© 2009 Bodhilife PRO
7 - 21 SEPTEMBER 2026
Pilgrimage to
KAILAS
in the Year of the Fire Horse
BODHILIFE EXPEDITION
KAILAS
in the Year of the Fire Horse
BODHILIFE EXPEDITION
Mount Kailash in Tibetan means “Snow Jewel.” Mysterious, unfathomable, and mystical — this is how it has been described for centuries by explorers, pilgrims, and romantics. Nearly a billion followers of four world religions consider Kailash the axis of the Earth, the center of the world, the abode of the gods. Like a powerful magnet, it draws people to itself — above all through its extraordinary form. It is an almost perfectly symmetrical four-sided pyramid, with its faces aligned to the cardinal directions. The rounded, nearly symmetrical dome of Kailash is crowned with a cap of eternal ice, resembling a giant crystal. In ancient texts, Kailash is described as a mountain located at the center of an eight-petaled lotus. Indeed, eight mountain formations directly adjoin Kailash, forming eight Sacred Valleys.
The circumambulation (kora) around Kailash in 2026 is truly a unique event that occurs once every 12 years, when the sacred mountain opens and the merit gained from the kora is multiplied 100,000 times.
The Kailash region has been revered since ancient times and is regarded as the place of Samadhi of Lord Shiva. The Kailash area is the primordial source and foundation of all creation. A journey to it is, in essence, a path toward uncovering the mysteries of our deepest nature.
The human mind holds immense potential. Kailash is the final threshold on the path to self-realization. Kailash is Shiva — the meeting point of the manifest and the unmanifest. It is the place where prakriti and purusha (matter and spirit) meet.
The subtle energy that constantly descends in the region of Kailash is capable of awakening your awareness down to the micro level. Every pilgrim should undertake this journey in a state of refined mental presence and self-discipline.
A pilgrimage to Kailash is not a journey for entertainment or leisure. It is a journey along the path that leads us to our inner essence. Setting out toward it, one must forget one’s individuality and become one with Kailash.
The circumambulation (kora) around Kailash in 2026 is truly a unique event that occurs once every 12 years, when the sacred mountain opens and the merit gained from the kora is multiplied 100,000 times.
- 2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Tibetan calendar, which repeats every 12 years and is considered especially auspicious for spiritual practices.
- It is believed that completing the kora in this year is equivalent to completing 13 traditional circumambulations due to the amplification of spiritual merit.
The Kailash region has been revered since ancient times and is regarded as the place of Samadhi of Lord Shiva. The Kailash area is the primordial source and foundation of all creation. A journey to it is, in essence, a path toward uncovering the mysteries of our deepest nature.
The human mind holds immense potential. Kailash is the final threshold on the path to self-realization. Kailash is Shiva — the meeting point of the manifest and the unmanifest. It is the place where prakriti and purusha (matter and spirit) meet.
The subtle energy that constantly descends in the region of Kailash is capable of awakening your awareness down to the micro level. Every pilgrim should undertake this journey in a state of refined mental presence and self-discipline.
A pilgrimage to Kailash is not a journey for entertainment or leisure. It is a journey along the path that leads us to our inner essence. Setting out toward it, one must forget one’s individuality and become one with Kailash.
BODHILIFE EXPEDITION
invites you to join a shared pilgrimage
BODHILIFE EXPEDITION is a premium international platform for transformational expeditions and spiritual retreats. Each journey is built on the combination of physical exploration and practices of inner development.
Outer peaks lead to inner ones. A journey becomes a pilgrimage, where every mountain, every path, and every moment of silence becomes a teacher. Respect for nature and the traditions of local cultures.
WHAT AWAITS YOU
The expedition to the sacred Mount Kailash will take 15 days, including acclimatization. The route begins in Kathmandu, from where we will travel to Kailash in comfortable transport. The main spiritual stage — the kora around Mount Kailash — will be completed on foot along the traditional route of approximately 52 km. Throughout the journey, accommodation in comfortable hotels is provided, allowing you to combine a spiritual experience with comfort and proper rest
This is not just a walk, but with proper preparation it is accessible to anyone who feels an inner calling. The circumambulation of the mountain, or “kora,” covers a 52 km walking route. The highest point is the Dolma La Pass at 5,630 m.
