Trip overview
Pilgrims from all over the world have a deep confidence in Mount Kailash, which is viewed differently by worshippers from many countries and ethnic groups. The Kailash Helicopter Tour allows travelers who have a strong desire to visit this sacred site but have limited time to do so to visit Mt. Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in a short amount of time. This excursion is meant for physically challenged or senior persons who wish to pay a visit to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva but are unable to trek the rocky and difficult pathways of Kailash.
Kailash and Manasarovar are the holiest places on the planet as per Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. According to Hindu myth, Mt. Kailash is Lord Shiva’s home, while Manasarovar Lake is Shiva and Parbati goddess’s bathing place. According to Buddhism, Kailash Manasarovar is the God of Snow Jewels and the meditation site of Buddha disciples (Guru Rimpoche). The 52-kilometer Kailash kora/parikrama is known as the sacred walk since it reveals many different religious philosophies at each step. Thousands of yatris participate in the world’s most famous yatra every year, with Hindus and Buddhist devotees appreciating the religious significance, cultural significance, and natural beauty of Kailash Mountain and Manasarovar Lake in Tibet.
The Kailash Manasarovar Helicopter Tour is considered a luxury tour in Tibet that begins from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. On a trip from above the country’s mountains, the view from Simikot via Nepalgunj is truly stunning. Following our arrival on Simikot, we will board a private aircraft for a journey to Hilsa, where we may take in the breathtaking scenery beneath us. From here, the overland route to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar is easy and pleasant. We will travel farther up to Darchen with the help of a professional guide and crew and then embark on a three-day Parikrama walk around Mt. Kailash (also known as Kora), allowing the spiritual belief to sink in.
We will embark on an overland trek to Lake Manasarovar after an exhilarating yet tranquil experience on Mt. Kailash. Most pilgrims consider the lake’s water, which they refer to as “Jal,” to be pure holy water. We will grab a small amount of water and continue on our way back to Taklakot. We will return to Simikot by helicopter and finish our adventure in Kathmandu on a regular aircraft.
The journey includes high and remote mountain flying, unique Hindu practices, Buddhist and Tibetan culture highlights and breathtaking panoramic vistas of Nepal and Tibet in the huge Karnali canyon with small hidden valley.
Kathmandu to Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar Helicopter Tour via Simikot Highlights
- Quickest way to reach sacred Kailash — we fly you by helicopter from Simikot straight to Hilsa (just 20–30 minutes of pure Himalayan views), so you skip days of bumpy roads and get to the holy sites faster.
- Made with love for seniors and anyone who can’t do long treks — if walking rocky paths is tough, this luxury route still lets you experience the full spiritual power of Mt Kailash and Lake Manasarovar without pushing your body too hard.
- Holy places that mean everything to Hindus, Buddhists & Jains — Kailash is Lord Shiva’s home, Manasarovar is where Shiva & Parvati bathed. For Buddhists it’s the meditation place of Guru Rinpoche. Every step on the kora feels like it carries centuries of prayers.
- You still get the real 3-day kora around Kailash — 52 km of walking (with porter or yak help if you need it), passing the dramatic north face at Dirapuk, climbing over Dolma La Pass, and coming down to Zuthulpuk. It’s challenging, but so rewarding.
- Time to truly feel Lake Manasarovar — sit by the shore, do your puja, maybe take a quick holy dip if the weather allows, and just breathe in the silence and peace at 4600 metres.
- Helicopter & mountain views you’ll never forget — the flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot, then the chopper ride over the Karnali canyon and snow peaks — it’s like seeing the Himalayas from heaven.
- Everything taken care of from Kathmandu — our experienced Tibetan guides, comfortable guesthouses, good vegetarian meals, oxygen if needed, and all Tibet permits sorted — so you can focus on the spiritual side, not the paperwork.
- Special energy in 2026 — if you time it for Saga Dawa (May 31), the festival atmosphere at Tarboche adds something magical, especially in the Year of the Horse when merits are said to multiply.
