The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one pilgrimage most Hindus want to make at least once in their lifetimes. The sheer mystical quality, beauty and religious significance of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is such that it is considered as one of the most sacred places in the world. A person who is able to do the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash considers himself to be truly blessed because all the sins of his past lifetimes are washed away. Mount Kailash is the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva, where he resides with his divine wife, Devi Parvati. Lord Shiva is the eternal yogi, the true ascetic, who denies himself all pleasures and instead chooses meditation. He is the protector of the Vedas, the ancient scripture of Hinduism. If going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is your heart’s desire, then you must go. Here are all the things you need to know about it.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not for the faint-hearted, it is a challenging expedition to go on. There are basically two options available to those who want to go:
Following are what you should know about both these options.
The best thing about going by the route suggested by MEA is that then you have the government’s seal of approval for the expedition. The route is set by a bi-lateral agreement between India and China. All pilgrims get required medical facilities, security and diplomatic protection if they go by this route. You will also get to enjoy the view of the Om Parvat, which may not be possible on other routes. Another advantage of going with the MEA recommendations is that it can be done at an inexpensive cost. In fact, you may even be able to get a subsidy from the government if you do so. However, there are some serious concerns about this Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route because of the long time taken to complete it and the relatively tough trekking that one has to do to reach Mount Kailash. Not all people may find the route a stress-free one. This brings up the Yatra conducted by private operators.
Mount of Kailash is the place where the four parallel religions bend their paths to meet the holiness of this world. Mount Kailash is not just a mere mountain of stone and snow; it is a cluster of Belief, Spirituality, Religion, Hope & eternal source of cosmic energy of Shiva. And day by day this pile is getting enormous with its mysticism and splendidness. It is a place to visit at least once in this lifetime.
Sitting in the corner of south-western Tibet, dominating a large part of the region with its magnificence, the Kailash Parvat height rises at 6638m(21778 ft) which is among the highest mountains in the Himalayas. The great Kailash is also known as ‘Meru’ which means the Navel of The Earth.
The Mansarovar Kailash is one the holiest place for the Hindus, according to the legends it was the place where lord Shiva lived for years and it is still believed that Shiva (the lord of destruction and creation) resides at its peak along with his wife Parvati in a state of perpetual meditation. The Kailash Mountain is defined as the Pillar of The World because it is located at the heart of the six mountain ranges representing a lotus. Mt. Kailash is a magnificent mountain with a diamond-like shape that is encircled by a harsh, parched landscape.
Every year thousands of people from all across the world make their pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and bathe in the divine Mansarovar Lake which is located at the foot of the Holy Mountain Kailash. Lake Mansarovar has a circumference of approx 90 KMs which the tourists and locals cover in one single day to get washed away from their sins, not just of this birth but of the last 7 births.
Mount Kailash is an extraordinary mountain, different and divine from rest of the snow peaks. The shape of the Kailash Mountain is like a huge Shivalingam placed in the middle of a 16 petalled lotus like structure formed by surrounding mountains. These louts like mountains are also in such a way that they seem to have become Argha for the Shivalinga. The 14 petalled top of the mountain can be clealry counted, however the 2 tops in the forefront of the Shivalingam cannot be counted because of being bowed down. One can spot them only with great attention. This bowed part of it looks like the front long part of Argha and from this part the Mount Kailash water falls in Gaurikund. In the four corners of the peak of Kailash Parvat, such a temple architecture is made naturally, as it is made around the shikaras of many temples.
Kailash Mountain stands taller than all other surrounding mountains. The lotus like mountains are made of red colored raw stone, while Mount Kailash is made of solid black Kasauti stone and is completely covered with white snow from top to bottom. The Kailash Parvat height is approximately 6638 meters (21778 feet).
Apart from being the eternal abode of God Shiva, Mount Kailash has numerous strange factors which make Shiva devotees more attached to the holy land of Shiva.
Generally, all mountain peaks are pointed from the top & nothing is different in Shiva's region of the Himalayas. But, there is only one strange mountain in that whole region which is not pointed but curved from the top like Shivlingam & this is the reason that we don't need to introduce people there, they themselves identify Mount Kailash on their own. It is said that Lord Shiva lives on Mount Kailash. Mt Kailash has a shiv lingam-like shape & a source of cosmic energy, that's the reason that it's an unclimbable mountain.
Also Check: Who Climbed Mount Kailash
In all Shiva Temples across the globe, we always see Nandi Ji in front of Shivlingam. Mount Kailash is the abode of Shiva & has the shape of a Shivling. It's a strange mystery that there is an exact Nandi-like structure just in front of Mountain Kailash. The size of the Nandi structure is huge & on another mountain. It can be easily identified that it's a natural structure and not man-made. Secondly, it's not easy to build such a huge structure at such a height.
Just like other Shiv Temples, here also Nandi Ji is looking at Mt Kailash Shivlingam. It couldn't be just a coincidence too.
Also check: Nandi Parvat
Till May month, most of the mountains of the Himalayas are covered with snow but after rain in July & August months, mountain peaks in the Himalayan region of Bhole Baba are clear & don't have snow on top. But Mt Kailash is a unique mountain in that area which is covered with snow throughout the Year, its like nature is doing Jalaabhishakam of Lord Shiva Kailash Mountain.
Also See: Mysteries of Mount Kailash
The Kailash Parvat is not just the home of the four different religions (Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Bon religion), but the great Mt Kailash also has four rivers flowing in four directions within 50km of range. The great Sutlej to the west, Brahmaputra to the east, Karnali to the south and Indus flows to the north. It also has a narrative in the Puranas which dictates that the Four Faces of Mount Kailash are made of Crystal, Ruby, Gold and Lapis Lazuli.
Mount Kailash has a circumference of approx 40 KMs. Shiva devotees do the parikrama of The Kailash Parvat which is called Mount Kailash Kora. The Parikrama of Mount Kailash is completed in 2 and a half days. The first day Mount Kailash parikrama is of 10 km from Yamdwar to Diraphuk. The second day Mount Kailash parikrama is of 22 km from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk. The last day Mount Kailash parikrama is of 8 km downwards from Zuthulpuk. It is believed that if a person does Kailash Parvat Parikrama 108 times then they attain Nirvana or Moksha or Salvation which in real terms means one’s own paradise.
There are many other places for the pilgrims to visit around the great Mountain Kailash Kailash, one of which is the divine Gauri Kund, a group of 5 natural small reserves with emerald green water. The lake is known as the lake of compassion and holds very significant importance in the Hindu Religion. It is said that the Goddess Parvati used to bathe in Lake Gaurikund and here only the lord of good fortune the great Ganesha was born. Apart from Gauri Kund; Trirthapuri, Yam Dwar, Asthapad, Siwasthal, Dolma La Pass, Gaurikund, and Tarboche are a few other tourist places near Kailash Parikrama.
The greatness of the Mount Kailash Lord Shiva cannot be truly explained or understood through mere words. It only can be grasped by feeling the aura of the place inside the heart, which can only happen when you are at Mount Kailash.
Mt. Kailash & Lake Mansarovar in views of Scientists
Why Mt Kailash is Part of China
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packages
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most important and sacred pilgrimages a Hindu can make in his lifetime. The UP CM Yogi Adityanath has announced that Rs 1 lakh subsidy will be given to Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims. Here’s a discussion on why this is justifiable.
If you live in the state of Uttar Pradesh and want to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, here are the things you need to know about getting a subsidy from the government.
The Kailash Mansarovar history and mythology is such that it pulls at the heart strings of devout Hindus. Mount Kailash stands tall at almost 22,000 feet and Lake Mansarovar is about 20 km away from it. It is certainly a sight for the sore eyes with the snow-capped mountains and the stunning natural beauty. It is true that Hindu pilgrims go on the Yatra for its religious significance but the experience is one that is truly unforgettable. It is said that people who are lucky enough to go on the Yatra come back with memories of a lifetime. The Kailash Mansarovar history is rich with mention of Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma and Devi Parvati. Enjoy this journey that very few people are able to go on.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the ultimate pilgrimage for Hindu devotees of Lord Shiva. Situated in the kingdom of Tibet, it is still considered as one of the most difficult pilgrimages to make in the world because of its highly remote location, great altitude and inaccessibility. In ancient times, only a few people ventured to make this journey to fulfill their dreams, but now the situation has changed with proper routes having been discovered that can be used to reach Mount Kailash. If you have decided to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is important that you start making preparations. A discussion on just that below!
Many people choose to go with a private tour operator these days for the sheer convenience they offer. Here are the things to know about eligibility if you choose one of them:
As long as you don’t have any medical condition or disease that may prevent you from being comfortable with the harsh conditions during the journey, you should be good. Here are tips on fitness for Kailash Yatra:
The weather conditions prevailing in and around Mount Kailash are harsh but the real problem lies in the steep ascent that pilgrims need to make as part of the trek. Climbing 1.5 km to 2 km per day is something most pilgrims are able to do but it is only after they reach an altitude of 3 km that they start having problems. Rest and acclimatization are critical factors for the successful completion of the Yatra. By some smart planning, you can ensure that your body is fit enough to take it all. Start exercising as soon as you decide on the Yatra and carry all the necessary medicines recommended by your doctor. With the blessings of Lord Shiva with you, have faith, because you will definitely be able to do it.
Are you planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra next year? Then, this is the time to start planning for the journey. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is no casual trip that one takes on a whim; it needs planning and quite a bit of preparation. The Yatra is also one of the holiest pilgrimages you can make as a devout Hindu and it is said that anyone returns from Mount Kailash as a new person. Here’s all you need to know about the journey of a lifetime!
The first decision you need to make is whether you want to go with the Government of India or with a private tour operator.
1. Kailash Yatra with Govt. Of India (Ministry of External Affairs): Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of Government of India also organise Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through 2 routes. You will have to choose between two routes.
2. Best Private Agency & Route for Kailash Yatra: Many people choose to go with a private tour operator. This way, you can choose to go by helicopter or over land. It can take you anything between 5 and 14 days if you choose a reputed private agency.
Both Nepal Route to Kailash Mansarovar are cheaper in costing in comparison to the Kailash Yatra by Govt. Of India & take lesser time as well. That's the seaason that majority of pilgrims prefer to take Nepal Route to Mansarovar Kailash.
The good news is that the whole process of applying for the Yatra has been made online. Here are the steps you need to take to register:
On the other hand, if you choose to do the Yatra with a private agency instead of the government, the application process will be something like the following:
You can contact us on 9911937751 for more details & updates.
If you choose to do the Kailash Yatra with a private tour operator, it is important to choose a reputed agency with high credentials. This will go a long way in ensuring that your journey is a comfortable and memorable one.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most fulfilling experiences you can undertake in your life. The spirituality and the inner peace one gets to witness while on the Yatra is profound and truly life-changing. There are many reasons for this. First of all, the religious significance of Kailash Mansarovar in Hinduism makes it one of the most important pilgrimages one can make. Secondly, the mountainous terrain that one has to go through to reach the region makes the whole pilgrimage a pretty tough one. This gets coupled with the harsh weather and the unpredictable landscape, which goes on to make this Yatra different from the rest. If you are going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra next year, having knowledge about a few things is necessary. One such thing happens to be where you are going to stay at night.
If you have chosen the Trip To Temples agency for the Yatra, then you should be told that accommodation is going to be adequate throughout. You don’t have to worry about it because the agency will have taken care of it. When the members of the group will be staying in cities or bigger towns, accommodation will be booked in reputed hotels. In sparsely-populated areas, you will be taken to guesthouses or lodges to spend the night. You will be provided with a bed or a cot and blankets throughout the trip so that you get comfortable rest every night. There is thus no need to carry sleeping bags.
As you must know, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is conducted every year by the Ministry of External Affairs of India. However, a lot of people who want to make the trip choose a private tour agency. This is because of a few reasons mentioned below:
Going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something that will certainly bring home memorable experiences. If you are a Shiv-bhakt, it is recommended that you do the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash and take a dip in the holy Lake Mansarovar at least once in your lifetime. It is believed that it washes away sins committed knowingly and unknowingly so that you can go back home as a new person.
The serene and beautiful landscape of western Tibet is not just soothing to the senses, it also takes you a bit closer to your inner being. Hindus regard the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as one of the most important pilgrimages anyone can make and it is a journey that takes you to the abode of Lord Shiva, which in turn is your gateway to heaven after death. Quite a lot of pilgrims desire to visit the holy land of Shiva, and the first question that comes to their mind is How to do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
If you are planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, knowing as much about it as you can is a good way to start. Here is the best Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Guide. There are many tour options available for people who want to do the trip, including two by the Ministry of External Affairs of India. Since the Yatra is so highly revered in Hinduism, the government has taken it upon itself to conduct the tour with the least amount of resistance from foreign nations. However, you also have the option of choosing a private tour operator if that is what you want. For now, let us discuss the 13-day Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as conducted by Trip To Temples, a private tour operator that has been in operation since 1995.
If you want to do the Yatra in about 13 days, there are two routes that will be made available to you, one starting from Kathmandu via Lhasa and the other from Kathmandu via the Kyirong border. A description of both these travel options is given below:
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is truly the trip of a lifetime.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is generally a long trip of around fifteen days or more, depending upon the chosen tour package. People plan to go on this Yatra as per their religion, and for tourism purposes too. But since the area to be visited is mountainous, one cannot expect all the comforts and convenience to be served during the trip. Living on the mountains is a tough task, especially when you are doing Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, getting good food to live upon is one of the main concerns of the travelers or pilgrims who want to go on Kailash Yatra. Some people can be found worried about the food quality to such an extent, that they are unable to do the Yatra at all. During the course of the trip, food is not given primary importance by the pilgrims. Still, it is important to know about the kind of food that will be served during the trip.
In most cases, the cost of all the meals, including breakfast, lunch or dinner is included in the Kailash Yatra tour package bought by the pilgrims. Still, it depends on the package you are buying, and from whom you are buying it. This is one of the reasons why people are recommended to book the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package from a renowned, reliable tour operator.
As a part of the group who goes for Kailash Yatra altogether, there is mostly a cook in it along with the tour representative. He is assigned the duty to prepare meals for the whole group, wherever the pilgrims are made to stay. All the supplies that are required for the course of the trip, are taken along when starting the trip from Kathmandu. As said above, you cannot expect to get a menu of dishes to be served when you are doing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Still, you will be given good quality vegetarian food during the trip. Pasta, noodles, rice, roti, packed soups etc. are regularly served to the tourists and pilgrims.
Other than this, fresh fruits and vegetables can be bought in Tibet, when you reach there during Kailash Yatra at good rates. Also, drinking water bottles are made available at most of the places.
Also, depending on the guest houses and monasteries you will be made to stay in, you will be served good quality food there too.
Most of the pilgrims or tourists feel good and adaptive to the food served during the Kailash Yatra. But in some situations, some people do not like to eat the food served during the trip. They want the same food as what they eat when at home, which is not exactly possible.
That is why it is always good for pilgrims who are planning to go on Kailash Yatra to discuss food-related aspects with the chosen tour operator. To maintain transparency and to avoid problems in the future, renowned tour operators who organize Kailash Yatra tell the truth to the tourists while booking a package for them.
One can also ask about some specific food to be served, in case he is not feeling well or is allergic to certain kinds of food.
Not everyone likes to eat the same kind of food. Neither do people have the same eating habits. So, depending on your likes and preferences, it is always good to carry some snacks with you, like dry fruits, chocolates, chips and similar other tidbits. Once you reach Nepal as a part of your trip and all the eatables you have taken along get finished, you can refill your bags with snacks while being there in Kathmandu by visiting the market area around. You can then enjoy the snacks items you buy, in the trip ahead.
Other than the food we commonly eat, it always feels good to taste something new that we have never eaten before. As a part of the Kailash Yatra, you may also find some Chinese dishes being served to you. So, be ready to taste different foods, and serve your taste buds.
The climate of the mountainous region you visit during Kailash Yatra is not as same as that of plains. Since your body is not accustomed to living in the mountains, it is best to avoid overeating as a part of the food. Even Satvik food can be made available during the trip, and eating that is the best way to stay healthy during the trip. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to enjoy the trip the most, if you become sick because of your eating habits. So, do prefer to eat only healthy food during the trip.
People from around the world and of different religions go for Kailash Yatra, as per their own beliefs or perceptions. But the fact that the modern world is more inclined to the Digital Age than towards religious rituals and in-depth studies, cannot be neglected even in terms of this Holy Kailash Parvat Mansarovar Yatra. Thousands of pilgrims visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar to clean off the sins they might have done in the past. But there are other tourists for whom staying connected to the world through Internet connection or mobile network is more important than enjoying a wholly different view of nature around.
One of the most common questions that travelers from India ask while planning to book a tour to Kailash Mansarovar is whether their Indian mobile networks work on the way to Mount Kailash. Similarly, another related question is whether Indian mobile network gives good coverage over the mountains they will be trekking upon. If you are one of them, you should not feel worried about this aspect at all. Most of the Indian mobile networks do work well during the Kailash Yatra. But there are certain things that you will need to do or keep in mind in terms of Indian mobile network as well. These are as follows:
As you continue your journey towards Mount Kailash, you will be moving upwards at a greater height each day of your trip. While you will be circumambulating around Mount Kailash for around three days of your trip following the Outer Kora route, you will not be able to use your mobile phones there. Similar will be the case when you will be driving across the barren landscapes. This will happen because of the lack of a strong mobile network there. Even for mobile service providers, it is not possible to make strong network connectivity accessible at that great height near to the mountains.
Not having Internet connectivity or mobile network accessible during the journey to Mount Kailash, is a common thing pilgrims or travelers know about and can expect to happen. Other than using your mobile phones or getting worried about not being able to use, there is so much more you do as a part of your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Enjoy The View Around When Doing Kailash Yatra
When returning from this Holy place, you can get to use your mobile phones a lot. But you won’t be able to experience the difference of living at a great height, though for some time and living in the modern cities. It would be best if you would turn your focus to enjoy the magnificent scenery around, the picturesque beauty of the mountains and nature. Not everyone can make the journey to Mount Kailash every year or more than once in his lifetime. So, think more about living in the moment, when near to the majestic mountains.
Use Camera Instead during Kailash Parvat Yatra
Most of the tourists who visit Mount Kailash prefer to carry a camera with them to capture the beauty of the time they live there in the form of photos. This is something that is much better than using phones for other needs, as you will be able to cherish the moments lived there while looking at the photos later in time. The photographs clicked during the Mount Kailash Yatra will also become the memories you would like to save for the rest of your life.
Getting the opportunity to do Kailash Yatra is a lifetime opportunity. So, plan to make the most of it!
The mystical Kailash Mansarovar Yatra brings you to the Land of Divinity which is beyond the realms of human conception. A trip to Kailash Manasarovar is considered to be capable of enlightening the uneducated and enhancing the mind to better understand fresh perspectives on life and hence is viewed as the pinnacle of "Tirth Yatras".
Participating in the sacred journey to Kailash Mansarovar may result in the cleansing and sanctification of soul through sacred bath in the Lake Mansarovar and Parikrama of Mount Kailash during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes place by two routes. One is the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India route and the other is the Nepal route through which Private companies operate. The Government of India (MEA) route can be further divided into Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand (25 Days) and Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via NathuLa Pass in Sikkim (21 Days) and the Nepal route can be further divided into Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter (11 Days), Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Bus (14 Days) and Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Lhasa (14 Days).
Until 2019 the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Uttarakhand Lipulekh Pass route used to be completely by a trek of 250 km approx. One had to trek from Dharchula to Lipulekh Pass to enter Tibet wherein the Holy Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Jheel is located. It took more than 3 days (one side) to reach Lipulekh Pass. Some of the villages that fall on this route are Budhi, Gunji, Nabi, Kalapani, Malpa, Lamari, Garbyang, etc. The pilgrims also had to trek during the Mount Kailash Parikrama which is of about 40km and is covered in 2.5 days. Now a new road to Kailash Mansarovar is being constructed on the India side which is expected to be complete by the end of 2023. The new road network in Uttarakhand will enable the yatries to cover the distance between Dharchula and Lipulekh Pass by vehicle, thus making the journey to Kailash Mansarovar a comfortable one.
Dharchula — Budhi — Gunji — Kalapani — Nabidhang — Lipulekh Pass — Taklakot — Darchen — Mt. Kailash Parikrama — Qugu (Lake Mansarovar) — Taklakot — Gunji — Budhi — Dharchula.
Trekking is not mandatory in all the other routes of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra including Nathula Pass Kailash Yatra, Helicopter Kailash Yatra, Overland Kailash Yatra as well as Kailash Yatra via Lhasa. Yatries have to trek during Kailash Parvat Parikrama Only.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal route offers you the provision of optional trekking during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Kailash Yatra through this route is completely by transportation that includes flight, helicopter, and bus. The yatries only have to trek while doing the 40 km Parikrama of Mount Kailash, other than this there is no other trek. There is option to complete Kailash trek distance either by foot or by pony. The Mt. Kailash Parikrama is completed in 2.5 days in which 10 km trek in done on First day from Yamdwar to Diraphuk, then 22 km trek is done on Second day from Diraphuk to Zuthulpuk and on the last day 8 km trek is done with which Parikrama is completed.
For More details on Kailash Manasarovar Yatra:
Kailash Mansarovar Tour Packages
Kailash Mansarovar FAQ
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Blogs
While going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the devotees get the chance to visit many shrines along with Mount Kailash Lord Shiva. The details of various Mount Kailash shrines is mentioned below:
Mansarovar Lake, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, is situated at a height of 4600 meters towards the west of Rakshastal and north of Mount Kailash. Tibetans refer to Mansarovar Lake as Lake Mapham Yumtso, which translates to "invincible lake."
The Sanskrit words Mana, which means "mind," and Sarovar, which means "lake," are combined to form the word "Mansarovar." According to Hindu mythology, Lake Mansarovar was initially created in Lord Brahma's (the deity of creation) mind before being brought into existence on Earth. Lake Mansarovar has been described as a sacred body of water where Lord Shiva and Lord Indra once swam as swans.
According to Buddhist literature, Queen Maya, the mother of Lord Buddha, took a bath at Lake Mansarovar before giving birth to her son. There is a cluster of 5 Buddhist monasteries on the bank of Mansarovar Lake, namely Chiu Gompa (most popular), Gossul, Seralung, Yerngo and Trugo.
Lake Mansarovar is incredibly alluring with its deep blue water and breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains. While sitting on the bank of Lake Manasarovar, the yatries can enjoy this magnificent freshwater lake changing colour from blue to green as the sun gets closer.
It is believed that taking a dip in the Manasarovar jheel will help in overcoming lustful urges, restless thoughts, and previous wrongdoings, and drinking the holy water will keep you fit and free from disease. The Parikrama of Mansarovar Lake offers pilgrims countless advantages, therefore all the pilgrims coming for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra regard visiting Lake Mansarovar as their greatest blessing.
Rakshastal or the lake of the Demon is situated in Tibet near Kailash Mansarovar. The lake is located at south of Mount Kailash and just west of Mansarovar lake bears no significance or relevance to its immediate neighbor. The lake covers a huge area of 250 km at an altitude of 4,575 meters. Even in the absence of grassland and greenery nearby, the deep blue lake looks absolutely stunning and beautiful.
The name Rakshastal comes from Sanskrit and its literal meaning is the lake of the demons or Rakshas. The Lake Rakashtal is known as Ravana Tal as well. The lake itself was the place where Ravana the ten headed Asur had prayed to Lord Shiva. Ravana was a Shiva Bhakt and he wished to take Lord Shiva along with him to Lanka, his home place. He requested Lord Shiva for the same but Shiva refused to the offer and continued living in Kailash. Seeing this denial of Lord Shiva, Ravana decided to bring the whole Kailash to Lanka along with Shiva. But as Shiva was a person who loved nature, loneliness, serenity and isolation, Shiva forced the mountain down in its place. And in order to do so, one of the leg thumbs of Ravana got below the holy mountain and got crushed. But Ravana was such a dedicated devotee; he didn’t bother of his pain and continued praying Lord Shiva. Since Ravana was a Rakash & prayed Lord Shiva with Shiv Tandav Strotam at Lake or Taal in hindi, for residing in Lanka, this place in Kailash area is known as Rakashtal.