The peak of Mount Kailash is 6,638 m
The peak of Mount Kailash is 6,638 m
We will begin our journey in Kathmandu, cross the border into Tibet, and make our way to Kailash, visiting significant landmarks and places of power along the way
Throughout the expedition, as conditions allow, yogic and breathing practices will be conducted to help support the body at high altitude
THE JOURNEY IS LED BY
-
Alexey Kovalev
Author of the Bodhilife PRO project.
With over 20 years of studying and practicing various yogic traditions, as well as the teachings of Tantric Buddhism.
An experienced instructor and teacher.
A professional guide and traveler.
Exploring unique places in India, Nepal, and Tibet since 2008.Leads groups along sacred routes, sharing deep knowledge, personal experience, and a refined understanding of the spiritual traditions of the Himalayas.
PROGRAMM
15 days
15 days
Day 1 / Sept 7 — Welcome to Nepal. Meeting guests in Kathmandu
Day 2 / Sept 8 — Adaptation to the new environment and visiting the main landmarks of the city
Day 3 / Sept 9 — Preparation for the expedition: selection and purchase of necessary equipment
Day 4 / Sept 10 — Transfer: Kathmandu (1300 m) — Timure (2000 m). Nepal–Tibet border
Day 5 / Sept 11 — Transfer: Timure (2000 m) — Saga (4000 m). Entry into Tibet
Day 6 / Sept 12 — Transfer: Saga (4000 m) — Lake Manasarovar (4500 m)
Day 7 / Sept 13 — Acclimatization day at Lake Manasarovar (4500 m). Chiu Monastery
Day 8 / Sept 14 — 1st day of kora: Darchen (4560 m) — Dirapuk (5050 m)
Day 9 / Sept 15 — 2nd day of kora: Stay at the North Face of Kailash
Day 10 / Sept 16 — 3rd day of kora: Dirapuk (5050 m) — Zutulpuk (4760 m). Dolma La Pass (5630 m)
Day 11 / Sept 17 — 4th day of kora: Zutulpuk Monastery (4760 m). Completion of the route in Darchen (4560 m)
Day 12 / Sept 18 — Return journey. Transfer to Kyirong (2700 m)
Day 13 / Sept 19 — Crossing the Nepal–Tibet border. Return to Kathmandu
Day 14 / Sept 20 — Rest in Kathmandu
Day 2 / Sept 8 — Adaptation to the new environment and visiting the main landmarks of the city
Day 3 / Sept 9 — Preparation for the expedition: selection and purchase of necessary equipment
Day 4 / Sept 10 — Transfer: Kathmandu (1300 m) — Timure (2000 m). Nepal–Tibet border
Day 5 / Sept 11 — Transfer: Timure (2000 m) — Saga (4000 m). Entry into Tibet
Day 6 / Sept 12 — Transfer: Saga (4000 m) — Lake Manasarovar (4500 m)
Day 7 / Sept 13 — Acclimatization day at Lake Manasarovar (4500 m). Chiu Monastery
Day 8 / Sept 14 — 1st day of kora: Darchen (4560 m) — Dirapuk (5050 m)
Day 9 / Sept 15 — 2nd day of kora: Stay at the North Face of Kailash
Day 10 / Sept 16 — 3rd day of kora: Dirapuk (5050 m) — Zutulpuk (4760 m). Dolma La Pass (5630 m)
Day 11 / Sept 17 — 4th day of kora: Zutulpuk Monastery (4760 m). Completion of the route in Darchen (4560 m)
Day 12 / Sept 18 — Return journey. Transfer to Kyirong (2700 m)
Day 13 / Sept 19 — Crossing the Nepal–Tibet border. Return to Kathmandu
Day 14 / Sept 20 — Rest in Kathmandu
Day 15 / Sept 21 — End of the journey. Departure of guests
MORE DETAILS
Day 1 / 07.09
Welcome to Nepal. Meeting guests in Kathmandu (1300 m)
Arrival in Kathmandu. Meeting at the airport and transfer to the hotel.
