Mount Kailash Saga Dawa Festival Trek via Simikot 2026

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are met and transferred to your hotel. This day is kept light to recover from international travel and prepare for the journey ahead. If time permits, a short walk around Thamel allows time for currency exchange, gear checks, and a first feel of Nepal’s capital. In the evening, there is a detailed briefing covering the Mount Kailash Saga Dawa Festival Tour via Simikot, including permits, route overview, and altitude considerations.

Today, you take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, the main transit hub for western Nepal. Sitting on the right side of the aircraft is highly recommended, as clear weather often rewards you with panoramic views of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range, including several peaks above 7,000 m and 8,000 m.

After arrival, the rest of the day is free to relax and prepare for the early morning flight to Simikot.

An early morning mountain flight takes you from Nepalgunj to Simikot. The landscape changes dramatically as the route passes over remote hills, deep river valleys, and snow-covered ridges. Upon arrival in Simikot, the district headquarters of Humla, you check into a simple lodge or guesthouse.

The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and light acclimatization, with an optional short walk around town.

After breakfast in Simikot, the trek begins along the Karnali River valley, following a clear trail out of town. The path climbs gradually toward Lagna, a natural viewpoint that offers wide views back over Simikot and the surrounding hills. After crossing Lagna Pass, the trail descends steadily into the lower valley.

Continuing downhill, the route passes through Dharapori Village, a traditional Thakuri settlement, where terraced fields and stone houses reflect local mountain life. The trail then crosses the Hepka Khola via a simple bridge before opening into grazing land near the village.

The day ends with camping near the Dharapori village area, close to water sources and open pastureland. The lower altitude and warmer climate make this a comfortable place to rest and prepare for the following days of trekking.

Today we walk through the deep Karnali River valley — rocky trail high above the water most of the way. After a couple of hours, you suddenly see Chya-Chhra Waterfall dropping from the cliff — a nice surprise and great photo spot. We reach Kermi village — small place famous for natural hot springs. Many trekkers stop here to soak tired legs in the warm water — good for recovery.

From Kermi, the trail climbs gradually to Salli Pass — important crossing point toward Limi Valley. After the pass, we drop gently into a quiet side valley and reach Salli Khola camp — peaceful spot with forest, river sound, and fresh air.

Today starts easy after breakfast at Salli Khola camp. The trail goes across open Yalbang Chaur — flat and nice walking — then climbs gently to Yalbang Monastery.

This is the biggest monastery in Humla. You can see monks and nuns going about their day, kids in the school, and the prayer halls. It’s a good stop to sit quietly, watch local Buddhist life, or chat with the people there if they’re free.

After the monastery, the path continues through Muchu villages and pretty valleys — green fields, river views, and normal village life. The walk feels relaxed after the climb.

By late afternoon we reach Tumkot campsite — a peaceful spot near the river. We set up tents, have dinner, and rest early for tomorrow.

After breakfast at Tumkot camp, we cross the Tumkot River and start walking toward Yari Village — the most northern settlement in Humla. The trail climbs gradually — not too steep, but steady. The land gets drier, trees disappear, and you get big open views of high mountains and empty valleys. It’s peaceful and remote — typical Upper Humla feel.

Take it slow today — good for acclimatization. Stop when you need to breathe or take photos. Yari is small and quiet, with traditional stone houses, local people, and that far-away Himalayan vibe. It’s an important stop for trekkers going toward Mount Kailash.

We reach Yari by late afternoon. Set up camp, have dinner, and rest early — the altitude is higher now.

Today is a big day — we finish the Nepal side and cross into Tibet. After breakfast at Yari camp, we start the climb to Nara La Pass (4,530 m). The trail goes uphill steadily — not too steep, but you feel the height. At the top, the views are wide open: mountains, valleys, and the way ahead into Tibet. Take a few minutes for photos and to catch your breath.

From Nara La, the path descends gently toward Hilsa, a village on the Nepal–Tibet border. It’s a small place right on the Karnali River. Once we reach Hilsa, we meet our Tibetan support team (guide and driver). They help with border formalities — passports, permits, and checks. It can take 1–2 hours, so we stay patient and organized.

After clearing immigration, it’s a quick 30-minute drive to Taklakot (also called Purang) — the first Tibetan town on the Kailash route. Taklakot is lively with shops, markets, and people trading between Nepal and Tibet. Check into the hotel or guesthouse, have a warm shower, and relax. Dinner in the evening — good chance to settle in and get ready for the Kailash part.

Today, you drive to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in the Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Situated at 4,600 m, the lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a serene, reflective experience.

Upon arrival, perform spiritual rituals, meditation, and lakeshore exploration. Many pilgrims collect holy water, chant prayers, or simply marvel at the pristine landscape. Manasarovar’s calm waters mirror the surrounding peaks, creating stunning photo opportunities.

After breakfast drive to Darchen and continue drive to Tarboche , Today is the spiritual highlight — Saga Dawa Festival at Kailash. This full-moon day celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and nirvana. Pilgrims from Tibet, Nepal, India gather for big rituals.

The main event is at Tarboche — raising tall prayer flag poles. Everyone helps tie new flags (printed with prayers) to the poles — it’s said to spread blessings with the wind. You can join in, watch, or just feel the energy.

There’s chanting, traditional music, butter lamps, and lots of koras around the mountain. The air is full of prayers and positive vibes.

Evening walk back or drive back to Darchen.

After an early breakfast, drive to Darchen, the base for the Kailash Kora. From here, begin the spiritual walk to Dirapuk Monastery, witnessing the north face of Mount Kailash up close. The path passes prayer flags, mani walls, and small chortens, creating a deeply sacred atmosphere.

Pro Tip: Move slowly to acclimatize at high altitude and take short breaks for prayer or photography.

The second day of the kora and its longest day of all and hardest too. From Dira puk the trial leaves Lha Chu valley and enters to Doma La Chu valley and all ascent to Dolma la pass, the time is about 3 hours. After few min descents we will see Gauri kunda and descents down to Lham Chu valley and walk along Lham Chu River west or east. And we come to Zutulphuk at 4790m. ZuthulPhuk a famous monastery built at the site of a famous cave said to have been created as a part of the contest between Milarepa and Naro Bonchung over whether Kailash would subsequently be the domain of Buddhism or Bon. About 8/9 hrs, Camp

Finish the final stretch of the Kailash Kora, completing the full circumambulation of the sacred mountain. Afterward, drive back to Purang for rest, celebration, and reflection on this profound spiritual journey.

Pro Tip: Capture sunset views from Purang—the soft light enhances the spiritual ambiance of the Tibetan plateau.

For adventurous groups, return to Simikot by road via Hilsa. Enjoy the rugged mountain scenery and Tibetan plateau landscapes along the way. Total journey 6–8 hours, depending on road conditions.

Drive Duration: 6–8 hours
Accommodation: Lodge / Guesthouse in Simikot
Altitude: 2,910 m

Early morning flight from Simikot to Nepalgunj, followed by onward flight to Kathmandu (1,350 m). Transfer to your hotel or airport for departure. The Mount Kailash Saga Dawa Festival pilgrimage concludes today, leaving lasting spiritual and cultural memories.

Travel Duration: 2–3 hours total flights

Fly back home according to flight schedule.