Kathmandu to Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar Helicopter Tour via Simikot Itinerary
Expand AllArrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
You will be greeted and received by one of our representative when you will arrive at Kathmandu International Airport. After that, you will be driven to your accommodation in our private tourist van. We will provide you a detailed briefing on the trip as well as the items you will require throughout your travel.
Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1,350 m)
The first part of our day is spent taking in the attractions of the city. Breakfast will be served in the hotel, and then the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu will begin. You’ll go to Pashupatinath and Budhanilkantha, two well-known holy sites of Kathmandu. We’ll also see some UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Kathmandu Durbar Squares. Then you will return to your hotel, where you can spend your free time doing whatever you like as well as pre tour preparation.
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)
After a lovely day in Kathmandu, we will fly to Nepalgunj in the morning on a regular airline. We will be taken to the hotel from Nepalgunj airport. The tour leader will give us a briefing regarding the helicopter tour in the evening.
Flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot then to Hilsa and then drive to Taklakot (3,900m)
With an early morning meal, we will depart Simikot by helicopter for Hilsa. When we will arrive at Hilsa, we will ascend up to the Chinese checkpoint, which is about a mile away across the river. We will then go across the bridge to meet our Sherpas, who will look after our bags. After completing all of the necessary paperwork, we will board on the waiting Jeeps that will transport us to Purang (Taklakot). Purang, a little Tibetan border town, is where we spend the night. In the local market, you can also purchase personal necessities.
Acclimatization in Taklakot (3,900m)
Today, we will take a break in Taklakot to acclimate. Before continuing on to a higher elevation, our bodies must be fully acclimatized to the high-altitude atmosphere. As a result, it is critical that you spend a day here for your health. We may also arrange a quick visit to the Khojarnath temple as an optional program, or you can simply stroll around the city at your own.
Drive from Taklakot to Lake Manasarovar (4,600m)
We will depart Taklakot in a private jeep after breakfast for Lake Manasarovar. The journey to Lake Manasarovar takes roughly two to three hours, with breathtaking views of the holy country along the way. On the way, we’ll stop in Rakshas Taal for a quick photo opportunity and to take in the scenery. We’ll continue our journey to Lake Manasarovar after a short stop. We will then depart for a private jeep circumambulation around Lake Manasarovar following a holy bath and lunch.
Drive from Lake Manasarovar to Darchen and then to Dirapuk (5,080m)
We drive to Darchen, where we may see the closest view of Mount Kailash, after conducting Pooja in the morning and taking a holy dip in the lake. Those who wish to make the holy circumambulation around Mt. Kailash will begin their trek from “Yama Dwar,” while those who do not wish to trek will return to Darchen by Jeep and wait for others to arrive. The trek to Derapuk monastery takes 5 to 6 hours in total. It is, however, dependent on your speed.
Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk (4,790m) via Dolma la Pass (5,630m)
Today will be the most difficult day of our adventure. Early in the morning, we will begin our ascent to Dolma-La (5630 m). The entire trail up to Dolma-La is steadily ascending, and then the trail abruptly descends to Zuthulpuk, the next valley. Beyond this pass, the holiest water pond (Gauri Kunda) is located. People say that Parvati, Lord Shiva’s wife, used to bath at this lake. The trip to Zuthulpuk monastery takes another two hours after the downhill climb to the valley.
End of Trek and drive back to Taklakot (3,900m)
Our trek/Kora will end today around Darchen, where our vehicles will be waiting to pick us up and bring us to Taklakot through the same route.
Drive from Taklakot to Hilsa and flight from Simikot - Nepalgunj – Kathmandu
Today, after breakfast, we will travel back to Sher village and then climb down to Hilsa, which will take around 45 minutes. After that, we will take a helicopter flight to Simikot and then to Nepalgunj. We’ll travel back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj airport. With a farewell meal in Kathmandu, our great adventure will come to an end.
Final Departure
After breakfast, you will be taken to Kathmandu International Airport to join your trip back to your home. This is an incredible way to cap off a life-changing experience.
Not quite satisfied with this itinerary?
