The famous Mount Kailash is situated in the south-western segment of Tibet in the Himalayan Mountains. This mountain is considered as one of the highest parts of the Himalayan range. The Kailash Tour is significant for its spiritual and cultural importance, as Mount Kailash is revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The pilgrimage is believed to purify sins and bring enlightenment, making it a profound journey for spiritual seekers and devotees.
Mount Kailash is considered very sacred for the Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons (Tibetan Religion). Mythological beliefs that Lord Shiva resides and meditates at the peak of Mount Kailash. Some Scientists specified this unique mountain as the “spiritual center of the world”. The north pole is around 6,666 km away from Mount Kailash and the south pole is double this distance that is 13,332 km.
The central axis of this mountain is known as “Axis Mundi”, meaning the axis of Earth between celestial poles. The most amazing fact about this is that the exact location of the Axis Mundi was specified in the holy epic Ramayana.Geographical and Geological Facts
Height and Location: Mount Kailash stands at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) above sea level. It is located near the sources of some of Asia’s longest rivers, such as the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali (a tributary of the Ganges), making it a vital hydrological point.
Shape: The mountain’s unique pyramid-like shape, with its symmetrical peak, is often described as a natural mandala, adding to its mystical allure.
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Abode of Lord Shiva: Hindus regard Mount Kailash as the sacred abode of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities, who is often depicted meditating atop this peak.
Kailash Parikrama: Pilgrims perform a circumambulation (parikrama) around the mountain, a ritual believed to purify one’s soul and wash away sins. The journey spans approximately 52 km (32 miles) and typically takes three days to complete.
Center of the Universe: Tibetan Buddhists view Mount Kailash as the spiritual center of the universe, associating it with the mythical Mount Meru, the axis of the world in Buddhist cosmology.
Milarepa and Naro Bön-chung: Mount Kailash is also associated with a legendary spiritual contest between the 11th-century Tibetan Buddhist poet-saint Milarepa and his Bon counterpart, Naro Bön-chung. According to tradition, Milarepa emerged victorious in this contest, symbolizing Buddhism’s triumph over the Bon religion in Tibet.
Mount Kailash as Ashtapada: In Jainism, Mount Kailash is linked to Ashtapada, a mythical and sacred mountain. According to Jain beliefs, this is where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, attained liberation (moksha) after a life of intense asceticism and spiritual practice. Ashtapada holds a significant place in Jain cosmology, and many Jains see Mount Kailash as a representation of this sacred mountain. Therefore, it is an important spiritual site for Jain pilgrims, who visit it for meditation, reflection, and spiritual fulfillment.
Seat of Spiritual Power: For followers of Bon, an ancient spiritual tradition that predates Buddhism in Tibet, Mount Kailash is considered the center of all spiritual power. It is believed to be the home of the Bon deity Zhang Zhung Meri and is viewed as the spiritual center of the universe. Bon practitioners (Bonpos) believe that walking around the mountain brings blessings and spiritual benefits. Unlike followers of other religions who circumambulate Mount Kailash in a clockwise direction, Bonpos perform the ritual counterclockwise, following their unique traditions. Mount Kailash remains a vital pilgrimage site for Bon followers, symbolizing a deep connection between nature, spirituality, and divine power.
Pilgrimage Routes: The journey around Mount Kailash, known as the Kora, is an important spiritual experience. The trek is demanding, especially when crossing the Drolma La Pass, which is 5,630 meters (18,471 feet) high. Despite the tough terrain and high altitude, thousands of pilgrims and trekkers make this journey each year.
Lake Manasarovar: Near Mount Kailash is Lake Manasarovar, a site of great spiritual importance. Many pilgrims bathe in its waters before starting the Kailash Parikrama, believing the lake has purifying properties.
Unclimbed Peak: Mount Kailash has never been climbed, mainly due to its religious significance. Many believe that climbing its summit is sacrilegious, which adds to the mountain’s mysterious aura.
Geomagnetic Anomalies: Some reports suggest unusual magnetic phenomena in the area, though these claims are mostly anecdotal and lack scientific proof.
Altered Perception of Time and Space: Many visitors have reported experiencing changes in their perception of time and space near Mount Kailash, further adding to its mystique.
Historical Texts: Mount Kailash is mentioned in many ancient texts, including the Vedas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. It has intrigued sages, scholars, and explorers throughout history.
