Kathmandu Kailash & Manasarovar Tour-16 Days

01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your hotel. After you are greeted with welcome drinks at the hotel, we will have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and trip itinerary. You can then check in to your room, freshen up and rest. Or, if you are not one of those “lay back” types, you can take a stroll around the vicinity of your hotel and get the feel of this hyperactive capital city of Nepal. On the streets, people seem to be on sheer rush, barely noticing one another. But if you utter “Namaste”, they will definitely reciprocate with a smile! Well, that’s Nepal’s Nepalese for you. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

While Marron Treks follows up with your Tibet visa processing today, you can have an awesome time exploring the historical and cultural wonders of Kathmandu, in the accompaniment of an experienced city guide. After a healthy breakfast at the hotel, hop in to our private vehicle and drive about the valley for a guided sightseeing tour.  You will be visiting the most renowned historical/cultural/religious landmarks like- Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Swayambunath (the Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square. All these sites are enlisted in the UNESCO world’s heritage list. This informative and interesting tour wraps up by late noon and then you will be driven back to your hotel. You can either spend the remaining time resting or shopping some tour goodies at Thamel. Our staff can help you identify the genuine stores or you could entirely opt to be on your own. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

 

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Nyalam (3750m/7 hrs) via Friendship Bridge

On this inaugural day of "mission Tibet", you will be escorted on a long drive towards the Nepal -China border. The means of trasport will be an experienced chauffer driven private tourist coach or car (depending upon the group size). Nepal- China border is marked by the "Friendship Bridge". Upon arrival at the border, we get off the vehicle and wait for some time until the custom formalities are accomplished by our agent. We then walk acroos the bridge for about 10 minutes, where we find a Tibet plated Land Cruiser waiting for us. We can halt for lunch here and then join the agent for a comfy drive towards Nyalam, via Zhangmu. Overnight at guesthouse in Nyalam; breakfast included.



Day 04: Acclimatization cum an excursion day in Nyalam

This day has actually been set aside as an acclimatization day. The journey from Kathmandu to Nyalam has already rocketed us to a staggering elevation of nearly 4000m. So our body needs get adjusted to the thinning air. But we are not lying flat in our rooms all day in the name of acclimatization. Let's move about the length and breadth of the settlement, witnessing the unique life patterns of the locals. Our guide can help you with the interpretations if you really want to get indulged in some conversation with the people of Nyalam. South of Nyalam, the road drops abruptly through the gorge of the "Matsang Tsangpo", known as Sun Koshi River Nepal. As we saunter along the arid landscapes of this Tibetan town, we can sense the prelude of how our journey ahead is going to be like. Overnight at guesthouse in Nyalam; breakfast included.

 

Day 05: Drive from Nyalam to Saga (4450m/6 hrs)

After a good Tibetan breakfast, we gear up for yet another day of lengthy drive over the sandy and rocky terrain. The drive is long, but not monotonous. There are plenty of things to watch en route, which keep us busy clicking rather than complaining about the elongated drive. The soothing scenes of lakes at one time and the sights of nomads chasing thousands of yaks and sheep at other, will certainly keep us entertained throughout the drive. As we cross the majestic Bramhaputra River, we gradually make our way towards Saga. The best hotels here are named after the place itself. We can expect a private attach bath with hot shower.  Owing to the soaring altitude, taking hot shower is not encouraged as there are ample chances of getting sick. Overnight at hotel in Nyalam; breakfast included.

Day 06: Drive from Saga to Paryang (4750m/ 7- 8 hrs)

It seems like after every passing day, the elevations are getting higher and the drives longer. We get on on the wheels steering towards the far southern section of Tibet. The rocky cliffs, sand dunes and even the snow covered peaks alongside, will be our constant companions throughout the drive. Keep those fingers busy with some great clicks; who knows you could just get the click of a lifetime!! We whip past the small town of Zhongba before we finally arrive at Paryang. This place is just another Tibetan nomadic hub, with most of the local residents being the migrant nomads from the neighboring villages situated below Dangue Tsangpo. Overnight at hotel in Paryang; breakfast included.

