Complete Guide to Mount Kailash Kora
Significance of Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash Kora is one of the mountains in a distant area of Tibet. It is at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) and is considered the spiritual centre of four major religions: religion is comprised of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Hindus believe Mount Kailash Kora is sacred as it is the residence of lord Shiva, the destroyer god, according to Hindu mythology. For Buddhists, this is the ascetic's abode of Buddha Demchok, which symbolizes the ultimate joy. For Jains, Mount Kailash Kora is the place of first Tirthankara's nirvana, and for followers of Bon, their higher being practiced mystic contest.
Mount Kailash Kora is traditionally called the "Axis Mundi," which means the centre of the world. Devotees of these religions consider Mount Kailash the sacred earthly abode of Lord Shiva. It is believed that completing a Kora (round) on foot washes one's soul of all sins committed in the current or previous life. The Kora wild and natural trail is about 52 km long and usually takes three days.
Thus, Mount Kailash Kora is a literal passage and an epic spiritual odyssey. Pilgrims pray by holding prayer wheels, saying some rhymes, bowing down, and even touching the ground in many cases. They traverse the religious circle very religiously, holding prayer wheels, chanting mantras, and prostrating. The grace of the snowy top of the mountain surrounded by clean nature increases the religious atmosphere, making Mount Kailash Kora highly spiritual.
Overview of the Mount Kailash Kora Pilgrimage
The Kailash Kora is a circuit that gets many thousand pilgrims every year. The Mount Kailash Kora is like a trail starting from a village usually known as Darchen; it is a small village but acts as the starting point for the Kora. Clockwise circulation around the mountain is observed among Buddhists and Hindus, and the pilgrimage is followed here. Some of the breathtaking marvels include the Tarboche flag-pole, one of the major pilgrimage sites marked with many prayer flags that signify prayers flown to the gods.
The first day of Mount Kailash Kora leads to Dirapuk Monastery, situated at a height of 5080m (16600ft). The path is comparatively easy initially, which helps the pilgrims cope with the altitude problem. The second day is the most difficult for the pilgrims, as they must climb the Dolma La mountain pass, which is 5530 meters (18195 feet) high. This segment is rather challenging and narrow; walking along it will require strength in the legs and willpower in one's mind.
On the way to the pass, there is the dramatic Dolma La, which, in the form of a rock, symbolizes Tara, the goddess. People bring gifts and come to ask for her favour. I could see the Taruche Monastery from the pass, and the trail from the monastery leads to the Zutulpuk Monastery, famous for its meditation caves. The third and last day of the Kora is relatively easy because it involves retracing the steps back to Darchen to fulfil the spiritual route. To be more precise, during the journey of the pilgrimage, one discovers the divine power, nature, and the self.
Facts About Kailash Mansoravar Kora
Approximately 52 kilometres (32 miles) in total
Pilgrims walk clockwise around Mount Kailash
Peaks at Dolma La Pass, around 5,600 meters (18,373 feet)
It is considered a sacred ritual in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religions
It involves prostration, chanting prayers, and meditation
Offers stunning views of Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, and surrounding landscapes
Challenges include high altitude, steep ascents and descents, and varying weather
Thought to cleanse sins and bring spiritual merit to pilgrims
Follows ancient pilgrimage traditions
Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site
Sacred Status in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon
Mount Kailash Kora holds a unique and revered status across four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. It is also the holiest place for Hindus, where Lord Shiva and his spouse, Shiva Parvati, reside. Shiva, the Destroyer and Transformer is said to be dwelling at the mountain's apex, riding the scene meditatively. Just as the mountain is central to the world in the New World, it is also the point where the heavens and the Earth meet.
Hindu travellers go to Mount Kailash Kora to worship Lord Shiva for change and rebirth of a new phase. According to Buddhism, Mount Kailash is the residence of Lord Buddha Demchok, who is named Chakrasamvara, representing the supreme form of ultimate joy. Tibetan Buddhists regard it as conduct that moves around the mountain gains fortune, and has negative karma. The Mount Kailash Kora is viewed as something which offers enlightenment and freedom of the soul.
