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Simikot Kailash Trekking

Simikot Kailash Trekking

Simikot Kailash Trekking

The Simikot Kailash Trekking route opened in 1993 for travelers. Simikot Kailash Tour route is the shortest and most practical route for trekkers in terms of both elevation and distance. The tour to Mt. Kailash commences from Simikot, which is situated at an elevation of 3000 meters, and climbs up to Na-Lagna pass (4340 meters) before reaching the arid Tibetan Plateau. From Simikot, it is a 5 days journey to reach the Tibetan border town, which is plenty of time to be acclimatized for high altitude.

Mt. Kailash is a peak in the Gangdise Mountains, which are part of the Himalayas in Tibet. It lies near the source of some of the longest rivers in Asia: the Indus River, the Sutlej River (a major tributary of the Indus River), the Brahmaputra River, and the Karnali River (a tributary of the Ganges River). It is considered a sacred place in four religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. In Hinduism, it is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva and a place of eternal bliss. The mountain lies near Mansarovar Lake and Rakshastal Lake in Tibet. There have been no recorded attempts to climb Mount Kailash till now; it is considered off limits to climbers in deference to Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. It is the most significant peak in the world that has not seen any known climbing attempts. Mansarovar Lake lies at 4,556 m above the sea level, and it is only one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, and is relatively round in shape with a circumference of 88 km. Its depth is 90 m (300 ft) and its surface area is 320 square kilometers (120 sq mi). The lake freezes in winter and melts only in the spring. It is connected to nearby Lake Rakshastal by the natural Ganga Chhu channel.

Simikot Kailash Trekking / 21 Days - Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Tour Preparation in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (450m), 40min.

Day 04: Fly to Simikot (2960m), 30min. & Trek to Dharapari (2300m), 3-4 hrs.

Day 05: Trek to Kermi (2670m), 6-7 hrs.

Day 06: Trek to Yalbang (3020m), 6-7 hrs.

Day 07: Trek to Tumkot (3200m), 6-7 hrs.

Day 08: Trek to Yari (4000m), 7-8 hrs

Day 09: Trek to Hilsa (3720m)/3-4 hrs. (Over Nara La 4580m), drive to Purang (3900m), 3-4 hrs.

Day 10: Drive to Mansarover (4590m), 6-7 hrs.

Day 11: Drive to Tsaparang (Tsada) (3650m) 7-8 hrs.

Day 12: Drive to Guge, 6-7 hrs.

Day 13: Drive to Toling (3650m), 5-6 hrs.

Day 14: drive to Tarboche (4500m), 5-6 hrs.

Day 15: Trek to Dira Puk (4900m), 5-6 hrs.

Day 16: Trek to Zutul Puk (4790m) Over Dolma La 5600m, 6-7 hrs.

Day 17: Trek to Darchen (4620m) - Drive to Manasarover 4590m), 6-7 hrs.

Day 18: Drive to Saga, 6 hrs

Day 19: Drive to Zhangmu, 7 hrs.

Day 20: Drive to Kathmandu, 8 hrs.

Day 21: Farewell Friend (Final departure to your onward destination).

Simikot Kailash Trekking / 21 Days - Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m).
Namaste & welcome to Mountain Guide Trek of Nepal. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by a representative from Mountain guide Treks (MGT). After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a Mountain Guide Treks and Expedition with Group leader's name display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to Hotel. After check in, if time allows, you will visit MGT office to meet your trekking leader as well as other participants and for final preparation for the trip. It all depends upon your arrival time. (Overnight at deluxe hotel on BB basis)

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation.
The day after breakfast we will start sightseeing tour with our professional tour guide to the several of most historical and spiritual Place in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered the World Heritage historic Sites such as Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. After come back from the tour there will be a pre-trip discussion with our trek leader and other team members. Mountain Guide Trek will brief you regarding your trek as well as we may have an opportunity to discuss any difficulties regarding our upcoming adventure. Rest of the time you could use for travelling around the Thamel and shopping of needed equipments and other necessaries. (Overnight at deluxe hotel on BB basis)

Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (450m), 40min.
Today after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your flight for Nepalgunj. Approximately, it takes 45 minutes to reach Nepalgunj. Our airport representative will transfer you to your Hotel. You can spend the rest of the day as you like. (Overnight at tourist standard hotel on full board basis)

