Kailash Helicopter Tour ex Kathmandu 12 Days (2025)

Overview

The Kailash Helicopter Tour ex Kathmandu is a captivating 12-day pilgrimage journey that provides a unique and efficient way to experience the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar in Tibet. This tour is designed for those seeking a shorter duration pilgrimage with the convenience of helicopter travel, allowing participants to embark on a transformative spiritual journey.

The pilgrimage begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, where participants gather and make necessary preparations for the adventure ahead. From Kathmandu, the group takes a chartered helicopter flight to Nepalgunj, a city near the Indian border. After a brief stopover, another helicopter flight takes the group to Simikot, the starting point for entering Tibet.

From Simikot, the journey continues with a thrilling helicopter flight over the breathtaking Himalayan mountain range. Participants are treated to magnificent aerial views of snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes. The helicopter lands near Hilsa, a border town in Nepal, where participants cross into Tibet and officially commence their pilgrimage.

The tour includes ample time for spiritual practices, reflection, and connection with the sacred sites. Participants have the opportunity to explore the serene beauty of Lake Manasarovar, known for its crystal-clear waters and profound spiritual significance. Visits to ancient monasteries and revered sites provide opportunities for prayer, meditation, and cultural immersion.

The Kailash Helicopter Tour ex Kathmandu offers a unique and efficient way to embark on a spiritually significant journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. With the convenience of helicopter travel, participants can maximize their time at the sacred sites and immerse themselves in the profound energy of the region. This pilgrimage is designed for those seeking a transformative experience within a shorter timeframe.

ITINEARY

Here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival

  • Altitude: 1,310m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
    Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. After some rest, you may explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or visit nearby cultural sites. A trip briefing will be conducted in the evening.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Flight to Nepalgunj

  • Altitude: 150m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    After breakfast, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of UNESCO heritage sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Later, take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a city near the western border of Nepal. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for the next day’s journey.

Day 3: Flight to Simikot – Admiring the Beauty of Simikot

  • Altitude: 2,910m
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Early morning, take a thrilling flight to Simikot, a picturesque town in the Humla district of Nepal. Enjoy the stunning mountain views and the peaceful surroundings of this remote region. You can explore Simikot, interact with locals, and prepare for your next journey.

Day 4: Helicopter Flight to Hilsa – Drive to Taklakot

  • Altitude: 4,755m
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Fly by helicopter to Hilsa, a border town between Nepal and Tibet. After completing immigration formalities, drive towards Taklakot (also known as Purang) in Tibet. This high-altitude town offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau.

Day 5: Acclimatization in Taklakot

  • Altitude: 4,755m
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    A full day is allocated for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take short hikes and explore the surroundings while resting to avoid altitude sickness.

Day 6: Drive to Mansarovar Lake

  • Altitude: 4,590m
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Today, drive to the sacred Mansarovar Lake, one of the holiest lakes in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. You can take a dip in the lake, perform rituals, and admire the serene beauty of the area with a backdrop of Mount Kailash.

Day 7: Day 1 of Parikrama – Drive to Darchen and Yama Dwar, Trek to Dirapuk

  • Altitude: 4,880m
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Drive to Darchen, the base of Mount Kailash, and continue to Yama Dwar, the starting point of the Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation). Begin trekking towards Dirapuk, where you will get the first close-up view of Mount Kailash. The trek is about 12 km and takes around 5-6 hours.

Day 8: Day 2 of Parikrama – Trek to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass

  • Altitude: 5,700m (Dolma La Pass) / 4,670m (Zuthulpuk)
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    This is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. You will cross Dolma La Pass (5,700m), the highest point of the trek, before descending to Zuthulpuk. The trek covers around 22 km and takes 8-10 hours.

Day 9: Day 3 of Parikrama – Trek to Darchen and Drive to Hilsa via Taklakot

  • Altitude: 4,755m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Complete the final leg of the Kailash Parikrama by trekking to Darchen (around 10 km). Then, drive back to Hilsa via Taklakot, retracing your journey.

Day 10: Helicopter Flight from Hilsa to Simikot – Fly Back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

  • Altitude: 1,310m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Take a helicopter from Hilsa to Simikot and then a flight to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, board another flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax.

Day 11: Reserve Day (in Case of Flight Cancellations Due to Weather)

  • Altitude: 1,310m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    A contingency day in case of delays in flights due to bad weather. If not needed, you can explore Kathmandu, go for shopping, or take optional tours.