Access and Restrictions: Access to Mount Kailash is regulated by Chinese authorities, and its remote location makes the pilgrimage challenging. The closest major settlement, Darchen, serves as the starting point for the journey.
Spiritual Tourism: Mount Kailash has recently seen a growing number of spiritual tourists from around the world.
Environmental Concerns: The increasing number of visitors has raised concerns about the impact on the region’s delicate environment.
Mount Kailash continues to be a symbol of mystery and spirituality, attracting people not just for its religious importance but also for the profound sense of awe it inspires.
The base of Mount Kailash is covered by two lakes separated by an isthmus. The two lakes have completely opposite characteristics. The names of these two lakes are Mansarovar and Rakshasa Lake.
Mansarovar lake is the highest freshwater lake and is calm in nature. The shape of Mansarovar lake is round like the sun. The water of Mansarovar Lake is considered sacred and a great variety of life can be seen around this lake. The special feature of this lake is that although Mount Kailash is covered with snow throughout the year, this lake never gets cold even though it is at such a height. Even in extreme climates, the water never shows ripples.
Rakshastal Lake, which is adjacent to Mansarovar Lake, is in the same geographical situation but shows completely opposite characteristics. Rakshasa Tal The shape of the lake is similar to the shape of a crescent moon. Since the water of this lake is very salty, there are no animals around it. This lake is the highest salt water lake in the world. The water of this lake is very shallow, it always has waves and is never calm. Rakshasthal Lake is considered impure and many avoid bathing in this lake.
Despite their proximity, the stark differences between Manasarovar and Rakshas Tal continue to puzzle scientists. Connected by a narrow channel called Ganga Choo, the lakes maintain distinct properties; the freshwater of Manasarovar does not mix with the saltwater of Rakshas Tal. This phenomenon has intrigued geologists and hydrologists for years.
The contrasting nature of these two lakes symbolizes the balance between light and darkness, good and evil, life and death. For pilgrims, the lakes represent the dual forces that shape human existence, and the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash is considered incomplete without circumambulating both lakes.
The region surrounding Mount Kailash and the twin lakes is a marvel of natural beauty. The high altitude, thin air, and remote location create an environment where mountains, sky, and water merge into a landscape of profound peace and mysticism. The reflection of Mount Kailash in the waters of Manasarovar Lake, set against the desolate shores of Rakshas Tal, is both awe-inspiring and humbling, drawing pilgrims, trekkers, and travelers alike to this remote and sacred place.
Kailash Tour via Lhasa Route: This route starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. From Lhasa, you travel overland to Mount Kailash.
Kailash Overland Tour Route: This journey typically starts from Kathmandu and crosses the Nepal-Tibet border at the Kodari or Rasuwagadhi border. From there, you drive overland to Kailash.
Kailash Tour via Simikot by Helicopter Route: You fly from Kathmandu to Simikot in the Humla district of Nepal. From Simikot, you take a helicopter to the Tibet side and then continue overland to Kailash.
Departure from Kathmandu: Begin your journey with a drive to either Dhunche, Syabrubesi, or Timure, depending on your selected route.
Dhunche: 2000m altitude, 127 km distance, approximately 6 hours of driving.
Syabrubesi: 1600m altitude, 141 km distance, approximately 7 hours of driving.
Timure: 1983m altitude, 152 km distance, approximately 8 hours of driving.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a local lodge.
Travel to Kerung: From Syabrubesi, drive 15 km to Rasuwagadhi (1800m), taking around 45 minutes.
If starting from Timure, a short 10-15 minute walk takes you to the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwagadhi.
Border Formalities: Complete immigration and customs procedures on both the Nepalese and Tibetan sides.
Drive to Kerung: Continue with a 40 km drive (approximately 1 hour) to reach Kerung County at an altitude of 2850m.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Kerung.
Morning Departure: After breakfast, embark on a 220 km drive to Saga.
Scenic Journey: The drive, which takes 5 to 6 hours, offers views of the Tibetan landscape as you ascend to an altitude of 4550m.
Meals: Enjoy breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner in Saga.
Accommodation: Stay overnight at Saga Hotel or a similar establishment.
Early Departure: Begin your drive at 8:00 AM toward Manasarovar Lake.
