Who can undertake the journey?
Physically Fit Individuals:
This trek involves high altitudes and rugged terrain. Participants should be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness.
Spiritual Seekers:
Devotees of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon who regard Mount Kailash as sacred will find this journey deeply meaningful.
Experienced Trekkers & Adventure Enthusiasts:
Prior trekking experience, especially at high altitudes, is highly recommended. Those who enjoy challenging journeys and exploring remote regions will thrive on this adventure.
Mentally Prepared Pilgrims:
The journey demands patience and resilience. Participants should be prepared for hardships, difficulties, and variable weather conditions.
Temperature and Weather
From May to September, Tibet generally experiences dry and sunny weather, with occasional precipitation in July and August.
Daytime:
Up to 22°C, though the high-altitude sun can make it feel hotter.
Evenings and Nights:
Temperatures can drop significantly, ranging from 0°C to -10°C at our highest camp during the Parikrama (5,000 meters).
Health and Fitness
Health Certificate:
Participants must provide a certificate from a reputable doctor confirming fitness to travel at high altitudes.
First Aid
Carry a small personal medical kit with basic medicines and health essentials to manage common issues at high altitudes. Recommended items include:
-Diamox 250 mg (Acetazolamide):2 strips, for the prevention or relief of altitude sickness (use under medical supervision)
-Paracetamol or Ibuprofen: for headache, body pain, or mild fever
-Antiemetic tablets (e.g., Avomine or Domperidone): for nausea and vomiting
-Digene or other antacid tablets: for acidity or indigestion
-Loperamide (Imodium): for loose motion or diarrhea
-ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts): to prevent dehydration
-Pain relief balm or spray: for sore muscles or joint pain
-Vicks or menthol ointment, lip balm, and moisturizer: for dryness due to wind and cold
-Band-aids, antiseptic cream, cotton, and sterile gauze pads: for minor wounds or blisters
Fitness Preparation:
Daily walking, jogging, stretching, and aerobic exercises focused on the heart and legs are recommended before the journey.
Altitude Sickness (AMS):
High-altitude effects are caused by reduced oxygen levels. Participants should read about AMS and take necessary precautions.
Responsibility
All arrangements in Xizang are managed by the Foreign Exchange Co.,Ltd (FEC), a government organization. Shivalaya Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd. reserve the right to alter itineraries due to weather or permit issues.
Currency
The basic unit of Chinese currency is the Yuan (CNY). Approximate exchange: 1 USD = 7 CNY.
Clothing
Layered clothing is essential to adapt to fluctuating temperatures:
-Warm Outerwear: Down jacket (provided), warm pullovers, windproof jackets
-Trousers: Warm pants, light cotton pants
-Thermals: Thermal vests and underpants
-Other Essentials: Raincoat/poncho, walking boots, tennis shoes, woolen socks, gloves, scarves, monkey cap, towels, and personal washing kit.
Accessories
-Personal first aid kit and toiletries (toilet kit, nail clippers, scissors)
-Flashlight with extra batteries
-Sunglasses, sun hat, woolen gloves, monkey cap
-Notebook, pen, camera with extra batteries
-Rain gear, pocket knife, sewing kit, sun cream, lip balm, moisturizers, money pouch/belt
-Water purification tablets
-Walking stick, water bottles (unbreakable, min. 2 liters)
Provided Equipment
-Down jacket (on return basis)
-Duffel bag and backpack
-Dining, kitchen, and toilet tents
-Guide, cook, helpers
-Yaks for carrying kitchen and camping equipment during the Parikrama
-Equipment truck with driver
-Equipment truck with driver
Transportation
Travel throughout Tibet will be by coach, with luggage, camping equipment, and food carried separately by a truck.
Staff
Experienced Sherpa staff will manage all camping, cooking, and support arrangements.
Oxygen
Oxygen cylinders with masks are available in vehicles, to be used only in emergencies.
Briefing and Orientation
A mandatory briefing will be held on arrival in Kathmandu to review the program, safety guidelines, and logistics.
Food and Beverages
Meals: Vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by our Sherpas Participants may bring supplementary food such as chocolates, biscuits, nuts, pickles, or tinned products for variety
Visas and Documentation
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from travel date Tibet visa will be arranged by the company. Scanned passport copy (front) and one passport-size photos are required at the time of booking
Guide / Escort
An English-speaking local guide will accompany the group throughout the Tibet portion of the journey.
Accommodation:
Throughout the journey, comfortable hotels are provided at major stops, ensuring a pleasant stay. However, at Lake Manasarovar and during the Kailash Parikrama, accommodation is simple and basic, with dormitory-style facilities due to the remote Himalayan terrain. Please note that laundry services are not available, and single or twin-sharing rooms cannot be arranged in these high-altitude regions.
Photography:
Still cameras and home video cameras are permitted in China. However, photography is strictly prohibited at checkpoints and of army personnel or installations. Please respect local regulations.
Insurance:
We strongly recommend arranging travel insurance that covers sickness, emergency rescue, accidental hospitalization, and evacuation. Please note that we cannot be held responsible for loss, damage, or additional expenses incurred due to personal mishaps or loss of belongings during the pilgrimage.
Communication:
Chinese SIM cards can be obtained at Nyalam, Kyirong, and Purang for local communication. They are primarily for sending messages and receiving international calls. Wi-Fi is available at select locations, but connectivity may be limited in remote areas.
