© 2009 Bodhilife PRO
KAILASH
ROOF OF THE WORLD
KAILASH
ROOF OF THE WORLD
What is Kailash to me?
Kailash is the axis of the world, the central channel of our planet, its Sahasrara (crown chakra). Kailash is an opportunity for the deepest transformation.
I felt this through personal experience when I completed my first circumambulation of the mountain in 2009. After that, my entire life changed.
It’s no coincidence that, according to legend, Kailash is the dwelling place of Shiva himself. It is the point where anyone can touch the highest, transcendental state of consciousness.
Yes, Kailash transforms and changes you. Yes, Kailash is not easy. It is: an altitude of 5,000 meters, a four-day continuous trek on foot, a lack of familiar levels of oxygen, and of course, the powerful vibrations of this place.
This mountain must be circumambulated completely, independently, from the beginning to the end of the route, without using any means of transport. Only then is the true result achieved.
Historically, this is the place where all the Masters, Yogis, and Teachers of antiquity came for transformation and realization.
We still have a unique opportunity to connect with this sacred site. However, circumstances are changing quickly, and each year the Chinese government creates and modifies the rules.
Kailash is the roof of the world, a source of inspiration and transformation for all spiritual seekers.
This path is not just a trek — it is an inner journey. Here, you will face not only the altitude, but also yourself.
Kailash changes everyone who comes to it with an open heart.
Traditional wisdom says that one circumambulation of Mount Kailash erases the sins of an entire lifetime, and 108 circumambulations guarantee enlightenment.
You will return a different person — with a renewed vision of the world and of yourself.
Kailash is the axis of the world, the central channel of our planet, its Sahasrara (crown chakra). Kailash is an opportunity for the deepest transformation.
I felt this through personal experience when I completed my first circumambulation of the mountain in 2009. After that, my entire life changed.
It’s no coincidence that, according to legend, Kailash is the dwelling place of Shiva himself. It is the point where anyone can touch the highest, transcendental state of consciousness.
Yes, Kailash transforms and changes you. Yes, Kailash is not easy. It is: an altitude of 5,000 meters, a four-day continuous trek on foot, a lack of familiar levels of oxygen, and of course, the powerful vibrations of this place.
This mountain must be circumambulated completely, independently, from the beginning to the end of the route, without using any means of transport. Only then is the true result achieved.
Historically, this is the place where all the Masters, Yogis, and Teachers of antiquity came for transformation and realization.
We still have a unique opportunity to connect with this sacred site. However, circumstances are changing quickly, and each year the Chinese government creates and modifies the rules.
Kailash is the roof of the world, a source of inspiration and transformation for all spiritual seekers.
— Alex Bodhi
This path is not just a trek — it is an inner journey. Here, you will face not only the altitude, but also yourself.
Kailash changes everyone who comes to it with an open heart.
Traditional wisdom says that one circumambulation of Mount Kailash erases the sins of an entire lifetime, and 108 circumambulations guarantee enlightenment.
You will return a different person — with a renewed vision of the world and of yourself.
If Kailash is calling you — do not ignore that call. It might be the journey that changes your entire life.
The entire journey will take 15 days, including acclimatization.
This is not just a walk, but with proper preparation, it is accessible to anyone who feels an inner calling.
The circumambulation of the mountain, or "Kora," is a 56 km trekking route on foot.
The highest point is the Dolma-La Pass at 5,470 meters.
Mount Kailash itself rises to 6,714 meters.
The circumambulation of the mountain, or "Kora," is a 56 km trekking route on foot.
The highest point is the Dolma-La Pass at 5,470 meters.
Mount Kailash itself rises to 6,714 meters.
We will begin our journey in Kathmandu, cross the border into Tibet, and make our way toward Kailash, visiting all possible sacred sites and places of power along the way.
Throughout the journey — and especially during the Kora — we will engage in shared practices and meditations.
The tour is led by
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Alex Bodhi
The author of the BODHILIFE project, Yoga for Advanced Practitioners.
With over 20 years of personal practice, exploration, and research across multiple traditions, including 10 years of study under Master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche.
Holder of the transmission lineage of the Yantra Yoga system, "Tibetan Yoga of Movement."
