awakening body, mind & spirit
Explore your quest on an adventure of a lifetime.
Sunday 13th - Monday 28th September 2026
Our sacred pilgrimage to
Mount Kailash, Tibet.
A 15 day pilgrimage overland from Katmandu, Nepal into the heart of Tibet, tracing the ancient path to Lake Manasarovar where the waters mirror the heavens, and Mount Kailash - walking the Kora during the Fall Equinox when the energies are balanced: in devotion, reflection and awe, retracing the footsteps of seekers across time, as the waxing moon grows brighter, lighting the way.
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Register Now to SAVE your place by paying a deposit.
Join our monthly gatherings on zoom to start your training plan for the trek.
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country:
Arrive Katmandu, Nepal and travel overland to far Western Tibet. Sacred to over a billion Buddhists, Hindus and Jains, enigmatic Mount Kailash is quite possibly the world's holiest mountain.
duration:
Including travel days the trip will take approx. 15 days, allowing for acclimatisation.
You need to be well acclimatised and physically fit for the kora around Mount Kailash; normally a three-day trek.
altitude:
It isn't particularly strenuous but it does take you to high altitudes, starting at 4670 mt. and peaking at 5650 mt. at the Drölma-La pass, taking you to the most sacred place in Tibet.​​
The Kailash Kora is a sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash, a circumambulation of the holy mountain taking place primarily over three days via a 52-km (32-mile) outer circuit that starts and ends in the town of Darchen. The difficult trek reaches an elevation of 5,640 meters (18,500 feet) at the Dolma La Pass and features breathtaking scenery of the mountain, prayer flags, and an ancient cave, with the goal of spiritual purification and connection with the divine.
Our sacred pilgrimage begins in Nepal
Day 1 & 2 - Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal
Book your international flights to arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal on Sunday 13th September.
We will arrange your transfer to hotel, take time to rest and recover from your journey.
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Day two and three acclimatise Nepal, as we await our travel permits for Tibet. As a group of likeminded travellers we will meditate and practice gentle yoga daily as well as explore the streets and temples where time slows, prayer flags ripple in the breeze, and the air hums with centuries of devotion.
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Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing medieval Nepali architecture.
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Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world (and the biggest in Nepal). A UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Pilgrims believe that simply walking around it (doing kora) brings merit and peace. Said to house relics of the Buddha himself, its construction dates back to the 5th century CE.
Day 3 or 4: Kathmandu to Keyrong
As soon as all of the Chinese Visa's are processed we will make our way towards the border. This may take 3 or 4 days. As we wait we will have an opportunity to do a short hike with a view of Everest on a clear day.
Early departure from Kathmandu on a captivating journey through Nepal's diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historical landmarks. a historic trade route connecting Nepal to Tibet . This 112 km highway traverses picturesque valleys, dense forests, and offers glimpses of the majestic Himalayas. The drive to Rasuwa gadi, offering views of terraced fields, river and rustic villages of Nepal before we enter Langtang National Park Area.
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Enjoy the scenic drive through the lush landscape.
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Evening arrival, relax with an overnight stay in a tiny but meaningful speck on the Himalayan map. Tucked deep in Nepal’s Langtang region, this quiet village sits close to the Nepal–Tibet border.
Day 4: Kyirong, Tibet's border town
After completing the immigration formalities on the Nepalese side, we set off on a short yet scenic drive, the mountains rising like ancient guardians around us. A brief walk across the bridge follows — the symbolic crossing from Nepal into the mystic land of Tibet. On the far side, after the Tibetan entry formalities, our Tibetan guide awaits with a warm welcome.
Then, we begin a breathtaking drive of about 24 kilometers — roughly an hour of winding mountain roads, prayer flags fluttering in the wind — before reaching the tranquil border town of Kyirong, where our day’s unforgettable journey comes to a serene close. Upon arrival, take time to acclimatize and explore the surroundings.​ This one of those rare Himalayan towns where ancient spiritual energy, raw natural beauty, and a cross-cultural gateway where all collide — and the result is a place that feels deeply alive, yet surprisingly calm.