Seeing his sheer dedication and devotion a pleased Shiva gave Ravana a Shivlingam and stated that wherever Ravana place the lingam, it will remain there and the place will be known as Shiva’s abode. During Ravana’s journey back to Lanka God Indra offered him help and put the Shivlingam there on gorund at Rameshwaram, the same place Lord Ram has performed Yagya before attacking Lanka and Ravana. Ram wanted Yagya to be performed by greatest Brahim priest & in that era Ravana was world's most knowledgeable Brahmin .So Ram requested Ravana to perform this Yagya for him. Ravana knew that what this Yagya is about and he understood that the Gods are coming for war against him, still he accepted the invitation & performed Yagya Puja with full vedic rituals in favour of Ram at Rameshwaram. Thus Rameshwaram is known as 1 of the 12 Jyotirlingam.
The two lake at the foot of Mount Kailash are exactly opposite of each other even being so closed at proximity. The Mansarovar Lake is known to be calm and composed where on the other hand, Rakshastal Lake just being 2.7 km away from Mansarovar is known to be stormy and windy. The Rakshastal water is salty which disables it to inhabit any life within itself or near the lake. The peaceful nature of Mansarovar thus associates it with the Gods and the exact opposite stormy nature of Rakshastal associates it with the Demons.
According to Buddhism, the two lakes denote the Sun and the Moon. Mansarovar is circular in shape depicting the Sun and Rakshastal has a crescent providing the image of the Moon: thus these two lakes denote the brightness and darkness altogether. Mansarovar is a fresh water lake where as Rakshastal Lake is said to be so much salty that the local consider it poisonous. There is a small river which connects Mansarovar and Rakshastal known as Ganga Chhu. It is believed that this small linkage is built by the Rishis to add some pure water from Mansarovar to Rakshastal.
Yam Dwar, the name sort of describes itself. It is a place where one embraces death or can say the Gateway of the God of Death. This is the place to enter the abode of Lord Shiva. The word Yam means Yamraj the god of death and Dwar is called gate.
In Tibet Yam Dwar is known as Tarboche which is the place where they start circumambulation of their lord. IN Hindu, the worshippers of lord Shiva have to pass the gateway of death to reach their lord, one must pass through Yam Dwar to reach Mount Kailash. Yam Dev takes the decision of taking someone life away from this earth by judging and deciding based on the persons sins and merit, and then release the persons soul for further cosmic.At Yam Dwar it is believed that one can actually enter this gate when ones soul is emancipated from this mortal world.
Gauri Kund situated at 5608m when coming downwards from Dolma-La is also known as the lake of Compassion. The lake has a section in the religious book Shiva Purana where the lake was the place where goddess Parvati acquired lord Ganesh the elephant headed God by bathing in the emerald water of the lake.
The lake is also famously known as Parvati Sarovar. The tale about Gauri Kund as described in the ‘Shiva Puarana’ is that goddess Parvati created the image of Lord Ganesha from soap lather on her body and breathed life into it. Parvati commanded Ganesha to guard the entrance of the lake and do not let anyone enter no matter what. Lord Shiva somehow returned at that very moment and tried to enter the lake entrance. He was stopped by Ganesha, an unknown child stopping Shiva to go to his beloved wife. Agitated with this hindrance Shiva beheaded the little boy. Seeing this Parvati was inconsolable and demanded Shiva to bring Ganesha back to life no matter what. Helpless Shiva wandered to get a head of any boy he could find, but when he got none, he beheaded a little elephant and placed the elephant head on Ganesha’s body. From this Parvati got her son back and we got our elephant headed Lord Ganesha.
Ashtapad is at an elevation of 4900 metres (17000 feet) in the great Himalayas . Ashtapad, means Eight Steps, is the place where the first Jain Tirthankara Shri Rishabhadev Bhagwan also known as Shri Adinath Bhagwan attained Nirvana or salvation. At Ashtapad, every stone every carving is considered as incarnation of Gods. The place is considered to be highly religious and spiritual. In Ashtapad people believe that God exist in the form of nature and humans are to give test to prove their courage, devotion and values.
Ashtapad second to Mount Kailash is home and abode of lord Shiva. The basic characteristics of spiritualism, the concept of Indian culture is called superior than Tibetan culture and it is believed that an infinite amount of energy of spiritualism is always flowing in our religion and culture.
Himalaya is also called Ashtapad because of its eight different mountain range; Gaurishankar, Kailash, Badrinath, Nanda, Drongiri, Narayan, Nar and Trishuli and according to Nirvankand this is also called Adishwar Swami. From there numerous Muni got Moksha or salvation by doing Tapsya or meditation. According to Shrimadbhagwat, at this place Rishabhdev’s father Nabhirai and mother Marudevi had done hard meditation after Rishabhdev’s Rajyabhishek and had taken Samadhi. Footprint of Nabhirai at Neelkanth Mountain attracts everybody towards him as a sign of first man’s footprint.
Also form Ashtapad the southern face of Mount Kailash the Meru Danda can be seen and this face of the great Kailash is known to be the most beautiful face of all.
Sapt Rishi Caves is named after the 7 rishis namely Bharadwaja, Bhrigu, Gautama, Atri, Kashyapa, Vishwamitra, and Vashitha, who are thought to have lived here. These divine sages are believed to be faithful worshippers of Lord Shiva. The Saptrishi Caves hold 13 Chortens or 13 Buddhist shrines and according to Tibetan tradition, its walls are painted red. The Place is now supervised and protected by Gengta Monastery. There is a designated space in the cave where most of the devotees place their books and other valuables with the explicit purpose of honoring Lord Shiva and expressing gratitude to him for his perpetual blessings on them.
Saptrishi Caves is situated near Nandi Parvat at a height of around 6000 meters and can be visited in the Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash. The journey to Saptrishi Cave is regarded as the toughest trek in Mount Kailash Inner Kora. However, the Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash has been banned by the Chinese authority after 2013.
Kailash Mountain is viewed as the Axis Mundi, i.e. the center of cosmic creation, and these seven holy gurus are regarded as the seven fundamental components that compose the universe, namely water, air, nature, sky, fire, spirit, and stone. As a result, Mount Kailash and the Saptrishi of the Himalayas have a long history together. The Saptrishi owned supernatural abilities that allowed them to move around the locus and interact with the devas. In order to unlock the gates of Yamloka and find a way to defeat and destroy the demon Kalkambha, the Spatarishi transported themselves to Mount Meru and united into a single form known as Brahmastra (Weapon of Mass Destruction) to restore harmony and peace to the cosmos.
The Hindi terms Charan, which means foot, and Sparsh, which means touch, are combined to form the phrase Charansparsh. So, to touch the feet constitutes the entire meaning of this word. In the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Charansparsh is touching Mount Kailash up close. Mount Kailash is shaped like the Shivalingam - the symbol of Lord Shiva. When we perform the Mount Kailash Charansparsh, it feels as if we are touching the feet of Lord Shiva.
According to scientific studies, there is the presence of vibrations in the human body, and touching the foot promotes the flow of energy, joy, and blessings. Thus, participating in Charansparsh during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra brings Bhole Bhakts great happiness and revives their spirit and mind.
Charansparsh lies at the base of the North face of Mount Kailash. Charansparsh can be performed after completing the first day Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Yamdwar to Diraphuk. To go to Charansparsh, one has to hike for a further 4 to 5 kilometers from Diraphuk. You can take the help of a Sherpa to go there by giving him some tip as Charansparsh is not the part of Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package. The climb to Charansparsh is rather challenging due to the lack of a proper trail and the region's harsh climate. It is suggested that you only participate in Charansparsh if you are physically confident as you might have to trek on snow and there is no facility of a pony or any vehicle to go there.
The Nandi Parvat is named after the sacred bull Nandi who is recognised as the Guardian and a Vahana (vehicle) of the supreme Lord Shiva. As the shape and appearance of this mountain resemble Nandi, hence it is known as Nandi Parvat.
According to a common belief, it is said that Nandi Ji is present as a gatekeeper at all the places where Bhole Baba is present. Likewise, you can spot Nandi Ji right in front of the South Face of Holy Mount Kailash. The Nandi Parvat is a subject of considerable amazement because a structure of this size cannot have been constructed by humans. It is a unique mountain that was entirely produced by nature.
Nandi ji is regarded as the guardian of Dharma and is a representation of heroism, trust, and righteousness. As a result, it is thought that Nandi Ji is accountable for the adoration of ordinary bulls by the followers of the Hindu religion.
Nandi Ji is regarded to be the messenger of Lord Shiva. According to legend, Lord Shiva is meditating deeply on Mount Kailash and is unable to hear the petitions of common people. Nandi Ji is the one who hears all of the prayers of Bhole Bhakts and conveys them to Lord Shiva. The reverence of the Nandi Parvat is essential in order to complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Shivasthal is one of the holy sites on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route. Tibetans hold this place in high regard and have flooded it with prayer flags and other artifacts from their country.
On Day 2 of the Mount Kailash Parikrama which is from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk, you will go through Shivasthal. The pilgrims arrive at Dolma La Pass (the highest point of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra) after climbing 6 kilometers distance from Dirapuk. Shivasthal may be seen about 100–200 meters before Dolma La Pass.
Shivasthal is a representation of life and death. Devotees on Mansarovar Kailash Yatra put a piece of clothing and ornaments on Shivasthal. There are two beliefs regarding this donation. As per one belief, you will get the donation in your next life and as per the second belief the donation is a symbol of leaving the past life behind.
Shiva, the fierce yet supremely calm God in Hindu mythology is termed as ‘Mahadeva’ which means the God of Gods. It is said that the world was created by the tri-Deva who are- Brahma Vishnu and Mahesh. Here Brahma is Brahma Dev who is known as the creator of this world, Vishnu is Lord Vishnu who seats on the Sheeshnaga which is the king of snakes with multiple heads (5 to 6), is the preserver of this universe. And Mahesh who is Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer/ transformer. But out of all the Gods Shiva is termed as Devo ke Dev and is worshiped by almost every single person in India.
Shiva has a total of 1008 names and is worshiped in different parts of the country by a different one. With each name a different personality of Shiva is reflected. Each consists of a story and different traits of Lord Shiva with it. The Sanskrit word Shiva is an adjective which means “auspicious, kind and gracious”. As a proper name, it means “The Auspicious One”, used as a name for Rudra- the danger and anger Lord Shiva.
Some say that lord Shiva is a Human with supernatural powers as he lived and still lives in the Kailash which exists in Dharti- Earth and not in Swarg or any other heavenly place. While other people very strongly believes that Shiva is not at all a Human but God living in this Earth making it a more beautiful and spiritual place.
Destroyer the word has bigger aspects then destruction, as destroying means death which is the medium for rebirth to a new life. Thus Shiva is not just related with destruction but with regeneration and creation as well. Shiva is both Death and Life.
The appearance and looks of Shiva is completely varied and different from all the other Gods one knows. Shiva represents life along with death. His appearance alone dignifies the power of nature, river, moon, animals and Prakriti. His calm being represent the soulful side of this world and his fierce side shows how harsh and brutal this world can become for people disrespecting and devaluing it.
Shiva bears a crescent moon on his head which symbolizes wisdom, the moon explains that wisdom is beyond mind, but it needs to be expressed with a tinge of mind only. This means that to express the ultimate wisdom of this universe, one does not need plenty of information and knowledge but a little amount of mind.
The no-mind, infinite consciousness requires that little bit of mind to express itself in the manifest world. Thus to express the inexpressible, ultimate piece of wisdom and knowledge, that little amount of mind is required which is the crescent moon on Lord Shiva’s head.
He holds a Trident or Trishul in his right arm. On the Trident there is fire, a Damru and a mala. The Trishul represents the three aspects of consciousness – waking, dreaming and sleeping, which represents the three Gunas- Satva(goodness, constructive, harmonious), Rajas(passion, active, confused), and Tamas (darkness, destructive, chaotic). So when Shiva holds the Trishul it signifies that Shiva is above all the three states- waking, dreaming and sleeping and yet is the upholder of these three states.
In the word Trishul, Shul means problems and sufferings and Trishul as a whole means which destroys all kind of suffering and pain. The pain is also divided into three forms- the physical pain, the spiritual pain and the ethereal pain. And what relieves one from all the kind of pain in this universe is a Trishul and it is in the hand of Lord Shiva. Thus Shiva is the healer, he is the problem solver.
The Damru on the Trishul signifies the Universe which is always expanding and collapsing. When one plays a Damru, it expands then collapses, juts the same way this universe works. It expands until a point of expansion and then it collapses and expands again and the cycle goes on. This simple process is the process of creation and destruction. The concept of Damru is similar to of our heartbeats, the rhythm is never a straight line, it goes up and down and then up. Which tells the period of life, that everything never remains constant, it goes up and down, it get destroyed and is rebuilt. And if the rhythm become a straight line that means your heart has stopped and that means you are dead.
The Damru also symbolizes sound as it is a sound instrument and it produces sound wave which is rhythm and energy. The whole universe is nothing but the function of wave, it is rhythm all around and we are trapped in it living our lives harmoniously. So the Damru explained by Quantum physics also represents the dual nature of the universe.
Snake around lord Shiva’s neck has many sayings and stories behind it. It is said that the serpent is the symbol of alertness. Shiva resides in the state of Samadhi where there is nothing just the inner consciousness. And in that state there no action but just alertness. To describe this alertness there sits a snake on Lord Shiva’s neck to give the impression that may be his eyes are closed due to meditation but his consciousness is awake and he is alert.
Snakes are known to be one of the very dangerous reptiles and are feared by all. To nullify the feeling to fear, lord Shiva wears the serpent around his neck to show that he controls fear and death and anyone worshiping him will be free of all the fear and danger of this universe.
Some theories also tell that the serpent has three coils around Shiva’s neck depicting past, present and future. That states that Shiva is independent of time and he also controls it.
There is also a story that when the snake species were in endangered, they approach Lord Shiva for Shelter. Lord Shiva gave them shelter by letting them stay in Kailash Parvat. But due to cold weather, the snakes used to approach Lord Shiva for warmth of Body. Thus, He as a protector used to wear snakes as ornament to provide warmth to all of them.
There are other sayings and theories about the snake around Lord Shiva’s neck, of them is that Lord Shiva is known as Pashupathinath, the lord of creatures. And being the lord of all the animals he has complete control over the behavior of all the animals of this universe. As snake is the most feared and dangerous of all, he wear a snake as an ornament around his neck showcasing that the dangerous of danger also fears him and stays in his control.
The snakes also stands for evil and demonic nature so by wearing a snake Lord Shiva gives the ray of Goodness that no evil can touch him or anyone under his protection.
In the yogic science the snakes also stands for Kundalini, which is described as a coiled serpent lying dormant in the muladhara chakra of all human beings and descends upwards when one starts ones spiritual journey and becomes increasingly divine oriented. The snake around lord Shiva’s neck clearly makes us understand that Shiva has reached complete divination and has completed the journey to spirituality. And not just that he is constantly engaged with divine powers and spirituality as the snake doesn’t go away but sits on his neck, coiled perfectly and prestigiously indicating Shiva’s active involvement with divinity.
Ganga on Shiva’s head has many controversial stories behind it. One of which says that Ganga was Shiva’s second wife. The other says that Ganga was Vishnu’s wife along Lakshmi and Saraswati, but all the three wives used to fight a lot so Lord Vishnu gave Saraswati to Brahma and Ganga to Shiva. But due to wrath of Pravati, Shiva’s wife, lord Shiva accepted Ganga as a crown jewel and not his wife.
Out of all the stories and perceptions, the one which is common and known to all is that Ganga is known as Knowledge. Knowledge so deep that it purifies one’s soul. And head is the center of knowledge and heart is the home of love. So Gnga comes out of Shiva’s head because it means its knowledge. Ganga is known to be fierce, stormy, excited and mysterious, same is knowledge, it brings freedom, it brings motion, it has depths, it has mysterious, it has calmness and it has agitations. Knowledge brings all the emotions together and also brings them apart. And all this characteristics are to be found in Ganga and Shiva wear it as a jewel.
What happens if Lord Shiva opens his third eye? The third eye of Shiva is the eye which killed Kama, the god of lust and desire. Kama tried to bring the feeling of desire into Shiva for Parvati after the death of his first wife Sati. He tried Shiva to open his eyes and feel romantic for Parvati but instead Shiva opened his third and burnt Kama to ashes. Thus it is said that the third eye signifies that there is no desire in this world, men will not get attracted to women, bull will not get attracted to cow, there will be no reproduction and therefore there will be no life left in this world.
This is why it is said that when Shiva opens his third the world gets destroyed not by some battle or supernatural calamity but by having no desire to produce life in this universe. Due to this reason Shiva is known as the destroyer. Desire bringslove, affection, contentment, compassion; it also evokes negative emotions; anger, dissatisfaction, sorrow which causes destruction within the person itself. So Shiva opens his third eye to destroy desire from causing any further destruction.
The legend of Lord Shiva drinking the most poisonous venom to save this earth from it is famous and known to all. The Venom which Lord drank did not flow from his mouth to stomach but it resided in throat itself. The color of the venom is said to be blue and as it got settles in Shiva’s throat so the color of the throat changed and turned into blue. Shiva’s body color is said to white as camphor. His white complexion signifies the Snow Mountains and his blue throat sparkle like a beautiful ornament on his neck.
Also blue means sky, it signifies infinity and limitlessness. It portrays the fact of having no shape. Thus Shiva is not termed as to be completely human, he has no shape he was never a person. To symbolize the unfathomable, the infinite Divinity relatable to people, the ancient Rishish made a form. The Whole world is filled with Shiva and Shiva’s body is in the whole universe.
Nandi is the bull which serves as Shiva’s mount or vahana. Shiva known as Pashupati is the lord of the animals and thus his surroundings are ought to be filled with animals and species of kind. The Bull is denoted as the symbol of Dharma or righteousness in the world.
And lord Shiva riding the bull depicts that Shiva is righteous no matter what. And when you worship Shiva righteousness and truthfulness will be with you and no Adharm can harm or touch you.
It is seen in the paintings and scriptures that Lord Shiva sits mightily on a piece of Tiger skin. According to folklore, the tiger skin signifies Shiva as the controller of all the powers in the world.
But apart from that, there is a well-known story of Shiva wearing the tiger skin and sitting on it.
Shiva used to travel a lot and once he was travelling in a forest where some Rishis with their wives used to live. The wives got attracted to Shiva by his great physique and bare body. Seeing that the Rishis conspired and dug a pit where Shiva used to go for a walk daily. When Shiva arrived there the Rishis using all their powers created a tiger to leap out of that pit. But their efforts were useless. It was no big deal for the lord of animals. Shiva very easily killed the tiger, took off its skin and draped it around his body. And thereafter from that incident Shiva started wearing tiger Skin what we see today in paintings and pictures.
Situated in the picturesque Trans- Himalayas, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is a treat for the eyes of tourists reaching there from all over the world. Just looking at the serene lake Mansarovar next to the snow-capped Mount Kailash relaxes their minds and touches their soul. Since it is also believed that one can attain the state of Nirvana or salvation there, thousands of people plan a trip to Kailash Mansarovar every year, irrespective of the height to be traveled, harsh weather and uneasy pathways. But often, a lot of people feel confused to decide the best time to plan Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
So, if you are planning to go on a Kailash Mansarovar trip, know about Mansarovar Temperature and the best time of the year to plan the trip around:
A trip to Kailash Mansarovar is suitable during the early summer months of May and June because people have a belief that in starting you can get direct blessings from lord Shiva. After the month of July till September pilgrims can go to possibly complete their three days parikrama. This is the ideal time to make a visit to this wonderful place because of a number of reasons, as detailed below:
The min temperature of the surroundings near Kailash Mansarovar stays approx. 5 to 10 degree Celsius during the early summer time, or post monsoon in India. This makes the tourists feel great to enjoy the heat from the sun, when being near to the mountains. Since the temperature dips to the lowest of the low in winters there, people are advised not to visit there in the winter months.
For further reference there are two links mentioned below by helicopter and overland yatra both.
It always feels great to enjoy outdoor activities, like trekking (in parikrama), yoga, pooja, hawan, holy bath in lake etc. near Kailash Mansarovar, which is only possible in good weather conditions of the summer time. This implies that you can have a great experience during the Manas Sarovar trip, when you plan it in the ideal time range.
A lot of pilgrims visit Kailash Mansarovar to cleanse off their sins, and to bring good fortune in their lives. They take bath in the Lake Mansarovar around the Mount Kailash, as per their religious beliefs. To fulfill their desires without any obstacle, they prefer to plan the Manas Sarovar trip in the ideal time of summer or post monsoon months.
You can also plan a family trip to the Kailash Mansarovar during summer holidays, which also lie in the month of June. Your children will enjoy the trip to the most, being there in the vicinity of the mountains and the beautiful Mansarovar Lake. Minimum Age is 10yrs.
During the ideal time, the sacred Saga Dawa festival is also celebrated in Tibet. This festival is known amongst Tibetan monks, people and even tourists to do certain religious activities and to do good deeds such as not killing animals for meat etc. So, by visiting Kailash Mansarovar during the ideal time, you can also get to enjoy this festival too.
The MIN temperature of Kailash Mansarovar lies approx. 4 to 15 w degree Celsius, and may even fall up to -2 degree Celsius around snowy trails. So, you are advised to carry woolen clothing with you, to stay healthy and avoid falling sick during the trip. It may become hard for you to find a good doctor in the mountainous terrains. So, be careful about this aspect of the Manas Sarovar trip as well.
Other than the time you plan to visit Kailash Mansarovar, the time you make bookings for the trip is also important. Ideally, it is best to book your tour at least two – three months prior to the date of the departure you plan. This is because thousands of Indian pilgrims visit there during that time, which may also cause price hike in the cost of accommodation in the best hotels there.
So, whether you wish to visit Kailash Mansarovar for a family trip, alone or for pilgrimage, you should keep in mind the best time to visit there, as detailed above. This will help you avoid feeling like the trip tests your physical endurance and mental health.
The effect of the natural wonder of Mansarovar Lake and its serenity can be witnessed through the culture of the people living around it. Like the serenity of lake Manasarovar which is also known as ‘The Jewel of Tibet’, the way people nearby live, looks like a jewel of life to all the tourists who visit there to take a bath in this holy lake. The snow-capped Mount Kailash towering over the lake also symbolizes peace and happiness that can be seen in the life of people who live there, as well as those who make a visit there. The culture as well as the majestic view of Manasarovar Lake is such that it captures the imagination of people, both religiously and spiritually. Even though the trip to Kailash Mansarovar includes passage over rough terrains, high altitude and climatic disturbances, it does not have its effect on the desire of people who wish to visit this holy place at least once in their lifetime.
As a part of its culture, visitors can also witness and enjoy Saga Dawa festival during their visit to Kailash Mansarovar. This is a very popular Tibetan festival, celebrated to honor the life of Lord Buddha. In fact, the day of this occasion has been declared as a public holiday in some Buddhist countries. As a common practice, people follow during this festival, they remove the old prayer flags and replace them with the new ones. This is the reason why tourists can see multi-colored prayer flags hung from the flagpoles during the time this festival is celebrated.
By experiencing Tibetan culture, arts and lifestyle as a part of Saga Dawa festival, you can make memories to be cherished for the rest of your life.
The tourist place of Mount Kailash and Manasarovar Lake holds different values for different religions, such as Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Even amongst the followers of the Bon religion, which is native to Tibet, this site holds religious importance. This is the reason why it is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in that region, visited by people of different religions.
Amongst the Hindu followers, it has been believed that Mount Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva. Furthermore, they also believe that water of Lake Mansarovar has the power to purify a person’s soul, and the one who drinks its water or takes a bath in it gets all the sins of his lifetime cleansed.
Followers of Jain religion call Mount Kailash as Meru Parvat or Sumeru. They also believe that the mountain next to Kailash, which is known as Ashtapada, is where their first Tirthankara, Rishabhdeva had once attained the state of salvation.
