Mount Kailash via Helicopter
- Duration: 11 Days
- Activities: Religious and Nature
- Trip Grade: Strenuous
- Departure from: Kathmandu,Nepal
- Arrival on: Kathmandu,Nepal
- Destination: Tibet
- Group size: 2-15
- Best Seasons: May,June,July
- Trip Mode: Star Hotels & Tea houses
Trip Overview
The Mount Kailash Trek via Helicopter (Simikot–Hilsa Route) is one of the most popular and fastest ways to complete the sacred Mount Kailash Yatra. This journey combines adventure, spirituality, and comfort while traveling to the holy region of Mount Kailash, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the world.
Starting from Kathmandu, the route takes you through Nepalgunj, Simikot, and Hilsa by flight and helicopter before entering Tibet. This helicopter-assisted route makes the high-altitude journey more accessible while still preserving the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
After entering Tibet, the journey continues toward Taklakot and the sacred Lake Manasarovar, where pilgrims perform rituals, prayers, and meditation in a peaceful and spiritual environment surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
The highlight of the Mount Kailash Trek is the famous Kailash Kora, a three-day circumambulation trek around Mount Kailash. The route passes through Yama Dwar, Dirapuk, and the challenging Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), offering breathtaking Himalayan scenery and deep spiritual significance.
This Mount Kailash Trek via Helicopter is ideal for travelers seeking a fast, comfortable, and spiritually meaningful pilgrimage combined with high-altitude adventure and cultural exploration.
Highlights
- Mount Kailash Trek via Helicopter (Simikot–Hilsa route)
- Sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash (5,630 m Dolma La Pass)
- Visit holy Lake Manasarovar for rituals and meditation
- Flight + helicopter access from Kathmandu to Tibet
- Complete the famous Kailash Kora trek
- Blend of spirituality, culture, and Himalayan adventure
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Overnight Kathmandu
Day 02: Pashupatinath & fly to Nepalgunj – Overnight Nepalgunj
Day 03: Fly Simikot → Hilsa → Taklakot – Overnight Taklakot
Day 04: Acclimatization – Taklakot
Day 05: Drive to Lake Manasarovar – Overnight Manasarovar
Day 06: Trek to Dirapuk – Overnight Dirapuk
Day 07: Dolma La Pass → Zuthulphuk – Overnight Zuthulphuk
Day 08: Complete Kora → Hilsa – Overnight Hilsa/Taklakot
Day 09: Fly to Nepalgunj – Overnight Nepalgunj
Day 10: Fly to Kathmandu – Overnight Kathmandu
Day 11: Departure
Detail Itinerary
Day
1
1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the nearby streets filled with shops, cafés, and cultural sights. In the evening, a detailed trip briefing will be conducted, covering travel logistics, Tibet permits, altitude awareness, and packing essentials for the upcoming adventure.
Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Day
2
2
Visit Pashupatinath Temple & Fly to Nepalgunj (150 m)
Begin your day with a visit to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. After offering prayers, transfer to the airport for a flight to Nepalgunj, a city located in the lowland Terai region near the Nepal–India border. The warmer climate here provides a contrast to the Himalayan journey ahead.
Overnight Stay: Nepalgunj
Day
3
3
Fly to Simikot (2,910 m), Helicopter to Hilsa & Drive to Taklakot (3,700 m)
Flight: 45 min | Helicopter: 20 min | Drive: 1 hr
Take an early morning flight to Simikot, a remote mountain town in western Nepal. From here, board a helicopter flight to Hilsa, the Nepal–Tibet border point. After completing immigration formalities, drive to Taklakot (Purang), where you will rest and begin acclimatization in the Tibetan region.
Overnight Stay: Taklakot
Day
4
4
Acclimatization Day in Taklakot (3,700 m)
Walking: 1–2 hrs (light walk)
This day is reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. You can take short walks around Taklakot, explore the local market, and stay hydrated. Proper rest and gradual adaptation are essential for a safe and comfortable journey ahead.
Overnight Stay: Taklakot
Day
5
5
Drive to Lake Manasarovar (4,600 m)
Drive: 2–3 hrs
Drive to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in Asia. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, the lake holds deep spiritual significance. Pilgrims perform rituals, prayers, and meditation along its peaceful shores. The clear blue waters and serene environment create a truly divine experience.
Overnight Stay: Lake Manasarovar
Day
6
6
Drive to Yama Dwar; Trek to Dirapuk (4,950 m)
Drive: 1 hr | Walking: 5–6 hrs
Drive to Yama Dwar which is also the symbolic gateway of the Kailash Kora. From here, begin your trek toward Dirapuk. The trail gradually ascends through a wide valley with spectacular views of Mount Kailash, especially its striking north face.
Overnight Stay: Dirapuk
Day
7
7
Trek via Dolma La Pass (5,630 m) to Zuthulphuk (4,850 m)
Walking: 7–9 hrs
This is one of the most challenging day of the yatra. You will cross the high Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the journey. The climb is steep but spiritually rewarding. After reaching the pass, descend carefully toward Zuthulphuk, passing sacred sites and rugged landscapes along the way.
Overnight Stay: Zuthulphuk
Day
8
8
Complete Kora; Drive to Hilsa :
Walking: 3–4 hrs | Drive: 2–3 hrs
Complete the final section of the Kailash Kora with an easy walk through scenic terrain. After finishing the sacred circuit, drive back toward Hilsa via Taklakot. This marks the completion of a deeply meaningful spiritual journey.