15 years of teaching experience. Creator of the unique method "Yoga of the Sun and Moon union"
and various meditation techniques.
A professional guide and traveler.
Living in India and Nepal since 2009.
TOUR PROGRAM
Day 1
Arrival of guests in Kathmandu (1300m)
Arrival in Kathmandu. Check-in at the hotel.
In the evening, we will have a welcome dinner and introduction, followed by a detailed presentation about the sacred Kailash and Lake Manasarovar by our guides.
In the evening, we will have a welcome dinner and introduction, followed by a detailed presentation about the sacred Kailash and Lake Manasarovar by our guides.
Day 2
Kathmandu: Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath
Morning yoga practice for all those interested.
On this day, we will visit Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath.
Swayambhunath – The Mountain-Temple-Stupa – one of the most important sacred sites in Kathmandu, offering a panoramic view of the city. This sacred place is significant for Hindus, Buddhists, and Bonpos. Even before the Kathmandu Valley came into existence, yogis and saints lived and meditated on this hill since ancient times. Today, it is a spontaneously created interfaith temple complex. It is considered highly auspicious to circumambulate the hill (around 3 km) to accumulate good karma.
Pashupatinath – The main Shaivaite sanctuary of Nepal.
We will spend the entire day at Pashupatinath. We will experience the ancient Shiva temple and feel the vibrations emanating from the main attraction – the primary Shiva Lingam. We will also visit and meditate in the caves of the Buddhist Mahasiddhas Tilopa and Naropa. The atmosphere and vibrations of the old Gorakshanath Ashram and its meditation spot under the main banyan tree will be deeply felt.
On this day, we will visit Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath.
Swayambhunath – The Mountain-Temple-Stupa – one of the most important sacred sites in Kathmandu, offering a panoramic view of the city. This sacred place is significant for Hindus, Buddhists, and Bonpos. Even before the Kathmandu Valley came into existence, yogis and saints lived and meditated on this hill since ancient times. Today, it is a spontaneously created interfaith temple complex. It is considered highly auspicious to circumambulate the hill (around 3 km) to accumulate good karma.
Pashupatinath – The main Shaivaite sanctuary of Nepal.
We will spend the entire day at Pashupatinath. We will experience the ancient Shiva temple and feel the vibrations emanating from the main attraction – the primary Shiva Lingam. We will also visit and meditate in the caves of the Buddhist Mahasiddhas Tilopa and Naropa. The atmosphere and vibrations of the old Gorakshanath Ashram and its meditation spot under the main banyan tree will be deeply felt.
Day 3
Kathmandu: Parping
Morning yoga practice for all those interested.
Trip to Parping.
Parping – A countryside place of religious significance.
We will visit the Vajrayogini Temple from the 17th century. A joint Puja ceremony will be held.
We will also visit and meditate in the Asura and Yanglesho caves, where Guru Padmasambhava himself and other famous ancient yogis practiced.
The Gompa and retreat site of Chatral Rinpoche will be explored.
For those interested, there will be an optional visit to the ancient Kali Temple.
Trip to Parping.
Parping – A countryside place of religious significance.
We will visit the Vajrayogini Temple from the 17th century. A joint Puja ceremony will be held.
We will also visit and meditate in the Asura and Yanglesho caves, where Guru Padmasambhava himself and other famous ancient yogis practiced.
The Gompa and retreat site of Chatral Rinpoche will be explored.
For those interested, there will be an optional visit to the ancient Kali Temple.
Day 4
Kathmandu (1300m) – Dhunche (2000m)
Morning yoga practice for all those interested.
After breakfast, our group will depart by comfortable tourist bus towards the Nepal-Tibet border, heading to the village of Dhunche.
The journey will take 6–7 hours (154 km).
Overnight stay in Dhunche.
After breakfast, our group will depart by comfortable tourist bus towards the Nepal-Tibet border, heading to the village of Dhunche.
The journey will take 6–7 hours (154 km).
Overnight stay in Dhunche.
Day 5
Dhunche (2000m) – Saga (4000m)
On this day, the group will complete the Nepalese and Chinese immigration formalities, after which we will continue the journey to Saga.