Tibetan Buddhists also fondly remember Mount Kailash because of Milarepa, a famous Tibetan yogi with a reported history of meditating at nearby caves. The mountain is particularly sacred in Jainism, where the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabha, is believed to have achieved parinirvana. The mountain can be considered the final stage on the path to emancipation from the cycle of births and deaths.
Mount Kailash Kora attracts Jain followers to the Yatra to worship Rishabhadeva and attain a supernormal vision. This faith, which came to Tibet before Buddhism, regards Mt Kailash as the source of all divine power. Bon followers also speculate it has the burial grounds of the sky god Sipaimen. Unlike all other religions, Bon practitioners practice the Mount Kailash Kora counterclockwise.
Legends and Myths Associated with Mount Kailash
There are many legends and myths associated with Mount Kailash Kora that further make it to be mythological. They also believed that Meru, the cosmic mountain and axis of the world, joins the Earth to the sky, per Hindu mythology. In scriptures, it is referred to as the world support and axis upon which revolves the entire globe. Among the most popular Hindu stories are the legends in which Shiva defeats a terrible demon named Ravana.
Once upon a time, Ravana tried to pick up Kailash Mountain, showing his strength, but Shiva put his toe on the mountain and squashed Ravana under it. This act portrayed Shiva as a powerful deity and Ravana as his devotee after the incident. Buddhism is associated with the tantric meditation of Mount Kailash and Milarepa. It has been said that once Milarepa challenged Naro Bon-chung, a Bonpo master, in a race to reach the top. Thus, Milarepa flew up the mountain with his supernatural powers on streaks of sunshine, while Naro Bon-chung had to do it on a drum. Milarepa's victory showed triumph for Buddhism over the Bon religion. This legend serves to emphasize the role of the mountain in Buddhist spirituality.
The Bon religion has its own myths, and one of them is that Mount Kailash is known as Swastika Mountain of Nine Stories, the representative of all power. They take it as their religious hub, home to their favoured gods and goddesses. The myths connected to Mount Kailash only add to the mystical features of Mount Kailash Kora for any pilgrim. These stories of gods, wars, and spiritual conquests also bring depth to the experience, making it a pilgrimage for people of different religions.
Has anyone climbed Mount Kailash?
No, Mount Kailash remains unclimbed due to its profound religious significance and sacred status. Revered by Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bonpo traditions, it is considered the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and a spiritual centre in Buddhism and other faiths. Out of respect for its sanctity, climbers have refrained from attempting to scale its summit, preserving its revered status and ensuring it remains an untouched symbol of spiritual reverence.
Mount Kailash Kora Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
As soon as you land at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Katmandu, our representative will welcome you warmly. After immigration formalities and customs, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where overnight accommodation will be provided. you will have time off to rest and familiarise yourself with the local time and altitude of 1350m above sea level.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Valley Cultural Tour
Today, we will spend a whole day sightseeing in Kathmandu and visiting tourist attractions at UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will drive to Swayambhunath Stupa, also called Monkey Temple; there, you will see the Stupa and get a beautiful view of Kathmandu Valley. Then, there will be a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, a prominent Hindu temple in Kathmandu situated on the bank of the Bagmati River. Next, you will explore the Boudhanath stupa, which is regarded as one of Nepal's largest stupas and a holy pilgrimage place for Buddhists.
Day 3: Day hiking at Champadevi/Shivapuri
Finally, on this day, you get to go hiking again for a day, either in Champadevi or Shivapuri, which depends on the chosen trek and the group's decision. It is famous for its scenic and natural beauty, which is available in the Champadevi area. A stunning view of the Kathmandu Valley can be seen from there. Shivapuri, on the other hand, is situated in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, known for its dense forests and wildlife. They both offer a chance to view Nepal's pristine natural endowment and get a little thrill from wildlife and plant information.
Day 4: Drive Kathmandu – Syabrubesi
For the first part of the day, you will have an earlier breakfast and start the journey to Syabrubesi by road transport from Kathmandu, a gorgeous village in the Langtang region of Nepal. The distance is about 117 km, and it goes through stunning landscapes, terraced fields and typical Nepali villages, and it takes about 6 to 7 hours. Syabrubesi is the first village or the entry point to the Langtang Trekking, at 5585 feet. Once you get to the destination, you will take a room at a hotel or any other chosen type of accommodation, and the rest of the day will be spent on introductory tours around the specific area.