Overnight Stay: Hilsa / Taklakot
Day
9
9
Helicopter to Simikot; Flight to Nepalgunj
Helicopter: 20 min | Flight: 45 min
Fly by helicopter from Hilsa to Simikot and then take a connecting flight to Nepalgunj. After returning from the high-altitude region, you can relax and enjoy the lower elevation.
Overnight Stay: Nepalgunj
Day
10
10
Fly to Kathmandu & Leisure Time
Flight: 1 hr
Return to Kathmandu by flight. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, souvenir shopping, or exploring cultural sites. You may also enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your journey.
Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Day
11
11
Final Departure
Activity: Departure
Your Mount Kailash Yatra comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of this spiritual and adventurous experience.
Before You Go
1. PASSPORT & TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Before traveling to Tibet, ensure the following requirements are met:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date
Passport must contain minimum 2–3 blank pages
The passport used for visa and permit processing must be the same passport used for travel
Any passport renewal or change must be informed in advance
2. CHINESE VISA REQUIREMENTS
Visa requirements depend on your entry route:
Entering via Mainland China:
A valid Chinese Tourist Visa must be obtained from your home country
Supporting documents for Tibet travel will be provided by us
Processing time is usually 3–7 working days
Entering via Nepal (Kathmandu):
A China Group Visa is issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu
This is a sticker visa (not stamped initially in passport)
Minimum processing time is 5–7 working days
Note: Individual visas are not used for Tibet entry from Nepal; group visa is mandatory.
3. TIBET TRAVEL PERMIT (MANDATORY)
A Tibet Travel Permit is required for all travelers entering Tibet.
Required Documents:
Clear color copy of passport
Valid Chinese visa copy (if entering via China)
Travel itinerary and personal details
Passport-sized photo (as required)
Important Information:
Permit is issued only through a licensed Tibet travel agency
Original permit is checked before boarding flights or trains to Tibet
It will be delivered to your hotel or designated address before departure
4. ADDITIONAL PERMITS FOR KAILASH REGION
For travel to remote areas such as Mount Kailash and western Tibet, additional permits are required:
Alien Travel Permit
Military Permit (for restricted border areas)
These permits are arranged internally and cannot be applied for individually.
5. GROUP TRAVEL REQUIREMENT
Tibet visa and permits are generally issued under group travel arrangements
Solo travelers must join a group itinerary
All travelers must enter, travel, and exit together
Any separate departure requires official approval
6. ALTITUDE & HEALTH PREPARATION
Tibet is located at a very high altitude, so proper acclimatization is essential:
Lhasa altitude: approx. 3,650 meters
Mount Kailash altitude: approx. 6,638 meters
Recommendations:
Spend 2–3 days in Lhasa for acclimatization
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol in the initial days
Take altitude medication if prescribed by a doctor
Move slowly and avoid heavy physical activity at the beginning
7. BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
The best seasons for Kailash and Lhasa tours are:
April to June: Pleasant weather and clear skies
September to October: Best visibility and ideal trekking conditions
Avoid winter months due to extreme cold and travel restrictions.
8. CULTURAL ETIQUETTE IN TIBET
Tibet has a deeply spiritual culture. Visitors are expected to respect local traditions:
Walk clockwise around monasteries, stupas, and prayer wheels
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Do not touch monks or sacred objects without permission
Always ask before taking photos of people or temples
Respect prayer flags, stones, and religious symbols
9. PACKING CHECKLIST
Essential items for your Tibet journey:
Warm layered clothing (weather changes quickly)
Windproof jacket and thermal wear
Comfortable trekking shoes
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Personal medicines and altitude sickness tablets
Reusable water bottle
Power bank and universal adapter
For Mount Kailash trekking, lightweight but warm gear is strongly recommended.
10. FOOD, STAY & FACILITIES
Hotels in Lhasa offer modern facilities
Basic guesthouses are available in remote trekking regions
Food includes Tibetan, Nepali, and Chinese cuisine
Vegetarian options are available in most areas
Facilities are simple during the Mount Kailash kora trek
11. INTERNET & CONNECTIVITY
Internet access is limited in Tibet
Many international apps and websites may not work
Wi-Fi is available in major hotels but may be slow
Offline preparation is strongly recommended
FINAL TRAVEL ADVICE
A journey to Mount Kailash and Lhasa is both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding. Proper preparation ensures a safe and meaningful experience. Respect local culture, follow guide instructions, and travel with patience and awareness.
Cost Included
- All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport pick up and drop
- Kathmandu city tours inclusive of all entry fees, tour guides, private vehicles
- Trekking permits
- Full board meals with tea or coffee during trek and climb
- Government licensed English speaking trekking and climbing guide during the trek
- Climbing types of equipment like rope, ice screw, snow bar
- First aid medical kit
- taxes and office service charges
- Required porters
- Two nights hotel in Kathmandu
- Porter and guide insurance
Cost not Include
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- All the personal trekking and climbing gear
- Personal insurance
- Extra accommodation cost in Kathmandu, due to early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking and expedition due to any reason
- Helicopter or chartered flight cost
- All bottled drinks and snacks
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