The drive will take approximately 5 hours.
Overnight stay in Saga.
The drive will take approximately 5 hours.
Overnight stay in Saga.
Day 6
Saga (4000m) – Darchen (4560m)
On this day, we will embark on a long journey to Darchen.
The drive will take approximately 7–9 hours (422 km) and will pass through the high mountain passes of the Tibetan Plateau. Our path will take us through Mayum-La – a mountain pass that looks like a stone bridge leading to the heavens – and past Lake Chonggo, a mirror reflecting the grandeur of the towering mountains.
To the south, we will see the majestic Gurla Mandhata towering over the landscape – a mountain mass with its snow-capped peaks reaching towards the sky, standing at 7,728 meters.
Darchen is a village located at the very foot of Mount Kailash. It is the starting point for the circumambulation (Kora) around the sacred mountain.
Overnight stay in Darchen.
The drive will take approximately 7–9 hours (422 km) and will pass through the high mountain passes of the Tibetan Plateau. Our path will take us through Mayum-La – a mountain pass that looks like a stone bridge leading to the heavens – and past Lake Chonggo, a mirror reflecting the grandeur of the towering mountains.
To the south, we will see the majestic Gurla Mandhata towering over the landscape – a mountain mass with its snow-capped peaks reaching towards the sky, standing at 7,728 meters.
Darchen is a village located at the very foot of Mount Kailash. It is the starting point for the circumambulation (Kora) around the sacred mountain.
Overnight stay in Darchen.
Day 7
Lake Manasarovar (4500m). Chiu Temple
On this day, we will visit the sacred Lake Manasarovar and the ancient Buddhist Chiu Temple.
Lake Manasarovar is considered the holiest of all the sacred lakes of the Himalayas, a true gem of the Tibetan Plateau. Its turquoise waters, like precious lapis lazuli, reflect the serene sky, whisper ancient prayers, and hold the secrets of centuries. It is not just a lake — it is a place of power, a meeting point of heaven and earth, where one can touch eternity.
The Chiu Temple (Chiu Gompa) is the place where, according to legend, Guru Padmasambhava (the great tantric master and founder of Tibetan Buddhism) practiced for a long time with his wife, Yeshe Tsogyal. Inside the temple, in one of the caves, you can see the imprint of her foot in the stone — a symbol of the highest realization, a mark left for future generations.
In the monastery, you can see ancient frescoes, relics, and statues related to Buddhist traditions. It is located on a high cliff, offering stunning views of Lake Manasarovar and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Chiu Gompa is considered a place of power. Pilgrims and yogis come here for meditation and spiritual practices.
After visiting the monastery, we will return and overnight in Darchen.
Lake Manasarovar is considered the holiest of all the sacred lakes of the Himalayas, a true gem of the Tibetan Plateau. Its turquoise waters, like precious lapis lazuli, reflect the serene sky, whisper ancient prayers, and hold the secrets of centuries. It is not just a lake — it is a place of power, a meeting point of heaven and earth, where one can touch eternity.
The Chiu Temple (Chiu Gompa) is the place where, according to legend, Guru Padmasambhava (the great tantric master and founder of Tibetan Buddhism) practiced for a long time with his wife, Yeshe Tsogyal. Inside the temple, in one of the caves, you can see the imprint of her foot in the stone — a symbol of the highest realization, a mark left for future generations.
In the monastery, you can see ancient frescoes, relics, and statues related to Buddhist traditions. It is located on a high cliff, offering stunning views of Lake Manasarovar and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Chiu Gompa is considered a place of power. Pilgrims and yogis come here for meditation and spiritual practices.
After visiting the monastery, we will return and overnight in Darchen.
Day 8
1st day of the Kora
Darchen (4560m) – Derapuk (5050m)
The distance from Darchen to Derapuk is approximately 18–20 km.
This section of the path follows relatively gentle terrain along the Lhachu River valley, with a gradual ascent in elevation. It is one of the most scenic segments of the Kora around Kailash, as Derapuk offers a stunning view of the northern face of Kailash.
Overnight stay in Derapuk.