Day 5: Drive Syabrubesi to Kerung/Gyirong & excursion
Today will be more exciting because you will go to Tibet, and your first stop will be at Rasuwagadhi, the border between Nepal and China. Per the existing border standards and road status, it takes 2 hours to drive from Syabrubesi to Kerung or Gyirong. This drive presents a superb view of the Himalayas and takes you to a comparatively higher elevation of Tibet, up to 2700 meters. After arrival, you can relax, get used to the conditions, and visit the local town and its vicinities.
Day 6: Driving from Kerung to Saga
Expect to drive a full day from Kerung to Saga through the Tibetian Plateau. This takes about 6 hours, and while on it, one must stop several times to have some fruit or look at the scenery. Saga is a large district in the western part of Tibet in China. Its altitude is 4200 meters. The place is significant for travellers on their way to Kailash Mansarovar. It also provides sheds and accommodations and beautiful mountain and river views.
Day 7: Saga to Manasarovar
Today's travel is from Saga to Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. However, driving takes about 6/7 hours, and you must pass through filthy, dirty, undiscovered Tibet with a good view of the Himalayas and Kailash Parbat. The sacred Manasarovar Lake is of great religious importance to Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bön faiths, and people believe that a bath in the lake washes away all their sins and blesses them spiritually. The first day is devoted to staying in the accommodation by the lake and its shores and accomplishing religious ceremonies.
Day 8: Explore Manasarovar Lake & Drive to Darchen
Visit Manasarovar Lake during the morning for a religious experience and a look at Mount Kailash. You can even bathe in this freshwater lake and offer prayers for blessings according to your religion. You are transferred to Darchen in the afternoon, which is approximately a two-hour drive away. The town of Darchen lies at the foot of Mount Kailash and is the starting point for the Kailash Parikrama.
Day 9: Drive to Tarboche & Trek to Diraphuk - 1st Day of Kora
Following breakfast, drive for approximately two hours and reach Tarboche, officially known as the beginning of the Kailash Parikrama tour. From here, start your steep hike towards Diraphuk at an altitude of nearly 4900m. It takes about 5 to 6 hours, crossing mountains and steep rocks and presenting spectacular views of Mount Kailash. Diraphuk is extremely small, with elementary accommodation houses where you will spend the night.
Day 10: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Drolma La Pass - 2nd Day of Kora
This is the most strenuous day of Kailash Parikrama as it goes up to Drolma La Pass at an altitude of 5600 meters. The tour takes about 6 to 7 hours through steep and rough terrains involving climbing and dipping down the rocky paths. The pass is colourful with prayer flags and gives an incredible view of adjacent peaks and valleys. It is advisable to alight from the past and move to Zuthulphuk, which offers simple guesthouses where you can spend the night.
Day 11: Hike to Darchen - Last day of Kora & Drive to Saga
To complete your Kailash Parikrama, trek for 3 hours and return to Darchen. The trail is relatively easy and ends with gradual slopes to beautiful views of Mount Kailash and the area. Darchen is the last point of your pilgrimage trek, and after completing your trip here, start preparing for the return drive to Saga. The drive is usually 4 hours long, allowing you to contemplate your prayer experiences as you navigate the stunning Tibetan Plateau.
Day 12: Drive Saga – Syabrubesi
Today, make a one-day sightseeing tour of Saga back to Syabrubesi, driving over the Tibetan Plateau and through Nepali scenery. The trip lasts between 6 and 7 hours, but there are chances to have a bite and take some pictures in the middle of the tour. After reaching this destination, you are advised to check into the hotel chosen for the stay and rest after the long drive to Syabrubesi.
Day 13: Drive Syabrubesi – Kathmandu
Finally, they will drive back to Kathmandu from Syabrubesi and enjoy the beautiful sightseeing in this area. It might take 6 to 7 hours to cover stylish villages, picturesque terraced fields and dense forests. After touching down at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, followed by leisure time throughout the day. One can visit the local markets to purchase souvenirs, visit shops, or ponder this holistic Mount Kailash Kora journey, which can be healing and spiritually enriching.