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Altitude: 2,700 meters (8,860 ft)
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(Acclimatization Day) Visit Pakba Monastery with a short hike to nearby valley (2790 m) as we spend a rest day at Kyirong in order to acclimatise before heading up higher.
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Our Quest: Tibet
Day 5 & 6 Saga to Mansarover
​Altitude: 4,640 meters (15,223 ft)​
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Day 05: Drive to Saga: 169 km 6 – 7 hrs
The journey into Tibet continues with a drive approx 169 km, 6 to 7 hours to Saga. Stopping on route at the first high pass Ghungtang Lhamo pass at 5236 meters. On the way up, you’ll really feel the climate change as the landscape opens around you. The Tibetan scenery is stunning — we pass through wide, magnificent valleys and quiet villages that feel untouched by time. Along the road, we get unforgettable views of Mount Shishapangma and the shimmering waters of Pekutso Lake. The journey continues toward Saga, where we cross the mighty Yarlung Tsangpo (the Brahmaputra River). We end the day at our hotel for an overnight stay.
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Day 06: Drive to Manasarovar: (4590 m) 480 km 8 – 9 hrs
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Today is a long but unforgettable day on the road — about 480 km, roughly 8–9 hours. As we leave Saga, the landscape opens into vast plains that seem to stretch endlessly in every direction. The closer we get to Manasarovar, the more the scenery feels almost otherworldly.
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Manasarovar itself is breathtaking. From the moment it comes into view, the lake looks impossibly pure — a wide mirror of turquoise water reflecting the sky and the distant silhouette of Mount Kailash just 30 km to the north. There’s a calmness here that you can feel in your chest, a stillness that makes you instinctively slow down and just breathe it in.
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According to legend, this is where Ravana once prayed, the lake has a mysterious, powerful presence that feels charged with ancient stories. Standing between these two sacred lakes — one serene and luminous, the other deep and enigmatic — you truly understand why this region has drawn pilgrims for thousands of years. It’s a place where nature, legend, and spirituality all meet in the most dramatic way.
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Overnight at a local tea house, after breakfast we will take a walk nearby Lake Manasarovar and meditate together to set our intentions for the pilgrimage. Later depart and drive for about 115km towards Darchen, the Base Camp of Kailash where we stay at a local Guesthouse.
Our sacred pilgrimage through Tibet.
​Day 07: Drive to Darchen: (4575 m) 115 km 2 hrs
​Mount Kailash, also known as “Gang Rinpoche”, is located in Purang County, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region. Standing at an elevation of about (6,656 meters).
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Landmarks:
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Darchen: The starting and ending location of the Kora.
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Tarboche: the beginning of the trek with a flag pole decorated with prayer flags.
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Dolma La Pass: The highest point of the trek, at an elevation of approximately 5,640 meters (18,500 feet).
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Cave of the Holy Mountain: A significant site associated with mythological stories and prayer. ​
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Spiritual Goals: Deepen your practice by walking a path filled with prayers and faith. In the upcoming Year of the Horse (2026), Kailash Kora will carry even more extraordinary significance. Many pilgrims undertake the Kora to cleanse guilt, awaken spirituality, and foster a deep connection with the divine.
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Challenging Terrain: The trek involves cold temperatures, and thin air. Oxygen will be available. You will be supported by local guides and porters, as well as your spiritual practice and the stamina you build up by preparing and training for the months leading up to it.
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Our Kailash Kora
Days 8, 9 & 10 -trek from Darchen to Dolma La and back.
​​​Our Kailash Kora, is a three-day pilgrimage that blends breathtaking Himalayan landscapes with deep spiritual meaning.
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Trek Day 8 leads you from Darchen toward the iconic Yam Dwar, the “Gateway of the Gods,” before tracing the serene valley past Qugu Monastery to reach Dirapuk. With 20 km of gentle ascent, the day unfolds slowly, letting you settle into the rhythm of the mountain. The total distance is 20 km, with a 200-meter elevation gain, taking about 10 hours. A gradual ascent offering spectacular views of Mount Kailash’s northern face. Enjoy a great nights sleep on your first night among the mountains.
