Kailash Tour With Saga Dawa Festival

Kailash Tour with Saga Dawa Festival

DURATION

14 DAY

DESTINATION

Tibet

TRIP GRADE

Moderate to Strenuous

MEALS

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

TRANSPORTATION

Private Transportation

Saga Dawa Festival is an important Tibetan Buddhist festival, held every year on the full moon day of the fourth lunar month of the Tibetan calendar, to celebrate Sakyamunis enlightenment. Each year people from all over Tibet gather here that day to attach the prayer flags they brought from home, to pray, and to help erect the huge flagpole on the Kailash Kora. The whole ceremony is led by a Tibetan Lama from a nearby monastery. Hours before the actual rising of the flagpole from the ground, people circumambulate the flagpole and pray and throw wind horses (little pieces of colored paper with Buddhist scriptures on them) into the air. They help to remove last year’s prayer flags and attach new ones. As a visitor, you are almost forced to follow them as they go around and around, time after time. Along the sides, on the slope of the nearby hills, a lot of people are sitting to watch the spectacle and there are musicians who play all the time on their horns and symbols. We can really feel a sudden great sense of happiness surrounding us.

The Saga Dawa festival is held for a month around the Tarboche valley of the Kailash region. The main day of the Saga Dawa festival in 2024 is the 23rd of May. Touch Kailash Travels and Tours will manage your entire travel plan to explore the Saga Dawa Festival 2024. The tour covers Lhasa and other historical cities of Tibet. The tour starts with a scenic Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Exploration of Lhasa city including Potala Palace and others during your one full day sightseeing. Drive towards west Tibet by crossing many other historical Tibetan cities and high passes from where high mountain views of Tibet and Nepal Himalayas are seen crystal clear.

Our main destinations Mount Kailash and Manasarovar are reached via the Kerung border of Nepal. Stay overnight at typical Tibetan mud houses and take your food from local restaurants. Mount Kailash Parikrama is the adventure in this tour, which is 3 days of trekking by crossing 5613 meters of Dolma La pass. You also have the option to take a personal helper and pony at this part. Finally, explore the Saga Dawa Festival and drive back to Kathmandu via Kerung Border.

Day 01 14 May 2024:- Arrival in Kathmandu. Overnight at Hotel (1350m)

Arrival in Kathmandu. Our representative with pick up you from Tribhuban International airport and transfer you to the Hotel. Walking tour at the touristic hub (Thamel) you can plan to buy your personal equipment for your trip. Our guide will help you. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02 15 May 2024: Day in Kathmandu. Visa and trip preparation. Overnight at Hotel

Touch Kailash Travels and Tours will take care of your visa and other necessary documents. Trip briefing, and do the final packing for the Trip. You also have option to visit some historical places in Kathmandu valley.

Day 03 16 May 2024: Drive to Shyaprubesi and overnight at Local tea house (117km - 7 Hours, 2250m)

Start driving to Shyaprubesi from Kathmandu after your breakfast in Hotel. You will be inside of Langtang National Park today. Rest at a local tea house after your long drive on the bumpy roads.

Day 04 17 May 2024: Drive from Syaprubesi to Kerung (40 Km - 2 Hours, 2900m) Overnight at Guest House

Drive to Kerung from Shyaprubesi. Cross Nepal Tibet border and finish immigration formalities. You will meet your Tibetan guide and further drive to the first town of Tibet, Kerung. Overnight at a guesthouse in the village of Kerung.

Day 05 18 May 2024: Drive to Saga (390km - 6/7 hrs, 4500m) Overnight at guest house

We continue our trip to Saga, a town in Tibet. After 6/7 hours of drive from the village of Kerung through Lhatse and Sang sang, pass several lakes, towns and high plateau nomadic sites we reach Saga, where we will be staying overnight at the best available accommodation. The home of the Panchen Lama, which is essentially a walled town with cobbled and twisting lanes that revolve around a magnificent monastery.

Day 06 19 May 2024: Drive to Manasarovar (277 km - 6/7 Hrs, 4590m. Overnight at Guest house

You can have the first view of Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar from here. We reach the Manasarovar Lake and overnight at the guest house. Manasarovar is the highest lake of freshwater, a place of pilgrimage, attracting religious people from Nepal, India, Tibet, Russia, and other neighboring countries. Taking bath at Manasarovar and drinking water from here is believed to clean all the sins. You have the option to explore Chui Gumba and Hot spring near Manasarovar.