Day 14: Final Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will be assigned to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward travel or return flight home. This short 30-minute drive concludes your journey to Kailash Mansarovar. It will give you cherished memories and a sense of spiritual fulfilment.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2024 from Nepal
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Best Time to Visit Kailash Mansoravar
Mount Kailash Kora is best done between the months of April through October, and there are various reasons for this. Late April to June is the most suitable time since the temperatures rise to cause snow to melt. It is easy to practice on these paths. The geography at the moment is characterized by green vegetation, with flowers blossoming in the wild to enhance the beauty of the landscape. It is also uncrowded compared to the busiest summer months, making it even more enjoyable to visit these places.
However, July and August are monsoon months, and the trek is challenging due to extreme rains and steep tracks. However, the monsoon is attractive in its own way, as the region comes alive, literally teeming with flowers and colourful trees. September to mid-October is another good time for the journey, though.
It is always dry, and the mountains have bright blue skies, so Mount Kailash and the other mountain ranges can be seen clearly. The weather during this particular time is relatively moderate during the day but becomes comparatively chilly during the night. The rains also prevent the paths from becoming slippery, making trekking possible after the monsoons.
Weather Conditions for Kailash Mansarovar
During the Mount Kailash Kora pilgrimage, people need to know the weather they are expected to experience so they can plan accordingly. Mount Kailash's climate is comparatively moderate, but bad weather may occur at any time, even if the best season is summer.
Late April and early May are usually warm, but they can be cold at high altitudes occasionally. The temperature varies depending on the day and night, with the average daytime temperature between 5°C and 15°C, although at night, the temperatures can drop to below freezing.
Climbers should be ready to encounter freezing conditions and possibly flash snow, especially at higher altitudes. June and July are hot summer months, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20 degrees Celsius to more.
Still, the monsoon season is rainy, and the trails are sometimes full of water, making them slippery. Pilgrims should dress appropriately to ensure they are protected from rain and other harsh weather and be prepared for a day or two of delays.
The climate of September and October can be considered stable, with clear and mild weather. The temperatures in the daytime can be between 10° to 15° Celsius or 50° to 59° Fahrenheit, while at nighttime, the temperatures can be extremely cold, with temperatures dipping down to -5° Celsius.
This is the best viewing time with clear views of the snowy landscape of the highest mountain peaks. The good weather is also helpful in making it easier to follow the hiking paths, but pilgrims must still be aware of cold temperatures at night and when the trail ascends in elevation.
Physical Fitness and Training
Mount Kailash Kora is a demanding task requiring reasonable fitness and some sort of preparation. High altitudes, steep ascents, and long hours on the trail demand that the pilgrim is in good physical shape. Preparing three to six months before the trip is highly recommended. Regular cardiovascular exercises through walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming keep one fit and full of stamina. Strength training comes in handy, too, mainly for the legs and core for the management of tough ground.
It can mirror the conditions of Mount Kailash Kora and help the body get used to carrying weight by practicing some treks with a backpack. Gradually improving the length and intensity of the hikes will help improve one's fitness level so that one is better positioned to face the Kora.
You can couple it with breathing exercises and yoga for added lung capacity and flexibility to deal with thin air at high altitudes. Those not accustomed to such altitudes should spend another day at similar altitudes to acclimate before going on the trek. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new fitness regime, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.
Essential Gear and Packing Tips
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful and comfortable Mount Kailash Kora. Given the varying weather conditions, preparing for both cold and warm temperatures is necessary.
Layered clothing is the most effective way to manage the changing weather. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and complete with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. A good-quality down jacket is essential for cold nights and higher altitudes. Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots are crucial for navigating the rugged terrain. They should provide good ankle support and have a reliable grip.
Other essential items include:
A comfortable backpack.
A warm sleeping bag is rated for sub-zero temperatures.
A trekking pole for stability.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Hydration is critical, so carry enough water and a reliable water purification system.
Energy bars and snacks can provide quick nourishment during the trek.
First aid supplies, including altitude sickness medication blister treatment.
Any personal medications should be readily accessible.
Documentation, such as your passport, permits, and emergency contact information, should be securely stored.
