Every year, thousands of pilgrims and adventure seekers head toward one of the most sacred and remote places on Earth, the mystical Mount Kailash. Hidden in the far-off land of Tibet, this mountain is not just a beautiful peak but also a holy place for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers from around the world.
Unlike Mount Everest, where people try to reach the top, Mount Kailash offers something different. It asks you to go on an inner journey. Instead of climbing it, people walk around the mountain on a holy path called the Kailash Kora.
To complete this journey, people cross borders, rough landscapes, and high mountain passes. They come with a strong purpose, some with deep faith, others looking for meaning, and some simply for the rare adventure.
So how difficult is Kailash Kora, really? Take a few moments and decide for yourself.
Why is Kailash Kora Considered Challenging?
At first, walking around a mountain might sound easy. But the truth is, the Kailash Kora is much more difficult than it seems. It’s known as one of the toughest pilgrimage routes in the world. It doesn’t just test your body, it also challenges your mind, your spirit, and your willpower.
The sacred walk around Mount Kailash is about 52 kilometers (32 miles) long. It takes you through a place that is incredibly beautiful but also very tough and unforgiving.
But what exactly makes it so difficult?
Let’s find out by looking at the main reasons.
1) High Altitude and Thin Air
The biggest challenge of the Kailash Kora is the very high altitude.
Right from the start of the trek, you are in a place where the air has almost 40% less oxygen than at sea level, making it much harder to breathe and move.
Starting Point: The Kora usually begins at Darchen, which is already very high up, about 4,675 meters (15,338 feet) above sea level.
Highest Point: The toughest part of the journey is Dolma La Pass, which stands even higher at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet).
Climbing up to Dolma La is very steep and tiring. Many people feel signs of altitude sickness, like headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Even strong and fit trekkers need to move slowly, take lots of breaks, and drink plenty of water.
If you don’t let your body adjust properly to the height, the journey can quickly become very difficult and risky.
2) Tough Terrain and Long Walks
The path around Mount Kailash is wild, rough, and can change quickly.
The trails are a mix of rocky paths, loose stones, areas covered with old glacier rocks, and steep climbs. Snow and ice, especially near Dolma La, can make the trail slippery, so you have to walk very carefully.
- First Day: The walk from Darchen to Dirapuk is not too hard, but it still tests your strength with steady uphill walks and long distances.
- Second Day: The climb to Dolma La Pass is the hardest. You go up and down a lot in a short time while dealing with thin air and sometimes strong, cold winds.
- Third Day: Even though most of the walk is downhill, the path is still rocky and uneven, making it tough for your tired body.
Each day needs strong physical energy and a lot of mental strength, because the changing trail does not give you a chance to relax or be careless.
3) Weather Extremes
Another reason why the Kailash Kora is so tough is because of the changing mountain weather.
In the morning, you might see clear skies and feel warm sunshine. But by afternoon, the weather can suddenly turn bad with strong winds, snow, or freezing rain.
- Temperature Changes: During the day, it might get as warm as 15°C (59°F), but at night, it can drop far below freezing.
- Wind Chill: The high mountain areas are known for strong, cold winds that make the temperature feel even colder.
Because the weather can change so quickly, trekkers must be ready for anything carrying the right clothes and gear to stay warm, dry, and safe.
What to Expect During Each Phase of the Kailash Kora?
The Kailash Kora takes place over three days of walking. Each day brings its own mix of physical effort, steep climbs, rocky trails, and special spiritual moments. The total distance may not sound very long, but the high altitude, changing weather, and powerful energy of the mountain make the journey much more challenging.
Day-by-Day Breakdown of Kailash Kora Trek Difficulty
Understanding each day helps you prepare better, physically and mentally.
Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk (A Gradual Start)
Distance: ~20 km (12.4 miles)
Start Altitude: 4,675 m (15,338 ft)
End Altitude: 5,080 m (16,666 ft)
The first day of the Kora is a slow and steady uphill walk. You will pass through wide open valleys, cross rivers on wooden bridges, and slowly get closer to the powerful north face of Mount Kailash.
The path isn’t too steep, but don’t be fooled, the high altitude makes even gentle climbs feel much harder. It is important to walk at a slow pace, take short breaks often, and drink plenty of water.
Day 2: Dirapuk to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La (The Hardest Day)
- Distance: ~22 kilometers (13.6 miles)
- Starting Altitude: 5,080 meters (16,666 feet)
- Highest Point: Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet)
- Ending Altitude: 4,790 meters (15,715 feet)
This is the hardest day of the Kailash Kora, both physically and mentally. You will face a steep and tough climb to Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The pass is often covered in snow, with colorful prayer flags blowing in the cold mountain wind.
The climb is slow and tiring because of the thin air, and going down afterward is just as hard. The path is steep, rocky, and rough on the knees. The weather can change quickly here, and strong winds are common.
On the way down, you will pass by Gauri Kund, a sacred lake that holds deep spiritual meaning, a peaceful sight during a tiring day.
