Mt. Kailash is the holiest mountain in all of Asia. Millions of Buddhists and Hindus flock here every year for the "kora"—a pilgrimage journey.
The starting point is the small town Darchen where you can find pilgrim shops, hotels, and restaurants. In these places, most of the visitors spend a night before setting off.
The best time to hike to Mt. Kailash is from April until June and from September till mid-October. At the beginning of summer, the local nature comes to life. Clear blue sky, sunny weather, green meadows, and clear water can be found along the way. From the top of the mountain, you can marvel at an excellent view of western Tibet.
During the autumn months, you can view fantastic golden colours everywhere around you and see the mountain in a completely different landscape. Cold weather comes to this place early and brings heavy snow and ice. It is not recommended to visit the Ngari region in winter, as trekking during this time can be too dangerous. Before visiting this sacred mountain, plan and book your trip in advance. During the peak season, the tourist and pilgrim flow is huge.
Practical info
What is the recommended time of the year for trekking to Mt. Kailash?
The optimal time for trekking to Mt. Kailash is from late April to June and from September to mid-October. During these months, the conditions tend to be more conducive to trekking. Travelers are recommended to avoid the period between December and February for considered risky to trek during these months. Show more
Which village serves as the beginning of the kora trail?
The kora trail to Mt. Kailash begins at the small village of Darchen where visitors can find various pilgrim shops, hotels, and restaurants. Most trekkers spend at least one night here before setting off. The starting point of the kora trail is roughly a 20-minute walk from Darchen. Since the village itself is situated at more than 4500 meters, trekkers should allow some time for acclimatization before starting their journey. Show more
What kind of sights can one enjoy while trekking to Mt. Kailash?
As one treks to Mt. Kailash, they'll be able to experience breathtaking views of natural wonders that surround the mountain. The trek begins in a small village called Darchen, and along the way, travelers will pass through other small villages. The journey involves crossing several streams and walking on a snow-covered trail. During the peak season, many Tibetan locals can be found along the way, and the surroundings are adorned with various religious flags. Show more
Are there any lodging options in Mt. Kailash or Darchen for overnight stays?
Guesthouses and hotels can be found in Darchen, as well as a few other places around Mt. Kailash. Travelers can comfortably lodge in a few guesthouses just before beginning their trek. These guesthouses and hotels provide guests with basic, but adequate accommodation. Trekkers must carry their camping gear since there are no lodges available on the mountain. Darchen has a limited number of hotels available, and during peak seasons, it can be crowded. Show more
What are some crucial things to keep in mind before trekking in Tibet's Ngari region during the winter?
Trekking across the Ngari region during winter is not recommended due to challenging weather conditions. The region can be treacherous to trek from December to February, although weather patterns may vary. With freezing temperatures and constant snowfall, trekking through the area becomes problematic. Travelers must be adequately equipped for the cold weather and ready to face the harsh winter conditions. Show more
