A 13-day overland circuit from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and the kora around Mount Kailash combines high-altitude trekking, sacred sites and long scenic drives. Expect staged acclimatization, multi-hour drives, teahouse nights and a three-day Kailash kora with passes above 5,600 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin blue light breaks over Lhasa and the Dalai Lama’s Potala cuts a clean silhouette against a cold sky. Travelers begin in the city’s busy Barkhor market, then climb in altitude and quiet: mountain passes, turquoise lakes, monasteries and an unpaved spine of road that leads to Rongbuk at the foot of Everest and the ritual circuit around Mount Kailash.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
13 days
Fitness Level
Moderate-to-high cardiovascular fitness recommended; comfortable with consecutive long days of driving and several days of high-altitude trekking.
Wildlife
History
Mount Kailash is sacred to Hinduism, Buddhism, Bon and Jainism and has been a pilgrimage objective for millennia; Lhasa’s Potala Palace was the Dalai Lama’s winter residence and a political-religious center.
Conservation
The high-altitude plateau is ecologically fragile; travelers should minimize waste, respect grazing areas and follow permit and local-guide rules that limit visitor impact.
Reserve your spot on the 13 Day Lhasa, Mt. Everest, Mt. Kailash to Kathmandu Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Lhasa
Spend at least one full day in Lhasa (3,650 m) before long drives to reduce acute mountain sickness risk.
Carry cash and photocopies
ATMs are scarce outside major towns; bring RMB and multiple passport photocopies for permits.
Prep for long drives
Daily transfers often exceed 6 hours; bring motion-sickness remedies and water for road days.
Respect religious practice
When on the kora, observe locals’ rituals—avoid stepping on mani-stones and ask before photographing individuals.
Insulated down jacket
Warmth at high-altitude camps and dawns above 5,000 m.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky trails, glacier road approaches and uneven teahouse floors.
High-SPF sunscreen and UV sunglasses
Strong alpine sun at altitude can cause burns and snow blindness.
Hydration system & basic first-aid kit
Prevent dehydration and treat minor altitude-related issues on long treks.