Day 12: Final Departure

  • Altitude: 1,310m
  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Meals: Breakfast
    After breakfast, transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your spiritual and adventurous journey.
  • This package includes a comprehensive range of services to ensure a smooth and comfortable Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Here’s a summary of what’s included and excluded in the trip:

    ✅ What’s Included:

    1. Airport Transfers:
      • Pick-up and drop-off from Kathmandu airport by private vehicle.
    2. Transportation:
      • All ground transportation by private vehicle.
      • Chartered helicopter flights from Simikot to Hilsa and back.
      • Domestic flights:
        • Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu
        • Nepalgunj – Simikot – Nepalgunj
      • Bus/van transportation during the journey.
    3. Accommodation:
      • 3 nights in Kathmandu (twin-sharing).
      • 1 night in Nepalgunj.
      • 1 night in Simikot.
      • Guesthouse accommodations in the Kailash region (group sharing).
    4. Meals:
      • Indian vegetarian buffet meals (breakfast, dinner, and packed lunch) during the trip.
    5. Logistics & Support:
      • Support truck for carrying big bags, goods, and food.
      • All necessary camping equipment for the kitchen.
      • Enough oxygen cylinders and pillow for emergencies.
    6. Permits & Fees:
      • Tibet Permit and Tibet Group Visa.
      • All necessary entrance fees in the Kailash region.
    7. Other Inclusions:
      • Sightseeing in Kathmandu (half-day tour).
      • Down jacket (on a refundable basis) and duffel bag for the trip.
      • Certificate of appreciation from the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra upon completion.
      • All government taxes and service charges.

    ❌ What’s Excluded:

    1. Personal Expenses:
      • Personal horse & helper during Kailash Parikrama.
      • Personal expenses like drinks, laundry, and shopping.
      • Tipping for guides, drivers, and support staff.
    2. Additional Accommodation & Upgrades:
      • Extra nights in hotels/guesthouses (beyond the itinerary).
      • Hotel upgrades during the trip.
    3. Emergency & Insurance:
      • Rescue/evacuation costs in case of health issues or emergency.
      • Travel insurance (highly recommended).
    4. Extra Costs Due to Delays or Permits:
      • Flight delays/cancellations due to bad weather.
      • Extra costs for late permits/visas from the Tibet side.

    Food and Drinks

Kathmandu: Pure Veg Food (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner provided at hotel)

Kathmandu – Hilsa – Kathmandu: Pure Veg Indian Food provided at Indian Restaurant/Hotel.

Tibet Region: Pure Veg Indian Food provided prepared by our Nepali Staffs.

Transportation

Kathmandu: Private Car/Van/Bus as per group size for Airport Pickup and Sightseeing with A.C

Kathmandu – Nepalgunj -Simikot- Kathmandu: Flight

Simikot – Hilsa – Simikot: Helicopter

Tibet Region: Deluxe Tourist Bus available with A.C

Accommodation

Kathmandu: Three Star Hotel Twin Sharing

Nepalgunj: Four Star Hotel (Twin Sharing)

Hilsa: Guest House (Twin/Triple/four Sharing) – Dromedary Room

Taklakot: Three-star Hotel (Twin Sharing)

Saga: Three Star Hotel (Twin Sharing)

Mansarovar: Guest House (Twin / Triple / Four Sharing) Dromedary Room

Darchen: Three Star Hotel (Twin Sharing)

Kora: Guest House (Twin/Triple/Four Sharing) Dromedary Room

Tibet Permit and Visa

Permit: For applying This Permit, we need your copy of valid passport at least 45 days prior to your tour date so that we can apply permit on time.

  • Clearly Scanned copy of Passport
  • Passport must be valid (not expired)

Visa: For This visa, we will inform you to send your original Passport in Delhi 10 days prior to your tour date. We will issue your Tibet Visa in Delhi and we will send you back your original Passport to your address and you can fly to Nepal.

Fly to Nepal: You must have original Passport or Voter ID to fly to Nepal.

Packing List

Regular Clothes

  • Thermal vest and pyjama

Undergarments and Night wear

  • Full sleeves cotton round and polo neck and t-shirts,
  • Comfortable and WARM pants/leggings/trousers
  • Woolen sweater, Down jacket (able to accommodate inner layers)
  • Cotton socks, Woolen socks
  • Balaclava (monkey cap) and Shawl/scarf
  • Gloves – cotton/woolen mittens AND a pair of snow gloves for those doing the Parikrama
  • Wind cheater with hood
  • Slippers to be worn with socks
  • Swimsuit (hot spring in Chui Gompa) If you are interested to use that by paying yourself.
  • Something to wear while taking a dip in Lake Mansarovar

Personal and bathkits

  • Tooth paste & brush
  • Lip Balm and Sunscreen
  • Deodorant & perfume
  • Shampoo sachets
  • Soap strips
  • Skin moisturizer
  • Toilet paper rolls/personal hygiene wipes
  • Small mirror
  • Comb/hair brush
  • Hair ties
  • Hand sanitizers
  • Face mask

Other important miscellaneous items

  • Luggage Tags to remember your baggage
  • Number locks for luggage
  • Battery packs for phone and camera
  • Camera with extra storage memory/batteries
  • Phone and camera chargers (Nepal and Tibet have same plug adapters as India)
  • Plastic bags to separate used and unused clothes
  • Small knife (Not suggested on hand carry)
  • IPod and headphones

Thank you.