Day 07: Drive from Paryang to Manasarovar (Hor Chu)- 4558m/8hrs via Mayum La Pass (5225m)

As a continuation to the long hours on the wheels, we surrender to back to back third day in row for a lengthy drive. Nevertheless, we are all jacked up; and the reason is quite obvious, the destination today being Manasarovar. Yes, we will be having our very first glimpse of the Holy Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar Lake. En route, we cross the Mayum La Pass. With elevated spirits and heart full of content, we arrive at Manasarovar. We can't wait to get off the vehicle and explore this holy lake, can we? Let's march on to the lake. Fresh turquoise water and the fascinating backdrop of Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gurula Mandela and Rashekshi Lake contribute to the heavenly environ. In the evening, we can partake in "Havan (fire sacrifice)", one of the most significant rituals observed in Manasarovar. It is believed that offering all our vices to the "fire god" makes us immaculate. Well, we are at one of the most pious places in Tibet, so why not sanctify ourselves! Overnight at guesthouse in Manasarovar (Hor Chu); breakfast included.  

Day 08: Get engrossed in some spiritual activities at Manasarovar and drive from Manasarovar to Tarchen (4565m/5 hrs)

Before we drive to Tarchen (Darchen), we can readily indulge ourselves in some spiritual activities at Manasarovar. Taking a holy dip in the lake and performing a pooja of the supreme Hindu deity, "Lord Shiva" are definitely on the cards (depends upon your health condition). You can also opt for a Manasarovar Parikrama (circumambulation) by yak/horse ride (incurs additional cost), or alternatively do the same by our private Land Cruiser as we drive to Tarchen. After this spiritual indulgence in Manasarovar, we hit the road once again. Upon arrival at Tarchen, the mode of accommodation is switched to camp. Overnight at tent in Tarchen; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Note: An excursion to Ashtapad Mountain can be availed at extra cost.


 

Day 09: Drive from Tarchen to Yam Dwar (Serson)- 45 minutes; trek from Yam Dwar to Dirapuk (5000m/7 hrs)

Post breakfast, we set off for a short 10 kms' drive to Yam Dwar, also known as Serson. After several days on the wheels, we are finally about to do some trekking. From Yam Dwar, we saunter towards Dirapuk. Our luggage and camping equipments will be transported by Yaks. The march continues along the rocky terrain, under the canopy of a crystal clear blue sky, witnessing some splendid waterfalls en route. The sight of Mt. Kailash is intermittent. Mind you, we are actually walking on the routes where once Lord Shiva is believed to have walked, so it is quite natural to feel blessed and ecstatic. This 18 kilometers' journey could very much test your physical aptitude. But believing on our enthusiastic eyes more than on our tired legs, we finally arrive at Dirapuk, the north face of Mt. Kailash. Overnight at tent in Dirapuk; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 10: Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthul Puk (4760m) via Drolma - La Pass (5750m/6-7hrs); visit Shivasthal, Parvatisthal and Gauri Kund en route

Let's gear up for the toughest part of this pilgrimage tour-trek combo. We start off a bit early, because crossing the Drolma La Pass could be jeopardized due to adverse weather conditions as the day progresses. We gradually trudge up the pass. On our way to the pass, we visit the "Shivasthal", a place believed to be the abode of "Yama- the Lord of Death". There is a belief that once we enter the Shivasthal, we are dead, and actually guided by Yamaraj on our journey ahead to the pass; we revive only after crossing the Drolma La. This means that all our sins are sanctified while we walk in the premises of Shivasthal and we get a new immaculate life once we arrive at the pass. Sounds strange, doesn't it? The feel of being at the top of the pass is indeed so  very thrilling, as it caters us the spellbinding ambience of the arid Tibetan landscapes amidst the fluttering prayer flags. You can get engrossed in some mediation and also make some holy offerings. The offerings could be anything as simple as your favorite clothes, caps etc. to as dreadful as a drip of your blood!!
From the top of the pass, we make a meticulous descent towards the valley floor on the other side of Dromla La. En route, we also pay a visit to the Parvatisthal and Gauri Kund. By late afternoon, we arrive at Zuthul Puk (the cave of Miracles). The great ascetic, "Milerappa", is believed to have performed flabbergasting miracles here. Overnight at tented camp in Zuthul Puk; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 11: End of Kailash Parikrama; walk from Zuthul Puk to the "trek end point" near Tarchen (11kms / 3 - 4 hrs )and drive to Manasarovar (4558m/1 .5 hrs)