Packing light yet efficiently will ensure you have all the essentials without being weighed down. Preparing thoroughly with the right gear and physical training will help make the Mount Kailash Kora a safe, rewarding, and spiritually fulfilling experience.
Lodging Choices Along the Kora Route
Accommodation options along the Mount Kailash Kora route vary depending on the location and desired comfort level. It's important to note that facilities along the Kora route are essential and may need to meet the standards of urban areas. Electricity and hot water may be limited or unavailable, especially at higher altitudes.
Pilgrims should be prepared for rustic living conditions and adjust their expectations accordingly. To ensure comfort during the pilgrimage, it is advisable to carry essential items such as a flashlight, toiletries, and extra layers of clothing.
Choosing the right accommodation option depends on personal preferences, budget concerns, and the desired level of immersion in the spiritual journey of Mount Kailash Kora. Each lodging choice offers a unique experience, contributing to the overall pilgrimage experience amidst the sacred mountains of Tibet.
Here's an overview of the lodging choices:
Guesthouses and teahouses:
On the Mount Kailash Kora route, there are lodges and camps for the pilgrims, mainly in Dirapuk and Zuthulpuk. These offer minimum amenities such as halls or tents and bedding items like sleeping bags and blankets. Some guest houses share eating places where basic meals are provided; the foods are mainly local Tibetan and Nepali dishes. Tented camps are a little rougher than the others, but they provide some protection from the weather and a means to sleep after hiking.
Monastery Stays:
It is also worth noting that some pilgrims prefer to spend the night in monasteries on the Kora path, for example, at Dirapuk Monastery and Zuthulpuk Monastery. These monasteries are suitable for making a close feel of the spiritual environment of Mount Kailash. If one has to stay in monasteries, the lodging is basic; at best, it is a dormitory or small cell for solitary devotion. In this way, staying in a monastery, a pilgrim can get involved in the monastery's routine and engage in the religious practices of the region.
Camping:
There is the camper for those who wish to make it more of an adventure. Attention can be camped along the Mount Kailash Kora route. Some of the features of most pilgrims are as follows: they travel with personal camping gear like tents, sleeping bags and cooking utensils. Temporary camps for the trekkers are arranged near the Dirapuk and Zuthulpuk and on the trekking path. Camping makes it possible to have a direct interaction with nature and isolation in the middle of the beautiful scenery of Mount Kailash.
Darchen Accommodations:
Darchen is the start and finish point of Mount Kailash Kora, and ample lodges and guest houses range from mid-price to lumid-pricexury. The accommodations in Darchen for tourists offer better facilities like homely bedrooms with electric lights, bathwater food, Westerns, and Western-style food. Having accommodation before and after Kora helps the pilgrims rest after the trekking tour.
How much does it cost for Kailash Mansarovar?
The cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra depends on various factors like the itinerary, inclusions, the level of accommodation, the inclusion of meals, mode of transportation, number of people traveling, nationality of travelers, level of guides and porters, travel insurance, and many other things.
Essential Safety Measures for Pilgrims
Given its remote location, high altitudes, and challenging terrain, safety is paramount when undertaking Mount Kailash Kora. Pilgrims should be well-prepared and aware of the following safety tips:
Altitude Acclimatization:
This is because Mount Kailash Kora involves travelling to a relatively high altitude, thus the need to acclimatize. Filling the gap between Darchen and the Kora is the Mustang area, and the Kora goes up to over 5600 meters mark where the Dolma-La Pass is situated, and Darchen is on 4600 meters 15,100 feet. One should spend at least a day or two before the trek in Darchen to acclimate the body to high altitude levels. There are various dos and don'ts; some can include climbing slowly up while on the trekking exercise and, at times, taking a break to avoid feeling the effects of altitude.
Weather Awareness:
Weather conditions on Mount Kailash can be pretty fickle, with fast temperature fluctuations and even sleet in summer. Before beginning the Kora, inquire about the weather and be ready for any changes. Intentionally wear a lot of clothing for easier temperature regulation, and pack rain—or snow-proof clothing in case it rains or snows.
