2026 Fire Horse Year Saga Dawa Festival of Mount Kailash

The 2026 Fire Horse Year Saga Dawa Festival at Mount Kailash will take place on 31 May 2026. This is one of the most important and auspicious pilgrimage times in the Tibetan calendar.

According to the Tibetan zodiac, the Horse Year occurs once every twelve years and is believed to be the most sacred time to complete the Kailash Kora, the pilgrimage around the holy mountain. During this year, thousands of pilgrims travel to western Tibet, believing that completing the Kora brings greatly multiplied spiritual merit.

Travel Route and Accommodation

Most travelers reach the Kailash region via Saga, where simple hotels and guesthouses are available.

Pilgrims often stay near the sacred Lake Manasarovar. Accommodation here is basic but offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The Kailash pilgrimage begins from Darchen, a small town at the base of Mount Kailash with guesthouses, small restaurants, and shops for pilgrims.

Kailash Kora Route

The traditional Kora is about 52 km and usually takes three days.

Day 1: Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (about 18 km). Lunch stop at Damtin Tea House. Dinner and overnight at Dirapuk with a stunning view of Kailash’s north face.

Day 2: Trek from Dirapuk to Zutulphuk Monastery (about 22 km). Cross the high pass of Drolma La Pass (5,630 m). After descending, lunch is usually at Shab Je Drakto Tea House. Dinner and overnight near Zutulphuk Monastery.

Day 3: An easy trek back to Darchen to complete the sacred circuit (about 12 km).

What Food and Drinks Are Available During the Trek?

Food along the Kailash Kora is simple but sufficient. Small tea houses and guesthouses serve basic Tibetan and Chinese meals.

Common dishes include:

• Fried rice or egg fried rice

• Noodles or noodle soup

• Vegetable soup

• Tibetan bread

• Boiled eggs

• Potatoes or simple vegetable dishes

Drinks usually include: Tibetan butter tea, sweet milk tea,instant coffee, and hot water.

Lunch Stops During the Trek

• Day 1: Lunch at Damtin Tea House on the way to Dirapuk.

• Day 2: Lunch at Shab Je Drakto Tea House after crossing Drolma La Pass.

Important Tips

• Food choices are limited and basic due to the remote location.

• It is recommended to bring snacks such as chocolate, energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit.

• Carrying instant noodles or ready-to-eat food can also be helpful.

A Special Pilgrimage Year

During the Horse Year and Saga Dawa Festival, the Kailash region fills with pilgrims, prayer flags, and chanting. Although facilities along the route are simple, the powerful spiritual atmosphere makes this journey truly unforgettable.

For many pilgrims and travelers, visiting Mount Kailash during the 2026 Fire Horse Year is a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage experience.