Day 07 20 May 2024: Exploration of Lake Manasarovar and drive to Darchen (40km - 1Hrs, 4575m). Overnight at Hotel

We explore the Manasarovar Lake and continue our drive to Darchen, Darchen is known as the base camp for Mt. Kailash. Overnight at the best available accommodation at Darchen.

Day 08 21 May 2024: Kailash 1st Day Kora Derapuk. ( 47 km Driving, 14 km walking /6 Hours – 5000m) Overnight at Mud House

Another 7-kilometer rough road till the valley of the god. Start walking about 14 kilometers and reach Derapuk. North face of Mt Kailash. We stay overnight at the guest house in Derapuk.

Day 09 22 May 2024: Kailash Kora 2nd Day Juthulpuk 4750m (19km – 8/9 Hours) Overnight Mud house

Tough day today from Derapuk to Juthulpuk by crossing Dola Ma pass of 5613 meters. start your walk early in the morning. Almost flat land walking till the base of Dolma La. Hard uphill near from pass and reach Dolma La which is all covered with prayers flags. Then immediately start you walking downhill. Gauri Kunda can be seen on the way after dolma La. Reach Juthulpuk Monastery and overnight at Mud House.

Day 10 23 May 2024: Trek to Chongdo and Drive to Darboche valley. Exploration of Saga Dawa festival. Overnight at guest house in Darchen

Morning visit at Juthulpuk Monastery. Start all flat walking about 6 kilometers up to our driving crew. Further, drive to Darboche valley and observe and celebrate the Saga Dawa Festival. All the Tibetan gather here for the final day of Saga Dawa Festival. It is also difficult to get accommodation here for newly arrived people.

Day 11 24 May 2024: Drive back to Saga (7 hours). Overnight at guest house.

After concluding the Saga Dawa Festival morning rituals, we will start our drive back to the town of Saga. After 7 hours of driving on paved roads, we arrive at Saga, where we will be spending the night in a guest house.

Day 12 25 May 2024: Drive to Kerung (5/6 hours) and Overnight at Guest House

We will continue our return to the Nepal-Tibet border of Kerung. After 5-6 hours of driving, we arrive at Kerung. Overnight at guest house.

Day 13 26 May 2024: Drive back to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.

The Tibetan guide will arrange all the necessities for the immigration formalities in the early morning. We will be crossing the Nepal-Tibet border and drive to the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu through the same way of Langtang National Park.

Day 14 27 May 2024: Departure

Our representatives will drop you at the International Airport for the final departure after concluding the Saga Dawa Festival trip. You can as well chose to rest and continue with any other activity in Nepal.

  • Arrival and Departure arrangement
  • 3 nights twin sharing hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • 1 Night tea house/ Guest House in Shyaprubesi
  • Accommodation in Kailash, in basic guest houses
  • Private transportation in Kathmadnu and in Kailash region
  • Drop to Kerung from kathmandu and Pickup
  • Tibet travel permit and Tibet visa
  • Entrance fees of lake manasarovar and Kailash
  • Immigration formalities and luggage transfer
  • English speaking Tibetan guide
  • Helper or Yak to carry luggages and goods during Kailash round
  • Warm jacket and sleeping bag in returnable based if you need
  • Duffel bag to put your goods/equipment
  • Lunch and Dinner in entire trip
  • Personal horse and helper during Kailash round
  • Personal expenses, Equipment, Insurance
  • All the extra expenses incase of delay permit from Tibet, late departure to Tibet because of Tibetan governement or any other cases which is not in our hand.

Recommendations for Yatra

Insurance for the trip
Embark on your Mount Kailash pilgrimage worry-free with our recommended Mount Kailash Travel Insurance. Tailored for the unique challenges of this sacred journey, it provides coverage for trip disruptions, medical emergencies, and unforeseen events. Prioritize your safety and peace of mind as you explore the spiritual wonders of Mount Kailash with our specialized travel insurance.
Health Precaution
High altitudes pose challenges like lower oxygen levels, inducing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, lethargy, and breathlessness. These affect everyone, regardless of age or fitness. Acclimatization is crucial; avoid tranquilizers and antibiotics. Slow down activities, rest frequently, and reduce talking. Walk slowly, keep loads light, and observe silence with a smile. Consume liquids, avoid sudden exertion, and protect against cold. Don't bathe in streams, protect against dust and sun, and follow experienced guides. Prioritize rest, hydration, and warm clothing during winter.
Communication and Network
Wi-Fi will be accessible in Kathmandu, but as we venture into the more secluded regions of Nepal, connectivity will be restricted. The tour guide will carry a satellite phone for emergency communication. Wi-Fi connection is more accessible in the Tibet region as well, while there are no such facilities in Mansarovar, and during the Parikrama. Options for e-sims are widely available in supported devices for cellular data, while mainstream social media including WhatsApp and Facebook are prohibited in China. The use of VPNs may allow for seamless communication with family back home.
Weather and Climate
During May to September, temperatures in Nepal and Tibet range from 10 to 22°C during the day. Despite the moderate daytime temperatures, the intense sun at high altitudes can create a much warmer sensation. Nighttime temperatures may drop significantly, reaching as low as -5°C.
Precautions and High Altitude
As altitude increases, the body requires time to adapt to lower oxygen levels through a process known as acclimatization. Proper acclimatization is crucial for maintaining health and ensuring a comfortable journey at high altitudes. Most individuals are affected by the reduced oxygen levels at elevations exceeding 2,500 meters. Diamox (Acetazolamide) has proven to be highly effective in facilitating acclimatization and countering High Altitude Sickness. Further details will be provided closer to the journey.
Physical Fitness
Please consult your doctor and undergo a medical examination before embarking on the Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar yatra. Given the high altitudes, it is advisable to begin exercises such as walking, jogging, yoga, and breathing exercises at least a month prior to ensure a successful journey.
Packing List