Accommodation at Hotel Dolmaling. We will stay in a cozy and атмосферный hotel, Hotel Dolmaling, located in the heart of Buddhist culture — near the majestic Boudhanath Stupa.
Welcome dinner and introduction. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner, introductions, and a detailed briefing about the upcoming expedition.
Accommodation at Hotel Dolmaling. We will stay in a cozy and атмосферный hotel, Hotel Dolmaling, located in the heart of Buddhist culture — near the majestic Boudhanath Stupa.
Welcome dinner and introduction. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner, introductions, and a detailed briefing about the upcoming expedition.
Days 2, 3 / 08.09 - 09.09
Program in Kathmandu
During these two days, as we adapt to the new environment and prepare everything needed for the upcoming journey, we will spend time in Kathmandu — the ancient capital of Nepal. These days will serve as a gentle immersion into the atmosphere of the Himalayas.
We will visit sacred places that carry centuries of wisdom:
We will visit sacred places that carry centuries of wisdom:
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). One of the oldest stupas in Nepal, rising above the city. It is considered self-arisen and carries the energy of awakening. From the hill, there is a panoramic view of Kathmandu.
- Pharping. A sacred place connected with the practice of Guru Padmasambhava. Here you will find the cave where he meditated, as well as the Vajrayogini Temple — a deity of feminine wisdom and power.
- Pashupatinath. The main Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ancient rituals are performed here, including open cremations along the Bagmati River — a symbol of the cycle of life and death.
- Boudhanath Stupa. One of the largest stupas in the world and a center of Tibetan Buddhism. The atmosphere is filled with mantras, the scent of incense, and the continuous movement of pilgrims circling the shrine.
- Durbar Square. The historical heart of Kathmandu — a square of ancient palaces, temples, and pagodas. Here you can feel the grandeur and beauty of Nepalese architecture and culture.
Days 4 - 6 / 10.09 - 12.09
Journey to Kailash
Over the next three days, we will gradually approach the sacred Mount Kailash, traveling in comfortable transport and staying overnight in well-appointed hotels.
Our route passes through the vast Tibetan Plateau — harsh, expansive, and truly pristine. Along the way, we will experience Tibet as it is: endless plains, snow-covered peaks, quiet settlements, and sacred landscapes filled with ancient energy.
The journey culminates with our arrival at the sacred Lake Manasarovar, where we will rest and acclimatize before beginning the kora around Mount Kailash. Here, in the silence and grandeur of the highlands, we will attune ourselves to the path ahead and allow the body to adapt.
Our route passes through the vast Tibetan Plateau — harsh, expansive, and truly pristine. Along the way, we will experience Tibet as it is: endless plains, snow-covered peaks, quiet settlements, and sacred landscapes filled with ancient energy.
The journey culminates with our arrival at the sacred Lake Manasarovar, where we will rest and acclimatize before beginning the kora around Mount Kailash. Here, in the silence and grandeur of the highlands, we will attune ourselves to the path ahead and allow the body to adapt.
Day 7 / 13.09
Acclimatization Day at Lake Manasarovar (4500 m). Visit to Chiu Monastery
Today we will connect with the sacred Lake Manasarovar (4500 m) — a jewel of the Tibetan Plateau and one of the most revered places in the Himalayas. Its turquoise waters reflect the sky and snow-covered peaks, creating a sense of touching eternity. It is believed that bathing in, or even touching, the waters of Manasarovar washes away karmic obstacles and brings spiritual purification. Many pilgrims perform a circumambulation along the shores of the lake, considering it no less significant than the kora around Kailash itself.
We will also visit the ancient Chiu Monastery (Chiu Gompa), built on a high cliff. According to tradition, Guru Padmasambhava and his consort Yeshe Tsogyal practiced here for many years. In one of the caves, the imprint of her foot in stone is still preserved — a symbol of realization and spiritual power. Inside the monastery, you can see ancient frescoes, relics, and statues, while its terraces offer breathtaking views of Lake Manasarovar and the snow-capped peaks rising into the sky.