To some Buddhists, Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of their Buddha Demchok, and the lake Mansarovar is also known as a religious site to them. You can also find a number of monasteries situated near the lake.
As per the beliefs of the Bon religion, their sacred deity Zhang Zhung Meri lives in the Lake Mansarovar, and is the source of spirituality for their followers.
All this confirms why both Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are believed to hold truly religious value that attracts tourists from across the globe every year to it.
Since Kailash Mansarovar has its roots spread into a number of religions, the pilgrims there speak a wide range of languages, including Tibetan, Zhang Zhung, Hindi and several others too. The impact of multiple languages being spoken there by the people, also have its impact on the culture of that region.
If you are keen on going for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is important that you prepare yourself. Mount Kailash, which is at an elevation of 6638 m, is a part of the Kailash range which is a part of the Trans-Himalayas. It is no doubt a tough mountainous terrain and has harsh climatic conditions, but every year people go on it to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and ask for forgiveness of sins they may have committed knowingly and unknowingly.
The overland Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most popular ways to do it though the helicopter routes are often as well. Here is an overview of the Yatra done overland.
The starting point of this Yatra route is Kathmandu, where the pilgrim has to reach on his own accord and own arrangement.
The Kathmandu airport is the place where someone from the private tour agency you have chosen will arrive to pick you up and take you to the hotel. After you reach, you will be briefed about the Yatra at 7pm in the evening after which dinner will be served. You will have to stay overnight in the hotel. Next morning, breakfast will happen after which you will be taken for sightseeing in Kathmandu. The capital of Nepal has a lot to see and some of the sites that will be covered is Pashupatinath Temple, Jal Narayan Temple, Boudha Nath Stupa and many more. In the evening, after returning to the hotel, preparations and briefings about the Yatra will happen and then there will be dinner. After that, stay in a hotel overnight.
Next morning, after a heart breakfast, you will be driven to Dhunche which is about 200 km away from Kathmandu. It will take about 6 hours to complete the journey after which there will be an overnight stay in a hotel.
The next morning will start early where you will be driven to Rasuwagadhi. Here, customs and immigration formalities will be done and after that the drive will continue to Kyirong County. This will take about 3 hours to be done and by then you will be in Tibet. The night will be spent at a hotel there.
The next day will be spent wholly in acclimatizing you and other members of the group you are going with. There will be no scheduled plans and instead the day will be spent in going on short treks so that the body gets used to the high altitude and rough weather.
The next morning, breakfast will be served after which you will be driven to Dongba. During the drive which lasts about 7 hours, you will pass through places like Paigu-Tso Lake and Thorong La. You will even get to see the Brahmaputra River during the journey. When it comes to an end, you will be staying overnight at a hotel.
This is a big day because on this day, you will be able to reach Lake Mansarovar. You will be driven from Dongba directly to the sacred lake which will take you about 7 hours. After reaching the lake, the ‘parikrama’ of it will be done by vehicle itself. It is about 110 km. You will be spending the night at a guesthouse near the shore of the lake. This is also the day where you will have your first viewing of Mount Kailash.
The next morning, it is time to really appreciate Lake Mansarovar in all its glory. You are free to take a holy dip and perform any Puja or religious custom as you want to. After this gets completed, you are then driven to Darchen, which is a 2-hour drive from Lake Mansarovar. The overnight stay happens in a guest house.
Next morning, you will reach Ashtapad from Lake Mansarovar. From there you will go to Yamdwar and start your Mount Kailash trek. It is about 10 km to Dirupak. At the end of the short trek, you will be able to witness the north face of Mount Kailash. Hindu devotees believe this to be the most sacred ‘darshan’ on Mount Kailash. You can also choose not to do the ‘parikrama’ and instead stay at Darchen for 2 days so that other members of the group get to do the ‘parikrama’ during that time.
The next day, the trek will have you travel 22 km on foot, from Dirapuk to Dolma la pass to Zithulpak. This by far is the most difficult part of the trek because the altitudes are so high that even fit people have acclimatization problems. After this trek, you will descend to Gaurikund and after that trek to Zuthulpuk. There, you will stay overnight in the hotel. The next day of the ‘parikrama’ will take about 3 hours covering 8 km. After the ‘parikrama’ is done, a drive to Darchen and then another drive to Dongba. The overnight stay happens in a hotel. The next day, everyone gets driven to Kyirong County and after that a drive to Kathmandu airport happens the next morning. After that, you get to go home on the flight of your choice from the Kathmandu airport.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes you on a journey through the rough and mountainous terrain of western Tibet to reach the foot of Mount Kailash. Lake Mansarovar, which lies about 20 km from Mount Kailash, is a calm and serene natural lake that is also the highest freshwater lake in the world. There is a lot of religious significance attached to Kailash Mansarovar in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon religion. If you are planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, gaining knowledge about what it has on offer is important.
The length of the Yatra depends on what tour option you choose. There are quite a few ways you can go on the Yatra depending on your budget and the time constraints you may have. You can choose to go with the Ministry of External Affairs Yatra or you can choose to go with a private tour agency. This will affect the number of days required for the trip.
If you choose this trip, it will take you roughly 3 weeks to complete it. The trip may be extended if the weather conditions are not right which may further delay the whole process. The long length of the Yatra as conducted by the government is because of the acclimatization process and the emphasis on trekking.
If you were to choose the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra that is conducted by Trip To Temples, you will have a few options to choose from.
It is important to understand that no matter which travel option you chose for the Yatra, there may be situations which might lead to the schedule getting changed. Bad weather is an issue that is faced often by pilgrims on the Yatra which can extend the trip duration by a few days so it is a good idea to be prepared with additional medicines if one has a health condition that needs them.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a long journey to visit the Holy place of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, and is not generally easy for just anyone to do this Yatra. Some people fail to meet the standard eligibility criteria that has to be met to be able to visit this Holy place. While some others are not willing to do it as they are not ready to experience magnificence at the cost of little discomfort they may feel during the course of the Kailash journey. People ask about the number of concerns they have in their mind that are related to the Kailash Yatra, one of which is the availability of drinking water on the route. Since the Yatra is around ten to twelve days long, it would be nearly impossible for pilgrims and tourists to do it without having water, a basic necessity on the way. Fortunately, there is just no need for fear about the availability of drinking water during the Yatra, as it will be available as per your needs.
Every tour operator who organizes and makes arrangements for pilgrims to do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as a business knows very well about the need for safe drinking water on the way. It is no less than his duty to ensure that no pilgrim who has booked a package with him, will feel any sort of inconvenience during the trip in terms of a basic necessity, such as water.
To fulfill such a requirement, the tour representative will make all arrangements of carrying drinking water with his Sherpa team. You may even find some members of the touring committee carrying big jars of drinkable water along with them for the pilgrims. This will ensure that any pilgrim can get access to safe, drinkable water at all times. One can get his personal bottles refilled with water at any point in time.
Also, from the start of the Kailash Yatra from Kathmandu, there are a number of halts in between before you reach Mount Kailash. In all of these halts, which will be monasteries, guest houses, hotels, etc., drinking water will be made available to you. You may even find some places where packaged drinking water is sold at affordable prices. It is better to buy water than to face any inconvenience because of that and neglect enjoying the trip.
Related to the obvious, basic need for drinking water, there are certain important things that every tourist or pilgrim should know about while forwarding on the journey to the Kailash Mansarovar. These are as follows:
So, whenever needed, drink from the personal water bottle you carry, and get it refilled from time to time while on the way with safe drinking water only.
Also, when in need, you should also be ready to share drinking water with others.
Amidst the travellers that wish to make a visit to the Holy Kailash Mansarovar, there is always a great surge of excitement. No matter to which country or religion they belong, they want to experience the peace and serenity of the region around Mount Kailash, and to cleanse off their sins by taking a bath in Lake Mansarovar. But to all of them, one common concern in planning a trip to Kailash Mansarovar is how to reach Kailash Parvat or how to go Kailash Mansarovar Yatra or how can we go to kailash parvat. Because of the great height of Kailash Mansarovar is located at, one cannot expect all the urban, modern ways of travel there. This is why it’s very important for every tourist who wants to travel to Mount Kailash, to know well about all the possible ways of reaching this Holy place. The more one gets to know about different ways of travelling to Kailash, the easier it will be for him to plan his journey.
Here, we are going to discuss all possible ways to travel to Kailash Mansarovar:
Travelling by flight is one of the most common, and preferred ways people follow in the modern world, to reach distant places. But that mode of travel is not possible for the Journey to Kailash Mansarovar, as there are no major airports located in the region around this Holy site. One of the nearest airports is Ngari Gunsa Airport, which is located in China. Even though a number of Chinese and Tibet airlines are connected to this airport, going there means you have to first reach China from your home country, to continue your journey towards Kailash Mansarovar.
Similarly, you can reach Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport, which is located in Lucknow city of Uttar Pradesh state in India. This airport is very well connected to most of the Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai etc. Even people coming to do Kailash Yatra from foreign countries like Dubai, Riyadh etc. can easily reach this airport, as a part of their journey.
Also, one can reach Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu, Nepal, which is very well connected to major cities across the globe in terms of flight travel.
Even after reaching any of the airports mentioned above, you have to travel at least two hundred kilometres or more, to reach Kailash Mansarovar. So, to make arrangements for the remaining journey after the air travel, you are advised to book a trip from a renowned tour operator.
For those who cannot afford air travel to Kailash Mansarovar, or do not want to use it, road transport is also available to fulfil their wish to make a visit to this Holy place. Buses for this journey are available from a number of regions of India, China and Nepal. If you are from India, you can easily get to know about tours to Kailash Mansarovar that are regularly organized by the Indian Government. Since the number of tourists who wish to visit this sacred, unique place always turns out to be more than expected every year, the number of seats in the buses is limited. So, you are advised to book your seats earlier in time.
In terms of road routes to be followed to reach Kailash Mansarovar, the site can be reached using four routes, including Indian border in Uttarakhand state, Shigatse in Tibet, Kashgar in China, and Hilsa in Nepal.
There is no railway station in Kailash Mansarovar. In fact, most of the railway stations near this holy place lies in India. These are Lucknow Railway Station, Kathgodam, Ramnagar, Kotdwara, Rishikesh and Haridwar. After reaching any of these railway stations as per the plan of the Yatra, one will need to hire a taxi to finally reach the destination.
Since the Kailash Mansarovar site is located in Tibet, any foreign national, whether he is from India, Nepal, China or others, need to get special permits to enter the region. More details of these permits can be best obtained by the tour operator you choose.
If the travel plan of a tour includes a visit to Kailash Mansarovar after passing through a number of countries, he should take permits or make arrangements for the trip accordingly.
As a matter of fact, you should also know that the best route you can follow to reach Kailash Mansarovar depends on the country you belong to. If you are a native of India, Nepal, China or Tibet, it would be easier for you to plan your journey, than in the case where you belong to any other foreign country.
To plan your journey to Kailash Mansarovar, it is thus important to make a booking with the help of a renowned tour operator.
How to go Kailash Mansarovar from India :
There are different ways to go on Yatra to Lake Mansarovar & Mount of Kailash, 1st option is directly from India which is organised by Government of India with help of Ministry of External Affairs. There are further 2 routes by Indian Gov route to Kailash Yatra, one is via Lipulekh Pass in Uttrakhand & another is via Nathu-La Pass in Sikkim.
There is another route to Mansarovar Kailash is via Nepal which is operative by private companies. There are further 2 options in Nepal Route to Kailash Mansarovar, one is by Helicopter Trip to Mt Kailash & another is Kailash Yatra by Road.
For people who want to go for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, the journey to this Holy place is quite difficult. To look at the scenic beauty around this place, one needs to be physically and mentally prepared for the same. Even there are fitness and health related guidelines and tests that need to be kept in mind, to become eligible to visit Kailash Mansarovar. A lot of people fail to fulfil their dream to visit this Holy place, just because they are not prepared for the tough situations to be faced for this journey. This is one of the reasons why it has been said that the actual journey for the Kailash Mansarovar starts well before the physical journey during the best season of making a visit.
Just believing in the saying that you can only visit there if you get the ‘call’ from the Heavens, will not do much good to you. All the pilgrims and tourists have to prepare themselves for the journey that they may be making just for once in their lifetime.
While it is believed that to visit Kailash Mansarovar is a journey to meet Lord Shiva who lives there. Even doing the preparation for it is no less than the journey itself.So, if you are planning to visit Mount Kailash ahead in time, here are some of the preparation tips you should know well about:
Some people do not want to experience the change in the way they live life, even when they are traveling to some distant mountainous region. This is just not good for those people who want to make a visit to Mount Kailash once in their lifetime. Over the mountains, they will need to trek, live in tents, eat only the food that is available. To do it all, it is important and is needed for an individual to move out of his comfort zone.
For people who want to get the religious benefits of making a visit to Kailash Mansarovar, it is recommended to eat only vegetarian food, not eating animal meat and products. Practicing to live by eating fruits and vegetables for some time will make it easier for you to make the journey to Mount Kailash. Similarly, one should practice eating dinner before sunset, or around the right time at least. All the addictive habits, such as that of drinking alcohol, smoking and drug addiction should be avoided.
To climb up a mountain or to do trekking, it requires an individual to be physically fit. Some people just think that doing some exercises just before they leave for Kailash Mansarovar, does not help them a lot. Instead, doing exercises regularly should be made a part of their lifestyle. This will prepare them to make a visit to Mount Kailash and face all the difficulties without being troubled.
As per the rules and guidelines, an unhealthy person who fails to qualify the tests related to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, will not be permitted to do that at any cost. This involves risk of life for such people. So, it is important for you to maintain a healthy body, by following a healthy lifestyle, free from addictions and stress. Along with that, you should keep your overall health checked, by getting certain medical tests regularly. This will not only help you change your lifestyle accordingly, but also prevent you from paying non-refundable deposits for medical tests that are done for Kailash Yatra. Keep in mind that it is only good to go to Mount Kailash, if you are fit for the same. Doing it otherwise, may cost you your life.
It is also believed that pilgrims who visit Mount Kailash return as a totally new person, as the journey changes his mind-set to a good extent. Going there with ego in mind is something that should also be avoided. That is why, you are advised to settle all monetary debts or promises made to loved ones, before you take on the pilgrimage. Similarly, if there are some people with whom you share soured relationships, try to spread love to them and change the bond you share with them. This all is advised just to remove ego off your mind, and to prepare it to receive the gifts that the journey to Kailash will give you.
While going for a trek or a visit to a mountainous region, over-packing should always be avoided. Similarly in the case of visiting Kailash Mansarovar, you should only pack things that are absolutely needed as a part of the journey. Anything more than that will most likely cause trouble to you.
Mount Kailash is the huge establishment of faith, religion, spirituality and hope for the almighty. It is located in the centre of the earth spreading wisdom and love to all the nooks and corners. Shaped like an Egyptian pyramid, Kailash is not just a mere huge black stone, it is a mountain of great spiritual and religious significance.
The great Kailash has a huge fondness for the number ‘4’. Mount Kailash is home to four great religions of this world, namely Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Bon. The four rivers Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Karnali and Indus emerge from the divine Kailash in four different directions dividing the world into four parts. And this is not the end, Mansarovar Kailash is also known for its four eminent faces.
It is believed that Mount Kailash is the Axis Mundi of the earth and each of its faces is ideally facing one of the directions completely on the axis. The pilgrims get to see the different faces of Mt. Kailash during the Parikrama (Kora) of Kailash Parvat. According to a narrative in the Vishnu Purana, it is said that each face of Kailash Mountain is made up of different Jewels and each depicts four different emotions.
The South Face of Mount Kailash is the backside of this gigantic mountain on which a spine-like long line is seen passing from the top to the base. According to the Hindu Pilgrims, this long line is considered to be the spine of Lord Shiva. Rakshastal is the point where we get the first glimpse of the holy Kailash Mountain and the face which is visible to us is the South Face of Mount Kailash. After Rakshastal we move towards Mansarovar Lake. The South Face of Mount Kailash can be spotted right in front of the lake. Yam Dwar is the starting point of Mount Kailash Parikrama. It is here that we come near the South Face of Mount Kailash and see it clearly. According to Vishnu Dharmottara Puran, Lord Shiva is five faced, out of which 4 faces are gentle and the fifth face which is the South Face is dangerous. Even death is afraid of this face. It is believed that by worshipping this face of Mount Kailash one gets protection from untimely death. The First day of Kailash Parvat Parikrama is the most auspicious one as Mount Kailash is visible throughout the day. We move from the South Face of Mount Kailash to the West Face of Mount Kailash followed by the North Face of Mount Kailash. The South Face of Mount Kailash is believed to be made up of Lapis Lazuli. This snow-covered face reflects majesty and splendour.
On the First Day, Mount Kailash Parikrama of 10km starts from Yamdwar where the South face of the Kailash is visible and we trek towards Dirapuk where the North face of the Kailash is visible. As we trek for about 2 to 3 hours and cover a midway distance, the South Face of Mount Kailash is replaced by the West Face of Mount Kailash and as we move further the West Face of Mount Kailash is replaced by the North Face of Mount Kailash. It is said that if you meticulously observe this face of the mountain you can spot a massive human-like face on its surface. The Bhole Bhakts believe it to be the face of Lord Shiva. The West Face of Mount Kailash is believed to be made up of Ruby. It embraces the aura of compassion and benevolence.
The North Face of Mt. Kailash is the most popular one. The most featured photo of Mt. Kailash that is widely seen on websites, magazines, newspapers, etc is of the North Face of Mount Kailash. The North Face is visible as you hike to reach Dirapuk on the First day of Mount Kailash Parikrama. When going for Charansparsh you can get even closer to the North Face of this sacred mountain. This is one of the most surreal sights of Kailash Mountain as North Face is the face of Mount Kailash which is visible between two mountains. When the sun's rays fall on the face of Mount Kailash, it makes it shine like gold, hence giving Mt. Kailash the name of Golden Kailash. The North Face of Mount Kailash is believed to be made up of Gold. It has crisp and sharp features that showcase an intimidating and menacing feeling.
The East Face of Kailash Mountain can be spotted only at a distance. It is clearly visible when going for the Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash. You can also get some glimpse of the East face on the Second Day of Outer Parikrama of Mount Kailash when we start from Dirapuk and reach Dolma La Pass- the highest point of Kailash Parikrama and descend towards Gauri Kund. After this point, the view of the East face of Mount Kailash starts to diminish and hide behind other mountain peaks. The East Face of Mount Kailash is believed to be made up of Crystal and is the most mysterious face of Mount Kailash.
Mount Kailash has always been the best example of magnificence showcasing Mount Kailash Shiva Face. To experience the beauty of these four faces of Mount Kailash, we must take up the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at least once in our lifetime.
On the sanctified city of Nepal, Shri Pashupatinathji Temple increases the beauty of the place. It is one of the most prominent Hindu temples since ancient times and exists on the Bagmati River of Kathmandu. This religious temple holds the holy symbol the almighty, Lord Shiva.
Hindus have deep faith and religious values for the Nepal Pashupatinath temple. Thousands of Hindus and international tourists come to experience the divinity of this place. Unlike the other Nepal temples, Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal is the collation of pure shrines, ashrams, inscriptions, and various other religious rituals performed here. The Pashupati Nath Mandir enjoys a special listing on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since the era of 1979.
There are amazing stories attached with the temple that increases the excitement of exploring the place. One of them states when Lord Shiva took the form of an antelope, the other gods tried to hold him and force him to perform his divine powers. The broken horn was worshipped for many years.
It is also believed that a group of herdsmen noticed their cow pouring its milk on the soil and they found the Sacred Linga of Pashupatinath Kathmandu Temple after digging the soil deep.
The serene beauty of the Pashupatinath Nepal Temple and its surrounding area is a must see for every explorer. Start planning today!
Also see: Pashupati Nath Temple
Book Puja at Nepal's Pashupatinath Temple
Situated in the picturesque Trans- Himalayas, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are a treat for the eyes of tourists reaching there from all over the world. Just looking at the serene lake Mansarovar next to the snow-capped Mount Kailash relaxes their minds and touches their soul. Since it is also believed that one can attain the state of Nirvana or salvation there, thousands of people plan their trip to Kailash Mansarovar every year, irrespective of the high altitude, harsh weather and uneasy path. The trip tests your physical endurance and mental health. Thus, choosing the desirable time will help you be mentally and physically prepared.
Often, lots of people feel confused to decide the best time to plan Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, if you are planning to go on a Kailash Mansarovar trip, know about the best time of the year to plan the trip around:
A trip to Kailash Mansarovar can be best enjoyed during the early summer months of April to June (Starts from May & continues till September). Each month has some positive and negative points. Like May is good but one might find some snow and melted glacial water in the Parikrama marg. June is good but there is a huge rush being a vacation month. July and August witness some rainfall but there is less rush during these months. September is pleasant and the temperature is also moderate. Most of the people prefere May and June, or the time of mid July till October (If you are taking the Overland route, then all months are good except July). This is the ideal time to make a visit to this wonderful place because of a number of reasons:
Ideal Temperature for a Trip
The temperature of the surroundings of Kailash Mansarovar stays around 10 to 15 degree Celsius during early Summers, or post monsoon in India. The tourists feel great, enjoying the heat from the sun, being near to the mountains. Since the temperature dips to lowest, people are advised not to visit Mount Kailash and Manasarovar in Winters.
Outdoor Activities Are Possible
It always feels great to enjoy outdoor activities like trekking and bonfire evenings near Kailash Mansarovar, which is only possible in good weather conditions of the Summers. This implies that if you plan properly, you can have a great experience during the trip.
No Obstacles to Pilgrimage
A lot of pilgrims visit Kailash Mansarovar to cleanse off their sins, and to bring good fortune in their lives. They bathe in Lake Mansarovar and circumambulate around Mount Kailash, as per their religious beliefs. To fulfill their desires without any obstacle, they prefer to plan the trip in the ideal time of Summers or post monsoon months.
Children’s Summer Holidays
You can also plan a family trip to the Kailash Mansarovar during Summer holidays, which mostly falls in the month of June. Being there in the vicinity of the mountains and the beautiful Mansarovar Lake, your children will enjoy the trip to the fullest.
To Enjoy Saga Dawa Festival
During the ideal time, the sacred Saga Dawa festival is also celebrated in Tibet. This festival is known amongst Tibetan monks, people and even tourists to do certain religious activities at this time. They do good deeds during the festival, such as not killing animals for meat etc. So, by visiting Kailash Mansarovar during the perfect time, you get to enjoy this festival too. (Yatra generally starts after that &nobig celebration in Kailash Part).
The temperature of Kailash Mansarovar lies around 10 to 15 degree Celsius, and may even fall to 5 degree Celsius around snowy trails. You are advised to carry ample woolen clothing with you, to stay healthy and avoid falling sick during the trip. It may become hard to find a good doctor in the mountainous terrain so one needs to follow the pre-provided instructions during the yatra.
Apart from the yatra timings, it is also important to know the time when the booking for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra opens and closes. Ideally, it is best to book your tour at least two – three months prior to the date of the departure you plan (Focus on early booking to get a good discount & confirmed seats). Yatra permit is applied for groups, approximately 45 days before so there might be a probability that you don't get preferred dates at the last moment. This is because thousands of pilgrims visit there, which also leads to price hike in the cost of accommodation in the best hotels there.
So, whether you wish to visit Kailash Mansarovar alone, as a family trip, or for pilgrimage, you should keep in mind that planning your travel for the suitable month is really important.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra comes with unique experiences for the travelers in a number of ways. Witnessing the divine view of Mount Kailash while taking a dip into the sacred water of Lake Mansarovar is believed to cleanse off all the sins of the pilgrims. Most of the travelers focus more on enjoying the scenic beauty of Kailash Mansarovar. The Trek to Kailash is difficult, but rewarding one. But it is also important to keep in mind certain important tips to ensure safety when visiting Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
If you are planning to go on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year, then here is your guide to How to Plan Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You need to be prepared about the Kailash Parvat Trekking by keeping in mind the following 10 significant tips:
There are some things that cannot be explained, or perhaps, we human beings don’t have the vocabulary to explain them. One such intriguing thing is the phenomenon that is Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. There are so many stories and mythological tales about them that defy scientific explanation but that in no way indicates that it is all imaginary. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered as one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus. Every year, the Kailash Yatra is made by thousands of pilgrims who come to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and get absolution for their sins. Read on to get a scientific light on this most fascinating of geographical structures.