Long Drive: Covering a distance of 450 km, the journey takes 6 to 7 hours, crossing beautiful and sacred Tibetan landscapes.
Spiritual Activities: Participate in rituals by the lakeshore and collect spiritual water. Complete a parikrama (circumambulation) of Manasarovar Lake by vehicle (90 km, approximately 3 hours).
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner provided.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at the Manasarovar Lake Side Lodge.
Morning Puja: Spend the morning performing puja (prayer rituals) at Manasarovar Lake.
Afternoon Drive: At 4:00 PM, drive 35 km (approximately 1 hour) to Darchen, the base for Mt. Kailash kora (circumambulation).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in a dormitory-sharing guesthouse in Darchen.
Morning Drive: Start with a short drive to Tarboche, where you’ll visit Yama Dwar, the starting point of the Mt. Kailash kora.
Trek to Dirapuk: Begin the 12 km trek to Dirapuk (4860m), which takes 5-6 hours. Enjoy views of the North Face of Mt. Kailash.
Alternative for Non-Trekkers: Travelers who opt not to do the kora can return to Darchen and wait for the group.
Meals: Breakfast at Darchen, packed lunch, and dinner provided.
Accommodation: Stay in a mud house along the Kora route or return to the dormitory guesthouse in Darchen.
Early Start: Begin trekking at 7:00 AM from Dirapuk, passing through the challenging Dolma La Pass (5700m).
Trek to Zuthulphuk: The day includes a 22 km trek, taking 8-9 hours. The trek involves descending to Gaurikund before continuing along the river to Zuthulphuk (4670m).
Most Challenging Day: This is considered the toughest part of the pilgrimage.
Accommodation: Stay at a lodge in Zuthulphuk.
Note: Those not participating in the kora will continue to wait at Darchen.
Short Trek: A brief 8 km trek (2-3 hours) to reach the pickup point where a coach will be waiting.
Drive to Saga: Reunite with the rest of the group and drive 470 km back to Saga, taking 7-8 hours.
Return Journey: Begin the drive back to Kerung County, covering 220 km in 5 to 6 hours.
Final Stretch: Drive 40 km (about 1 hour) to the border, complete the necessary immigration formalities, and then continue the journey back to Kathmandu, covering 152 km in 7-8 hours.
Mount Kailash stands at 6,638 meters, while Mount Everest is 8,848 meters tall, making Everest the highest peak in the world. Despite Everest’s height, over 10,000 people have climbed it, but there is no confirmed record of anyone reaching the summit of Mount Kailash, except for the Tibetan monk Milarepa. The government has banned climbing Mount Kailash.
Scientists note that the steep slopes, low oxygen levels, and sudden temperature changes make trekking in this area extremely difficult. Additionally, there is a belief that stepping on the sacred site, where Lord Shiva is said to meditate, diminishes its sanctity.
Some people who attempted to climb Mount Kailash have reported unusual experiences, like rapid aging and accelerated hair and nail growth. It is suggested that proximity to the mountain may stimulate the body’s repair and renewal processes.
Mount Kailash is composed of black rock and has a distinct diamond-like structure. It is also believed to contain gold and other mineral deposits.
In 1999, a Russian expedition led by Dr. Ernst Muldashev claimed that Mount Kailash is the ideal size for a natural mountain. However, Muldashev theorized that it might be an ancient man-made pyramid surrounded by smaller pyramids. He suggested that these structures were built by a highly advanced civilization aware of subtle energy laws. During their expedition, the team reported hearing strange noises from inside the mountain, which led them to believe there might be a living creature within.
Mount Kailash’s remarkably symmetrical shape has led some researchers, particularly from Russia, to propose that it might be a man-made pyramid, rather than a naturally occurring mountain.
Visitors have reported that spending just 12 hours around Mount Kailash can result in hair and nail growth equivalent to two weeks under normal conditions.
A natural formation on the southern face of Mount Kailash resembles the sacred Hindu symbol ‘Om’ (ॐ). This is created by a combination of ice and rock formations, adding to its spiritual importance.
Mount Kailash and the nearby Lake Mansarovar are the sources of four major rivers in Asia: the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali (a tributary of the Ganges).
Due to its sacred status, helicopters are not allowed to fly over Mount Kailash, helping to preserve the spiritual ambiance and sanctity of the area.