We will also visit the ancient Chiu Monastery (Chiu Gompa), built on a high cliff. According to tradition, Guru Padmasambhava and his consort Yeshe Tsogyal practiced here for many years. In one of the caves, the imprint of her foot in stone is still preserved — a symbol of realization and spiritual power. Inside the monastery, you can see ancient frescoes, relics, and statues, while its terraces offer breathtaking views of Lake Manasarovar and the snow-capped peaks rising into the sky.
Day 8 / 31.05
1st Day of Kora: Darchen (4560 m) — Dirapuk (5050 m)
Today marks the beginning of the main pilgrimage — the kora around the sacred Mount Kailash. From Darchen (4560 m), we will walk approximately 18–20 km along the Lha Chu Valley, gradually gaining altitude. The path follows a gentle terrain, allowing us to enter the rhythm of this sacred journey in silence and focus.
The final point of the day is Dirapuk (5050 m), offering one of the most breathtaking views of the North Face of Kailash — majestic, radiant, and beyond reach.
We will spend the night here, to meet the morning at the foot of the mountain.
The final point of the day is Dirapuk (5050 m), offering one of the most breathtaking views of the North Face of Kailash — majestic, radiant, and beyond reach.
We will spend the night here, to meet the morning at the foot of the mountain.
Day 9 / 15.09
2nd Day of Kora: Stay at the North Face of Kailash
This day is devoted to contemplation of the North Face of Kailash — its most majestic and mystical aspect. Here, the mountain reveals itself in its full grandeur, striking with the purity of its lines and the power of its form.
We will also visit Dirapuk Monastery (Dirapuk Gompa) — one of the most sacred places along the kora route. Located at an altitude of over 5000 m, directly opposite the North Face of the sacred mountain, it is considered a place where one meets Kailash “face to face.” According to tradition, great masters of Tibetan Buddhism meditated here, and to this day, caves used by yogis of past centuries can still be found nearby. Inside the monastery are statues of the Buddha and revered figures, while the entire atmosphere is permeated with deep silence and powerful presence.
Pilgrims and practitioners regard Dirapuk as a place of special spiritual force — a place for mantra recitation, meditation, and prayer, seeking the blessings of Kailash. From here opens the most striking view of the North Face of the mountain — austere, inaccessible, and majestic, like eternity itself.
We will also visit Dirapuk Monastery (Dirapuk Gompa) — one of the most sacred places along the kora route. Located at an altitude of over 5000 m, directly opposite the North Face of the sacred mountain, it is considered a place where one meets Kailash “face to face.” According to tradition, great masters of Tibetan Buddhism meditated here, and to this day, caves used by yogis of past centuries can still be found nearby. Inside the monastery are statues of the Buddha and revered figures, while the entire atmosphere is permeated with deep silence and powerful presence.
Pilgrims and practitioners regard Dirapuk as a place of special spiritual force — a place for mantra recitation, meditation, and prayer, seeking the blessings of Kailash. From here opens the most striking view of the North Face of the mountain — austere, inaccessible, and majestic, like eternity itself.
Day 10 / 16.09
3rd Day of Kora: Dirapuk (5050 m) — Zutulpuk (4760 m). Dolma La Pass (5630 m)
Today is the most challenging and significant stage of the kora: a 22 km journey with an ascent to the sacred Dolma La Pass (5630 m) — the highest point of the pilgrimage around Kailash. This is not only a physical challenge, but also a spiritual ascent.
“Dolma,” after whom the pass is named, is the goddess of compassion and protection, the patron of pilgrims. Crossing the pass symbolizes purification and rebirth — leaving the past behind and beginning a new life.
On the descent, we will pass by the sacred glacial lake Gauri Kund, associated with the goddess Parvati. Its waters are believed to be a source of purity and spiritual power.
Overnight stay in Zutulpuk (4760 m).
“Dolma,” after whom the pass is named, is the goddess of compassion and protection, the patron of pilgrims. Crossing the pass symbolizes purification and rebirth — leaving the past behind and beginning a new life.
On the descent, we will pass by the sacred glacial lake Gauri Kund, associated with the goddess Parvati. Its waters are believed to be a source of purity and spiritual power.