No worries – every traveler has unique preferences, and we’d be happy to adjust the plan to match your style, comfort, and interests. Let us know what you’d like to add or change, and we’ll create a journey that feels truly yours.
Customize TripCost Includes
- All airport transfers.
- 2 nights at Hotel on twin sharing and full board basis at Kathmandu
- 1 Night at Hotel on Twin sharing & Full board basis at Nepalgunj.
- 1 Night at Guest house with full board at Simikot.
- Kathmandu -Nepalgunj-Simikot-back to Ktm- Flight.
- Charter Heli flight from Simikot-Hilsa-Simikot.
- Special Simikot permit fee.
- Luxury Bus on Tibet side as per package.
- English Speaking Tibetan Guide.
- Nepali staff group, experienced Nepali guide, Cook and a special Sherpa Team.
- Private kitchen freshly cooked vegetarian meals.
- All Permits.
- Tibet / China Visa Fee for Indian Nationals.
- First aid-kit, Medical Oxygen and Pulse Oximeter.
Cost Excludes
- Travel Insurance.
- Extra nights in Tibetan lodges and hotels on the Nepal side (other than those mentioned in the itinerary) due to weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the company’s control.
- Emergency Evacuation Cost.
- Cost of Hiring Horse Porter during the 3 days Kailash Parikrama.
- Expenses of Personal Nature such as Phone call, laundry, etc.
Additional Informations
Accommodation
Firante Treks and Expedition Manages for best and comfortable accommodation and also provides you hygienic food. Standard (3 Star) are booked in the cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, whereas a tyical trek lodge will be booked on remote areas.
Luxurious rooms from 5 Star hotels are also made avaiable on demand in the cities on additional cost but remote regionss dont have such facilities.
Trip Gallery
Trip FAQs
1. How many days is this Kailash helicopter tour from Kathmandu?
It’s an 11-day trip (including arrival and departure). We keep it short but safe — fast helicopter transfer from Simikot to Hilsa, proper acclimatization in Taklakot, and the full 3-day kora around Mount Kailash.
2. Is this tour good for seniors or people who can’t trek long distances?
Yes, absolutely. This route is designed for pilgrims who want the spiritual experience without walking the whole way. We use helicopter to skip long drives, provide porter/yak support for the kora, and have rest days so you can enjoy Lake Manasarovar and the north face views comfortably.
3. What is the highest altitude on this tour?
The highest point is Dolma La Pass at 5,630 m on Day 8 (during the kora). We spend a full acclimatization day in Taklakot (3900 m) and time at Manasarovar (4600 m) to help your body adjust safely. Our guides carry oxygen and watch everyone closely.
4. Can I take a holy dip in Lake Manasarovar?
Yes, on Day 6 you have time for an optional dip if the weather is calm and you feel up to it — the water is very cold at 4,600 m. Many pilgrims do it for purification, but it’s not required. Your guide will help with the rituals.
5. Do I need a special visa or permit for Tibet?
Yes, you need a Tibet Group Visa and Alien Travel Permit. We handle everything in Kathmandu — just give us passport scans in advance and the original on Day 2. No extra cost; it’s all included.
6. What is the 3-day Kailash kora like?
It’s 52 km total. Day 7 is gentle (to Dirapuk with north face views). Day 8 is the hardest (up to Dolma La 5630 m, then down to Zuthulpuk). Day 9 is easy descent back to Darchen. Porters/yaks carry your main bag — most people manage it with our support.
7. When is the best time for this tour in 2026?
Late May to early June is ideal — it aligns with Saga Dawa Festival on May 31, 2026 (Year of the Horse). The energy at Tarboche is incredible, and weather is usually stable.
8. What happens if someone feels altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained to spot early signs. We carry oxygen, medicines, and can descend quickly if needed. The itinerary has built-in rest days to keep risks low. In rare cases, we arrange return to lower altitude.
9. Is the helicopter flight safe?
Yes — we use experienced pilots and well-maintained helicopters for the Simikot–Hilsa leg. Weather is checked daily; if it’s not safe, we wait or adjust. Thousands of pilgrims fly this route every year without issues.
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