West Tibet and Mt. Kailash travel tips

The western Tibet, we still call it Ngari, is one of the most remote and inaccessible parts of Tibet. Huge, sparsely, populated and at an average altitude of over 4,500 m. (14,764 ft.), it is a frontier in one of the remotest corners of Asia. Highlights of western Tibet are sacred Mountain Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, two of the most remote and legendary travel destinations in the world.

Travel in western Tibet is not easy or comfortable but improved roads, new bridges and telephone lines make it more accessible. The easiest way to travel in Ngari is taking Landcruiser trip.

A drive to Mountain Kailash Manasarovar by southern route, it always takes about 5 to 6 day from Lhasa by visiting some scenic spots en route, such as Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse, Shigatse, Sakya Monastery, or even 1 to 2 days additional to visit Everest Base Camp. After a long time driving, have a rest at Lake Manasarovar, usually stay overnight at Chiu Monastery or the village nearby. Then start the Mountain Kailash Kora( Pilgrimage circuit) from Darchen. The Kora of the mountain will take 3 days. Afterwards you may go to have the sacred hot spring at Tirthapuri (All the pilgrims will take this hot-spring after the pilgrimage).