This section of the path follows relatively gentle terrain along the Lhachu River valley, with a gradual ascent in elevation. It is one of the most scenic segments of the Kora around Kailash, as Derapuk offers a stunning view of the northern face of Kailash.
Overnight stay in Derapuk.
Day 9
2nd day of the Kora
Northern Face of Kailash
We will head towards the northern face of Kailash.
Overnight stay in Derapuk.
Overnight stay in Derapuk.
Day 10
3rd day of the Kora
Derapuk (5050m) – Zuthulphuk (4760m). Dolma-La Pass (5470m).
Today we will cover 22 km. The start is very early, and the trail will lead us sharply upwards for several hours to reach the Dolma-La Pass (5470 m).
For pilgrims ascending to this height, Dolma-La is a test of faith and devotion, a symbol of overcoming obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
The name of the pass, "Dolma-La," is itself filled with sacred meaning. "Dolma" is the goddess-protector, symbolizing strength, compassion, and wisdom. She is the patroness of travelers and pilgrims, protecting them from dangers and guiding them on the right path. Thus, crossing Dolma-La becomes an act of worship to the goddess, a call for her blessings and protection.
For believers, the ascent to the pass is not just a physical effort, but a spiritual ascent. Every step is a prayer, every breath is a meditation. The air here is very thin, and the majestic landscapes remind us of the insignificance of the material world in the face of eternity. The pass becomes a place of purification and transformation, where earthly concerns are left behind and one can draw closer to the divine. After crossing Dolma-La, the pilgrim feels reborn, purified, and filled with new strength and faith.
This is the highest point of the journey. During the descent from Dolma-La, we will pass by a small glacial pool.
Legend has it that after crossing Dolma-La, the goddess Parvati, the wife of Shiva, manifested herself in the glacial pool located beyond the pass. This pool, fed by melting glaciers, is considered a sacred place, especially revered due to its connection to the goddess.
According to the legend, Parvati, in her search for spiritual perfection or during her travels across the Tibetan Plateau, stopped by this glacial pool. Its pure waters, nourished by the glaciers, symbolize spiritual purity and innocence. In her stay here, she left an imprint of her divine energy, filling the place with special power and grace.
Overnight stay in Zuthulphuk.
For pilgrims ascending to this height, Dolma-La is a test of faith and devotion, a symbol of overcoming obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
The name of the pass, "Dolma-La," is itself filled with sacred meaning. "Dolma" is the goddess-protector, symbolizing strength, compassion, and wisdom. She is the patroness of travelers and pilgrims, protecting them from dangers and guiding them on the right path. Thus, crossing Dolma-La becomes an act of worship to the goddess, a call for her blessings and protection.
For believers, the ascent to the pass is not just a physical effort, but a spiritual ascent. Every step is a prayer, every breath is a meditation. The air here is very thin, and the majestic landscapes remind us of the insignificance of the material world in the face of eternity. The pass becomes a place of purification and transformation, where earthly concerns are left behind and one can draw closer to the divine. After crossing Dolma-La, the pilgrim feels reborn, purified, and filled with new strength and faith.
This is the highest point of the journey. During the descent from Dolma-La, we will pass by a small glacial pool.
Legend has it that after crossing Dolma-La, the goddess Parvati, the wife of Shiva, manifested herself in the glacial pool located beyond the pass. This pool, fed by melting glaciers, is considered a sacred place, especially revered due to its connection to the goddess.
According to the legend, Parvati, in her search for spiritual perfection or during her travels across the Tibetan Plateau, stopped by this glacial pool. Its pure waters, nourished by the glaciers, symbolize spiritual purity and innocence. In her stay here, she left an imprint of her divine energy, filling the place with special power and grace.
Overnight stay in Zuthulphuk.
Day 11
4th day of the Kora
Zuthulphuk (4760m) – Darchen (4560m)
Zuthulphuk is one of the sacred places on the Kora route around Kailash, known for its cave where, according to tradition, the great yogi Milarepa meditated.
On this final day of the Kora, we will cover 9 km. In the morning, we gather our gear and set off for Darchen. Today's journey will be easy and flat, allowing us to enjoy the final moments of this great pilgrimage.
Overnight stay in Darchen.
