Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Apart from local Tibetans, there are normally dozens of Hindus on the kora during the
main pilgrim season (June to September). Most ride horses, with yak teams carrying their
supplies. Of course these days, there are also plenty of Chinese tourists.
The route around Mt Kailash is a simple one: you start by crossing a plain, then head up
a wide river valley, climb up and over the 5630m Drölma-la, head down another river val-
ley, and finally cross the original plain to the starting point. It's so straightforward and so
perfect a natural circuit, it's easy to see how it has been a pilgrim's favourite for thousands
of years.
The Mt Kailash trekking season runs from mid-May until mid-October but trekkers
should always be prepared for changeable weather. Snow may be encountered on the
Drölma-la at any time of year and the temperature will often drop well below freezing at
night. The pass tends to be snowed in from early November to early April.
The kora is getting more and more popular (and there's litter everywhere to prove it). A
tent and your own food are recommended, although there is now accommodation and
simple food at Dira-puk and Zutul-puk. Bottled water, instant noodles and snacks are
available every few hours at nomad tents. Natural water sources abound.
Horses, yaks and porters are all available for hire in Darchen, the gateway town to the
kora. Big groups often hire yaks to carry their supplies but yaks will only travel in pairs or
herds, so you have to hire at least two. Horses are an easier option but are surprisingly ex-
pensive because they are in great demand by Indian pilgrims. Most hikers carry their own
gear or get by with the services of a local porter for ¥100 to ¥120 a day. Guesthouse own-
ers can normally help put you in touch with porters and guides.