Manasarovar Lake and RakshasTal
Both these lakes are situated at the feet of Mount Kailash. While the first one is considered to be the lake where Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma swim as swans and is thus highly sacred, the second one is considered its antithesis. What is fascinating about these two lakes is that while Lake Manasarovar is a freshwater lake, the Rakshas Tal contains salty water and is deprived of all living beings. The Rakshas Tal is also the highest saltwater lake in the world. Another point that is considered mysterious is that Lake Mansarovar is placid even when the weather turns windy while the Rakshas Tal stays turbulent no matter what the weather is like!
Time travels faster near Kailash Mansarovar
No one knows why people who go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra experience a faster rate of growth for hair and nails during the expedition! But it has happened to many people. It may have something to do with the air in the region which makes time go faster. In fact, a few years ago, a group of Siberian mountaineers who went beyond a certain point in their effort to climb Mount Kailash experienced very fast aging. They not only aged a few decades in a matter of days but they all died within a year of the expedition! Why? Well, this is something science cannot explain.
Kailash Parvat is the Axis Mundi
Mount Kailash is considered to be the Axis Mundi by Hindu and many non-Hindu people. This means that it is the world’s axis, the world’s pillar, the world tree or the center of the world. Believers think that it is the point where the earth meets heaven. Even Google Maps vouch for the considerable axis-like features of Mount Kailash.
Mansarovar Kailash is forbidden area
Something that science cannot explain about Mount Kailash is why it is such a forbidden area or why people who try to climb it have been failing for centuries. Mount Kailash is a mountain that is yet to be climbed and there is no record in recent history that it has been climbed by man. Hindu believers consider it to be a place of great reverence and hence think that climbing it would be trespassing on heaven where men don’t belong. Hindus don’t want to hurt the sanctity of this divine area because doing so would be disturbing the transcendent energies there. Folklore has it that many centuries ago a Tibetan monk named Milarepa reached the top of Mount Kailash but when he returned, he warned everyone never to venture there again considering the sanctity of the place. In recent years, many expert mountaineers have tried to climb Mount Kailash but not only have they been unable to do it, but they have also faced many obstacles on the way. What is intriguing is that Mount Everest, which stands a lot taller than Mount Kailash, is a peak that has been climbed many times!
Is Mount Kailash a pyramid?
Lots of scientific studies have been conducted on Mount Kailash to try to make some sense of the bewildering array of attributes it possesses but to no avail. What is fascinating is that while all the mountains in this region are pointed, Mount Kailash is curved from the top and has the shape of a rough Shivling. Even when there is no snow on the hills, you will find it at Mount Kailash like nature is doing ‘JalaAbhishekam’ of Lord Shiva. Russian scientists once made the claim that Mount Kailash is actually a man-made pyramid and it is the center of the universe! Are some superhuman beings responsible for building it? We don’t really know!
Mount Kailash is known to change positions.
Another mysterious attribute of this mountain is that it is known to change positions! Bewildered mountaineers who have tried to reach its peak have lost track of time and place during their expedition, and have thereby returned!
The chanting of Om
Pilgrims have often experienced the vibration and sound of Om when they are in this region. There is no scientific explanation for this though believers think that it is Lord Shiva, the eternal Yogi, chanting ‘Om’.
The Kailash Yatra is truly a journey every Hindu should go on at least once. The mystic, peace, tranquility and beauty of the region know no bounds.
Mount Kailash, which stands high at 6,638 meters, is the most important pilgrimage for Hindus. Going there is not easy but devout pilgrims have been going there for centuries. It is believed that doing a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash and taking a dip in the nearby Lake Mansarovar cleanses a man of all the sins he may have committed in previous births. It is not just in Hinduism that Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is considered sacred; this region has religious significance for Buddhists, Jains and Bons as well. If you are planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is important that you choose a good tour operator who will ensure that you have a safe and sound journey throughout.
There are quite a few tour operators working in the region but if you were to choose someone you can rely on for great packages and a comfortable trip, then Kailash Ji Yatra agency is the best choice. There are many reasons for this. This is an agency that has been in operation since 1995, which says a lot about its continued experience in the sector. Also, it offers several packages that give the option of prices, starting points and means of transport to pilgrims. If you want to do the Kailash Yatra by helicopter from Kathmandu, then this agency is by far the best one to choose.
The Kailash Ji Yatra agency does not just offer a helicopter route from Kathmandu, it also has a helicopter route via Lucknow. This means that you can choose the starting point depending on where you live and what will be easier for you.
This agency is widely renowned also because it gives one the opportunity of completing the Yatra in much less time than many think possible. For example, the helicopter route from Kathmandu takes just 14 days and if you were to choose the helicopter route via Lucknow, it is going to take you between 5 and 11 days to complete the whole journey. This is certainly good news for pilgrims who have a job and can’t take out three weeks for the Yatra but still want to go. It also makes sense for people who are traveling with elderly persons who don’t have the physical ability to trek for much of a distance.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is said to be an experience that few can describe in words. The majestic beauty of the place coupled with the absolute mysticity of Lord Shiva’s abode will make this trip a very memorable one.
The Kailash Mansarovar does not belong to India because it is located in Tibet, which is an autonomous state under Chinese authority.
The Kailash Mansarovar has a lot of significance in Hinduism, which is the most popular religion in India. Devout Hindus believe that Mount Kailash, which is a part of the Trans-himalayan region, is the abode of Lord Shiva. Lake Mansarovar, which lies about 20 kms away from Mount Kailash, is also believed to be a highly sacred point. So it is a fair question to ask about why Kailash Mansarovar does not belong to India. Read on to know more about why this is the case.
In the past 500 years at least, Tibet was never under Indian rule. Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar belong to the remote western part of the Tibetan kingdom and reaching them was always difficult. However, there were always trade and cultural ties between India and Tibet. Tibetan scholars of ancient times came to India to study in its universities. However, Tibet was never a part of India.
For many centuries, yogis and learned men travelled to Tibet to pay their respects to Lord Shiva. It was and still is a treacherous terrain and many died along the way, but many did go to Mount Kailash because they believed that their sins would be washed away if they did this. It is only now that Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has become a common affair with the Indian government and private tour operators taking it upon themselves to make the whole process as easy as possible for pilgrims.
Many people have the question that where is Kailash Mansarovar or Kailash Parvat kahan hai? Literally and geographically, Kailash Mansarovar is a part of China, though it is in Tibet, which is an autonomous state in china. Tibetans have always been a warm and friendly people and with the Chinese government trying to control everything, it is a matter of political debate about what the status of Tibet should actually be.
Kailash Mansarovar not belonging to India is a sad thing no doubt. Being a place that is so highly revered by Hindus, not being able to go on pilgrimage there without the aid of passport and Visa is certainly not something to be happy about. What is surprising is that Mount Kailash, which finds mention in ancient Indian scriptures like Vedas and Puranas, is located in Tibet. Though no historical or archaeological evidence has been found, it certainly is a point that makes one wonder whether that region was a part of India in very ancient times.
As an Indian citizen, you will certainly need a valid passport and Visa permit to go on the Yatra, but otherwise, it is a journey you can make without any logistical issue. Here are some pointers to keep in mind for the Kailash Yatra:
When you have decided to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, there are a few things you need to know about it. Mount Kailash is located in western Tibet and reaching it can be a treacherous and tough trek. The best time to go as recommended by the Ministry of External Affairs is between June and September.
If you decide to go to Kailash Mansarovar by land, you are setting yourself up for a long and arduous trek which will involve a lot of physical activity on your part. There are big perks if you go on the Yatra this way considering the majestic beauty you get to witness on the trek and while traveling by transport. It is true that going by helicopter has become popular in recent years because of its easy availability made possible by many private tour operators, but a huge number of people do it by land. Mount Kailash sits at an altitude of 19,500 feet and since it is a part of the Trans-Himalayas, you can expect freezing and rough weather there. That is why this Yatra is considered to be one of the most difficult pilgrimages one can go on.
Whether you go on the routes conducted by the Ministry of External Affairs or with a private tour operator, you will most likely have to go in the months between June and September. This is the time when the weather of the region is the best and also when there is the least chance of landslides and natural calamities happening. The MEA-conducted Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is scheduled in batches of pilgrims who wish to go and they are always given dates during this time of the year because of the relative safety.
Mount Kailash has been mentioned in many ancient Indian texts as the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva. It is believed that he meditates on the mountain and lives there with his divine consort Goddess Parvati. Hindus consider the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as one of the most sacred pilgrimages they can make. They believe that a ‘parikrama’ of the mountain and a dip in the calm waters of Lake Mansarovar will strip them of all the sins they may have committed in their past lifetimes. Many believe that those who return from the Yatra do so as new persons because the journey and all that it brings them face to face changes them forever. If salvation and redemption are things that your heart desires, then this is the journey you may want to do at least once in your lifetime.
Here are a few things you need to know:
The best way to start your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is without expecting anything and being ready to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva. Go with a clean slate and you will certainly have memorable moments to cherish all your life.
Unlike visiting any other mountainous region in India for Indians, planning to do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not equally easier. This is because of the certain rules and guidelines to be followed to do the Yatra. Along with this, you will need to get the required permits and get your health condition checked to know if you are really eligible to make a visit to Kailash Mansarovar. While there are a number of guidelines to meet to become eligible for this Yatra, one restriction is made on the basis of the age of an individual.
Not everyone is eligible to visit the Holy place of Kailash Mansarovar, even though he can afford the journey. The age range of people who are allowed to go on this journey is between seven years and to a maximum of seventy years of age. You should also know that age is not the only factor that determines the eligibility of an individual to qualify for this Yatra. Your health condition also matters. To make the final decision of going for this Yatra, it is best to consult with a renowned tour operator in India.
Furthermore, this age and health restriction is made by the Ministry of external Affairs of India, and not by any other local authority.
If you have read about the physical and mental strength required to go for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you must have reached to the conclusion that it is not easy. Even adults who are totally fit may find it difficult to climb up the mountains and stay there in uncertain weather conditions. In between all this, taking a child for this Yatra is no less than risking his life. In that sense, the age restriction to do this Yatra that is laid by the government is totally correct. A child of age less than seven is not allowed to do this Yatra, which is good for his own well-being.
If you see it from another perspective, a child alone cannot obviously apply for the Yatra, but with his parents or guardians. The internal organs of a child under the age of seven are still not strong as that of an adult to bear the harshness of this long journey to the mountains. Taking a child to do this journey also implies that even parents would not be able to enjoy the best part of this journey. They will be more interested in taking good care of their child. So, even in this sense, the age restriction holds valid.
This is nearly the same as in the case of a child. You may also have heard that a child and an old-age person is nearly equivalent in a number of ways. This statement is common and is true as well. If you consider this in terms of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will get to understand that it is not good for a person who has crossed his age of seventy to go for this journey. Neither it is possible in most cases and thus, nor allowed by the government. This is because, after a certain age, the ability of an individual to climb mountains and trek is nearly lost. His muscular strength does not allow him to go on a trek on the mountains, just to follow some religious beliefs. If done so, this would certainly cause a lot of problems to the caretaker of a senior person during the journey. Losing life while on Kailash Yatra is something no one would like to happen to him ever.
So, it is best for an individual to do the trek in the right age of adulthood, like in the twenties or thirties, or even till the late forties. It is generally riskier for old age people than these age categories, to go on a Kailash Yatra. However, you may find some exceptions of impressively fit old individuals in their late fifties, who have maintained their health just to be able to do Kailash Yatra once in their lifetime.
If an individual is old enough, but lies in the eligible age category for Kailash Yatra and is fit and healthy, the best way he can follow to fulfill his dream to do this Yatra is to apply for it along with one or more young members of his family. This will not only make the young individuals know well about the religious importance of Kailash Mansarovar but also give them an experience that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. Alongside, they will take good care of the senior member of their family they are traveling with, and help him realize his dream of visiting Kailash Mansarovar for religious rituals as well as for tourism purposes.
Also Read
Situated in the picturesque landscape of Tibet, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages not only by Hindus but also by Jains and Buddhists. Thousands of Yatries from all across the world visit this holy place every year. The divine spiritual journey to Kailash Mansarovar can provide reincarnation and purification of the soul.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra season is from May to September. Each month has some positive and negative points. To witness the aura and beauty of this holy place, one needs to visit Kailash Mansarovar at the right time with the appropriate weather conditions. Kailash Mansarovar has a cold and dry type of climate, with a major temperature difference between day and night. The in depth detail about the Kailash Parvat Weather is given below:
April, May and June is the summer season in Kailash Mansarovar. It is the beginning month of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The temperature during this time ranges from 8°C to 16°C in the day and lows of around 5°C at the night. May or June is also when one can witness the famous Saga Dawa Festival in Tibet.
July to Mid August is the monsoon season in Kailash Mansarovar. Being a deserted land, the rain showers in Tibet don’t last for long and the land gets dried quickly. Quite a lot of people prefer this month because it is the holy month of Shravana. The average temperature during this time is 10°C to 23°C.
Late August to September is the post-monsoon season in Kailash Mansarovar. These months are considered best for Mount Kailash Parikrama as there is comparatively less crowd. The average temperature throughout the month is about 20°C during the day and 10°C during the night.
October to March is the winter season in Kailash Mansarovar. The temperature during these months drops to as low as - 20°C with freezing cold wind blowing in the region. The snowfall starts in October, continues nonstop in November, December, January and February and starts reducing in March. The heavy snowfall and dropping temperature make the Kailash Mansarovar region inaccessible as the roads are blocked.
You must be inquisitive to know the temperature of the Kailash Mansarovar locale before taking a sacred trip to Kailash Mansarovar. Based on our research, Trip To Temples provides you with a provisional weather and temperature chart for important destinations falling on the Kailash Mansarovar route.
Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. Being well connected with all modes of transport, The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package from Lucknow is the most popular one. Lucknow is the starting and ending point of this Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route by helicopter. People alternatively start their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Kathmandu also. Lucknow is located at a distance of 185km from the Nepal border. Lucknow lies in the Northern hemisphere, the climate is mild and generally warm and temperate. Summer starts in May and ends in September.
The helicopter and flight service for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra starts from Nepalganj. It is a small town in Nepal located about 185km from the Indian border. It is well connected to the border town of Uttar Pradesh, India. Lying in the Northern hemisphere, Nepalganj also has a climate similar to that of Lucknow. May is the warmest month and January is the coldest month.
Simikot is a hidden gem of the Humla district of Nepal. The town offers a mesmerizing view of hills and lush greenery. It is the primary spot from where you may start feeling the impact of elevation. Simikot has a continental type of climate, summers are short and mild and winters last longer.
Hilsa is a small village on the Nepal- Tibet border from where you cross the hanging bridge on the Karnali river to enter Tibet for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This Karnali river is the only major river in the Kailash Mansarovar route. It resembles Ladakh of India in terms of terrain and climate. Hilsa has a cold climate for most part of the year.
Purang is a small and clean town with lots of shops on both sides of the road. You can purchase necessary items from the market and prepare yourself for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The town remains cold most of the time as it has a cold arid climate and summers are short and mild.
Mansarovar is the holiest lake in Tibet. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Indra Deva swam here as Swans. According to Hindu Mythology, Lake Mansarovar was first created by Lord Brahma in his mind and was later materialized on Earth. It is at Lake Mansarovar that you get the first glimpse of Mount Kailash. During the Kailash Yatra season, the weather at Lake Mansarovar remains mild and pleasant. The cold and fast wind blows during the night.
Darchen is the base for Mount Kailash Parikrama. It is a small town located in the south of Mount Kailash. The environment and people of Darchen are very hospitable. The town comes to light during the Saga Dawa Festival of Tibet. The weather in Darchen is cold and windy. It is advisable to wear warm clothes and cover your head and ear properly to avoid the cold wind hitting you.
Mount Kailash or the Kailash Parvat is the first of Panch Kailash. It is situated in Tibet- the autonomous region of China. The mountain is considered holy and is important for Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. According to ancient myths, Mount Kailash is the birthplace of the entire universe. The greatness of this holy peak cannot be explained in words. Mount Kailash is one of the coldest areas of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Being a place of high altitude, the weather is harsh and the oxygen level is low at Mount Kailash. You will feel cold throughout Mount Kailash Parikrama.
After completing the first day 10km Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Yamdwar, the yatries reach Dhirapuk. It is the point which gives you the best view of Mount Kailash between two mountain ranges. One can get to see Silver and Golden Kailash from Dhirapuk.
On the second day, 22km Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Dhirapuk takes you to Zuthulpuk. This 22km trek is divided into 6km uphill, 6km downhill and 10km plain. En route to Zuthulpuk, one gets to witness Shivasthal, Dolma La Pass (the highest point of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra), and Gauri Kund.
Kathmandu is the starting point of the Overland Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package. Located in the Himalayas, Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. While starting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Kathmandu, you will also get to seek blessings at Pashupatinath Ji Mandir, Boudhnath Stupa, and Jal Narayan Vishnu Temple. Kathmandu lies in the temperate zone and has a mild climate throughout the year, generally warm and temperate.
Syabrubesi is one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal covered in green hills. The amazing location of Syabrubesi makes it the base for many popular trekking trails in Nepal and a gateway for Langtang Valley. Syabrubesi has a temperate climate and temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C in summers and 10°C to 20°C in winters.
Kyirong is the gateway village between Nepal and Tibet. It is considered the most beautiful valley of Tibet with lush green surroundings and snow-capped mountains. Kyirong is also known as the Valley of Happiness. The weather in Kyirong is similar to that of Nepal because of its close proximity to the Nepal border. The temperature remains warmer and more humid than in other parts of Tibet.
Dongba has been an ancient trading hub of Tibet on the Tea Horse Road. It is a town famous for its Tibetan folk houses. There are many small shops and markets available to buy things for Kailash Yatra. The summers in Dongba are long and warm and the winters are short and freezing.
Saga is a beautiful and last major town on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route. It offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau landscape and the Himalayan Mountains. The town is popularly known as Happy Land. Saga has a mainly dry climate with a typical semi-arid plateau climate with temperatures ranging as high as 23°C in summers to as low as -23°C in winters.
Mansarovar is the holiest lake in Tibet. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Indra Deva swam here as Swans. According to Hindu Mythology, Lake Mansarovar was first created by Lord Brahma in his mind and was later materialized on Earth. It is at Lake Mansarovar that you get the first glimpse of Mount Kailash. During the Kailash Yatra season, the weather at Lake Mansarovar remains mild and pleasant. The cold and fast wind blows during the night.
Darchen is the base for Mount Kailash Parikrama. It is a small town located in the south of Mount Kailash. The environment and people of Darchen are very hospitable. The town comes to light during the Saga Dawa Festival of Tibet. The weather in Darchen is cold and windy. It is advisable to wear warm clothes and cover your head and ear properly to avoid the cold wind hitting you.
Mount Kailash is the first of Panch Kailash. It is situated in Tibet- the autonomous region of China. The mountain is considered holy and is of great importance for Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. According to history, Lord Shiva resided here with his family. The greatness of this holy peak cannot be explained in words. Mount Kailash is one of the coldest areas of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Being a place of high altitude, the weather is harsh and the oxygen level is low at Mount Kailash. You will feel cold throughout Mount Kailash Parikrama.
After completing the first day 10km Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Yamdwar, the yatries reach Dhirapuk. It is the point which gives you the best view of Mount Kailash between two mountain ranges. One can get to see Silver and Golden Kailash from Dhirapuk.
On the second day 22km Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Dhirapuk takes you to Zuthulpuk. This 22km trek is divided into 6km uphill, 6km downhill and 10km plain. En route to Zuthulpuk, one gets to witness Shivasthal, Dolma La Pass (the highest point of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra), and Gauri Kund.
Being located at a great height of 6,638 m above sea level, snow-capped Mount Kailash and serene Lake Mansarovar is no less than natural wonders for the tourists who visit there. They call them ‘The Jewels of Tibet’ because of the natural brilliance that evokes these two sites. For tourists and pilgrims who visit these sites from different parts of the world every year, knowing well about the weather here, the people, climate, best time to visit here etc. is important before planning a travel to Mansarovar river. With proper knowledge and guidance, one can enjoy the trip without challenging their physical or mental health. Also, as per religious values, doing this trip at the right time and in the right manner brings good fortune to the tourists.
Here is a complete travel guide to help people to plan their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:
Weather is one of the most common concerns for people who wish to make a visit to these sites, without any inconvenience. Since the weather around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar remains good and open during the summer and monsoon seasons, people are generally recommended to plan to visit there during the months of May to October. Furthermore, good weather does not cause any problems for those people, whose sole purpose to visit there is a pilgrimage.
The temperature of that region during the best time of visit is generally around 10 to 15 degree Celsius, which is still lower than the temperature in the plains of India at that time. Therefore, people are recommended to carry woolen wear with them, to stay protected in terms of their health while doing the Kailash Yatra
This section of the blog is about how to travel to Kailash Mansarovar. Unfortunately, there is no big International airport near to the site. One can only reach the nearest airport of NgariGunsa, which is connected to Kashgar in China. Certain airlines like China Eastern Airlines, Tibet airlines, etc. give service to this airport.
Other than that, the other airport from where the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from India can be started is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. Tourists from different Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc., or those coming from a foreign land to any of the major Indian cities, can reach Lucknow Airport easily via flight.
Another airport that can be chosen is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, which is also well-connected to different cities in India and around the globe.
Depending on the itinerary made by the tour operator chosen, a tourist needs to travel via road and even trek, to reach Kailash Mansarovar from any of the airports mentioned above. Generally, the flights to these nearest airports are available without delays, except in winter when heavy fog can cause delays. Since Kailash Mansarovar is a part of Tibet, one should also know about the permits that foreign nationals need to enter the region.
Check Out Kailash Yatra Packages
People from several different religions visit Kailash Mansarovar as per their thoughts and preferences, some of them visit there as pilgrims, to cleanse their souls by drinking water or bathing in Lake Mansarovar. While there are also those tourists, who visit there just to enjoy the amazing landscape at that great height. The picturesque beauty, which is impossible to be seen in the plain areas of India or other parts of the world, can be enjoyed and witnessed at this site. For pilgrims, people take their Pandits with them to this site and do Havans there.
Trekking as an outdoor activity under the guidance of tour operators is also possible there.
In the region near the Kailash Mansarovar, the climate is cold and dry, as typical in Tibet. Summers start from May to August, with an average temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius. When it rains there, the temperature falls to low values. Kalash Mansarovar Weather varies from season to season. Winters occur from November to April and temperatures can reach -15 degree Celsius. Know More
In Hindu mythology, the site of Kailash Mansarovar or Manas Kailash has great value. Hindus consider the Kailash Parvat Yatra very religious, believing that Lord Shiva resides there with Mata Parvati. This site has also been mentioned in the Vishnu Purana. Also, it is believed that Lord Brahma thought of the first lake in his mind, which later became Lake Mansarovar.
As per Buddhism too, Lake Mansarovar, sometimes also known as Mansarovar River holds religious significance and is talked about with several teachings in Buddhist literature. It is also associated with one of the Buddhist Gurus, Guru Rinpoche, who is known to preach Buddhism in the region. Know More
Also Find:
Mount Kailash is one of the holiest places in the world for Hindus. It is the abode of Lord Shiva and it is said that visiting Mount Kailash is enough to wash away all the sins of even previous births.
A lot of the devotees have the question Where is Mount Kailash located?, the answer to Kailash Parvat Location is that Kailash Parvat is not exactly a part of China but Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is situated in Tibet, which is under the administrative rule of China.
