Snow Lion Expeditions

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  • 24 Days
  • Trekking

Few mountains rival the mystique, isolation, and beauty of Kailas. Considered the “Center of the Universe” by Buddhists and Hindus, its flanks give rise to four great Asian rivers – Indus, Brahmaputra, Ganges, and Sutlej. The aura of Kailas draws pilgrims from throughout Asia. In this overland and trekking adventure, we drive across the Tibetan Plateau from Lhasa to Kailas and then embark on the four-day sacred kora, including a crossing of the 18,200-foot Drolma La. We’ll also visit sacred Lake Manasarovar, considered by Hindus to be the female energy, the “yoni” of the universe, balancing the male energy or “lingum” of Kailas. The itinerary begins and ends in Kathmandu, providing us with a glimpse into the vibrant and eccentric urban scene of Nepal’s largest city.

Newsletter Article: Kailas: Take a Walk Around the "Center of the Universe"

Illustration of Himalayan Rain Shadow shows how this region stays dry.

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Trip Highlights

  • Circumambulation of Kailas, one of the world's most sacred mountains
  • Visits to traditional monasteries
  • Stunning Buddhist art in the temples of Toling and Tsaparang
  • Sacred Lake Manasarovar
  • Exploring exotic and vibrant Kathmandu
  • Lhasa, the ancient Tibetan capital
  • An epic cross-country journey via Land Rover across Tibet
  • Breathtaking views of the Himalaya

What's Included

  • English-speaking guide
  • Deluxe camping, including North Face dome tents, thick foam pads, and dining tent
  • Trekking support staff, including expedition cook and kitchen staff
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Private car and driver
  • Double-occupancy hotel accommodations in the cities
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per itinerary
  • Airport transfers
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Trip Dates

  • Jun 5, 2008 — Jun 28, 2008
  • Sep 7, 2008 — Sep 30, 2008

Trip Cost

  • From $5,395 Price valid through 08/31/2008

Itinerary Snap-shot

Days 1-2: arrive Kathmandu / tour and explore
Day 3: Fly to Lhasa
Days 4-5: Lhasa / tour and explore
Days 6-12: Drive to Darchen via Everest
Day 13: Tarboche
Days 14-16: Kailas kora
Days 17-18: Lake Manasarovar
Days 19-22: drive to Kathmandu
Day 23: Kathmandu / free day
Day 24: Depart Nepal