Tibet Travel Notes | Mount Kailash (Part 2)

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Some little experiences about mountain climbing

Personally, I feel that the most comfortable months for mountain trekking in Kailash are June and September, which are neither cold nor hot, and avoid the snow season and peak season. It is recommended by friends who have more free time. The whole journey around the mountain is about 55 kilometers, with an average altitude of more than 5,000 meters. On the way, you have to cross the Zhuomala Pass, which is 5,600 meters above sea level. Although the road over the pass is relatively flat, it is really long. Therefore, basically except for Tibetans or long-term people, Except for friends who are hiking training, ordinary people cannot complete the tour in one day, so it is recommended to arrange at least 2 days.

You don’t need to prepare too many belongings when traveling in the mountains in June. I only carried a small bag on my back, which contained a thermos cup, toothbrush and toothpaste, wet and dry tissues, sunscreen, charger, power bank, and a bear doll (I will I left it near the pass), and a raincoat (this is very important, be sure to prepare it. The one I brought was a thicker raincoat, not disposable. It turned out to be really helpful at critical times. The raincoat caused hail the next day after turning up the mountain. protect). You can bring a small amount of snacks such as chocolate, Snickers bars, raisins or beef jerky according to your physical condition to replenish your energy at any time. Friends who like to drink coffee or tea can bring their own for one day. Hot water is sold at tent supply points along the way. Those with severe mysophobia can bring a thin sleeping bag. In short, try to travel as lightly as possible, otherwise it will be a burden in the end.

In terms of equipment, windproof and rainproof jackets and fleece pants, as well as waterproof high-top outdoor hiking shoes are standard. You should have a down jacket, you can take it off when it's hot or add it when it's cold, don't take it too much trouble, and don't overestimate your ability to keep out the cold. Bring at least one hiking pole so you can use it when you can't walk. A pair of sports knee pads with springs. Don’t be cheap, be sure to buy the professional version. Your knees will thank you for protecting them as you get older. Hats and UV protection sunglasses are available.

Friends who like photography or recording can carry a SLR lens depending on their physical strength. If you are traveling lightly for photography, it is recommended to bring a GoPro and clip it to your chest to record along the way.

In terms of medicines, some basic medicines such as cold granules, antipyretics, band-aids, and vitamin C effervescent tablets were prepared when entering Tibet. You can carry them as appropriate according to your own situation when traveling to the mountains. Friends who suffer from high altitude sickness should still act according to their ability and prepare oxygen cylinders or bags. After all, the altitude of the whole mountain transfer is above 5,000 meters, so don’t be pushy.

I won’t go into details about other matters related to entering Samoa. For example, remember to apply for a border defense permit, which can be found online. The route schedule this time is relatively tight, and it will be easier if we add 2-3 days. In short, remember throughout the whole process: safety first, health first, pay attention to keeping warm and cold (even in summer, the plateau air is very cold, if you are not careful, the cold air will enter the lungs and cause coughing), do not show off your strength and do not get excited.

The main cost of the whole trip was round-trip air tickets, accommodation and car rental; adding the latter two together, the total cost for my friend and I was about 15,000 yuan. All in all, a trip to the mountains costs 15,000 yuan per person, which is a relatively comfortable cost.