MT. KAILASH
“THE ROOF OF THE WORLD”A sacred land of myths and mysteries inhabited by the ever-smiling people, has not only exerted a magnetic pull upon travelers for centuries but also spies, missionaries, scholars, geographers, mystics, soldiers and cranks, etc. Yet, only a few intrepid, serious and determined have been able to make it.
Tibet was opened to tourism in 1985. Before this, it avoided influence from the West and this country developed its unique culture and religion independently. Since Tibet was governed by the spiritual leaders, monasteries and religious institutions were the backbone of power so the importance and prestige were shown by the size and magnificent architecture of these buildings. Tibetan Buddhism contains many elements of their older religion,” Bon Po” which worshipped the sky, moon, sun, fire, soil and even evil spirits and this is why a monastery such as Tashilhumpo contains thousands of unique statues, paintings (thangka), religious and historical books that to visit in detail would take weeks. The Monasteries are crowded by pilgrims who often travel long distances to fulfill their vows and wishes and their emotions show that religion still holds a very important place in their daily lives.
TIBET
Extremely remote and isolated by the most formidable Himalayan ranges is a fascinating world of timeless splendor, unique tradition and breathtaking scenery awaits all travelers to the Roof of the World.
Full name: Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
Area: 1.2 m. sq. km.
Population: 3 million.
In Exile: 300,000.
Capital city: Lhasa (Population 200,000).
People: Tibetan & Chinese.
Language: Tibeto Burmese, Tibetan and Chinese.
Religion: 90% Buddhist, 1% Muslim, 3% bon, 6% others.
Government: Occupied by China in 1949/1950.
Currency: Yuan (Y 8.15 = US$ 1.00).
Geography: Tibet has border with India, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Burma.
Climate: Spring (May to June) – Best weather condition, May to Mid September winter – (October to April).
What to wear: Light weight clothing is recommended for May to June, Warm garments are required from September to April. An umbrella or a raincoat is a must for the summer season.
SKELETAL ITINERARY
Duration: 18 Nights/19 Days
Day 01
Arrive Kathmandu/Eve: Welcome Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Akama or similar in Kathmandu.
Day 02
Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu / Visa Processing Day
Overnight at Hotel Akama or similar in Kathmandu.
Day 03
Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu / Visa Processing Day
Overnight at Hotel Akama or similar in Kathmandu.
Day 04
Drive Kathmandu to Timure (149 Km)
Overnight at Guest House.
Day 05
Drive Timure to Border (approx. 2 Km) / Complete border formalities and drive to Kyirong Town (2300m/20km/1hrdrive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 06
Explore & Acclimatization in Kyirong Town.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 07
Drive from Kyirong Town to Saga (4600m/200km/5hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 08
Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar (4600m/500km/10hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 09
AM: explore Lake Mansarovar and visit Chui Monastery. PM: drive to Dharchen / Mt. Kailash (4670m/30km/1hr drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 10
Trek from Darchen to Dhiraphuk (5000m/21km/ 10hrs hike)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 11
Trek to Zhutulphuk via Drolma la pass 5670m (4700m/21km/12hrs hike)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 12
Trek to Darchen (4670m/10 hrs/4hrs hike)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 13
Drive to Thirthapuri Hotspring and visit Monastery / PM: drive to Zhada and visit Tholing Monastery (3600m/240km/6hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 14
AM: visit Guge Kingdom/drive back to Dharchen (4670m/280km/7hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 15
Drive Dharchen to Saga (4600m/500km/10hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 16
Drive Saga to Kyirong Town (2300m/200km/5hrs drive)
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 17
Drive Kyirong Town to Border / Complete border formalities and Drive to Kathmandu (169km)
Overnight at Hotel Akama or similar in Kathmandu.
Day 18
Free Day in Kathmandu
Overnight at Hotel Akama or similar in Kathmandu.
Day 19
Day 19: Final Departure