The Touch Kailash Team will be providing a Duffel Bag, a 25l Backpack, and a Down Jacket (on a refundable basis), upon your arrival in Kathmandu.

Documents:

Carry a small waist pouch or document bag to organize essential documents:

  • Passport with photocopies.
  • Photographs.
  • Identity card.
  • Diary for addresses and contacts.
  • Ball pens with spare refills.
  • Maps/Charts/Books.
  • Travel cheques, credit cards & currency.
  • Airline/Railway tickets/vouchers.
  • Any other personal documents.
Common Items:
  • Big bag for equipment
  • Small light trek bag
  • Water bottle/Thermos flask (1 liter)
Clothing:
  • Enough clothing for the entire journey, including trek suits, leisure wear, jogging trousers, T-shirts, polar fleece, shirts, salwar kameez, etc.
  • Wool socks, thick tights, wool monkey cap, scarves, warm light gloves
  • Wool/thermal long underwear
  • Rainwear (umbrella or raincoat)
Footwear:
  • Sports comfortable shoes/trainers (Nike, Adidas, etc.) with a spare pair
  • A pair of light slippers
Toiletries:
  • Toiletries kit (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toilet rolls, towels, etc.)
  • Sunscreen lotion/cream
  • Facial tissues, wet wipes
Camping Items:
  • Torch/candle/matchbox/lighter/batteries
  • Knife
  • Plastic mug
  • Dusk masks/face masks
Personal & General Items:
  • Regular medicines
  • Dark sunglasses
  • Favorite food for energy (nuts, biscuits, powdered juice)
  • Kapoor/Vicks/Inhaler, etc.
  • Binoculars/Camera/extra batteries
  • Milk powder for tea
First Aid Kit:
  • Typical backpacking kit for minor injuries
  • Diamox/Aspirin/painkillers
  • Lip balm/Mustard oil/Vaseline
  • Plasters
  • TCP, salt, mint, Vicks for sore throats
Currency
  • The Currency for Nepal is Nepalese Rupee, while there are options to exchange at the airport, you may find better exchange rates at the numerous exchange centers in the Thamel Market.
  • The Currency used in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan, US Dollars or other currencies are not accepted.
  • While US Dollars and major currencies, including Indian Rupees, are accepted in Nepal, this is not the case in Tibet. If you intend to convert your money to Chinese Yuan, you can do so either at international airports or in Kathmandu.
Accommodation and Amenities

This journey encompasses urban, rural, and remote areas in Nepal and Tibet, resulting in varying accommodations and amenities. Whether it's five-star hotels and guest houses or camping in the breathtaking Himalayan regions under the care of our staff, you can be confident that we will consistently offer the best possible facilities in every instance.

Passport Validity and Visas

All Travelers must ensure that their passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of tour completion.

  • Indian Passport Holders do not require a visa to enter Nepal.
  • All foreign Passport Holders can get their 30 days multiple entry visa to Nepal at the Kathmandu Airport, or online from the Nepal Immigration Website.
  • All Visas and Permits along with other needful documents for Tibet will be arranged by Touch Kailash Team.

Trip Note

This trip is group departure based. if you want to make it your personal tour, we can run as it your personal tour and itinerary can be customized as per your interest.

Usefull Info

Governement of Tibet may change their rules and regulation regarding permit, Visa and entry of Tibet any time and it can be also at last hour of our trip. whatever complication comes because of Tibetan government, this kind of risk goes to clients personally.