The truth is that Mount of Kailash and Lake Mansarovar were never a part of India. In the past few centuries too, it was never a part of any major Indian empire. Kailash was part of Nepal a long time back and was ruled by a Nepali King. It was the Nepali king who gifted the Kailash area to a Tibetan King as dowry for his daughter’s marriage and then it became a part of Tibet.
After that, it has always been Tibetan territory and when India got independence in 1947, it was still the case.
India has never had a problem with Tibet. We also had strong cultural and trade ties with Tibet for centuries and many Tibetan scholars came to India to study in its famed universities. But when the Red Army of China annexed Tibet in the 1950s, India stood mutely and perhaps that was a diplomatic blunder of considerable proportions. However, thousands of Indian Hindu pilgrims go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra every year in peace and harmony.
The Hindu religion puts a lot of reverence on Lord Shiva, whom it considers to be the powerful, the strong and the willful. Hindus believe that Lord Shiva resides in Mount Kailash in a state of meditation. He lives there along with his divine consort, Parvati. Mount Kailash is considered to be the Shiva Temple in China.
It is considered that Lake Mansarovar first originated in the mind of Lord Brahma, after which it came into physical existence. The Manasarovar Lake is said to be a place where Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva swim as swans during ‘Brahma Muhurta’ or the period of time just before dawn. This is a time period which is considered extremely auspicious in Hindu tradition.
If a devotee can do a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash and take a dip in the holy waters of Lake Mansarovar, it is believed that all the sins he committed in his past 100 lives will be absolved and he will be a new man.
Most Hindus wish to go on the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra at least once in their lifetimes considering how highly revered it is. Devotees from all over the world visit this Shiva temple in China and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. If you are interested in knowing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra cost, then you will be happy to know that different price points are available to suit the demands of every pocket.
Here are a few things to know about it
Since the government route is longer and involves extra days and physical effort, there is a strict medical procedure done before one is allowed to go. In fact, a pilgrim can be sent back from any point during the Kailash Yatra if a medical condition arises.
However, if you are going by the Nepal route, then the private tour operator follows the acclimatization procedure and plans the Manasarovar Yatra accordingly so that pilgrims get adjusted to the high altitudes. A good part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra gets done by helicopter and that further minimizes the medical risks.
In 2017, China refused the entry of 47 Indian pilgrims to the area who wanted to travel through the Nathu-la pass in Sikkim. The inclement weather and the bad road conditions were the reasons given for the denial of entry. As the trek is not an easy one, the safety and security of the pilgrims should be the first priority for government officials on both sides. Thousands of pilgrims brave the mountainous terrain every year to offer their respects to the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati and get blessings in return.
If you are planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is a good idea to follow all government guidelines for safety and security purposes. Good-quality tennis shoes, a backpack and a walking stick are must-have items to carry. This is truly the journey of a lifetime, and will build memories that one can cherish all life.
If you are planning a trip to Kailash Mansarovar, then expect it to be a life-changing experience. Mount Kailash is not just a mountain, it is a lot more than that. Believed by the Hindus to be the abode of Lord Shiva, it is a place that is holy, sacred and highly revered. The majestic landscape is not the only attraction of the Yatra because this is a trip that is more than just a journey.
People sharing their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra’s personal experiences talk about how the journey is not just about the outside world, but about one’s inner journey as well. The spiritual connotations of the Kailash Yatra is based on Hindu mythology which believes that doing a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash is going to wash away all the sins a person may have committed in past lives. It is also believed that those who make this Yatra will be able to go to heaven after death. The afterlife is something most devout Hindus believe in and going to heaven is a desire they have in their hearts. Here are a few valuable tips and suggestions for anyone planning to go on the Yatra of a lifetime.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one pilgrimage that perhaps most devout Hindus want to make at least once. It does not matter if one is young or old, if one believes in Shiva, then making a pilgrimage to his heavenly abode on Mount Kailash is something that you hold deep in your heart. Every year, hundreds of devout Hindus travel miles, by foot, buses, jeeps and helicopters, to reach this mountain which stands tall at 22,000 feet in the kingdom of Tibet. The journey is a treacherous and long one, but if you want to make it, no one can stop you. However, it is always wise to know as much about it as possible. Following are some of the things you should take care about when planning the holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
There are several options available as to how you can make this pilgrimage. Here are the three best ways to do it.
No matter which route you choose, wearing comfortable shoes is very important because you will be using your feet a lot during the journey. Tennis shoes are great but make sure that they are not brand-new. Also, carry an extra pair of shoes just in case your primary pair causes problems. Also, good quality socks are essential. Remember, the climatic conditions in the area are cold and you will almost always have to wear socks. Carry a few pairs so that if any of them get wet, you don’t have to go without socks.
It is important to remember never to over-exert yourself during the journey. It is also important to not skip meals and to constantly keep yourself hydrated. You can become weak, dehydrated or suffer from low blood sugar levels at any time which can be terrible for your Kailash experience.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is special but the terrain is treacherous one. As such, you need to be in good shape when you start the journey. That is why it is advisable to set up an appointment with the doctor to find out if anything is wrong with your health and take proper medications. People with asthma and breathing troubles should ideally not go on this journey because of the high altitude and weather conditions.
It is important that people who decide to go on the Kailash Yatra have the right sort of expectations from it. The KailashMansarovarYatra costs vary from one operator to the next but it is crucial that people understand that no matter what, luxury is not something they can enjoy on the journey. You will not only be traveling to a different country, you will be traveling to an area that has a sparse population and has few amenities to offer. Instead, it is a good idea to take the Kailash Mansarovar trip for what it is: a journey to the home of Lord Shiva and pay him respect. It is believed that doing a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash and taking a dip in Lake Mansarovar washes off all the sins one may have committed in past lives and is therefore the gateway to heaven. So don’t expect luxury and instead enjoy the pilgrimage by keeping a calm and cool mind. If you are going in a group, try to keep an amiable spirit so that everyone enjoys the experience.
Mount Kailash has a special place in the hearts of devout Hindus of India. They believe this snow-capped mountain to be the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva. Every year, many Shiv-bhakts make the annual pilgrimage to Mount Kailash to pay their respects and seek blessings. If you want to know more about how Mount Kailash became a part of China, then it is best that you know more about Tibet.
Mount Kailash is one of the highest peaks of the Kailash range, which forms a part of the Trans-himalayas. The Trans-himalayas are located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Mount Kailash is thus a part of the kingdom of Tibet, which is under the authority of China. Lake Mansarovar is situated about 20 km from Mount Kailash. Both Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are considered to be extremely sacred and thus Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage most Hindus want to go on. The Government of India has routes for the Yatra though there are many private tour operators working in the arena as well.
There has been no record of Mount Kailash ever being a part of India in recent history. There is no doubt that this is a peak that has been mentioned in several Hindu scriptures like the Vedas and the Skanda Purana, but the fact of the matter is that it was never under Indian control. There has been talk that former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was responsible for Chinese occupation of Tibet and thereby Mount Kailash, but that is just political propaganda with absolutely no truth in it. There can be lots of debate regarding Nehru’s role in India-China relationship but when it comes to Kailash Mansarovar, the fact remains that he had no hand in it being under China authority.
The imperial British wanted a hand in the pie that was Tibet and it tried its hand at wanting to gain control over at least a few parts of it. The British basically wanted control over the trading towns of Arunachal Pradesh. In 1904, the British armed with troops attacked the town of Lhasa. The British were not able to gain control over the land and instead a treaty was drawn up in which provisions were made to respect the frontiers of Sikkim and Tibet. It was done to make easy trade possible between the British and the Tibetans.
The history of Tibet, the kingdom where Mount Kailash is located, is very ancient and very complicated. For centuries, it has been fought over by invaders and imperialists including China. The problem is that the history of Tibet is not very clear because of the lack of too many written records. Tibet is now an autonomous state of China and China has infused a lot of capital into it to make it a prosperous state.
That is what Mount Kailash is known as in Tibetan language. It means “most precious jewel of snow’’. Reaching Kailash Mansarovar is not as difficult as it was in ancient times. There are ample resources available to make the journey as easy and convenient as possible. One can go by helicopter or by overland routes on AC buses and cars. However, the ‘parikrama’ or covering the circuit of the mountain by foot is something that can be a difficult proposition for most people. The ‘parikrama’ is 52 km long and it has to be covered on foot because nothing else is available. A lot of pilgrims forego this trek because of time constraints or if they are unable to do it physically. It takes anything between 3 and 4 days to complete the trek.
So yes, Mount Kailash is a part of China but the Indian government has agreements which ensure that Indian pilgrims can visit it and pay their respects. Every year, many people do the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with the power of faith in their hearts and will continue to do so. If you are planning to go on the Kailash Yatra, there are many avenues available to you that you can use to reach your destination safely.
Mount Kailash is a fascinating natural structure that is highly revered by devotees of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon religion. Hindus believe that it is the abode of Lord Shiva. This exceptional-looking mountain has four faces that match the cardinal points of the compass. Also, there are no neighboring mountains that dwarf it as it rises up to more than 22,000 ft. Every year, it sees more than a few thousand pilgrims visiting it to seek penance and blessings. Since Mount Kailash is so highly sacred, it is not climbed by any of the pilgrims as a way of showing respect. If you are planning to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, knowing the best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is important.
The best time according to the government of India to travel is between the months of June and September. The Ministry of External Affairs conducts trips for hundreds of pilgrims every year in batches. There are two routes that the government uses for this, one via the Lipulekh pass and one via the Nathu La pass. Both routes take about 3 weeks to complete.
Well, there are a few reasons for this, which have been mentioned below:
It is important that you prepare for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra properly. Choosing whether to go with the Ministry of External Affairs or a private tour operator is a decision you will have to make. It can be said with certainty that a good private tour operator like Trip To Temples can make the Yatra more convenient and of a shorter duration than most others.
One common fact that the world knows about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is that thousands of pilgrims from all over the world visit this Holy place. But under these positive facts, a fact that gets shadowed is that thousands or even more people fail to fulfill their dream of undertaking Kailash Yatra because they cannot afford this trip. Indeed, going for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an expensive affair, irrespective of which tour operator or travel agent you choose. Next in line of complexities for people, is the age and health guidelines an individual should meet to become eligible for Kailash Yatra. For those who plan to take their family members, including children with them for the Kailash Yatra, complexity increases to some extent.
To know the exact details of what the charges of taking your children with you will be, you need to ask your travel agent about the same. Since he will be the one who makes all arrangements for hundreds of pilgrims every year, he knows well about what it takes to take your child with you for the Kailash Yatra. If you consider the age of an individual who is allowed to undertake Kailash Yatra, it is eighteen to seventy years of age, which has been wisely defined by the government authorities but as of private agencies, the children below the age of 18 and above 10 can also go via Nepal route..
If you see it from the perspective of a travel agent who makes bookings and all arrangements for Kailash Yatra, a child of any age is nearly the same as an adult individual. He will need accommodation along with his parents or guardians during the journey, food just like others and even special consideration from the tour operator in some situations. In that sense, a travel agent is right when we ask for the complete package amount per person for even a child. The rest depends on the specific agent you choose to make bookings, and his own rates per person.
If you look at the restriction and age related guidelines, a child of the age less than ten years is not allowed to do Kailash Yatra. But sometimes, parents insist the agents or even the officials to allow their child to do the Yatra. In those situations, the parents are clearly told that they can take their child for the journey to Mount Kailash, but at their own risk. In case of any casualty, no authority will be held responsible.
Thus, it is advisable to parents not to insist on taking your children who are under the age of ten years for the Yatra along with you. Instead, they should wait for their child to grow older than eighteen years, to become eligible for Kailash Yatra.
The reason why a young child who is less than ten years of age is not eligible for Kailash Yatra is related to the child’s health more importantly. Young children are mostly dependent on their parents or elders to do things. They are not considered wise enough to take decisions for themselves. Neither, their physical health is such that they can undertake high altitude trekking, which is a part of the journey to Mount Kailash. Even after knowing this fact, some parents want to risk the life of their children, and take their for Kailash Yatra. Uncertainty can happen to just anyone, and at any point of time.
If you see it in another way, if parents would take their small child to Kailash Yatra with them, it would definitely create complexities for them during the course of the Yatra. Their focus will be more towards taking care of their child, rather to enjoy the visit to Kailash Mansarovar and experiencing an impressive view of the surroundings. The mere decision of taking a small child with them for the Yatra can prevent them from making memories they would cherish for the rest of their lives.
Keeping that in mind, all the parents and guardians of young children of age less than ten or around are advised to go for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra without their children.
Some people make religious vows or wish to undertake Kailash Yatra with their children. This just does not mean that they should risk the lives of their children, when they are not of the right age to bear the harsh climate during the course of Mount Kailash.
If you wish to do the same, you are advised to wait for the right time, till your child crosses the age of ten/eighteen. Even at that time, you will most likely fall under the age of seventy and thus, will be eligible to do Kailash Yatra with your children. Whether alone or with your family members, it is very important to keep in mind all safety concerns, while doing Kailash Yatra.
Mount Kailash stands tall at almost 22,000 feet and doing a ‘parikrama’ of it is something most devout Hindus wish to do at least once in their lifetimes. The reason being that Mount Kailash is said to be the heavenly abode of Shiva: that great god revered by Shiv-bhakts and Hindus all over. Shiva is kind, powerful and an ascetic and he is said to be in a state of meditation on the top of the mountain. Anyone who can reach Mount Kailash is said to have washed off all unknowingly sins of previous births and is said to have a direct pass to heaven after death. Truly, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one that brings Hindu pilgrims of all sects together for its divine significance. Yam Dwar is a temple which is believed to be a magical one because once you go through the temple, all your unintentional sins will be forgiven.
If the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something that you have wanted to do for a long time now, then perhaps doing your research about it will put you on the right path. There are several options in your way concerning the routes you can take to reach your destination and knowing about the pros and cons of the important ones is a good idea.
The route via Lipulekh pass is going to take around 22 days and the trekking distance is going to be more than 200 KMs, so it can be said that it is going to be long and arduous.
This is one of the oldest routes to go to Kailash Mansarovar from India. It is a route that has been used for centuries since ancient times by merchants, traders, mendicants and travelers to travel to and from Tibet. Here are a few things to know about the route:
The above information should not deter you from making the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash though. There are new routes available that make the Yatra a much more favorable one.
Both these routes can be enjoyed by anyone between the ages of 10 and 70.
When more comfortable routes are available, there is really no point in going by the treacherous mountainous terrain of the Lipulekh pass. Planning in advance, and getting the required Visa permits beforehand will ensure a safe and enjoyable Mount Kailash Yatra.
Also Find:
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage meant for devout Hindus who want to visit the abode of Lord Shiva. The trek is a treacherous one but the religious significance of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is such that it is something many people hold close to their hearts. This Yatra is one that people have been going on for decades in spite of the mountainous terrain and harsh climatic conditions. But it doesn’t have to be a very difficult journey for Hindu devotees. A good part of the journey can be done by helicopter. Now there are a few helicopter routes one can use to reach Mount Kailash. The cost of Mansarovar Yatra for each of these routes differs. However, you can choose the better and more cost-effective one with a little research.
For people who don’t have a lot of time on their hands or those who are infirm or are traveling with people who are not in the best of health, choosing the helicopter route from Lucknow is the best idea. Not only does this route save you a lot of time, it also is less physically demanding than other routes where the major part of the journey is to be made by trekking. You will have to trek quite a bit if you want to do the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash, but that is optional. A lot of people don’t do the ‘parikrama’ itself and choose to do the ‘darshan’ of Mount Kailash along with a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar. Choosing a helicopter route will give you more time to do the ‘parikrama’ or to just enjoy the feeling of being so close to the abode of Lord Shiva.
Two Kailash Mansarovar Yatra packages deserve special mention: one starts from Lucknow and the other starts from Kathmandu.
Both these Kailash Mansarovar Yatra packages range between Rs 1,90,000 to Rs 2,10,000.
Know About:
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost from Mumbai
When planning for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the first question that comes in the mind is Kailash Parvat Kahan per hai?Mount Kailash is a part of the Trans- Himalayas in Tibet, which is under the autonomous rule of China. Lake Mansarovar is located at a distance of about 20 km from Mount Kailash. Going to the Kailash Mansarovar is a matter of deep faith and beliefs for Hindus.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something devout Hindus hold dear as a dream they want to partake in. It is important to understand that this is one pilgrimage that is different from other pilgrimages Hindus make because it involves going to a different country altogether. With Kedarnath Yatra or Badrinath Yatra, the fact that the locations are in India makes the process of going a much easier one for pilgrims. But with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one has to go to a different country which means that passports and Visa permits have to be in order. Also, since the region is sparsely populated with most places having little or no amenities, it is not an easy pilgrimage to go on. The region is mountainous and rugged, which means that there are many areas where trekking is the only form of going forward. Overall, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most difficult yet enhancing life experiences pilgrims make.
After learning Where is Mansarovar, the next question that comes up in the mind is How to Visit Kailash Mansarovar?
If you wish to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is a good idea to do your research well. Here are the ways you can go there:
Kailash Mansarovar Lipulekh pass route: This is one of the oldest routes that were used by people of ancient times to move from India to Tibet for education and trade purposes. It is still in use though it has lost its importance due to the advent of easier routes. The Lipulekh pass route is a difficult one but many pilgrims choose it for that reason only; they believe that the difficulty of the route enhances their experience of the Yatra. If you choose this route, it will take you more than 3 weeks to complete the journey and you will have to trek through rough terrain to reach Mount Kailash.
Kailash Mansarovar Nathu-La pass route: There are many people who choose the Nathu-La pass route for the Kailash Yatra. This is one of the routes recommended by the Ministry of External Affairs in India. However, since relations between India and China are not too good, the route was closed off for some time last year. It has been reopened now. The route is dependent on the political atmosphere prevalent at the time and thus this may not be a route you want to use for your journey.
Mansarovar Kailash by Helicopter: For people who want to choose convenience, going for the Kailash Yatra by Helicopter is the perfect option. Not only is this way a lot more comfortable and convenient, but it also does not demand too much from the pilgrims. There is no reason to trek a lot because most of the journey will be done on airplanes, helicopters and AC vehicles. This also means that it is a route that children and older people will have no trouble with. If you choose to go by helicopter, then it will take you anything between 5 and 11 days to complete the journey. You can start the Yatra from Kathmandu or Lucknow depending on your preference.
Manasarovar Kailash by Road: The pilgrims willing to explore Kathmandu choose this route. They start the Kailash Yatra by seeking the blessings of Pashupatinath Ji. The Manasarovar Yatra by Bus is the most affordable route to visit Kailash Mansarovaram. It will take around 13 to 15 days to complete the Kailash journey through this route. The Kailash Yatra through Overland route is preferred by people who want to enjoy the scenic route and spend most of the time in the Land of Shiva
Going on the Kailash Yatra is about one’s faith and belief in Lord Shiva. He is the destroyer and the creator, he is the protector and it is with him that the ancient Hindu scriptures were entrusted with. Hindus believe that Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva and only those who are very lucky get to offer their prayers at the feet of the mountain and some even get to do the ‘parikrama’. The Lake Mansarovar, which is nearby, is where pilgrims take a dip because they believe that it washes away all the sins they may have committed during previous lifetimes. The Yatra is known for cleansing the soul and providing the pilgrims with clarity of thought. Also, it is believed that people who are able to reach Mount Kailash go to heaven after death.
The Kailash Yatra is by no means a casual trip one takes. It takes months of preparations to go there but the result is a tremendous sense of achievement and peace. Shiv-bhakts want to make the trip at least once in their lifetimes. The good news is that now the Yatra can be done not just by people between the ages of 18 and 70, but anyone between the ages of 10 and 70 can go if a good private tour operator is chosen. This is because the helicopter routes are easy enough to ensure that most people are eligible for the trip.
Know More about Mansarovar Lake in Map: Map Of Kailash Parvat
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar have a lot of significance in Hinduism. Devout Hindus believe Mount Kailash to be the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva where he sits in meditation. It is also believed that he resides there with his divine consort Devi Parvati. If you want to understand the age of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, you have to gain a little knowledge about the ancient scriptures of India.
The Vedas are a large body of texts that have their origin in the Indian subcontinent. Hindus believe that the Vedas were not born from humans, but super-humans. They are the oldest scriptures in the country and they are written in Vedic Sanskrit. Both Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash have been mentioned in the Vedas more than one time. Mount Kailash has been referred to as ‘Kelas’ as well as ‘Himavanto’ in the Vedas. It has also been referred to as Mount Meru, the name that is still prevalent for Mount Kailash among the Tibetan people. The Upanishads, which is part of the Vedas, also mentions Uma as the daughter of Himavat. Uma is also believed to be the same as Devi Parvati and she is said to be the daughter of Himalayas. As can be clearly seen, the Vedas contain references to Mount Kailash in plenty. Considering that the Vedas are said to have been composed between 1700 B.C. and 300 B.C., it can be said with confidence that Mount Kailash is at least 3,500 years old.
The Skanda Purana is another ancient Hindu scripture which mentions Mount Kailash as the Supreme Mountain where Lord Shiva lives. Lake Mansarovar gets a mention too as the Supreme Holy Lake where Lord Indra and Lord Shiva swam as swans. Swans have special significance in Hindu mythology as they are considered to be a sacred bird. Mount Kailash also gets referred here as Kailash Parvat. The Skanda Purana also mentions that Mount Kailash should be visited by people at least once in their lifetimes. The Skanda Purana is named after Skanda, who is the son of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati. This very ancient Shiva-related Purana is believed to have existed by 6th century B.C. and so it can be said that Kailash Parvat existed at least 2,700 years ago.
This is another ancient Indian scripture which mentions Kailash Mansarovar Lake. It actually mentions Panch Sarovar or Five Lakes, of which the Mansarovar Lake is one.
The Lake Mansarovar is believed by Hindu devotees to have first taken shape in the mind of Lord Brahma. He is the Creator of anything and everything thought in Hindu religion, he is rarely worshipped. It is believed that only after Brahma thought about Mansarovar was it physically manifested on earth. That is why it was called the ‘’Manasarovaram’’ which consists of two words: ‘’manas’’ which means mind and ‘’sarovaram’’ which means lake.
If you have read till now, you will have an idea about why it is so difficult to put an exact age on Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The Indian subcontinent is very old and the ancient Indian scriptures that hail from the subcontinent are very old too. Wars, foreign invasions and natural calamities have been responsible for destroying a lot of the ancient texts that were written down and so it is very difficult to put an exact age on most of them. That is why determining the exact age of any of the locations mentioned in these ancient texts is almost impossible. The problem gets compounded because of the very nature of the Vedas and Puranas. Most of these texts were written down much later than they were conceptualized. While some of them were written down through ‘’Shruti’’ or hearing, many of them were written down from ‘’Smriti’’ or memory. This means that generations may have passed before they were converted to written words. This again indicates that they may have been conceptualized centuries ago than the actual texts. That is why Hindus believe that both Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are a lot older than what ancient scriptures make them out to be.
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar make up one of the holiest pilgrimages for not just Hindus, but is an important destination for Jains and Buddhists as well. In ancient times, only a few people ventured into this land because of its inaccessibility. Now that many private tour operators have entered the arena, it is easier than ever to make the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in spite of the toughness of the mountainous terrain and the harshness of the climate.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is highly revered as a visit to Mount Kailash, which is also known as the home of Lord Shiva. As per their religious beliefs, thousands of pilgrims as well as tourists from around the world visit this place to seek the blessing from the Lord, and to cleanse off their sins. The duration and itinerary of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is defined by the tour operator you book this Yatra from. But in general, it takes the span of around 14 days to complete this Yatra in a hassle free manner. Pilgrims and tourists visit this holy place in batches, and the package they have bought for it covers up all their requirements.
Here is the most common itinerary for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after the arrival of pilgrims in Kathmandu, Nepal:
As per the planned tour, you will meet one of your tour representatives after arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal. He will help you reach your hotel, give you some time to relax and get the formalities of the tour done. You will be told about the tour in brief in the evening, followed by dinner and overnight stay in your hotel there in Kathmandu.