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Trek Day 9 is the heart of the pilgrimage. You’ll rise before dawn to make the steep, awe-inspiring climb to Dolma La Pass, the highest and most sacred point of the Kora. At over 5,600 m, the pass rewards you with dramatic views and a powerful sense of accomplishment. A long descent leads you into the tranquil valley of Zutulpuk Monastery. The distance is 18 km, with an elevation gain of 550 meters, reaching the highest point at Dolma La and then descending 600 meters, which takes about 14 hours. With expert support, you’ll navigate the ascent and descent safely, taking in panoramic Himalayan views before reaching your serene stay near Zutulpuk Monastery. Expect a long—but incredibly rewarding—day at high altitude.
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Trek Day 10, after a simple breakfast at the Monastery, the landscape softens as you complete the final leg of the kora —a peaceful closing to a demanding but transformative trek, covering a distance of 14 km with a 150-meter descent, taking about 7 hours. Enjoy a relaxed walk back to Darchen, completing the full circuit around Mount Kailash—This is a unique pilgrimage that blends spiritual heritage with world-class mountain scenery.
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The Kailash Kora is more than a journey; it is a devotion, a challenge, and an unforgettable encounter with the sacred. This trek is physically demanding but achievable for prepared travellers. Three days of dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, and spiritual heritage await.
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Our time to reflect: an inner journey
Day 11 & 12
A Journey Through Changing Landscapes. Drive to Saga and on to Kyirong: (2790 m) 169 km 6 – 7 hrs
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Greeting a new dawn and a new day, we will meditate together on gratitude for our safe passage. After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive toward Kyirong, a day filled not only with breathtaking vistas but also with space to slow down, breathe, and reflect on your inner journey.
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As we travel, you may catch sweeping glimpses of the Himalayan range, cross a spectacular high pass over 5,000 meters, and witness the tranquil beauty of Piku Tso Lake. Today’s route highlights a powerful contrast: the stark, rugged expanses of the Tibetan plateau gradually dissolve into the rich forests and lush green foothills that signal your approach to Nepal.
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Throughout the drive, we offer quiet moments for meditation and integration, inviting you to reflect on the profound outer landscapes while connecting with your inner transformation. These pauses help cultivate presence and grounding as the journey unfolds.
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Arrive in Kyirong and settle into your hotel for a restful night.
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Our time to rest: our journey home
Day 13
Return to Kathmandu – Crossing the Border Into Nepal (1300 m) 157 km 8 – 9 hrs
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After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 24 km downhill drive—approximately one hour—to reach the Chinese immigration point at Rasuwa Gadi. After completing the exit formalities, we walk across the Friendship Bridge, where your Nepal-side vehicle awaits your arrival.
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From here, it is a short 1.5 km drive to the Nepal immigration office for entry procedures. Once all formalities are complete, we continue our journey through the lush foothills and river valleys on the drive back to Kathmandu.
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This border region sits lower than the vast Tibetan Plateau and marks the historic land connection between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
As the official overland crossing for pilgrims, traders, and travelers journeying between Kathmandu and Tibet, the Friendship Bridge stands as a symbolic gateway linking cultures, landscapes, and centuries of cross-border exchange.
Our time to celebrate: return to Nepal
Days 14​ \ 15
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A Day of Rest, Renewal & Gentle Return
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Today is intentionally left free—a peaceful pause after the profound journey you have completed. Check into our Hotel, your comfortable haven for the night. After the transformational journey around Mount Kailash, your body may feel tired, yet your spirit is full. This free day invites you to integrate the blessings, insights, and inner shifts awakened along the sacred kora. Move gently. Breathe deeply. Let the experiences settle into your heart.
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You may spend time in silent contemplation, journaling, or simply sitting in stillness as you honor the journey you have completed. If you feel called, stroll out for light shopping—choosing small mementos to carry the energy of this pilgrimage back home.