Day 3: Zuthulphuk to Darchen (The Final Stretch)
- Distance: ~10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
- Starting Altitude: 4,790 meters (15,715 feet)
- Ending Altitude: 4,675 meters (15,338 feet)
The third day is easier than the tough second day, but it still needs effort. You will likely feel tired from the last two days, and while most of the path goes downhill, it’s still rocky and uneven in places.
As you walk, the scenery changes to wide valleys and green fields, which feel more peaceful after the rough climb over Dolma La.
The last few kilometers back to Darchen can feel long, but once you know you're close to the end, each step feels lighter.
Who Can Do Kailash Kora? (Fitness and Health Considerations)
Now that you have an idea of what the Kailash Kora looks like each day, you might be wondering if you can actually do it.
The Kora is a special journey but it is also challenging. It needs a strong body and a strong mind. You have to be ready to walk long hours at high altitude and stay calm when things get tough.
The good news is that many people of all ages and backgrounds complete the Kora every year. You don’t need to be an expert trekker. You just need to prepare well and take care of your health.
Let’s look at what kind of fitness and mindset you need for this journey.
You don’t need to be a professional climber to do the Kailash Kora, but you must have good heart health, strong stamina, and mental strength.
- Walking Time: You will need to walk 5 to 8 hours every day on rough and high-altitude trails.
- Distance Each Day: You will cover about 10 to 20 kilometers (6 to 12 miles) daily, with big climbs and drops.
- Strength Needed: Strong legs are very important for climbing up and down steep paths.
If you are used to hiking for several days in a row, walking on uneven trails, and carrying a light backpack, you already have a good base.
If not, you can still prepare, starting focused training 2–3 months before your trip will help a lot.
Training Before the Trek
To enjoy and succeed in the Kora, it’s important to start preparing early:
- Normal Exercises: Do activities like jogging, swimming, cycling, or fast walking to strengthen your heart and lungs.
- Hill or Stair Climbing: Practice walking up and down stairs or hills while carrying a backpack, just like you will do during the trek.
- Strength Training: Focus on making your legs, core, and back stronger to help carry your body for long hours.
- Hiking Practice: If possible, go on weekend hikes with small hills to get used to real trekking conditions.
Note: Being consistent is key. Even 45 minutes to 1 hour a day, 4–5 days a week, will make a big difference.
Does Age Matter?
Age does not matter as much as fitness does.
Pilgrims from their 20s to even their late 70s have successfully completed the Kailash Kora.
Younger Trekkers (20–40yrs): They usually recover faster and have more energy but still need to respect the challenges of high altitude.
Older Trekkers (50+): With good fitness and some trekking experience, many older people finish the Kora safely.
No matter your age, moving at a slow, steady pace and letting your body adjust to the height is more important than being fast or young.
Health Conditions to Watch
If you already have any health problems, especially related to your heart, lungs, or blood pressure, you must talk to your doctor before planning the Kailash Kora.
Some common concerns include:
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Asthma or breathing issues
- Heart problems
- Diabetes
High-altitude places can make these conditions worse. Your doctor might give you special medicines, suggest carrying extra oxygen, or even advise you not to go, depending on your health.
Still, many people with manageable health issues complete the Kora successfully with the right medical advice, proper planning, and support from trained guides.
Support Services for Kailash Kora: Yaks, Porters and Guides
Even though the Kailash Kora is physically and mentally challenging, you don’t have to do it alone. There are reliable support services available to help ease your load and improve your chances of completing the journey safely.
Yaks: Carrying Heavy Loads
Yaks are often used to carry extra baggage such as duffel bags, sleeping gear, or group supplies.
If you're not comfortable carrying a backpack for 3 days straight at high altitude, using a yak service is a great option.
It allows you to walk more freely and conserve your energy, especially on steep climbs like Dolma La Pass.
Porters: Personal Help on the Trail
Porters are available for those who want individual support.
They carry your personal bag and may offer a helping hand during tough sections.
This is especially useful for older trekkers or those with mild physical limitations.
Local Guides: Safety and Direction
Hiring a trained local guide is highly recommended. With Himalayan Joy Adventure, you don’t have to worry about one, we provide experienced guides to lead and support you throughout the journey.
They know the route, understand the signs of altitude sickness, and help with pace, rest points, and motivation.
In case of emergencies or health issues, a guide is your first line of support.
Final Thoughts: Is Kailash Kora Worth It Despite the Challenges?
Absolutely, yes. You will feel the high altitude. Your muscles will ache. And there may be moments when you question why you came. But then you will see Mount Kailash, still, mighty, sacred, and everything will make sense.
This journey is more than a trek. It is a lesson in patience, strength, and surrender. Whether your reason is spiritual, personal, or adventurous, it is a journey that stays with you long after you return.
So is it worth it? - If you are willing to listen to your body, face the challenge, and open yourself to the experience, then yes, it is worth every single step.