Let's offer our gratitude to Lord Shiva for keeping us hale and hearty throughout the trip. On this last day of the "Parikrama", we take an easy walk towards the trek end point in the vicinity of Tarchen, where we find our sturdy Land Cruiser waiting for us. The drive for about one and half hours brings us to Manasarovar. We will have some free time and can spend it exploring the places nearby or simply circumambulating the holy lake. Overnight at guesthouse in Manasarovar; breakfast included.

Day 12: Drive from Manasarovar to Saga ( 4450m/10-12 hrs)

Capturing the pious sights of Mt Kailash and Manasarovar Lake for the last time, we get on wheels for the longest return leg of the journey back to Saga. Overnight at a hotel in Saga; breakfast included.

Day 13: Drive from Saga to Nyalam (3750m/ 6-7 hrs) 

Back to back long journeys on the wheels could be hectic and monotonous, especially when they are along the routes you have already traversed before. But you never know when your next visit to Tibet is going to be, so this return leg will actually freshen up the records of all the major landmarks you have captured in your mental memorandum! Overnight at guesthouse in Nyalam; breakfast included. 
 

Day 14: Drive from Nyalam to Kathmandu (1400m/7 hours)

After breakfast, we drive to Zhangmu and then towards the Friendship Bridge. Our Nepal plated tourist coach or car (depending upon the group size) will be waiting for us. We accomplish our custom formalities and drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can spend the remaining time resting.  Since you have gotten back from a long tiring trip, so you would probably want to flex your muscles a bit and get groomed. You have an extra day at Kathmandu tomorrow. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 15: Free day in Kathmandu

This is a free day in Kathmandu to fulfill anything that you missed out spotting in this energetic capital of Nepal. You can indulge yourself in shopping or strolling around some of the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Thamel is your hot spot for shopping, where you can haul all the souvenirs representing Nepal and its culture. May be that in addition to your interesting trip anecdotes, you would also want to take back some mementos for your friends and relatives back home.
In the evening, Marron Treks will host a farewell dinner program; a full fledged Nepali fiesta, featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines and a live cultural show. Savor the Nepali cookeries while you tap your feet on the peppy folk numbers, being streamed live in front of you. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 16: Final departure

This is a representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the Tribhuwan International Airport, three hours prior to your flight schedule. As you wave us good bye and enter the terminal block, you would perhaps recall your arrival at this place. No wonder, everything seems so familiar now, because you had come here as tourist, but you are going back as a friend! Have a safe flight back home and we look forward to being your travel companion in Nepal again!
Trips can always be extended. You can try out some of our other exciting packages like  Bungy Jumping, Mountain Biking, Jungle Safari, White Water Rafting, Golfing & Paragliding etc. Please let us know about your desire for trip extension so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

  Important  Snippets  

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

For some reason (illness, high altitude sickness or any other personal reason), if the guests need to abandon the trip and return early, they are still liable to pay all the relevant trip expenses in full (like group visa charges, accommodation, transportation etc.), including the medical expenses incurred en route. There shall not be any refund or cost adjustment, because the Chinese Government does not have any refund policy for the trips that are booked.

Accommodation

During Kathmandu Kailash & Manasarovar we opt you accommodate in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star),  Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar in Kathmandu City.