Hydration and Nutrition:
Hydration is crucial at high altitudes to reduce the chances of altitude sickness. Use plenty of water during the trekking exercise and ensure it is in a flask and carried in large quantities to avoid quick depletion. Bring energy-releasing foods that will last as snacks and meals, such as nuts, dried fruits, energy bars, and tsampa, a barley-flour preparation popular among the locals.
Physical Preparation:
Mount Kailash Kora crosses many kilometres, which sharp hills and valleys may compound. Establish physical fitness by exercising and targeting cardiovascular games, muscle building, and stretching. Finalize the preparations by practising with a pack during the hike to mimic the trek conditions and load your body with the strain it must endure.
Emergency Preparedness:
Ensure an adequately supplied document contains the necessary drugs to handle altitude sickness and aches, including stomach upsets. Explain the signs of altitude sickness, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and poor breathing. Familiarize yourself with the crisis numbers and addresses of the hospitals in Darchen and the nearby villages.
Respect Local Customs and Environment:
Avoid annoying the local people and defiling the holy sites of Mount Kailash Kora. The topography entails cultural prohibitions that should not be violated. Choose your waste disposal points carefully or camp with Leave No Trace principles. Do not interfere with the animals of this world, and show respect for nature. Approach such cultural practices and beliefs in religious ceremonies and other related functions as valuable for the cultural practices of the societies involved.
Travel Insurance for kailash Manasarovar Kora Trek:
Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation. Verify whether your policy includes coverage for high-altitude trekking and activities related to pilgrimage. Carry documents of your insurance policy and emergency contacts in case of unforeseen circumstances.
By prioritizing safety, respecting local customs, and being well-prepared, pilgrims can experience the spiritual journey of Mount Kailash Kora safely and responsibly. They should embrace the trek's challenges with humility and gratitude, honoring the sacredness of this revered pilgrimage site in Tibet.
How to reach Kailash Mansarovar?
Reaching Kailash Mansarovar, a sacred pilgrimage site located in Tibet, involves several stages of travel by air and road. Here's a detailed guide on how to reach Kailash Mansarovar:
International Travel to Kathmandu, Nepal
By Air: Most international travellers arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city, via Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
From Major Cities: Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide, including Delhi, Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore.
Travel to Nepalgunj or Simikot (Optional)
From Kathmandu: Domestic flights are available to Nepalgunj or Simikot, Nepal. These serve as alternate gateways for the journey to Kailash Mansarovar.
Nepalgunj: Located in southwestern Nepal, it is a starting point for road travel to the Nepal-Tibet border.
Simikot: In mid-western Nepal, it is an alternative to Nepalgunj, connecting to the Tibetan Plateau via the Hilsa border.
Travel to Tibet
Crossing the Border: From Nepalgunj or Simikot, travellers proceed to cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Hilsa.
Road Journey: From the border, a road journey through Tibetan Plateau landscapes takes travellers to the town of Taklakot (also known as Burang) in Tibet.
Permit and Visa: A Chinese visa and travel permit are required for the journey through Tibet. Local travel agencies can arrange these.
Drive to Mansarovar Lake
From Taklakot, the road continues towards Lake Mansarovar, a significant pilgrimage site located at the base of Mount Kailash. The journey from the border to Mansarovar takes several hours, depending on weather and road conditions.
Mount Kailash and Parikrama
The town of Darchen serves as the starting point for the sacred circumambulation (parikrama) of Mount Kailash. Pilgrims undertake the trek around Mount Kailash, which includes crossing the Dolma La Pass at an elevation of over 18,000 feet. The journey around Mount Kailash is undertaken clockwise by Buddhists and Hindus, while Bon followers perform it counterclockwise.
Return Journey of Mount Kailash Kora
After completing the parikrama, travellers return to Taklakot for onward travel. Return journeys typically follow the same route back to Nepal, concluding the pilgrimage experience.
Kailash Mansarovar distance
The straight-line distance from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash in Tibet is approximately 538 kilometres. This sacred pilgrimage site, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, is situated amidst the pristine landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey to Kailash Mansarovar involves crossing rugged terrain and high-altitude passes, offering pilgrims breathtaking views of the Himalayas and spiritual solace at the banks of Mansarovar Lake.
