The short answer
Kerung (Gyirong) is reached from Kathmandu by road through Syabrubesi to the Rasuwagadhi border, a long day of winding mountain drive. After immigration you cross into Tibet, go through Chinese customs and continue on the Tibetan plateau toward Saga, Paryang, Manasarovar and Darchen, the start of the kailash kora.
Travellers like it for the gradual gain in height after the border, which gives a chance to adapt, and for the views of the Himalayas from the plateau. Allow a buffer for road conditions in monsoon and winter, and keep your passports, visas and group permits together at the border.
Key facts
- Nepal side
- Kathmandu, Syabrubesi, Rasuwagadhi
- Tibet side
- Kerung, Saga, Manasarovar, Darchen
- Best for
- Overland yatra groups
- Check
- Season and road conditions
How it works
- Drive to SyabrubesiLong mountain day.
- Cross at RasuwagadhiImmigration and customs.
- Drive to KerungAdjust to height.
- Continue to Saga and ManasarovarOver several days.
- Reach DarchenStart the kora.
What the route is like
The journey begins with a long drive north from Kathmandu through Syabrubesi to the border at Rasuwagadhi. After formalities, you travel through Kerung and onto the Tibetan plateau, a high, dry landscape with big skies, monasteries and wide valleys, toward Saga, Paryang, Manasarovar and Darchen.
Altitude rises steadily, and many nights are spent above 4,000 metres. Days are long, the road can be rough in places, and weather can change quickly.
Preparing for it
Get a medical check, build fitness with long walks, and plan to take the days slowly. Pack warm clothes, a windproof shell, sun protection, medicines and a small day bag, and carry documents in a waterproof pouch.
Listen to your guide about pace, water and rest, and report symptoms early. Ask about the oxygen and emergency arrangements, and keep a spare day on return.
Insider tip
Start early from Kathmandu and keep documents in a small pouch.
Avoid this
Do not plan tight international connections after returning.
Related questions
Is it open all year?
Check season and Chinese rules.
Do Indians need special papers?
Documents differ by nationality; see the border documents page.
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