Day 04: Fly to Seiko (2960m) & Trek to Dharapani (2300m), 3-4 hrs.
This morning we fly north for about 50 minutes to Simikot, the headquarters of Nepal's most remote district, Humla. After meeting our crew, we set off on our trek, climbing up from the airstrip on a rocky trail past fields of barley and wheat. We ascend a forested ridge above the town of Simikot, before making a long steep descent past Dandaphoya. The trail is then fairly level, through walnut and apricot trees, until we come to the scattered village of Dharapani which is divided by the Yakba Khola. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 05: Trek to Kermi (2670m), 6-7 hrs.
From Dharapani we trek for about 6 hours walk to Kermi (2670 m ). As we pass through Dharapani, the trail levels, and walnut and apricot trees provide welcome shade. It is a long rough traverse across a slope to a stream .A bridge over the Humla-Karnali leads to Khanglagaon, a Thakuri village on the opposite side of the river. This is the last Thakuri village in the valley. Walking on the north side of the river, the trail snakes up and down to a herders camp near a waterfall at 2350 meters, we climb over a ridge as we approach Kermi, situated beside a stream at 2670 metres. There is a hot spring about an hours climb above the village. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 06: Trek to Yalbang (3020m), 6-7 hrs.
Today we trek to Yalbang Chaur. After breakfast, we pack our gear and begin our days trek. Leaving Kermi we climb over a ridge into a big valley filled with potato and buckwheat fields. We will continue to follow the Karnali River till we reach Yalbang Chaur, a meadow where goat herders camp beside the river at 2760 metres. In November an annual fair or is held at this site. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 07: Trek to Tumkot (3200m), 6-7 hrs.
From Yalbang Chaur we climb up and take the steep trail that takes us above a sandy meadow. The trail follows an irrigation canal to a huge rock just to the north of the village. We follow the trade route of the once important Humla trading center of Chala . We climb over another ridge at 2930 metres and descend gradually to the village of Yangar at 2850 meters. From Yangar , the trail passes below the Gompa and stone houses. Climb through the orchards and fields of the village to a ridge, We follow the trail as it contours down to the Tumkot Khola, following the rocky stream bed for a short distance then cross it on a long bridge. We climb the hills towards Tumkot and reach the village of Tumkot. Tumkot village has a large white Gompa (monastery) also known as Mota Gompa. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 08: Trek to Yari (4000m), 7-8 hrs.
Leaving the Karnali River behind we climb gently to the small Tibetan village of Yari (4000m). We are in the Nepal -Tibet border. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 09: Trek to Hilsa (3720m) (Over Nara La 4580m) & drive to Purang (3900m)3-4 hrs.
Trek to Hilsa following the rugged mountain trail and crossing Nara la pass. (4620m). upon reaching Hilsa we drive to Purang. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 10: Drive to Mansarover (4590m), 6-7 hrs.
We drive for about 75 km to Manasarovar via Rakhsas Tal (Demon Lake). The beautiful and sacred Mansarovar Lake set amidst extraordinary landscape is breathtaking. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 11: Drive to Tsaparang (Tsada) (3650m), 7-8 hrs.
We continue driving parallel to the Indus River. Few kilometers down the road, we reach a small pristine hamlet. The trail further crisscrosses a succession of pass and finally near Tsada, the Guge Kingdom. On finding a perfect site (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 12: Drive to Guge, 6-7 hrs.
Your guide takes you on an exciting excursion around the Guge Kingdom. This tenth century kingdom oozes ancient history of Tibet. With the passage of centuries, Guge Kingdom had to bear several ruins which as evidence lie atop a hill near a river encompassing an area of 180,000 square meters. Numerous monasteries, houses, cave dwellings and Stupas nestled on the hill and its neighboring areas. When it comes to Tibetan murals, sculptures and stone inscriptions, Guge Kingdom undeniably comes into mind. White Palace, Red Palace, Yamantaka Chapel, Tara Chapel and Mandala Chapel are the major attractions of Guge Kingdom which are historically linked with Buddha, Shakyamuni, Songtsen Gampo, kings and ministers. On this exquisite excursion, you will not only relive ancient Tibetan history but immerse in Tibetan culture as well. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 13: Drive to Toling (3650m).
Toling is located in the Ngari region, Western Tibet, near the Indian border of Ladakh. Inside the monastery there are many ancient and very precious frescoes. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 14: Drive to Tarboche (4500m).
We drive along the jeep trail to the start of the 'Kora' at Tarboche. Tarboche is marked by a tall flagpole adorned with thousands of multi-colored prayer flags and scarves strung out in radiating lines from the pole. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 15: Trek to Dira Puk (4900m), 5-6 hrs.
Early in the morning we meet our team of yaks and Tibetan yak drivers who will escort you around the Kora. Further ahead from Tarboche, you have to trek past verdant meadows and picturesque streams to Lha Chu Valley. The trail overlooks a turquoise river cascading over a narrow canyon with high steep cliffs. En route, north face of Kailash comes into vision. The trail will approach 13th century monastery of Dira-Puk. Eventually we conclude the trek of the day by camping at Dira-Puk. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 16: Trek to Zutul Puk (4790m) / Over Dolma La 5600m, 5-6 hrs.
Lha Chu Valley blurs as we turn towards Drolma Chu Valley. Ascending Drolma La [5630mi] s a bit strenuous, but the views are rewarding. But soon after sighting breathtaking view of Thukpe Dzingbu Lake, known as the Lake of Compassion, at the summit, we realize that this tough and challenging ascent has indeed been very worthwhile and fruitful. Several prayer flags can be seen at the summit. Further on, the trail descends to the flat fields of Zutul-Puk which houses a monastery and several fascinating caves. The caves at this locale are most popular for meditation; Milarepas cave being one of them with Milarepas footprints and elbow prints believed to be imprinted all over this cave of Mani stones. Camping at Zutul-Puk for the night can be quite exciting, adventurous and pleasurable. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 17: Trek to Darchen (4620m) to Drive to Manasarovar 4590m, 5-6 hrs.
Away from Zutul-Puk, we follow the trail through Bharkha plain leading to Darchen
Crossing several streams along the picturesque gorge; we enjoy enchanting views of Mount Kailash. Driving 35 km from Darchen takes us to the sacred Lake Manasarovar. As we near this breathtaking lake, the historic Chiu Monastery becomes visible on the North West shore of the lake. From this vantage point, we can even glimpse the majestic Mount Kailash. We get ample opportunity to explore Manasarovar Lake and Chiu Monastery. Rakshas Tal lies connected to Lake Manasarovar by a small channel. Savoring the panoramic view of Mount Kailash and spiritual experience, we will camp near Manasarovar Lake under the star-lit open sky. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 18: Drive to Saga, 6 hrs.
On this day, we continue driving to Saga up to an elevation of 4600 meters. On the way we encounter the small dusty town of Zhongba. We cross the Yarlung Tsangpo [Brahmaputra River] on a ferry. Thereafter, you drive along 110 km route opening into wide flat plains. The trail further advances towards huge turquoise lake, the Peiku-Tso with the spectacular view of Shishapangma peak as the backdrop. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 19: Drive to Zhangmu, 7 hrs.
We have to drive south, crossing 180 km, along the Friendship Highway. The trail winds through a high pass, the Lalung La [5200m]. Further on, we journey through breathtaking views, alpine meadow trails, picturesque hamlets and an abundance of wildflowers. En route, we get to see several Nepalese and Indian pilgrims. As we drive through a mossy gorge of waterfalls and cascades, we finally enter Nyalam at 3750 meter. Thereon, heading away from Nyalam we drive for one hour to the lush and verdant vegetation of Zhangmu at 2300 meter. (Overnight at tented camp on full board basis)