Kailash Mansarovar Helicopter Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Helicopter Yatra service provides devotees with a purposely built shortcut for those who want to make a pilgrimage to this shrine. It often starts in Kathmandu, Nepal, where several airline and tour operators offer these flights. The line transport providers of this route are Nepal Airlines and some of the private helicopters for hire in the country, such as Buddha Air, Simrik Air, and Fishtail Air. Taking off on a helicopter flip around the Himalayan range, the tourists are provided with stunning photo opportunities before landing near Lake Manasarovar or Darchen, the beginning of the Kailash Parikrama or circumambulation.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from USA:
Travellers from the USA normally commence their journey by flying into Kathmandu, Nepal. From Kathmandu, they take road transportation through Rasuwagadhi or Kodari, the border between Nepal and Tibet. They then proceed by road through Tibet, some of the best places for shooting, through Nyalam and Saga to Darchen. Darchen is the starting point of the Kailash trek. It can take several days, depending on the pathways to be taken and the weather state.
Adi Kailash to Kailash Mansarovar Distance:
Chota Kailash, or Adi Kailash, is in Uttarakhand in India. It is about 100 km southeast of Mt. Kailash in Tibet, China. Adi Kailash is the second Kailash that one can visit if the actual Kailash in Tibet cannot be visited.
Kailash Mansarovar by Road from India:
To visit Kailash Mansarovar from India, one has to get either from Delhi or any other big city. The first transportation is road transport to Nepalgunj or Kathmandu in Nepal, depending on the passengers' preference. From there, they proceeded with road transport to the Nepal-Tibetan border. They continue with border instruments, cross through Tibet regions, including but not limited to Saga and Paryang, and arrive at Darchen. The scenic evergreen beauty of this road trip is that one can view the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau.
Delhi to Kailash Mansarovar Distance:
The distance on the road from Delhi, India, to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet, is about 1800 km. This covers moving from Nepal to the Tibet border, either at Rasuwagadhi or Kodari. Thereafter, travellers move to Tibet and through different towns and villages leading to Darchen.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from India:
Indian pilgrims often undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through registered tour operators. The journey typically starts from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj in Nepal. After obtaining the necessary permits, pilgrims travel by road or helicopter to reach Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet. The Yatra is a significant spiritual journey for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
Kailash Mansarovar Aerial Darshan:
Aerial darshan of Kailash Mansarovar involves flying over Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in a helicopter. This allows pilgrims to view these sacred sites uniquely, appreciating their spiritual significance and natural beauty from the air. Helicopter tours usually offer short flights around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, providing memorable experiences for visitors.
Kailash Mansarovar Aerial View:
The aerial view of Kailash Mansarovar captures Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, and the breathtaking landscape of Tibet. As seen from the above picture, travellers can capture a holistic view of the features surrounding Lake Mansarovar, such as snow-capped Mount Kailash.
Kailash Mansarovar Age Limit:
Visitors can visit Kailash Mansarovar without any age limit as the journey has no age limit. However, travellers should be healthy and fit because of the high altitude and the strenuous trek around Mount Kailash (Kailash Kora). It is recommended that the elderly or people with health complications seek medical advice from their doctors before the trip.
Chinese Visa for Kailash Mansarovar:
Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage requires a valid Chinese visa and some Tibet-specific permits. To get a Chinese visa, one has to provide certain documents, such as passport information, travel plan, and visa application forms, to the Chinese embassy or consulate. Also, travellers require Tibet entry permits and alien travel permits provided by registered tour operators undertaking the journey.
Do We Need a Visa for Kailash Mansarovar?
Yes, a Chinese visa is required to visit Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet. In addition to the visa, Tibet Entry Permits and Alien Travel Permits issued and arranged by tour operators are also required. These permits are required to enter Tibet and tour the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Is Kailash Mansarovar the Center of Earth?
Kailash Mansarovar is considered sacred in the Hindu, Buddhist, Jainism, and Bon religions. This city is believed to be at the heart of the spiritual realm and is very sacred to the Hindus as the dwelling place of Shiva. Though it is not scientifically proven to be the Earth's geographical centre, it has a lot of religious and cultural importance, and people from all over the world come here for pilgrimage.