On this final day of the Kora, we will cover 9 km. In the morning, we gather our gear and set off for Darchen. Today's journey will be easy and flat, allowing us to enjoy the final moments of this great pilgrimage.
Overnight stay in Darchen.
Day 12
Darchen (4560m) – Saga (4000m)
On this day, we return from Darchen to Saga.
The journey will take about 7–9 hours (422 km).
Overnight stay in Saga.
The journey will take about 7–9 hours (422 km).
Overnight stay in Saga.
Day 13
Saga (4000m) – Kyrung (2700m)
The journey from Saga to Kyrung takes 5-6 hours (220 km).
Overnight stay in Kyrung.
Overnight stay in Kyrung.
Day 14
Kyrung (2700m) – Kathmandu (1300m)
Today, we will travel to the Nepal-China border. The group will complete border formalities and continue the journey to Kathmandu.
The journey will take 7–8 hours (172 km), passing through picturesque mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, we will check in and spend the night in Kathmandu.
The journey will take 7–8 hours (172 km), passing through picturesque mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, we will check in and spend the night in Kathmandu.
Day 15
Morning yoga practice for all who wish.
Today is the last day in Kathmandu. Departure of guests.
Today is the last day in Kathmandu. Departure of guests.
We invite you to an extraordinary, thrilling journey that could change your perception of reality. Are you ready to go to places you've never been before and try to feel what is fundamentally invisible? An incredible adventure awaits you in other worlds, yet it is happening right next to you.
What do you experience upon returning from such a journey? A feeling of unity and an unbreakable connection with the cosmos. Everything around us, from atoms to molecules, from stars to galaxies — is interconnected and represents a single, unified system. Each of us is a whole Universe!
What do you experience upon returning from such a journey? A feeling of unity and an unbreakable connection with the cosmos. Everything around us, from atoms to molecules, from stars to galaxies — is interconnected and represents a single, unified system. Each of us is a whole Universe!
Frequently Asked Questions
The visa is obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu airport. The cost is $30 for 15 days.
We obtain a Chinese group visa for visiting Kailash within 3 days after arriving in Kathmandu. The documents for the visa application are submitted online 30 days before the tour begins.
Medical insurance is not required, but we recommend getting a basic one for Nepal.
You can bring up to $5,000 in cash or its equivalent in another currency into Nepal.
In Nepal, Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay cards are accepted. Visa is the most commonly used.
Casual comfortable clothing for excursions and comfortable sportswear for practices.
Additionally, for visiting Kailas, you will need special expedition gear.
Contact us, and we will send you a list of required clothing. If you don’t have the necessary gear, it can be purchased locally in Kathmandu at reasonable prices with the help of our experienced guides.
Additionally, for visiting Kailas, you will need special expedition gear.
Contact us, and we will send you a list of required clothing. If you don’t have the necessary gear, it can be purchased locally in Kathmandu at reasonable prices with the help of our experienced guides.
This expedition is a fairly challenging route. However, with the right approach and following all the important and necessary instructions provided by the guides, 99% of people in the group are able to complete the kora. If someone feels the need to return during the circumambulation of the mountain, there is always an opportunity to safely return to the camp with the support of one of the guides.
Our team usually tries to avoid giving any additional medical medications unless absolutely necessary. To maintain well-being, we use Tibetan medicine – the same methods used by Sherpas and mountain dwellers to acclimatize to high altitudes.
During the expedition, we constantly teach proper breathing techniques and specific physical exercises that help individuals naturally cope with high-altitude adaptation. This is the most correct and natural method. However, if there is an acute need, we always carry medical medications to help alleviate various ailments.
During the expedition, we constantly teach proper breathing techniques and specific physical exercises that help individuals naturally cope with high-altitude adaptation. This is the most correct and natural method. However, if there is an acute need, we always carry medical medications to help alleviate various ailments.
Conditions of Participation:
4000$
Included in the price: All internal transfers and flights; accommodation and breakfasts in hotels; Chinese group visa; full tour program with practices, guides, and permits.
Not included: Flight and visa to Nepal; lunches and dinners.
Registration deadline:
Important! Since the documents for obtaining the Kailash visa are submitted 30 days before the tour starts