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Allow this day to be one of gratitude, grounding, and spiritual renewal. As you rest within the peaceful atmosphere of your hotel, you begin your transition from the holy mountains toward home—carrying with you the clarity, blessings, and quiet strength cultivated on this sacred path.
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Day 15 - Pack, check out and return to the airport for you flight home.
Book your return flight to depart Kathmandu, Nepal on Monday 28th September.
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Our time to prepare our body, mind and spirit
Lean Into Your Dreams and Let Your Spirit Lead the Way
Book this experience to give yourself plenty of time to prepare and train.
Increase your daily sadhana by inviting Yoga, Meditation, and Pranayama into your everyday routine. These practices help purify the mind, balance the body, and open the heart as you set a clear intention for your upcoming pilgrimage to Tibet.
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In the Year of the Horse (2026), the Kailash Kora carries even greater spiritual potency. According to tradition, the Year of the Horse marks the birth and enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and during this auspicious time, deities, bodhisattvas, celestial beings, humans, asuras, and divine musicians are believed to gather around Mount Kailash. A kora performed in a Horse Year is said to increase one’s merit twelvefold.
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Many spiritual traditions also regard Mount Kailash as the Earth’s crown chakra, a cosmic center of higher consciousness and divine connection. As you prepare, let your practices and intentions align with the sacred energy of this extraordinary pilgrimage. Our lead spiritual guide, Suzi will help you deepen your practices and set clear intentions, with over 15 years experience as a group leader.
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Prepare the Body. Honour the Journey.
Supported preparation for the Kailash Kora:
Body / Gear / Mindset - building strength, confidence and endurance.
Start physical exercise at least 6 months in advance: Kailash kora is easy for those who are physically fit and have an experience of walking, hiking, and trekking. Those who are not having hiking and trekking experience, we suggest taking regular daily physical exercise at least 6 months before our trip starts. Our lead trekking guide, Tony has over 25 years experience and can help you prepare and plan your training.
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Necessary Equipment:
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Hiking boots: Waterproof, non-slip, and comfortable hiking boots for different terrains.
Warm clothing: Temperatures vary greatly at high altitudes, so breathable and warm clothing, especially down jackets, are essential.
Headlamp or flashlight: Necessary for nighttime activities.
Water and snack foods: Stay hydrated and carry energy-boosting snacks.
Sun protection: The strong UV radiation at high altitudes requires sun protection.
Personal medications: Carry altitude sickness medication, common medicines, and a first aid kit.
Trekking poles: Help with balance and reduce knee strain.
Backpack: A light backpack of 30-50 litres capacity to carry all your essentials.
Water Bottle: Hydration bladder / reservoir - a flexible water pouch with a straw/tube you sip as you walk.
Your travel cases and regular clothes can be stored in the Hotel in Nepal so you can travel light for the trek in Tibet.
Hooded Down Jacket; lightweight and compressible to fit easily in backpack - DWR shel, 700 - 900 + fill for warmth. These may be hired in Nepal for the duration of the trek. More information on best clothing to pack will be given during our monthly meetings on zoom.
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Our Destination
Our Journey to Tibet from Nepal
Our Dates
All you have to do is simply book your flights to arrive in Katmandu, Nepal, on Sunday 13th September.
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Book your return date to depart on Monday 28th September.
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Travel Insurance to cover the trek altitude of up to 5600 mt is compulsory for all participants.
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Please get in touch with us directly to register your interest, request the recording of our zoom meeting where we discussed the trip in more detail, or ask any questions you may have.
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We can offer you support when planning your trip, booking your flights and buying insurance if necessary.
We will schedule a series of monthly zoom meetings with our experienced team to help you train and prepare for your trek and the pilgrimage. We will co-ordinate with you and offer our support as you plan your training schedule.
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Travel Insurance is compulsory when you register for this trip and travel internationally. Please note that you will need to ensure your insurance will cover the altitude of 5600mt. We can help you arrange this as we have an agent who provides this type of cover.
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Our Price
All Inclusive: €2,999.00 per person sharing​​​
Single Supplement: €490​​​.00
Group Size: Min. 6 / Max. 12
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Payment Options:​
Mid Jan. Pay Deposit : €555.00 to save your place.