While you are in Tibet, we arrange 3-4 star Standard Hotel to the local budget hotels as per your requirement. Along the trekking route, you will be placed in the best available tea-house or campsite.

But in other towns like Saga, Zhongba etc. there are 2-3 star hotel one at each towns charging US$ 45 to 65 per night for double room. If you wish to skip these hotels there are no other choices but to stay in local BUDGET guest house, local lodges etc which you may not find as to your expectation.

The facilities of camping tents are provided whilst you book Camping Treks in Tibet, including mattress, warm inner sheet, comfortable pillow and sleeping bag. Fresh and hygienic food stuffs are served by our crewmembers.

Meals

We ensure that the food served during the trek is healthy. Generally, we opt for fresh local community food of Tibet such as Tsampa(staple food of Tibet), Buttered tea, Meat and other Tibetian food. This gives you a real sense of the culture and life patterns of the local people, simultaneously providing you the opportunity to boost the sales of the local products. Other than that a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisine like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Best Months

May to September is considered to be the best months for Kathmandu Kailash & Mansarovar Tour.

Our Guides

Guides play the most significant role in trekking. Marron Treks has literate, experienced and helpful trekking guides who are multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to Tibet. Hence your trek becomes informative as well as entertaining.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you makes you trip safe and hassle free.

To Enter Tibet

There are two common routes for entering Tibet. They are as follows:

1. Kathmandu to Lhasa by flight

2. Kathmandu to Kodari by road.

Obtaining Visa

It is mandatory for all the foreigners to have a valid Chinese visa along with the three different permits viz. Tibet Tourism Bereau (TTB) Permit, Alien’s Travel Permit which is issued by the Police Security Bereau(PSB) , and the Military Permit. These permits give you hassle free access to the unopened areas of Tibet. We do not want you to get into the rigmaroles of obtaining these all by yourself. So, after the confirmation of your tour, you need to send us your passport details (Name, Date of Birth, Sex, Nationality, Passport Number and Occupation). We will commence the documentation for your visa and permits processing instantly. Upon your arrival to Nepal, you will be granted the visa as well as the permits.

For more queries, Visit our  FAQ section or contact us directly at   marketing@marrontreks.com

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request) on twin sharing accommodation basis.

For other special requirements or bigger group deals, kindly mail us directly at: marketing@marrontreks.com

 Cost Includes

• Airport pick up and drop services in Kathmandu & Lhasa by private transportation.
• Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city.
• All ground transportation in Nepal and Tibet with respect to the itinerary.
• Hotel accommodation in Nepal and Tibet on "BB" basis as depicted in the itinerary.
• Camp accommodation during the tour in Tibet, as mentioned in per the itinerary on "full board" basis.
• Tibet visa fee $ 150.00 for US Citizens and $130.00 for other nationals.
• Kathmandu-Lhasa-Kathmandu round trip airfare (one way -$ 420.00 and round trip -$ 771.00) *subject to change.
• Entrance and monumental fees during the sightseeing in Nepal & Tibet as prescribed in the itinerary.
• All applicable tourist fees, conservation fees & local permit fees necessary for tour.
• Company’s t-shirt, cap and a day pack (provided as complimentary gears).
• Remuneration to the English speaking city guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu and Tibet.
• Remuneration to the accompanying guide, Kitchen staffs and helpers throughout the trip.
• A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the guide).
• Personal insurance for crew members.
• All government and local taxes.
• Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.

Cost Excludes

• International airfare (Kathmandu to home country) and departure taxes.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).
• Personal insurance and other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry, bottled water etc.).
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Lunch and dinner expenses.
• Personal clothing and equipments.
• Tips for tour guides, driver, porter, kitchen staffs, helpers and hotel lobby staff (Tipping is expected but not mandatory).
• Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.
• Other expenses not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section above.

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the tour packages. We operate group as well as individual/private tours. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.