On the second day, the actual Yatra begins in the early morning hours. You will be made to leave Kathmandu in a reserved coach, carrying your breakfast with you. On the way, you will drive past Galchi to reach Syabrubeshi, a place near the China border. You will stay there in a hotel for the night ahead.
For this, the distance of around 17 km is to be covered to reach the China border. The tour representative will make you check into Tibet, after which you will reach Kerung to stay there for the night time.
As you are moving towards high altitudes, this day will help your body become accustomed to the changing climate. You will be free to visit Kerung city, explore the places nearby and will stay there overnight.
The journey will start from Kerung in the early morning to reach the next intermediate destination on the way, Saga – Dongba. You will stay there for the night at a guest house, as per arrangements made by your tour operator.
From there, you will be able to reach Lake Mansarovar, can do its Parikrama there or take a dip in its waters. After enjoying the view there, you will stay near the lake for the night time in a guest house.
A two hour drive from Mansarovar will take you to Darchen, where you can go for Ashtapad excursion and stay in Darchen overnight. This excursion of the eight smaller mountains around Mount Kailash which looks like making a lotus as mountains.
This will start your Kailash Parikrama, which you will start early in the morning to walk for 6-7 hours continuously. You can also hire a horse to make this journey at an extra cost, and reach Diraphuk to stay there for the night.
You may feel it difficult to trek on this day, as you will pass Dolma-La Pass at a height of 5400 m. Unpredictable weather or snowstorms can be expected. You will stay ahead in Zuthulphuk to stay there for the night in tents.
You will start moving back, following the same route. On this day, you will reach Saga – Dongba, and will stay there for the night.
You will be taken back to Kerung, in a vehicle. This will be your last day to stay in Tibet.
After formalities at custom, you will reach the Nepal side and be taken to Kathmandu. You will stay there in a hotel that day and night.
You can go for Kathmandu sightseeing on this day, including Pashupatinath Darshan, visit the market area there, do the shopping, and need to be back at the hotel to stay there for the night.
On this day, you can leave for your home country from Kathmandu, after checking out from your hotel in the morning.
This is a common itinerary. However, depending upon the tour operator you have chosen, there might be some changes in it in terms of intermediate stays, duration of journey etc. So, you are advised to plan your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra carefully.
Contact us for more details on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Itinerary.
Because of the inexplicable experience one will go through while visiting Kailash Mansarovar, almost everyone would like to make a visit there at least once in his lifetime. The majestic view of the mountains around and the sparkling lake in between is sure to give an individual salvation through his eyes. But the fact says that not every individual who wants to go there is eligible to go there. The eligibility to make a visit to this Holy place that is located at a great height, is not determined in terms of money, but in terms of his health too. The weather and the atmosphere at that height is risky enough to live there forever. This is the reason why the area around that place is sparsely populated. Not only this, even Indian government has set rules to define the eligibility of an individual who is allowed to visit Kailash Mansarovar. The eligibility rules also include health tests, and are defined as follows:
As per the general rules laid by Indian Government, any Indian citizen, who holds a valid Indian passport and is aged between 18 to 70 years, can go for Kailash Yatra. Other than this, the individual should also have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or less than that, and should be physically fit and should not be suffering from any mental health problems. In this situation, he will be allowed to undertake Yatra to Kailash Mansarovar for religious purposes, and even otherwise.
Along with the above mentioned eligibility conditions, an individual who is applying for Kailash Yatra eligibility check, should not be suffering from health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, etc. To test the medical health condition of an individual, he will need to qualify comprehensive medical tests, that are conducted by Delhi Heart and Lung Institute (DHLI) and the ITBP Base Hospital in New Delhi. Once he is qualified as per the guidelines, he will be allowed to make plans for his journey to Kailash Mansarovar.
Some people who want to visit Mount Kailash, are not fit to do altitude trekking, even after they have qualified for the initial medical tests. To ensure that all travellers going towards Kailash Mansarovar are healthy to do trekking at high altitude, they will again need to go through additional medical tests during the course of their journey to Mount Kailash. These tests are conducted by ITBP, at specific places as per the chosen route to the destination. During the course of the Yatra, these tests are conducted at Gunji, for those travellers who are going through Lipulekh Pass. While for the tourists or pilgrims, who are going through Nathu La Pass, these tests are done at Sherathang.
If any traveller or pilgrim is found medically unfit to continue the journey in these tests, they will not be permitted to continue moving forward to complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and have to return home afterwards.
Some people who are passionate to go on Kailash Yatra, even when they are not fit for it, often try to get the positive test reports made by unauthorised medical centers, and try to go forward. Still, they are not allowed to do the Yatra. Recommendations and reports from Delhi Heart and Lung Institute and ITBP professional, are only valid. No other medical certificates or test reports are accepted to permit an individual to do the Yatra.
As detailed above, a selected applicant, if found that he is not medically fit in between, will not be allowed to go forward for the Kailash Yatra. He will also forfeit the non-refundable deposit paid earlier for it, and also the amount he had paid for getting the medical examination done.
These are as follows:
One cannot expect all the comforts and convenience to be made available on the mountains at the great height. Thus, being physically fit and healthy is very important to fulfil one’s dream of going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The reason why medical tests are performed in a systematic manner as per the guidelines of authorities, is that they cannot take risk of a travel losing his life during the course of Kailash Yatra.
If an individual wants to do this Yatra once in his lifetime, he should live a healthy lifestyle, so as to pass all the medical tests and fulfil his dream to reach Kailash Mansarovar.
The Holy Kailash Mountain or Kailash Parvat is a mysterious mountain with an unbelievable history, full of secrets that none can find. Soaring at a height of 22030 ft above sea level, Kailash Mountain is of great significance to Hinduism and witnesses a large crowd every year for Kailash Yatra with people coming from all over the world. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a journey for the believers, in fact, it is a yatra of a lifetime. It is commonly believed that people who get the opportunity to visit Kalash are not there because they decided they want to be there but they have been called by their Lord Shiva to worship him.
One might wonder that even at such high altitudes how can people climb Kailash? Well, the truth is you cannot climb Kailash Parvat, the maximum altitude at which one can reach is the Dolma La Pass which is approximately 18000 ft above sea level. One reaches Dolma La Pass on the second day of Kailash parikrama.
Upon hearing the story and the mystery of Kailash Parvat, several questions might pop up in your mind, one of which is if anyone has ever climbed the Holy Mountain or is it just impossible to even think about it. Interestingly several people have tried to summit Mount Kailash but none of them have been successful except for Milarepa. Milarepa was a Tibetan sage of the 11th Century, who wrote poems and songs to spread Buddhist teachings and Buddhism. Milarepa, was quite popular during his time because he did the impossible which none of the climbers could do.
With his name forever etched in the history of Kailash, one should also know that Milarepa was a murderer before he turned into a saint and from that time onwards he started teaching Buddhism throughout the Tibetan Plateau.
Coming back from climbing the holy mountain was a miracle in itself and it is believed that Milarepa found some secrets that the world should not know, due to which he asked others not to climb the holy mountain, one because it was impossible for an ordinary man to do so and Milarepa was no ordinary man and two because it disturbs the God resting there. It is believed that Mount Kailash is the holy abode of Lord Shiva and he is meditating over there and out of respect one should not think about climbing it just like we don’t climb temples because that doesn’t make sense and is also disrespectful if one tries to do so. After all it is a place of worship.
Milarepa, being the only person to ever reach the peak of Mount Kailash startled other climbers. Due to which several number of people tried climbing the holy mountain because if one person can then why not others? There have been several failed attempts, some of the climbers died during the summit others went missing and some mysteriously vanished into thin air. However, no one knows what happened to them and how they disappeared.
An interesting fact about Kailash Mountain is that time moves faster than usual, making your nails and hair grow faster when you are at the mountain. Weather forecast cannot be done because the weather condition changes within seconds and compasses don’t work. Mount Kailash with all its majestic glory is 6638 meters above sea level and Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world stands at an elevation of 8848 meters above sea level and somehow numerous people climb Mount Everest every year but only one person has been able to climb Mount Kailash till now. Surprising, isn’t it?
Curious Mountaineers and hardcore trekkers took it as a challenge to climb the holy mountain, all resulting in failed attempts and in most cases death.
English Mountaineers Hugh and Wilson studied and researched Kailash Mountain and found an easy way to summit the mountain, however, heavy snowfall and unpredictable events poured water on their plans.
Reinhold Messner is a well-known mountaineer from Italy, who is the first one to climb all 14 tallest peaks standing at an elevation of more than 26000ft above sea level. He was no ordinary trekker but when asked to climb Mount Kailash he refused, probably because he knew that it was not possible. Not many people are aware of the fact that Messner was asked by the Chinese Authority to climb Mount Kailash to which he refused and from that time onwards, China banned climbing on Kailash because clearly, it was beyond the powers of ordinary men.
The death of four scientists after their failed attempt to summit the mountain, took the world by surprise. These four very eager scientists planned to climb the mountain, however, a Tibetan Lama advised them not to proceed further with the plan, which eventually lead to the scientists abandoning the plan and carrying on with their lives. The story doesn’t end here, the surprising fact is that all these scientists who tried to climb the sacred mountain died within two years.
There have been several cases but the most interesting and terrifying case is that of the Siberian Mountaineers, who like everyone else wanted to summit Kailash Parvat but they had no idea what they had in store for them. They started climbing the mountain but at a certain point, the climbers realized that they have aged and become old, due to which they had to return back. These youngsters who started climbing the mountain returned back and aged a few decades, which in itself is a miracle. Within a year, strangely these mountaineers died of old age, proving the fact that time moves faster at Kailash Mountain and also gives suspicion of time travel.
All these stories bring us to the question that “Who can climb Mount Kailash?”
The answer to that is in a statement by Herbert Titchy, an Australian climber who once said, “Only a man entirely free of sin is able to climb Kailash. And he wouldn’t have to actually scale the sheer walls of ice to do it – instead, he would just turn himself into a bird and fly to the summit.”
Meanwhile, the secrets behind why is Mount Kailash unclimbable remains a mystery.
Also check: Mount Kailash Secrets
For Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Bons, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is among the most important pilgrimage destinations. With its magnificence and grandeur, Kailash Mansarovar draws millions of pilgrims each year from all over the world. It is thought that Bhole Baba along with his family resides on Mount of Kailash. The freshwater lake called Lake Mansarovar is of significant religious importance. Going on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at least once in a lifetime is a dream for many pilgrims.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through NathuLa Pass in Sikkim is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India along with Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
Only the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, conducts the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra across the NathuLa Pass. No private organization is permitted to organize the Mansarovar Kailash Yatra along this route. You must get in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) if you want further details about the Government route of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the Sikkim route is completed in 22 - 23 days. This includes about 3 to 4 days of stay in Delhi.
The Ministry of External Affairs receives hundreds of applications each year for the Nathula Route of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Nevertheless, the number of yatries that can go to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Gangtok is restricted. Only 750 pilgrims in all (15 groups of 50 pilgrims each) are permitted to travel from Sikkim to Kailash Mansarovar.
The official website of the Indian government for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is kmy.gov.in. Visit the official website which is managed by the Indian Government's Ministry of External Affairs to submit an application. The Kailash Yatries must submit an online application for the lucky draw. There is no registration cost to be paid at that time.
A rigorous selection process is adhered to on the Sikkim Kailash Mansarovar Yatra MEA route. It is as follows:
For the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India mandates the following checklist:
The pilgrims must make sure they are well-prepared for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You are urged to consult the preparation guide on the official website for further details on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with Govt. of India.
The cost for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathu La Pass was about Rs. 2,50,000/- in 2019. The new price will be released when the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra opens.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Sikkim NathuLa Pass begins from Delhi. To guarantee that the yatries are physically fit to go to the high-altitude region, numerous blood tests and medical examinations will be conducted. All the chosen applicants have to report in Delhi at least three days prior to the date of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
In order to apply for the Kailash Yatra Permit and VISA, the pilgrims' passports, affidavits, and consent forms are collected in Delhi.
After passing the medical examination, the group proceeds from Delhi to Gangtok for starting the main Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Kailash Mansarovar route from Sikkim is as follows:
The yatries will board a flight for Bagdogra from Delhi. After reaching Bagdogra, you will be transferred in a bus for your drive along the Teesta River to Gangtok which will be via Siliguri. There will be a briefing session in Gangtok. The yatries can choose to explore Gangtok on their own in the evening.
Mode of Transportation: Flight and Bus
Distance covered: 1115 km by Flight and 125 km by Bus
Time taken: 2 hours approx flight and 5 hours approx drive
Highest Altitude: 1600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
Today the yatries will drive to 15th Mile from Gangtok. On the way clearance process will take place at 3 Mile Naka. Since the hilly terrain starts from here, so the drive will be slow.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 25 km
Time taken: 2-3 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3050 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
This is a rest day given to yatries to acclimatize with the environment. Walking and Yoga sessions will be organized for the betterment of the yatries.
Mode of Transportation: NA
Distance covered: NA
Time taken: NA
Highest Altitude: 3050 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The yatries will be taken to Sherathang from 15th Mile.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 20 km
Time taken: 1-2 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4115 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
A medical check will be again conducted on this day before moving ahead. Only those who pass this medical check-up will move forward. Those failing to pass the medical examination will be sent back to Gangtok.
Mode of Transportation: NA
Distance covered: NA
Time taken: NA
Highest Altitude: 4115 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
On this day the yatries will enter Tibet via NathuLa Pass. They will start from Sherathang and proceeds towards NathuLa at a distance of 7 km where the immigration and customs process will take place. After clearing the border formality the yatries will proceed towards Kangma Village.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 200 km
Time taken: 7 to 8 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4176 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The yatries will be taken to Lazi from Kangma.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 295 km
Time taken: 7 to 8 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4053 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The Kailash Yatra Group will drive from Lazi to Zhongba (Dongba). Dongba is the last marketplace in Tibet where you can do the shopping and prepare for Mount Kailash Parikrama.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 477 km
Time taken: 11 to 12 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4728 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
On this day the yatries will drive from Zhongba to Darchen. Darchen is the base for Mount Kailash Parikrama.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 475 km
Time taken: 11 to 12 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4670 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The 40-kilometer Mount Kailash Parikrama will begin today. The yatries will be transported by bus from Darchen to Yamdwar. Nandi Parvat is visible from Yamdwar. People have the view that crossing Yamdwar absolves them of their sins. After that, the yatries will start their trek from Yamdwar and proceed toward Diraphuk. Mt. Kailash will be visible the entire day. One gets to see the most stunning view of Kailash Parvat from Diraphuk.
Mode of Transportation: Volvo Category bus and Trekking
Distance covered: 7 km by bus and 10 km by trek
Time taken: 8 to 9 hours
Highest Altitude: 4620 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Multiple-sharing Dormitory
The second day of Mount Kailash Parikrama is a long and treacherous one. The yatries would depart from Diraphuk early in the morning and continue to trek towards Junjhui Pu (Zutulphuk). You may see Dolma La Pass at a height of 5670 meters (highest point), Shivasthal, Gaurikund, and other places.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 22 km
Time taken: 12 to 13 hours
Highest Altitude: 4780 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Multiple-sharing Dormitory
After completing the last day of Kailash Parikrama the yatries will return to Darchen by bus.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking and Bus
Distance covered: 8 km by trek and 8 km by bus
Time taken: 6 to 7 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4620 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
Today the yatries will drive to Qugu for Mansarovar Lake Parikrama. The total distance of about 88 km of Lake Mansarovar Parikrama is completed by bus. Yatries can take a dip in the holy lake and perform puja. They will also get to see Rakshas Tal. This day’s stay will be in Qugu near Lake Mansarovar.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 80 km
Time taken: 2 to 3 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Multiple-sharing Dormitory
The yatries will drive back to Zhongba from Qugu.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 400 km
Time taken: 7 to 8 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4620 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The yatries will continue their return journey and drive from Zhongba to Lazi.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 477 km
Time taken: 9 to 10 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4053 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
This will be the last day in Tibet. The yatries will drive from Lazi to Kangma.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 295 km
Time taken: 7 to 8 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4176 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
On this day the yatries will drive from Kangma, complete the immigration process and cross Nathu La to enter India. After crossing the border they will continue the drive to Gangtok.
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Distance covered: 245 km
Time taken: 6 to 7 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 1600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
The yatries will drive from Gangtok to Bagdogra to board their return flight to Delhi. With the blessings of Lord Shiva, the Journey to Kailash Mansarovar is completed.
Mode of Transportation: Bus and Flight
Distance covered: 125 km by Bus and 1115 km by Flight
Time taken: 5 hours approx drive and 2 hours approx flight
Highest Altitude: 215 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel on sharing basis
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra comes with a unique experience for the travelers in a number of ways. Witnessing the breathtaking view of Mount Kailash and taking a dip into the sacred water of Lake Mansarovar is believed to cleanse off all the sins of the pilgrims. Most of the travelers focus more on enjoying the scenic beauty of Kailash Mansarovar. The journey is difficult, but rewarding one. But it is important for them all to keep in mind certain important tips to ensure safety while being on the trip.
If you are planning to go on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year, you need to be prepared about the journey by keeping in mind the following 10 significant tips:
Because of the height to be traveled to reach Kailash Mansarovar, one may feel breathing issues at the height because of lack of oxygen in the air. So, people who suffer from breathing problems like asthma and similar others, are advised not to visit this place or consult with a Doctor. They may not be able to bear the discomfort causes during the journey.
Some people do not like to drink warm water in general. But because of the cold weather during the Yatra, they will be provided with normal, hot or Luke warm water to drink. Still, it will be advisable for them to make the habit of drinking warm water, to prevent any sort of inconvenience while doing the Yatra.
As a part of the Yatra, almost all travelers like to stay indulged in healthy munching, while enjoying the scenic beauty around. Even though the eatables will be provided by those you book a package from, you are advised to carry chips, sweets, candies, khakhra etc. for the trip to the mountains.
Climbing up the mountains or do trekking as a part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requires an individual to stay fit and be active in terms of physical activities. So, if you are a person who do not usually do physical exercises or Yoga, it will be best for you to start doing fitness exercises at least a month before the day to leave for the Yatra.
When being out of the home country, any uncertain event may happen at any point of time. So, it will be best for you to buy a travel insurance policy (if available for Kailash Mansarovar yatra) from a renowned insurance company in India. The policy will protect you against any personal loss, injury or emergency situation, if any. Also, you should make sure that the policy covers emergency evacuation at high altitude regions.
Kailash Yatra includes traveling to Nepal and Tibet outside India, where Indian currency will not be accepted. So, it will be best for you to arrange some foreign currency in advance. You can also arrange YUAN, which can be exchanged in the other countries for their native currencies.
Even though the weather near the mountains will be cold, you are advised not to carry too much clothes with you. This is because a heavy luggage may only cause burden to you, as you climb the mountains as a part of your journey. Instead, travel light.
While you will do the Parikrama of Mount Kailash, you may start to feel breathing issues. In case of any inconvenience related to health, you are advised to inform and get helped by your tour guide. In some places, oxygen levels become very low. So, you should better not stay there for a long time, but continue moving forward, as advised by your tour guide. You can also carry portable oxygen cylinder which you can purchase in Tibet.
While you will be climbing up the mountains, feeling attracted to the view around is obvious. But you are advised to inspect your track or the path you follow carefully especially in starting 6km of 2nd day trekking, while moving forward. Since the path will not be flat, you may fall or slip off from it and hurt yourself with fractures or muscle pain.
On your journey to the Mount Kailash, you will meet and find other travelers and may even be grouped with them by the tour guide. While on the mountains, you are advised not to leave your group ever, while also take care of others.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most special pilgrimages a Hindu can make. There are quite a few Hindu pilgrimages one can go on but this deserves special mention not only because Mount Kailash is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva, but also because it is a physically challenging journey. Truth be told, this is a pilgrimage meant for those who are true devotees of Lord Shiva by heart. This post talks about what it is like to visit Kailash Mansarovar, taking facets of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra personal experiences of pilgrims who have had on the journey of a lifetime.
It is important to understand that it does not matter whether you choose the best tour operator for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra; you will have to put in work of your own. This has a lot to do with getting the Visa and passport in order. You have to make sure that there are at least 6 months left on your passport from the day your travel starts because otherwise, you will simply not be eligible for the pilgrimage. But that is not all you have to do: you have to prepare yourself physically and mentally as well. Physical fitness is a priority if you choose to Kailash Parvat trek for most of the journey, which is what people who choose the route recommended by the External Affairs Ministry of India do. However, suppose you choose the best tour operator for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. In that case, you can choose to go by helicopter, which is a lot more convenient and time-saving, not to mention a lot less physically demanding. However, if you choose the GOI route, it is important that you build your stamina by walking, running and exercising beforehand so that your body is fit enough to take the rigours of the journey.
No one will be able to deny the fact that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra experience has to be one of the most physically exhausting pilgrimages Hindus can go on. But those who have been lucky enough to make the pilgrimage will also tell you that it is where nature is at its very best. The remote location of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar makes pilgrims truly enjoy the feeling of being one with nature. Yes, we have nature in cities and towns as well but the sparse population and the serenity of it all make the Kailash Mansarovar one of the most picturesque.
Kailash Mansarovar has a lot of significance in Hindu mythology. It is where Lord Shiva lives and spends his days in meditation. Lake Mansarovar is where the sacred swans swim during the summer months and it is also believed that this lake is visited by Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma himself during the auspicious ‘’Brahma Muhurta’’. A visit to the place is one of the holiest things a Hindu can do because they believe that it will wash away all the sins of previous births. The place is divinely beautiful and it is something that brings inner joy and peace. It is best to go on this pilgrimage with clearness of thought and deed, and not to indulge in unnecessary fights or arguments. This will give devotees the chance to really feel the tranquillity of Kailash Mansarovar so that they can experience a divine awakening.
People say that taking a dip in Lake Mansarovar calms the mind and purifies the soul. If one can meditate here, it will truly be an experience that one will not forget. Some people forgo the ‘parikrama’ because of ill health, but that does not mean that they cannot experience the magic of Mount Kailash. They can offer their prayers, do a ‘yagna’ and meditate to their heart’s desire. It must be mentioned here that if you wish to do a ‘yagna’, you must take a priest along with you on the journey because you won’t be able to find anyone to do the job there. However, if you go with Trip To Temples, we have a priest organized for every group.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an experience that is to be lived at least once. There are many best tour operators for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra available who will ensure that your journey is a comfortable and convenient one. The high mountain peaks, the serenity of the location, the rawness of nature and the thrill of being close to Lord Shiva all combine to make this pilgrimage one that cannot be forgotten.
It is said that if you get a calling from Lord Shiva, you will surely be able to go to Kailash Mansarovar. It does not matter whether you are too old or you are not optimally fit, you will be able to go if that is what your heart desires!
Know More About
Kailash Mansarovar Tour Packages
It is said that only those who get the ‘’call’’, get to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This is a pilgrimage that is more than just a pilgrimage. People who have been lucky enough to have gone on the Yatra say that it is a life-changing experience to be so near Lord Shiva. Indeed, because Hindus believe that Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, and it is thus the ultimate Hindu pilgrimage. The site is so important that the Government of India has made provisions for pilgrims to reach it through a few routes including one that crosses Nathu-la pass and one that crosses Lipulekha pass. If you are planning to go on the Yatra, then it is a must that you prepare for it. This post covers everything you need to know about it.
The first thing you need to do is book an appointment with your regular doctor and ask him what tests you need to get done for the Yatra. This is important because if you have any underlying health problem, you may be barred from going on the pilgrimage or worse, you may fall severely sick once you reach the place. You will be asked to do a few tests including those for blood sugar, blood pressure and others. If you are found to be within the permissible health parameters for the Kailash Yatra, it will bring you peace of mind knowing that you are fit.
It is important that you start taking a few multi-vitamins including calcium and Evion 400 tablets. It will help make the ascent easier.