Fully Refundable - up to 12 weeks prior to departure.
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Balance due 12 weeks before travel €2,444.00
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Our Pilgrimage Package Includes:
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Transfers from/to Airport
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Accommodation with Breakfast for 14 nights, based on twin sharing.
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Guided daily practices, including yoga, meditation and pranayama.​​​
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Dormitory sharing accommodation as per the itinerary on BB basis in Kailash en-route at Manasarovar, DiraPuk and ZhutulPuk, Bed and Breakfast.
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English speaking Tibetan Guide.
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Transportation as per the itinerary by necessary vehicle
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Entry fee of mentioned places.
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Tibet Travel permit.
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Porter to carry luggage during Kailash Kora.
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Portable oxygen cylinder in vehicle.
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1 bottle water every day.
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Border transfer Kathmandu – Rasuwagadi – Kathmandu
Not Included:
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International air travel​
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Local additional drinks, snacks or refreshments purchased by you
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Travel Insurance
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Tibet Visa Fee
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Lunch and Dinners in hotel or restaurant - you can budget an additional €20 / day approx.
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Manasarovar Kora by Environmental Protection Bus (approx. US$ 50per person)
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Drinks beverages (hard and soft drinks)
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Expenses of personal nature, phone calls, laundry etc.
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Expenses of porter, or change of vehicle
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Additional accommodation en-route incurred due to any unavoidable unforeseen circumstances such as landslide, road blockade, snow falls, political unrest, delayed arrival, sickness etc.
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Gratuity to staff.
Interested? Inspired? Feeling called to join us?
Please register your interest and request the recording of our Zoom Meeting where we shared details and answered questions.
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We would love to meet you.
Our Team
Suzi von Mensenkampff, Ireland
Yoga, Meditation & Ayurveda. | Global Retreats
For well over a decade Suzi has been leading retreats around the world. Her passion for travel led to her extensive travels throughout India and Bhutan taking guests on unforgettable, life changing journeys exploring the sacred Himalayan foothills. Her Dharma tours travelled all over India on Spiritual Adventures. Sunrise meditations at the foot of Mount Khangchendzonga (the 3rd highest peak) chanting with Buddhist monks in the caves of Sikkim, trekking to the Tigers Nest, and Dochula Pass in Bhutan. On a spiritual quest that embraced the ancient wisdom traditions.​
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As well as Himalayan Meditation Retreats, Suzi has also created and led Yoga and Ayurvedic retreats in beautiful locations across America, Europe, and in the UK. She was drawn to explore her native shores when the pandemic grounded world travel. Inspired by the rugged natural beauty of Ireland, this led to her creating Mystical Adventures and the Silver Birch Retreats in the land of the ancient Celts.
Suzi has always been curious to explore what lies beyond the boundaries of limited thinking and cultural conditioning. She is passionate about exploring states of consciousness and committed to supporting our innate desire to evolve as human beings. Travel takes us out of our comfort zones and tests our limiting beliefs. Meditation and Yoga support that journey, rewiring the brain and toning the body to reveal the true nature of all who are willing to go beyond.
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Tony Nation, Ireland
Instructor / Guide / Mountain Leader
Our experienced trek, lead guide is based in Ireland and has been travelling with groups globally for over 25 years
Tony Nation is a highly experienced Mountain Leader whose guiding career spans back to 1997. With a lifelong passion for adventure, Tony has explored and led expeditions across Nepal, India, Russia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe.
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His depth of knowledge in the outdoors is matched by decades of leadership experience gained through 45 years in the pharmaceutical industry, where he successfully managed and coordinated multidisciplinary teams to achieve both corporate and collective goals.
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Tony has also been a dedicated trainer with Scouting Ireland, sharing his skills and inspiring confidence in the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. A devoted family man, Tony is married to his wife Mary, and together they have four children. He is also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren.
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When not traveling abroad in search of new trails, Tony can most often be found on the hills of Ireland—especially on his beloved Reek in Kerry.
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