Dolma La Pass, Mount Kailash, Tibet

Best hikes in the world: Mount Kailash trek, Tibet

Author: Rosie Fuller

As we continue our look at AT’s pick of the best hikes in the world, we turn to Tibet for a remote and challenging, yet immensely rewarding hike of a sacred Himalayan mountain and one of the holiest spots on earth – Mount Kailash…

Mount Kailash, TibetPhoto: Andy Engelson

Found in the Kailash Range, Mount Kailash (6,638 m) is the holiest mountain in the Himalayas – it’s sacred to Hinduism, Buddhism, Bönpo and Jain – so you’re likely to meet lots of pilgrims on this 32-mile trek (or kora, which is a circumnavigation of any object considered sacred) around it. In fact, thousands of people make a pilgrimage to Kailash every year as part of a tradition that goes back for hundreds of years.

>>> See more of our pick of the best hikes in the world

Many believe that circumambulating the mountain on foot will bring good fortune and some think that the entire walk should be done in one single day – a tough feat, especially with tough conditions and high altitudes. Due to its religious importance, the Chinese government has banned any attempt to climb the mountain.

Mount Kailash
Photo: Whitecat sg

Mount Kailash is so remote that even travelling there will be an adventure, and the trek around it is tough too, including a mountain pass of 5,600m, so make sure you’re acclimatised. Of course, it’s worth all the effort once you see the views.

The trek begins at the tiny remote mountain settlement of Darchen (4,680m) and is around 30 miles in legnth, so you’d do well to complete it in a day. Most tour operators aim for 3-5 days, either camping or making use of local guest houses en route. Many pilgrims also take the chance to bathe in the holy waters of Manasarovar Lake – a truly invigorating expereince. The trek is a real test of fortitude, both of body and soul, and you won’t regret it.

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