Day 20: Drive Zhangmu to Kathmandu (1400m) 160km, 8 hrs. 
Few kilometers drive away from Zhangmu we follow the Friendship Bridge along the Bhote Koshi River to Immigration Control in Kodari where we will bid goodbye to our Tibetan guide and handle re-entry formalities to return to Kathmandu. After 5 hours of driving for 123 km, amongst verdant greenery, you finally arrive in Kathmandu. (Overnight at deluxe hotel on BB board basis)

Day 21: Farewell Friend (Final departure to your onward destination).
Today is last day in Nepal for this trip; you are saying good bye to the mountains as journey in Nepal, comes to an end today, There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight a representative from Mountain Guide Treks will take you to the airport.

Cost Include

  • Tibet traveler permit
  • Simikot Restricted Permit
  • Private land transfers as per itinerary
  • Accommodation as per itinerary on twin sharing with Full Board Meals Plan.
  • Monasteries entrance fees
  • Flight-Nepalgunj-Simikot
  • Sightseeing tours as per itinerary
  • A local English speaking guide throughout the tour & Trekking program
  • All Camping equipments / Food Stuffs / Crew Members / Yak & Yak men
  • Chinese visa fee (US$ 85 Per Person for all nationalities (For USA, US$ 198 Per Person)

Cost Exclude

  • Excess baggage charge if any
  • Personal Travel insurance (Compulsory)
  • Lunch & dinner at Kathmandu and Nepalgunj Hotel
  • Nepal entree visa: you can get a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by Paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
  • Expenses of private nature such as Laundry, Telephone calls, Beverages, Tips, etc.
  • Nepal  Re-entree visa Fee
  • Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, Road blockage due to landslides, flight delays or cancellations due to weather or technical problems, etc.

Note:- Cost includes and exclude section may give you better idea on how the trip is organized. Once you let us know the number of interested traveler and departure date we would get back to you with actual cost for the trip.

Equipment

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend for Simikot Kailash Trekking Tibet. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we are feel necessary for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Head

  • Light or warm fleece hat.
  • Watch with light & alarm
  • Sun hat and scrap
  • Sunglasses

Upper Body

  • T-shirts (4)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or sweater
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
  • Body lotion/Anti-sunlight cream

Hands

  • Playing cards
  • Lightweight gloves (water/wind proof)
  • Trail map and guide book
  • Heavy weight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer

Lower Body

  • Underwear (4)
  • Hiking shorts (4)
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Light weight thermal bottoms
  • Fleece or wool pants
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants

Feet

  • Thin, lightweight inner socks (4-pairs)
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4-pairs)
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)

Accessories

  • Sleeping bag
  • Money belt
  • Head touch and batteries
  • Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
  • Water bottle
  • Toiletries
  • Small wash towel

Optional Items

  • Swiss Knife
  • Playing cards/backgammon/chess set
  • Trekking map
  • Books (Highly Recommended)
  • Binoculars
  • Camera & extra batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Reading books
  • Journal & pen
  • Photo's of home/family
  • Energy/protein bars (optional)
  • Walkman

Note: If the above schedule does not meet your requirements, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Trip Photos

Please click on thumbnail pic to have larger view.

Trekking in Tibet

Simikot Kailash Trekking

Simikot Kailash Trekking

21 Days