Tips for Mount Kailash Inner Kora
The outer kora, circling the sacred Mount Kailash, is a 52-kilometer pilgrimage that draws thousands of trekkers and devotees each year. It's well-trodden, with basic teahouses and supply points along the way. The inner kora, on the other hand, is a quieter, more exclusive journey focused on the southern slopes of the mountain,. While the outer kora is about endurance and devotion, the inner kora is about deepening that connection.
Here's where things get interesting: In Tibetan Buddhist tradition, you need to complete the outer kora 13 times before you're considered "eligible" for the Inner Kora. Yes, you read that right—thirteen loops! This isn't just a random rule; it's about spiritual preparation and respect for the mountain's sanctity. As a result, the Inner Kora sees far fewer travelers, offering a rare sense of solitude and introspection.
Trek Route
The inner kora of Mount Kailash represents a profound one-day pilgrimage, beginning and ending in the humble village of Darchen (4,675m). From here, the trail unfolds in a clockwise manner, first leading pilgrims to the serene Selung Monastery (5,020m), perched solemnly on the mountainside. The journey then ascends towards the sacred southern face of the mountain, bringing you to the very foot of Mt. Kailash (5,600m), where the majestic north face comes into full, awe-inspiring view. The climb continues to one of the route's highest and most significant points—the 13 Golden Chortens and the sacred Saptarishi Cave (5,860m), a site charged with devotion and myth. Crossing the pass of Mt. Yinjiento, also known as Nandi Pass (5,805m), serves as a symbolic transition before the path descends, looping back past Selung Monastery. It then leads to the isolated and powerful Gyangdrak Monastery (5,060m), renowned for its stunning valley setting. Finally, the circuit completes as you return to Darchen, having traversed a path that is as much an inner journey as a physical one, surrounded by the stark, breathtaking landscape of the Tibetan plateau. The inner kora around Mount Kailash offers no infrastructure for food or medical supplies. Therefore, trekkers must be entirely self-sufficient. I strongly advise carrying all necessary provisions, noting that the only reliable water refill points are at Selung Monastery and Gyangdrak Monastery.
Who Should and Shouldn't Attempt the Inner Kora?
Ideal Candidates:
Seasoned trekkers with prior high-altitude experience.
Those who've completed at least one multi-day hike above 5,000 meters.
Spiritual seekers or researchers deeply interested in Tibetan culture.
Think Twice If:
You're a first-time visitor to Tibet with no high-altitude experience.
You have pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions.
You prefer well-marked trails with frequent amenities.
Why the outer kora Might Be a Better Starting Point
If the inner kora sounds a bit too intense, don't worry—the outer kora is an incredible adventure in its own right. It's more accessible, with gentler elevation gains and basic guesthouses along the route. Many travelers find the outer kora to be a perfect introduction to Kailash, without the same level of physical demand.
Conclusion
Just remember: respect the mountain, prepare thoroughly, and tread lightly. Ready to take the first step? Drop us a message.
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37 Comment ON "Tips for Mount Kailash Inner Kora"
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply