In Tibetan, Mount Kailash is called Gang Rinpoche, the “Precious Snow Mountain”. It is sacred to four religions — Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism and Bon — and many believe it is the holiest mountain on earth. It stands in Ngari, the most remote part of Tibet, in a wide, empty and beautiful landscape.
Nearby Lake Manasarovar is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world and is also deeply sacred. Because of the harsh climate of western Tibet, you cannot visit all year round.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Saga Dawa Festival
Saga Dawa falls in May or June. On the full moon day, thousands of pilgrims watch the raising of the great prayer pole at Tarboche, at the start of the kora. It is an unforgettable sight, but hotels and guesthouses around Kailash are full, so book many months ahead.
Spring
Late April to early June, about 5–18°C by day. One of the best seasons. Clear skies and good views of the mountain. A very good time for the kora, though snow can still lie on the Dolma La pass in early May.
Summer
June to August, about 10–20°C by day. Western Tibet gets less rain than the east, but showers and cloud are common. You can do the kora, but the views are less reliable. Many Indian pilgrims visit in these months.
Autumn
September to October, about 0–15°C by day. One of the best seasons. After the summer rain the sky clears, and the views from the Dolma La pass are at their best. Nights are cold.
Winter
November to March. Not possible. Snow blocks the passes and the kora path, and the area is closed to visitors.
The Kailash Kora
The kora is a walk around Mount Kailash: about 52 km over three days. For Tibetan Buddhists it is one of the holiest pilgrimages in the world. The hardest part is crossing the Dolma La pass at about 5,630 m on day two. The best time to walk is when days are clear and nights are not too cold: late May to June and September to early October.
Permit reminder: a trip to Mount Kailash needs the Tibet Travel Permit, the Alien’s Travel Permit and the Military Permit. Your tour company arranges all of them. Book at least four weeks before you travel.