You don’t have to go to the gym to work-out as preparation for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. All you have to do is break the sedentary lifestyle you may have had. If you go for walks regularly, then you are already fitter than many other people. If you don’t, then it is best to start as soon as you can. Start with brisk-walking, then go up to jogging and then finally run. You don’t have to do a lot, but make sure that you scale up your exercise regimen by including other aerobics and cardio activities. Climb stairs whenever you can and try to build your stamina. All this will come in very useful when you will be doing the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash which is 52 kms long.
It is important to not lose hope even if you are not physically fit or are infirm. There are helicopter routes available from Lucknow and Kathmandu that will involve very little trekking on your part. For the ‘parikrama’, you can choose not to do it all, something that many older pilgrims to Mount Kailash do.
If you choose a private tour operator for the Kailash Yatra, you may be given a backpack in which to carry all your stuff. That is why you shouldn’t carry much at all; just carry the bare essentials you need. Here’s a list:
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just about going for a pilgrimage, it is also about self-realization. As preparation for the journey, try to make a habit of thinking clean thoughts and being open to people. Stay away from negative emotions, thoughts and people. Don’t gossip or indulge in arguments with others. Overall, try to maintain a calm and peaceful mental state at all times. When you do this, it is more likely that you will be able to make full use of your Yatra experience.
Hindus believe that a Kailash Yatra pilgrim comes back as a new person altogether. So before you go, try to settle all outstanding matters including debts or problematic relationships. Say sorry, ask for forgiveness, forgive others and most importantly, clear your mind. This will enable you to go on the Yatra with a heart and mind that is ready to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva.
As a Kailash Yatra pilgrim, you should understand that you are going to a different country with a group of people who are unknown to you. So try to be culturally sensitive so that you don’t impose your views or customs on anyone. Instead, behave amicably and be open to the whole experience.
Going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a desire that many devout Hindus cherish in their hearts. If you are lucky enough to be able to go on the sacred pilgrimage to Lord Shiva’s abode, knowing about what it entails is important. The duration of the Kailash Mansarovar tour can depend on a number of factors and can take anything between 5 and 23 days to complete. Let’s discuss the different travel options and the different durations you can expect.
The Ministry of External Affairs organizes the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra every year for pilgrims who want to go on the journey of a lifetime. Since this is a very important pilgrimage for Hindus, the ministry has taken it upon itself to make sure that pilgrims can go there safely and without any hassles. Mount Kailash lies in Tibetan kingdom, which is an autonomous state in China, and the government has ensured that there are agreements in place with China for easy passage of pilgrims. It is between June and September that the Yatra is done in batches every year and those who are selected consider themselves very lucky because only a certain number of people get the privilege annually. The government organizes the tour in two routes:
There are many reasons why people choose to go with a private agency on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. For one, many don’t want to go through the rigorous application process for getting selected for the tour conducted by the Ministry of External Affairs. There is quite a tough eligibility criteria required for the same which many know they won’t qualify for and that is why they choose to go for the Yatra with a private tour operator. If you have chosen to do the same and want to go by the overland route so that you can appreciate the scenic beauty of the journey, then knowing about the duration is important.
There are many Kailash Mansarovar overland routes you can take but the one via Kathmandu is the easiest and most convenient. You have to reach Kathmandu on your own after which the agency will take over. The overland route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is going to take about 14 days via Kathmandu.
The helicopter route of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is by far the best one to go for if time and convenience is of importance to you. Most people who have a job or some kind of a professional life cannot take a 3-week leave for the Yatra and for them the choice of going with a private agency is a great one. The trip can be done in a much shorter duration and it is also a highly suitable route for senior citizens or infirm persons.
Choosing the right private agency will ensure that your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not fraught with hassles. Choose the right agency and go comfortably because a lot of emphasis will be put on providing good food and comfortable accommodation.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is said to be a journey that makes a person turn over a new chapter in life. It is gratifying to be able to go and witness the utter majesty and aura of Mount Kailash.
Also Read About:
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Location
To go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered a blessing by devoted Hindus. While the Kedarnath Yatra or the Badrinath Yatra too are pilgrimages which have a lot of importance, the Kailash Yatra is the one believed to be the most sacred because of the religious significance attached to it and the toughness of the journey. If you are planning to go on the trip, it is essential that you have the right know-how about it.
If you choose to go with a reputed tour operator, and the starting point is Lucknow, you can expect to have the best facilities available to you throughout the trip. The mountainous terrain is difficult to proceed on, and the climatic conditions are far from ideal, but the tour operator can make the whole process a relatively comfortable one. There will be no fixed number of kilometers you will be driven everyday because it depends on what you will be doing on a particular day. For example, you may have to go 300 km by road on a particular day in AC transport while the next day you may not be using any transport at all. You may be practicing trekking to get acclimatized or you may be doing the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash. However, there will be quite a little traveling by road on cars and buses involved. An average of 30 to 40 km per day of driving is what you can expect.
If you choose the Kathmandu route for the Yatra, you can expect to be taken to some of Kathmandu’s most famous religious places like Pashupatinath Temple. In this route, you will have to go quite a few kilometers on most days by road but if you choose a good tour operator, you will only be driven in AC transport. Your comfort will be taken care of so that you can travel without discomfort. An average of 30 to 40 km per day of driving is what you can expect.
The private tour operator you choose will make sure that you are driven on high-quality transport but it is the trek that you will have to prepare for personally. It is believed that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trek is one of the toughest in the world because of the high altitude that even fit people find difficult to get acclimatized to. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra walking distance is 40 km, Since the Yatra is conducted over a short period of time, most people have a tough time getting acclimatized to the altitude which results in them falling sick severely. Here are pointers on how you should prepare yourself for the trek:
Going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something most Hindu devotees want to go on considering the immense religious significance attributed to it. Mount Kailash, which goes over 22,000 ft, is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Doing a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash is a trek that one has to do on foot. It is about 32 KMs long and involves trekking in rough mountainous terrains which means that pilgrims are required to have a certain level of fitness. If you are wondering about how to go on the Yatra, how much cost for Kailash Mansarovar, and what the hidden charges are, then a discussion is the best way to go about it.
This private tour operator has been in operation since 2016 and has a great reputation among its contemporaries. If you choose to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with them, you can be assured that there will be no ‘hidden charges’. What this means is that nothing will be hidden from you because everything essential to the trip will be covered by the tour operator. It is only the additional charges that you will have to pay out of your own pocket.
The following things on the lists are not part of the package and have to be paid for directly by the pilgrim if the need arises:
It is important that you choose to go with a reliable and reputable private tour operator because then the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will not only be a memorable one but a cost-effective one as well.
Mount Kailash, which is also known as Gang Rimpoche in Tibetan language, is one of the holiest mountains in the world, as believed by people of a number of religions existing all across the globe. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and even people of the Bon religion of Tibet believe it to be sacred to visit Mount Kailash, and to cleanse off their sins by taking a dip into Lake Mansarovar. So, it is really worthy to take this tour once in a lifetime, no matter if you want to do this as per your religious beliefs, or even otherwise. Along with this, people who plan to go to Mount Kailash commonly ask about the difference between the Outer Kora and Inner Kora of Mount Kailash. They also ask what does the term ‘Kora’ mean.
In terms of trekking, Mount Kailash Kora trek is one of the most difficult trekking pilgrimages in the world. In simple terms, ‘Kora’ is the act of moving around a place because of the religious importance associated with it. People from all over the Asian continent and even from Western countries visit Mount Kailash to trek around it and fill the difference that this Holy place can offer to them. The beautiful scenery of the mountains and the enchanting view of the sky around Mount Kailash is indeed, unique. When travellers and pilgrims pass the trails, they feel like passing through a long history of mankind there. After completing the Kailash Kora, every individual feels an immense amount of happiness and gratification. So, any individual, even if he is not following the religious beliefs related to this Holy place, who wants to challenge his adventurous mind-set, can make a visit to this beautiful place in the world, to make his mind, body and soul feel the difference.
As explained above, Kora means to move or walk around a certain place of religious importance. In that sense, Outer Kora and Inner Kora of Mount Kailash is nothing, but the two routes to be followed around this Holy mountain. Travelers and pilgrims find a number of valleys, monasteries, fields and lakes while following any of these two routes around Mount Kailash. Even Lake Mansarovar is located along the way, where pilgrims prefer to take a bath in order to get salvation, as per their beliefs.
The distance to be covered in the Outer Kora is about 56 kilometres, which includes the roads that reach to the monasteries located on the way. It is because of the long distance that it takes around three days for pilgrims to complete the walk around the Mount Kailash, with staying in Diraphuk and Zuthulpuk in the night time.
One may also find or get to know about some Tibetan people who are known to complete the whole round around Mount Kailash in just one day, owing to their fast speed of walking. Similarly, some pilgrims are such that they prostrate or lie flat on the ground after each step, as per their religious beliefs. Because of this, they need at least three to four weeks to complete one circle. While others trek clockwise, Bon pilgrims can be found in the counterclockwise direction around Mount Kailash.
The itinerary of Outer Kora is defined as follows:
Day 1: Trekking from Darchen to Diraphuk, which covers the distance of around 21 KMs and takes around 12 hours.
Day 2: Trekking from Diraphuk to Dzultripuk, covering the distance of around 22 KMs and taking time of around 12 hours.
Day 3: Trekking from Dzultripuk to Darchen, which covers the distance of 12 KMs and takes only seven hours to come back.
The inner Kora is the route that leads to the south-face of the Holy Mount Kailash. It is shorter in length, covering the distance of around thirty kilometres. But the main highlight of the Inner Kora is that it is more challenging to trek on this route, than on Outer Kora. Its starting point is also Darchen, which is as same as that of Outer Kora. Because of the smaller distance to be covered, the trek is of two days only, and is defined as follows:
Day 1: Trekking from Darchen to Drirapauk.
Day 2: Trekking back from Drirapauk to Darchen.
This trek can also be finished in a day. But most of the pilgrims prefer to complete it in two days, because of the challenges of moving over the cliffs and high passes. Also, one may find less tourists to take the inner Kora route, as it is believed that Buddhists should circle around the outer Kora for thirteen times, before choosing the inner Kora route. Also, a lot of people visit Mount Kailash on April 15, because of the good fortune.
Every great thing has an even greater history behind it, whether it’s a historical Human being or a historical monument. Every significant thing has something to recollect from the past and so does the great Kailash Mansarovar. The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is believed to one of the toughest Yatra of the Himalaya. It is believed that the amazing peace and purity that one experiences on seeing and circumambulating Kailash Parvat Temple is a matter of experience itself.
Sitting at the centre of the great Himalayas catching all the attention, the Kailash Mansarovar is a pilgrimage uniting multiple faiths. There are chains of Kailash Parvat stories related to its 4 different religions. All four religions which are Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion have momentous stories related to the pristine Mount Kailash.
The Hindu mythology gives Kailash Parvat Story in which Mount Kailash has tremendous significance, importance, and acknowledgement, whether it is the Purans or the Vedas. Kailash Mansarovar is considered to be the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati along with Devtas, Ganas, Yakshas, Yogis, Siddha Purushas, and Gandharvas. Kailash Mansarovar Trip is your gateway to salvation. It is said that Shiva the lord of destruction and regeneration sits at the peak of the mountain and meditates there. People can feel the presence of Lord Shiva on Mount Kailash. Kailash Parvat history in Hindi text - Skanda Purana( a Supreme Hindu text) states Kailash Parvat as a Supreme Mountain where Lord Shiva resides, hence it is known as Kailash Mountain Shiva or Mount Kailash Shiva.
The Majestic Parvat Kailash is not just known for its peculiar shape or hugeness, but it is symbolized as the spiritual centre of the Earth. As found in one of the descriptions in the Puranas, It is termed the pillar of the world with a height of 84,000 leagues and is located at the heart of six mountain ranges symbolizing a lotus. It is also believed that the four rivers flowing from Kailash which are the Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Karnali, and Indus divide the world into four parts. Also, the rock-cut temple Ellora in Maharashtra is named after Kailash. Many of its sculptures depict the stories of Shiva and Parvati, including the incident when Ravana tried to shake the great Kailash. As it was the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the mountain expounds the philosophy of Purusha and Prakriti which is Shiva and Shakti. The radiant Silvery summit is the throne of Truth, Wisdom, and Bliss-Sachidanandam.
Also See: Real Kailash Parvat
According to Hindu Mythology, lake Mansarovar was first created by Lord Brahma in his mind, after which it materialized on Earth. Thus in Sanskrit, it is known as ‘Manasarovar’ which is the combination of the words ‘Manasa Sarovaram’ which means ‘mind’ and ‘lake’. The lake is also known as the summer abode for Hamsa or swan. These birds are considered sacred in the Hindu Dharma and an important element in the symbology of the subcontinent, representing wisdom and beauty. Another story from Hindu mythology describes the origination of lake Mansarovar in a completely different manner. According to the scriptures, the hand of Sati fell at the foot of the great mountain creating the pristine Mansarovar Lake. And thus it is considered one of the 51 Shakitpeeths of Sati. During summer when the snow melts, it generates a sound of a kind. People believe that it is the sound of the drum carried by lord Shiva. Also, it is said that the Neelkamal or the blue waterlily blooms and looks only in the direction of Mount Kailash during this time.
The Kailash Mansarovar Lake is personified as the purest of pure, if one drinks its water during Manasa Sarovara Yatra it is said that he gets cleansed of his sins committed over a hundred lifetimes and he goes to the abode of Lord Shiva itself. It is also said that during the time of 3 to 5 in the morning Lord Brahma and the devas descend on the lake to bathe and thus the hour is considered spiritual and known as Brahma Muhurta, Brahma’s auspicious time.
Also check: Manasa Sarovaram Place
The primaeval sound ‘Aum’ by which a person connects to Lord Shiva the most, is formed by the tinkling anklets of Lalita Prakriti or Adi Para Shakti. The mantra Aum formed by Adishakti created the visible patterns of the universe and the Vibrations from the feet of Shiva weaved the essence of Atman - the ultimate truth, into this universe. The spreading resonance and limitless patterns constitute the grosser forms of all matters to an accurate scale. This is the cosmic dance visualized in millions of forms by the devotees. The silvery mount is the apex where the sound and the lights merge and the true Yogi transcends both these and merges into Aum. Mind is the knot that ties consciousness and matter together but all these factors are set free here at the Kailash Parvat Temple. This is the heart of Indian Philosophy, religion, and civilization and the grand Kailash Manasarovar Temple reflects the total Shaivam consciousness. One should definitely take Kailash Mansarovar Trek or Kailas Manas Sarovar Yatra at least once in their life.
Also Find:
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Subsidies
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Videos
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Price
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass
The earth is a place where nothing is certain and predictable. Neither any human nor any place. We are wrapped in mystery all the way around and if someone tries to seek them, the world unfolds the strangest and the most beautiful face of it. This is exactly what we are trying to do here, unfolding the enigma and relishing the untold mystery of the great mystical Mount Kailash.
The humongous Mount Kailash is known for many aspects like the abode of Lord Shiva, the merging point of 4 different religions of the world, the originator of 4 rivers that divides the world into four different parts, and many more such things. But out of all of them, Mount Kailash outstands for its mysteries and stories related to it.There are many Kailash Parvat Mysteries, some of the mystery of Kailash Parvat are stated below:-
Mount Kailash's unusual shape has led to the conclusion by some scientists that it is perhaps not a mountain at all, rather it is a pyramid. The four sharp inclined faces of Kailash Parvat drive the speculations to be more realistic. Russian scientists have suggested that the top of Mount Kailash is a huge man-made pyramid standing atop for thousands of years. Scientists who have studied the mountain’s topography and structure say that it has a pyramidal shape resembling a vast cathedral. The sides of the mountain are surprisingly perpendicular and fall sheer for hundreds of feet. The theory that the Russians have put forward elaborates that the mountain is a complex of smaller units of pyramids, a hundred in total. If this theory tends to be true then history will be re-written declaring Mount Kailash to be the biggest and tallest Pyramid known but that is highly unlikely to happen.
Many travelers at the beginning of the 20th century proclaimed that Mt. Kailash is too perfect to be natural and there must be some kind of human intervention in the built of this momentous rock structure. The lamina is horizontal with the layers of stone slightly varying in color. The lines dividing the Kailash Mountain show up clear and distinct and give the entire mountain the essence of having been built with reddish shade rocks put to place by giant hands.This was the theory claimed by the modern time people and scientists which may or may not be true. But there are always some ancient stories related to great historic, mystical places, and so does the case with Mount Kailash.
It is believed that Mount Kailash is strictly oriented to the cardinal points which means that the mountain is situated exactly on the Axis Mundi. The Kailash Parvat is called by several names such as Meru, Sumeru, Sushumna, Hemadri, Deva Parvata, Gana Parvata, Rajatadri, and Ratnasanu. Kang Tisé or Kang Rinpoche (the ‘Precious Jewel of Snow’ in Tibetan), Swastika Mountain, Mt. Astapada, and Mt. Kangrinboge (the Chinese name). The mountain with so many holy and spiritual names is claimed as the center of the earth and the gateway between Earth and Heaven in the Vedas. As the celestial pole and geographic pole, it expresses a point of connection between sky and earth where the four compass directions meet. Mount Kailash is believed to be connecting other ranges of the world at equal distances. It is 6666 kilometres from Stonehenge, 6666 kilometres from the North Pole, and 13332 kilometres from the South Pole.
The Vedas also reflect the existence of Kailash Parvat as a mystical place. If one goes deeper into the Vedas, the Rig Veda has many episodes encircling the great Kailash. One of which says, if we take Mount Kailash as the central region, the entire Cosmos gets divided into seven concentric island continents surrounded by oceans. The seven encircling oceans are each double the size of the preceding one. These seven intermediate oceans consist of salt water, sugarcane juice, wine, ghee, curd, milk, and water respectively. Jambudvipa, one of the concentric islands is divided into four vast regions shaped like four petals of a lotus with Mount Kailash being located at the center like a pericarp. On the summit of the Kailash Mountain, is the vast city of Lord Brahma, known as Brahmapuri. Surrounding Brahmapuri are eight cities - the one of Lord Indra and of seven other Devas. On the four sides of the great Mountain are four other mountains--Mandara, Merumandara, Suparsva, and Kumuda--which are like its belts. The length and height of these mountains are calculated to be 80,000 miles. Rig Veda also states that east of Kailash there is the ocean of milk, in which there is a white city on a white island where Lord Shiva can be seen sitting with his consort Parvati and Nandi- his vahan.
Another terrifying mystery embracing Mount Kailash claims that the time travel there is significantly quicker than it is in any other part of the earth. Everyone who has participated in the KAILASH MANASAROVAR YATRA have seen hair and nails grow in only 12 hours after typically needing a few weeks to do so in normal condition. It is said that this development is being caused by the influence of the mountain air. However, the situation of time travelling faster is unique to this hill station and cannot be found in any other hill station located at a greater altitude, making this a mystery.
Mount Kailash doesn’t just interest people in this century but it has enthralled people thousand of years back in time too. It is said that the great Kailash has a secret entrance leading to the legendary Kingdom of Sambhala. Some Indian sects believe that there is a region north of the Himalayas called Kapapa, where the “perfect men” resides. It is said to be a place in the midst of high mountains where there are unsuspected enclosed valleys. There are hot springs that nourish the rich vegetation and rare plants and medicinal herbs which are able to flourish on that unusual volcanic soil. A much-known scientist and explorer Professor Ernst Muldashev put forward a theory that tells, Sambhala is a spiritual country which is located on the northwest side of Mt. Kailash. It is rumored that when the ice finally melts, it will reveal “THE EYE” of the mountain. There are two underground countries, the Shambhala and Agartha, which are each part of the gene pool of humanity and civilization. Information provided by the Thule Society (Eckhart and Haushofer), shows there is a higher civilization, coming from the Gobi, from the Himalaya and divided into two branches, the Shambhala and Agartha. The former being the center of power, protected by unknown forces and energy. It seems that not only are there underground centers in Tibet and the Himalayas but these tunnels are widespread all over the entire globe.
Seeing the top of Kailash has been a dream of many researchers and travelers but nobody have ever been succeeded. Those who wanted to climb to the mountain and reach the top, all of a sudden get set to go in the opposite direction. Those who walked up the mountain never returned as earlier climbing was allowed but now it is prohibited. In fact, there have been no recorded attempts to climb Mount Kailash due to its near perpendicular wall faces and deadly weather conditions. It is said that anyone who plans to ascend this holy mountain in order to view the faces of the gods will be punished to death. The Kailash peak is therefore regarded as the one that has not yet been scaled.
To get to the deeper side of the Kingdom of Lord Shiva, many tried and researched for years, but nobody really came to a solid conclusion or theory. But it is very strongly believed and said that the sacred mountain imitates lord Shiva in some ways when looked through the exact angle. Lord Shiva, who is the destructor and regenerator of this universe is said to wear the bones of the dead as decoration. It is said that he used to smear himself in ashes - signifying the burning of the lower desires. The higher significance of the destroyer aspect is that he cuts asunder the bonds of the ego, liberating the Atma within from the darkness of ignorance. And this is exactly what Mount Kailash dignifies when looked through the righteous eye with serene pure thoughts through the exact angle and location. The Mountain with this theme of death consist of two large hollows on so that from one particular angle, the ice covered dome of Kailash appears as a skull with two large eyeholes peering out from beneath the skull-like dome depicting Lord Shiva. Many researchers tried to unwrap the hidden mysterious world of Kailash and exclaimed that the foot and middle level of the mountain has voids. The researchers found the presence of cavities inside the sarcophagus, means "flesh-eating" that serves as a refuge in which a state of deep meditation.
Lake Mansarovar (The Lake of God) and Lake Rakshastal (The Lake of Devil) are the twin lakes located near the Mount Kailash. The varying shape of both these lakes defines different aspects. The round shaped Mansarovar Lake is a freshwater lake which is believed to define the positive aspects whereas the crescent shaped Rakshastal Lake is a saltwater lake which is believed to define the negative aspects. It is said that the Mansarovar Jheel and Rakshastal are the best examples showcasing the difference between good and bad respectively.
Visiting a mountainous region in India for a summer vacation or even otherwise, is easy, without any complications to plan the journey. But the same is not true when you want to fulfill your dream of going for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. As confirmed by those who had visited there earlier in time, the experience of doing Kailash Yatra cannot be woven into words perfectly. To just look at the mountains and the clear water lake at a great height is no less than getting salvation while being alive. But for any Indians, it will only be possible if they qualify certain medical tests for it.
As per the rules of the government to ensure safety of pilgrims and tourists going for Kailash Yatra, their physical and mental health has to be checked beforehand. The reason why these rules are also important is because there is a risk of loss of life for an unhealthy individual who insists on going for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The weather of the region around Mount Kailash is not suitable for everyone to make a visit there. This can be confirmed by the least population of the natives who live there. So, in terms of medical tests and their reports, restricting individuals to do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is indeed beneficial for them.
People who want to visit Mount Kailash, has to go through comprehensive health check-up and medical tests, which are detailed below:
You should also know that it is not the tour operator that wants you to get the above-mentioned medical tests done. Actually, the Indian Government has laid certain rules to check the eligibility of an Indian to do Kailash Yatra. To qualify these medical tests is one such rule. All Indian pilgrims or tourists who want to visit Mount Kailash once in their lifetime, have to be mentally and physically fit for it. Also, their Body Mass Index (BMI) should be less than or equal to 27, not more than that. Similarly, he should not be suffering from common health problems such as an increase in blood pressure, ill-maintained blood sugar levels, inability to breathe properly etc.
Medical tests are conducted in New Delhi by Delhi Heart and Lung Institute (DHLI) and Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The cost of these tests has to be borne by an individual. After qualifying these tests, he will only be allowed to make plans to undertake Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The reports of the medical tests confirm if a tourist is fit to do altitude trekking without facing any serious health problem on the way.
Even some medical tests will be conducted during the course of the Kailash Yatra by ITBP, at different places like Gunji or Sherathang, with respect to the route chosen by a pilgrim for the Yatra.
To a pilgrim or a tourist who is excited to experience the difference to visit Mount Kailash, it will be really disappointing if he has to come home back from the mid of the journey because of health issues. So, the best way to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Mount Kailash is by living a healthy lifestyle, which is free from any major health problems.