Overnight stay in Zutulpuk (4760 m).
Day 11 / 17.09
4th Day of Kora: Completion of the Route and Zutulpuk Monastery (4760 m)
The final day of the kora — the journey from Zutulpuk (4760 m) back to Darchen (4560 m). The path follows gentler trails through picturesque valleys and rocky landscapes.
Here we will visit the renowned Zutulpuk Monastery (Zutulpuk Gompa), whose name translates as “Cave of Miracles.” According to legend, it is here that the great yogi Milarepa left imprints of his hands and feet in stone. This place preserves stories of his confrontation with the Bon master Naro Bonchung and is filled with an atmosphere of mysticism and power.
The final part of the route brings us back to Darchen, where the sacred kora around Kailash comes to completion.
Transfer and rest at a hotel near Lake Manasarovar.
Here we will visit the renowned Zutulpuk Monastery (Zutulpuk Gompa), whose name translates as “Cave of Miracles.” According to legend, it is here that the great yogi Milarepa left imprints of his hands and feet in stone. This place preserves stories of his confrontation with the Bon master Naro Bonchung and is filled with an atmosphere of mysticism and power.
The final part of the route brings us back to Darchen, where the sacred kora around Kailash comes to completion.
Transfer and rest at a hotel near Lake Manasarovar.
Days 12 - 14 / 18.09 - 20.09
Return Journey. Back to Kathmandu
We return to Kathmandu along the same route that led us to Kailash. The journey will take three full days — calm and steady, allowing for a gentle completion of the pilgrimage and integration of the experience.
On Day 14 (Sept 20), we will have a full rest day in Kathmandu. This is a time for recovery after the journey, walking through the city’s cozy streets, shopping for souvenirs and gifts, visiting a Tibetan doctor, or simply enjoying a slow and relaxed day.
If needed, early departure can also be arranged on this day.
On Day 14 (Sept 20), we will have a full rest day in Kathmandu. This is a time for recovery after the journey, walking through the city’s cozy streets, shopping for souvenirs and gifts, visiting a Tibetan doctor, or simply enjoying a slow and relaxed day.
If needed, early departure can also be arranged on this day.
Day 15 / 21.09
End of the Journey
The final day in Kathmandu — a time to express gratitude to the space and to yourself for the experience lived.
Transfer to the airport. We say goodbye to Nepal and Tibet, with the intention of returning again one day.
Transfer to the airport. We say goodbye to Nepal and Tibet, with the intention of returning again one day.
The organizers reserve the right to adjust the itinerary depending on weather conditions, route status, and other unforeseen circumstances, prioritizing the safety and comfort of participants.
All photographs on this website are original works. Please use them only with prior permission.
PARTICIPATION FEE
$4,300
A deposit of $800 secures your place on the tour. The remaining balance is to be paid upon arrival in cash (USD).
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Included in the price:
- Permit for visiting Mount Kailash
- Accommodation in double rooms throughout the journey, except during the kora
- All excursions, transport, and entrance fees to monasteries and museums in Tibet and Nepal
- Breakfasts at hotels
- English-speaking Tibetan guide
- Full program of the expedition including practices, guidance, and permits
Not included:
- International flight to Nepal
- Nepal visa
- Personal expenses
- Meals other than hotel breakfasts
- Travel insurance
- Clothing and equipment
- Additional horse support at the pass (if needed)
- Emergency transportation to medical facilities
- Unplanned use of transport
- Tips for drivers, porters, Tibetan guide, and support staff
REGISTRATION DEADLINE & CANCELLATION POLICY
Important: As documents for the Kailash visa must be submitted 40 days before the start of the tour, group registration is open only until July 28, 2026.
In case of cancellation:
- 60 days or more before the start of the tour — 100% of the deposit is refunded
- 60 to 45 days before the start — 50% of the deposit is refunded
- Less than 45 days before the start — the deposit is non-refundable
CONTACTS
For all questions and participation details, please contact us
WhatsApp / Telegram:
+7 985 298 0415
Alex
WhatsApp / Telegram:
+7 985 298 0415
Alex