountain range adds to the grandeur of your journey.

In Gar County, which serves as the capital of Ngari, you'll have an hour's break to rest. Afterward, you'll continue your drive, passing the Lalung-la Pass at an elevation of 5,191 meters. Finally, your journey will lead you to Rutog.

This leg of your trip promises a visually captivating adventure through unique landscapes, offering opportunities to encounter wildlife and appreciate the natural beauty and grandeur of the Tibetan Plateau.

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Pangong Tso is a stunning lake situated on the western Tibetan plateau, located approximately 12 kilometers northwest of Rutog County. The lake spans the border between China and Kashmir, with the eastern and western sections of the lake falling within Chinese territory. Pangong Tso is perched at an elevation of 4,241 meters and covers an expansive area of 413 square kilometers. The name "Pangong Tso" has a poetic meaning in Tibetan, translating to "long-necked swan," which alludes to the unique shape of the lake. The waters of Pangong Tso are crystal clear, and it is home to the world's highest bird island. This makes it a sanctuary for a variety of bird species, including black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, and brown-headed gulls. The lake is enveloped by snow-capped mountains, creating an exceptionally beautiful and serene landscape.

Following your visit to Pangong Tso, you will make your way back to Rutog and continue your journey to Gegye County via Gar. The entire route is paved and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable and smooth 6-hour drive. En route, you will once again pass through the Lalung-la Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,191 meters. During this leg of your journey, you may have the chance to encounter some of the local wildlife, such as Tibetan antelope, horses, and cattle, further enhancing the richness of your travel experience.

This day's adventure promises to be filled with natural beauty, unique birdlife, and the serene majesty of Pangong Tso, making it a memorable and picturesque part of your Tibetan journey.

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On this day, your journey is still quite lengthy, taking approximately 7 hours, but the good news is that the road is in excellent condition and fully paved. Starting your day with breakfast, you'll depart from Gegye County and head towards Salt Lake City. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by countless snow-capped mountains and beautiful lakes.

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As you leave Gertse, you'll be greeted by the magnificent sight of snow-capped mountains. These majestic peaks will accompany you for a significant portion of your journey, stretching across the landscape for dozens of kilometers. This dramatic backdrop set against the blue sky and white clouds creates a stunning and picturesque scene that you won't want to miss.

In addition to the breathtaking snow-capped mountains, you'll also have the opportunity to pass by numerous lakes on your route. The presence of these pristine bodies of water adds to the natural beauty of the region and provides excellent photo opportunities.

This leg of your journey promises an immersive experience in the mesmerizing landscapes of Tibet, with snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes serving as a constant source of awe and inspiration. It's a day for soaking in the unparalleled beauty of the region.

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On the seventeenth day, as you traverse the valley, you will reach the Songma-la Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,500 meters. This pass offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and is a significant point along your route.

Continuing, you'll encounter Tagyel-to and several other small lakes. These bodies of water contribute to the region's natural beauty and provide peaceful, picturesque surroundings.

A mere 21 kilometers north of the Raka junction, you'll come across the Tagyel Chutse or King Tiger Hot Springs. These hot springs are easily identifiable by their distinct aroma of warm spring water and the visible steam rising from a distance. The hot springs form a collection of geysers, bubbling hot springs, puffing steam outlets, and smoking holes, which appear to lead deep into the Earth's depths. This unique geothermal area is an excellent spot for taking a relaxing and rejuvenating hot spring bath, offering a soothing respite amidst your journey.

This day's adventure combines natural beauty, the thrill of passing through mountainous terrain, and the opportunity for a relaxing soak in the King Tiger Hot Springs, making it a memorable part of your Tibetan exploration.

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Your morning itinerary involves a return journey from Raka to Lhatse and then a further southward drive back to Shigatse. Along the way, you will make a detour to visit the remarkable Sakya Monastery. Here are the key details of your visit to Sakya Monastery.

Sakya Monastery is the principal monastery of the Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism and was constructed in the 1360s. The most distinctive feature of this monastery is its exterior walls. The lower parts of the walls are predominantly grey, while the upper sections are painted with red and white stripes, giving the monastery its nickname "Variegated Buddhism." Sakya Monastery is renowned for its rich collection of cultural relics, including seals, Buddha statues, a vast library of books, and more than 3,000 exquisite murals. Among these murals, those dating back to the Yuan Dynasty are particularly noteworthy and have earned Sakya Monastery the moniker "the second Dunhuang," about the famous Dunhuang Mogao Caves, known for their ancient art and manuscripts.

Your visit to Sakya Monastery promises a profound experience of Tibetan Buddhist culture and history, and the distinctive appearance of the monastery's walls makes it a unique and visually captivating stop on your journey.

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In the morning, your itinerary will begin with a visit to Tashilunpo Monastery, the traditional home of the Panchen Lama.

Tashilunpo Monastery is a historic and culturally significant monastery, located in Shigatse, was founded by the 1st Dalai Lama in 1447. Situated atop the central hill of the city, Tashilunpo Monastery bears a full name in Tibetan that translates to "all fortune and happiness gathered here" or "heap of glory." It stands as one of the most important monastic institutions in Tibet and is renowned for its spiritual and cultural importance. The monastery is not only a place of worship but also a testament to Tibetan history and art.

Following your visit to Tashilunpo Monastery, you will embark on the journey back to Lhasa from Shigatse, traveling along the Friendship Highway via the northern route to the capital. This direct route typically takes around 6 hours to reach Lhasa, and you will have the opportunity to make several stops along the way to savor the breathtaking views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley.

This day's journey combines cultural and historical exploration with the natural beauty of the Tibetan landscape, providing a fitting conclusion to your adventure through Tibet.

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After breakfast, transfer to the airport.

Ø  Ngari is a remote and rugged region in the western part of Tibet, China, known for its stunning landscapes and sacred sites.

Ø  The Ngari Loop refers to a circuitous route that takes travelers through Ngari, encompassing various cultural and natural attractions in the region.

Ø  The Mount Kailash Kora, or circumambulation, is a sacred pilgrimage trek around Mount Kailash, considered holy in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

Ø  The main destinations include Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, Guge Kingdom ruins, Tholing Monastery, and other cultural and natural attractions in Ngari.

Ø  The tour offers spiritual experiences, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes, including the sacred Mount Kailash, pristine Lake Manasarovar, ancient ruins, and monasteries.

Ø  The tour involves moderate to challenging physical activity, including trekking at high altitudes and completing Mount Kailash Kora, which includes high passes and rugged terrain.

Ø  Yes, solo travelers are welcome to join the group tour, providing an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and share the pilgrimage experience.

Ø  Accommodation typically includes comfortable hotels in cities and guesthouses or tented camps during the trekking or pilgrimage portions of the tour.

Ø  Yes, transportation between destinations is included in the tour package. This may involve flights, private vehicles, or group tours, depending on the itinerary.

Ø  Most tour packages include meals, typically breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

Ø  Yes, permits are required for travelling to Ngari and undertaking the Mount Kailash Kora. These permits are typically arranged by the tour operator as part of the package.

Ø  Mount Kailash stands at around 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) above sea level, while Lake Manasarovar is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,590 meters (15,060 feet).

Ø  Travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants to cover unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or evacuations.

Ø  Participants can book the tour through authorized tour operators specializing in Himalayan and Tibetan pilgrimage tours. It's advisable to book well in advance to secure availability and permits for the tour.