Being fit and healthy to undertake Kailash Yatra is very important. But this does not mean that an individual can get the above mentioned tests done from any medical center, to get biased reports. For the government, it is a question of risking the life of the natives of his country. To prevent people from going for Kailash Yatra when they are not fit for the same, the reports from ITBP Hospital will only be considered valid.
Also, an individual has to forfeit the non-refundable deposit he has paid for getting the medical tests done, if the reports turn out to be negative.
How to Ensure You Get Positive Medical Tests Reports
As detailed above, qualifying medical tests is very important to become eligible for Kailash Yatra. If seen from another perspective, the reports of medical tests show the overall health condition of an individual, which can be maintained to fulfill his dream to visit Mount Kailash.
To stay fit and healthy, you can do the following and prepare your body for the journey to be made to Kailash Mansarovar:
A cluster of Belief, Spirituality, Religion, Hope, and an unending source of cosmic energy, Mount Kailash is more than just a mountain made of stone and snow. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons all revere Mount Kailash as one of the holiest mountains in the world. Axis Mundi is the term given to it since it is thought to be the naval of the universe. According to the Shiva Purana, performing the Parikrama of Mount Kailash will bring good fortune and purge sins.
The Kailash Mountain is located in the Ngari Prefecture in the far west of Tibet. It is definitely worthwhile to do the Mt. Kailash Kora tour since Mount Kailash, also known as Gang Rimpoche in Tibetan, is situated in the middle of sixteen mountain ranges that symbolise the ideal structure of the Lotus.
The Parikrama of heavenly Mount Kailash can be divided basically into two distinctive routes, namely Inner Parikrama and Outer Parikrama. Based on their degree of difficulty, the inclusion of spiritual centers, distance, and the areas they cover, both stand out as being very different from one another.
The Outer Kora of Mt. Kailash is about 40 km that is covered in 3 days, taking 2 overnight stays at Diraphuk and Zutulpuk whereas the Inner Kora of Mt. Kailash is about 18km + 6km Charansparsh that is covered in 2 days.
When doing Outer and Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash together, the following itinerary is followed:
Day 1: Trek from Yam Dwar to Dirapuk (10km, 8 hours)
Day 2: Trek from Dirapuk to Charansparsh and back (6km, 4 hours)
Day 3:Trek from Dirapuk to Zutulpuk (22km, 12 hours)
Day 4:Trek from Zutulpuk to Yam Dwar (8km, 4 hours)
Day 5: Trek from Darchen to Inner Parikrama and back (18km, 10 hours)
The Inner Kora is a trail that takes you close to the south face of Mount Kailash. Darchen serves as the base for Inner Parikrama of Kailash Mountain. Much more challenging than the outer kora, the inner kora requires some mountaineering expertise and gear for the Kailash Parikrama. This region's spiritual, environmental, and cultural facets are all addressed by the Kailash Inner Kora Trek.
There is a 24 km walking journey involved in the inner kora of Mount Kailash. To experience the Inner Kora, devotees must extend their pilgrimage by three days. They will pay respects to countless spiritual sites found along the way throughout this circumambulation which are enumerated below:
The Hindi terms Charan, which means foot, and Sparsh, which means touch, are combined to form the phrase Charansparsh. Hence, touching the feet is the whole meaning of this word. In the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Charansparsh is touching Mount Kailash up close. Mount Kailash is shaped like the Shivalingam - the symbol of Lord Shiva. When we perform the Mount Kailash Charansparsh, it feels as though we are touching the feet of Lord Shiva.
According to Shastra, south is the direction of Kuber who resides at Mount of Kailash. The most significant lake discovered on the Inner Kora of Mount Kailash is Kuber Kund. It is greatly venerated since it has so many heroic stories attached to it. But the beauty of this place and the calmness around this lake will astound you.
The East face of Mount Kailash which is usually not clearly visible during Outer Parikrama of Mount Kailash can be seen from Kuber Kund on the way to Kuber Parvat.
When starting the Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash from Darchen, the first divine spot that comes on the way is Sherlung Monastery. It was built as a center of meditation for the monks. One can get a close view of the Nandi Parvat and the Ashtapad from here.
The well-known Nandi Parvat, which is located close to Mount Kailash and is so called because of its shape and appearance that closely resembles the Nandi Bull (the sacred vehicle of Lord Shiva). There is a prevalent belief that Lord Shiva is unable to hear the prayers of his worshippers because he is intently focused on meditation at holy Kailash Mountain. The Nandi serves as a messenger for them, conveying their requests to Lord Shiva.
The Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash is also known as Nandi Inner Parikrama.
As the name says, "Sapt" means seven, and "Rishi" means sage, it was originally the residence of the seven sages - Bharadwaja, Bhrigu, Gautama, Atri, Kashyapa, Vishwamitra, and Vashitha who were devoted followers of Lord Shiva. The most well-known Saptrishi Caves are known to be naturally formed caves composed of 13 Chortens.
The name Ashtapad is derived from the words Ashta meaning Eight and Pad meaning Steps. Asthapad, one of the most spiritual centers on Kailash Parvat Inner Kora is a real treat for the pilgrims. It is considered that Rishabhadev- the First Jain Thirthankar attained Moksha ( Nirvana) at this site. One can spot a spine-like structure on the South face of Mount Kailash which is believed to be the Eight step ( Ashtapad).
According to legend, Pushpadanta, a snowflake that emerges from the top of the Kailash Mountain, is where the Atma Lingam is formed. It is said that the holy and pure water of the Sailodha River originates at Atmalingam. It can be spotted towards the west of Kailash Parvat.
Although the Inner Parikrama of Mount Kailash is regarded as a challenging one, the outcomes are faithful. Mount Kailash Inner Kora brings about a sense of fulfillment and tranquility and the remarkable divinity found in the spiritual centers can be felt at each and every point.
The best time to go for Inner Parikrama of Kailash Parvat is from Mid August to September. Since the trail of inner Parikrama is a challenging one, hence it requires clear weather conditions for the pilgrims to trek through the Nandi Parvat Inner Kora. The snow melts post monsoon, hence it is comparatively safer to take on the Kailash Inner Kora tour in August and September.
The Inner Parikrama Tour of Kailash Mansarovar is of 12 nights and 13 days from Lucknow to Lucknow by Helicopter route. This Tour package of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will include both Inner Parikrama and Outer Parikrama of Mount Kailash.
For more details on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Inner Parikrama Tour Package, visit https://www.triptotemples.com/kailash-mansarovar/kailash-mansarovar-inner-parikrama or Call / SMS KMY Inner Parikrama on 9911937751.
People name this as spirituality. Spirituality is addressed as a specific practice or belief and the act of worshipping God. Each and every religion has one such practice and beliefs. Likewise, for Hindus, it is Lord Shiva. Rigveda fortify the unification of the three divine beings, Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the perpetuator of existence and Mahesh (Shiva), the first yogi who is regarded to maintain good and destroy evil. He is usually worshipped as God of Gods. He is a living God of the Hindu religion.
Shiva is a Supreme power and known for his third element in Trimurti. The first and second members are Brahma and Vishnu. Each member in the Trimurti or Trinity possesses some responsibility whereas Shiva has the responsibility of maintaining the life cycle in this world. This being his responsibility, his symbol is lingam meaning reproductive power, and his mount is Nandi – a bull. Lord Shiva is also said to be a half-man and a half-woman and named as Ardhanarishwara. Shiva is present in various temples and various forms – Shiva alone on few temples, Shiva and his divine consort Parvati in many temples and he is worshipped in Ardhanarishwara look in certain temples. Hence it is believed that Shiva is the supreme god.
How difficult is seeking blessings from Shiva? Well, it is as difficult as climbing mountains as a single person, and that’s how this Yatra is too. He is not only popular among Indians, but he is extremely popular among all nationalities. Across India, we have a lot of Shiva temples that people worship on a daily basis, but the one located in the Himalayas has its own significance. Lord Shiva is present in the form of Ice and Hindus consider this as a spiritual tour or pilgrimage. For Hindus, this is the holiest shrines and a must-visit for all of them. It is not that easy to reach this place called Amaranath where Lord Shiva’s iced lingam is installed. To seek his blessings, a huge number of followers takes a lot of risks and reaches there. It takes immense care to be there as it is located amidst mountains. To reach Amarnath caves people need to be prepared physically and they also undergo all the medical tests. A person who is physically fit is only allowed for this Yatra. We have certain Poojas for Shiva, and it has to be done in a cleaner way. As a matter of respect towards God, the person performing these poojas must not be a non-vegetarian.
Amarnath is a shrine that is in Jammu and Kashmir, and it is situated at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters. The cave is surrounded by mountains and most of the time snowflakes cover the mountains. It is chiefly advised not to visit this place during fall and winter. Except for a few months in the summer, all the other days the mountains are covered with snow. Most of the Hindus consider this as a holy pilgrimage annually and visit this place once in a year. Though this is hard to travel every year, they make an annual pilgrimage to seek the blessings from the ice stalagmite, Shiva.
When planning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trip then the first question that comes in the mind is how to visit kailash mansarovar. The best way to book a tour to Kailash Mansarovar is by the Kathmandu-Nepal route by helicopter. There are no doubt several routes available for Hindu devotees who want to make this sacred pilgrimage, and a few are recommended by the Government of India, no less. But if you are looking for convenience, then the helicopter route via Kathmandu, Nepal, is the best one to choose. Here’s a look at all you need to know about booking such a tour.
It is always best to make an informed choice. Here are pointers on why Nepal to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the best route:
Booking the Kailash Mansarovar via Kathmandu by helicopter tour is easy. There are several private tour operators working in this route and it is best that you choose an experienced one for this. Here’s how to go about booking the Yatra:
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an experience of a lifetime. The sheer grandeur of the region coupled with the mystic quality of Hindu mythology makes it a highly revered destination for Hindu devotees of Lord Shiva. Go with an open mind and you may well be rewarded with the blessings of the gods.
Going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something every devout Hindu cherishes in their hearts. And why shouldn’t that be? Mount Kailash, with its mountainous terrain, is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and is thus one of the most important pilgrimages a Hindu can go on. If you want to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, then finding the right tour operator is crucial for the successful completion of the journey.
If you are looking for an economical trip, then this is what you need to decide first.
It is integral to find a tour organizer who can take you on the Yatra at the most economical price. There are several operators but Trip To Temples(u/o Divine Mantra Private Limited) is one that comes highly recommended. Here are the reasons for its continued growth in popularity.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to the abode of Lord Shiva is a wonderful opportunity to understand some of the core philosophies of Hindu mythology. Every year, thousands of devotees travel from far lands to this mystic mountain in the hopes of getting the sins of their previous lifetimes washed away. That is what a dip in Lake Mansarovar and a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash promises!
Visiting Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is a wish that is dear to the hearts of most Hindu devotees of Lord Shiva. He is the Supreme Being, the Mahadeva, the Maheshvara, the Shankara, and the Vishwanatha. If you are a Shiv-Bhakt and going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is something you want to do at least once in your lifetime, knowing whether or not you are eligible for it is important.
If you choose to go with the MEA, then you will be going under the direct supervision of the Government of India. It is by far the most popular means of going on the journey. Here are the eligibility criteria you need to know about:
You may find that going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with a private tour agency is more to your liking. It may be that the travel options they offer are better and far more convenient. Also, you may find that going by helicopter is less time-consuming and physically also less demanding. This is something that a reputed private tour agency will be able to easily organize. Here’s what you need to know about the eligibility criteria:
Though the eligibility criteria for the Kailash Yatra organized by most private tour agencies is not difficult, it is important to understand what this means for the pilgrims themselves. It means that anyone who wishes to go should take a lot of care to find an agency that is reputed and highly skilled at the job or conducting the journey most safely. Care should also be taken to prepare for the journey well beforehand by starting a good exercise regimen at least 3 months before the commencement of the Yatra. Pilgrims should also get medical examinations done to find out if there is anything wrong with their health so that they can get the attention needed before the journey.
Last but not the least, going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a lot about the mind. So clear your mind, forgive your enemies and go on the journey with a clean slate. This way, you will be able to fully enjoy this life-changing experience.
Know More About
Procedure for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra From Kathmandu
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra New Route
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Hindi
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will have you travel to a different country. Located in the remote western region of Tibet, Mount Kailash stands tall at 6628 m and is part of the Trans-Himalayan range. The long and treacherous trek to Mount Kailash is not an easy journey to make and it is important that you get your details right. Whether you choose to go with the Ministry of External Affairs or with a private tour operator, there will be no traveling during the night involved.
One may think that since the Yatra involves traveling a long distance, doing part of it during the night will make the journey duration shorter. But that is not true for this particular trip. Here are the reasons:
All the above reasons are why tour operators never let pilgrims travel during the night when on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
It should be mentioned that the ‘parikrama’ is not something everyone has to do. It is not compulsory and one may opt out of it during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. However, if you choose to do it, here’s what it involves:
For people who are really interested to go, this is information they may be looking for. When you book with a reliable private tour operator, your accommodation is taken care of. During the ‘parikrama’, you can expect to be lodged at respectable guest houses every night where you will be served hot meals that nourish the soul and the body. If you are wondering why accommodation will not be arranged at proper hotels, the reason is that the region is a very remote one that is sparsely populated. Amenities are not available there and that is why pilgrims have to stay in guesthouses. Start the Yatra with an open mind and you will be able to enjoy all that it will offer you.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage that is profound with religious significance and meaning. The very act of going on the Yatra is fraught with deep meaning because of the toughness of the mountainous terrain and the roughness of the weather. The Hindu religion attributes Mount Kailash to be the abode of Lord Shiva, who is believed to meditate in the mountain for the most part. Kailash Mansarovar is one of the most sacred pilgrimages a Hindu person can go on and if you are planning to do it, then it is important that you choose the right travel option. There are at least 5 to 6 routes to go on the Yatra and going by helicopter is a great idea as long as you choose the right private tour operator.
As mentioned, there are quite a few routes for someone to choose from but the helicopter route has certain advantages that no other route offers:
Undertaking Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is indeed, an expensive trip to the mountains. The total cost of it can be justified as the journey includes visits to multiple countries. A tour operator has to make required arrangements for all the pilgrims who have made bookings for Kailash Yatra. Still, one of the common concerns that a lot of travelers ask about is about the cancellation policy of the bookings made. Clearly, these policies may vary from one travel service provider to another, and depend on a number of factors. So, it is important for every tourist who is willing to do Kailash Yatra to know about the cancellation policy of the travel agent chosen to make the bookings.
In general, certain aspects of the cancellation policy of Kailash Yatra are the same, irrespective of the travel agent chosen. Some of them are detailed below:
In most cases, the chosen tour operator will ask for a certain percentage of the total booking cost of Kailash Yatra per person from the pilgrims. In case the travelers need to cancel the bookings made and ask for the paid amount back, a certain proportion of the money will get deducted before refunding. This deduction is done at the sole discretion of the chosen tour operator.
On the other hand, the tour operator also reserves the right to cancel the bookings made by a traveler, if he does not pay the full booking amount on time. Another consequence of such a situation will be the forfeiture of the advance amount paid to the tour operator.
In some situations, some travelers need to transfer the originally booked tour on a specific date or time, to some other tour plan. This may be treated as a cancellation of an earlier tour plan, as per the cancellation policy of the chosen tour operator. This implies that fresh bookings are to be made for another tour. Tour tariffs or discounts with respect to the chosen time for fresh booking will be considered only, irrespective of the previous offers.
A tour operator has the right to decide the minimum number of travelers to be booked at least for the Kailash tour to commence at the scheduled time. If the number of bookings made has less travelers than required, then the tour operator also has the right to cancel the tour. In such an event, he will return the initial booking amount paid to him back to the travelers after deducting the taxes, if any.
Other than this, in the event if the tour operator has to decide to cancel the tour, he will inform the travelers at least seven to ten days before the commencement of the journey. In this case, the total amount gets refunded timely to the travelers.
Since Kailash Yatra requires an individual to visit multiple countries, he may require a valid VISA to visit the countries that lie as a part of the journey. The tour operators from which an individual gets the bookings made can guide him for Visa documentation or similar other formalities. He will be charged the Visa fees at the rate prevailing on the date of submission of his documents to the foreign embassies. Despite submitting all required documents, it is the sole discretion of the foreign embassy of a country to grant the individual a Visa. Generally, no tour operator can help an individual in case the Visa is not granted.
In such situations, if an individual cancels the bookings made to a tour operator, his cancellation policy becomes applicable as per the situation.
Some tour operators ask for the complete payment of the Kailash Yatra to be made in advance, as per the schedule of the journey. To entertain the situations of booking cancellations, they have made their own rules, as per the number of days remaining before the departure at the time of receiving cancellation request.
In case, a traveler does not reach the destined place at the time of departure without prior notice, no money is generally refunded.
The cancellation charges related to Kailash Yatra mostly come up into notice, in case an individual has to cancel the bookings made, or the entire has to be canceled because of some natural calamity. To some people, the cancellation policies of the chosen tour operator may sound unreasonable. This is the reason why people are advised to ask about the cancellation policies of the chosen tour operator in advance. By keeping it a part of the checklist to be followed while planning to undertake Kailash Yatra, it is important for every traveler or pilgrim to be aware about the cancellation policies and related costs to be borne by him.
Along with being a place for pilgrimage, Kailash Mansarovar has an attraction element for those travellers who love to enjoy the serenity and picturesque beauty of being near the mountains. But just like any other trip to be made, either alone or with the family members or friends, doing the Kailash Yatra is an expensive affair. Affordability is one of the eligibility conditions to do this Yatra, as not everyone can easily pay for the expenses related to it. People who can afford to go on this Yatra, but have not ever done this before, often ask about the currencies to be carried with them to meet the expenses related to the Yatra.
So, if you are one of them, and are planning to make a visit to the Kailash Mansarovar, the following information about the currency to be carried for the Yatra will be of great help to you:
The answer is simple and clear – when you plan to visit one country other than your home country, you will need to make arrangements for the currency of the country you are making a visit to. But when you are going to visit a number of countries as a part of your journey to some destination, you will need to have currencies of all the countries in between that you need to make a visit to. The same is the case with Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
This Holy site is located in Tibet. But the travellers or pilgrims who want to do Kailash Yatra, have to choose one of the two routes – one which is from China, while the other is from India via Nepal. Since an individual going on this Yatra has to travel to India, Nepal and China, he will need to carry currencies of these countries with him to bear the expenses related to the Yatra, and to enjoy it the most.
As detailed above, getting the currency of your home country exchanged to foreign currencies is very much required to make a visit to Kailash Mansarovar. Depending upon the chosen route to this Holy site, the need of foreign currencies can be determined.
In general, an individual going for Kailash Yatra needs three types of currencies, which are Indian Rupees, Nepali Rupees and Chinese Yuan. Along with this, one can also carry the universal currency, US Dollar, which can be taken in use at some places to meet the expenses related to the Yatra.
Also, the conversion or exchange of one currency to the other, can be done with the help of a travel agent or tour operator you have made Kailash Yatra bookings from. He can also tell you the approximate amount of money you will need to make a visit to Kailash Mansarovar. Accordingly, you can make the plan to go for this Yatra, either alone or with your family members.
If you are planning to go for Kailash Yatra, some sort of inconvenience may arise in case you do not know well about the kind of currencies you need, and how to use them in foreign countries. So, to help you in making the most of your Kailash Mansarovar journey, here are some of the important things you should know about:
.png?tr=w-330,h-220)
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimage tours not only for Hindus but for Jains, Buddhists, and Bons also. Mount of Kailash is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva resides with his family. Mansarovar is a large freshwater lake of great religious significance. Kailash Mansarovar attracts millions of pilgrims each year from all over the world with its majesty and solemnity.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Govt. of India organizes Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Uttarakhand with the help of Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. Hence this route of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is also known as KMVN Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lipulekh Pass is conducted only by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. No Private agency is allowed to conduct the Mansarovar Kailash Yatra through this route. For more information on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Government route, you need to contact the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route from Uttarakhand used to be entirely by trek until 2019 and Uttarakhand to Kailash Mansarovar distance and back was covered in 24-25 days. Now the Government of India is constructing a new road to Kailash Mansarovar on this route of Kailash Mansarovar which is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. With this new road, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Uttarakhand will become motorable and the duration is expected to be reduced to 19-20 days.
Every year the Ministry of External Affairs receives thousands of applications for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Lipulekh Route. However, there is a limitation on the number of yatries who can visit the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Pithoragarh. Only a total of 1080 pilgrims (18 groups of 60 Pilgrims each) can visit Kailash Mansarovar from Uttarakhand.
The Government of India has a dedicated website for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which is kmy.gov.in. To apply you need to visit the official website operated by the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Government. The yatries have to apply online for the lucky draw. No registration fee has to be paid at that time.
A strict procedure of selection is followed on this MEA Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route which is as follows:
The Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India requires the following checklist for Lipulekh Pass Kailash Manasarovar Yatra:
The Kailash pilgrims must ensure to prepare well for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You are advised to refer to the guide available on the official website for more information on the preparation for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The price of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass was Rs. 1,80,000/- in 2019. With the new road to Kailash Mansarovar, the price is expected to go beyond Rs. 2,00,000/-.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand starts from Delhi. All the selected applicants have to reach Delhi at least 3 days before the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra date where multiple blood tests and medical check up will be done to ensure that the yatries are physically fit to travel to the high-altitude region.
On Day 1 of Delhi Stay, The Yatries have to Arrive in Delhi.
On Day 2 of Delhi Stay, a Medical checkup is done at Delhi Lung and Heart Institute.
On Day 3 of Delhi Stay, the Final Medical checkup is done at ITPB Base Hospital.
On Day 4 of Delhi Stay, a proper briefing session is held at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
The Passport, Affidavits, and Consent form of the pilgrims is collected in Delhi to apply for Kailash Yatra Permit and VISA.
After passing the medical check-up, the group proceeds from Delhi to Kathgodam for the start of the main Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Kailash Mansarovar route from Uttarakhand is as follows:
Today the yatries will start their journey to Kailash Mansarovar. They will travel from Delhi to Almora. The yatries will meet and get to know each other on this day.
Mode of Transportation: AC Bus
Distance covered: 340 km
Time taken: 12 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 1600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Almora TRH
Today, we will proceed towards Dharchula from Almora via Didihat where lunch will be organized. Dharchula is the place where you will prepare for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You can find markets. It is the point where the yatries need to decide whether they want a pony/porter for India’s side of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The luggage weight limitation (max 20kgs) starts after Dharchula.
Mode of Transportation: Non-AC Bus
Distance covered: 220 km
Time taken: 10 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 940 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Dharchula TRH
Lakhanpur is the last motorable land on India’s side. We drive from Dharchula to Lakhanpur and then complete a trek to Budhi. The route is narrow and steps have been carved out of rocks. The first 7 to 8 km until Lakhanpur is strenuous. You will come across places such as Lamari, Malpa, and also many waterfalls en route. This is the first day of the trek, hence the yatries will get to know their strength and endurance level.
Mode of Transportation: Non-AC Bus and Trekking
Distance covered: 42 km by Bus and 12 km by trek
Time taken: 3 hours approx drive
Highest Altitude: 2700 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Budhi Camp
Today you will begin one of the most scenic treks of the Indian side. You will cross scenic villages such as Chialekh, Garbyang, and Nepalchu and spot the confluence of Kali and Tinker rivers.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 17 km
Time taken: 10 to 12 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3200 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Gunji Camp
On this day, the ITBP medical team will check your fitness level. Various tests will be done. For better acclimatization to the environment, later the yatries will walk to Nabi.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 3 km
Time taken: 2 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3300 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Nabi Camp
The yatries will trek back to Gunji from Nabi. After reaching Gunji, the ITBP medical team will again check your fitness level. You will continue the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra ahead only if you pass the medical check-up.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 3 km
Time taken: 2 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3200 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Gunji Camp
The trek from Gunji to Kalapani is done along the Kali river which ITBP jawans guide at each point. You will get to see Vyas Gufa and Kali temple at Kalapani. There is an Immigration point at Kalapani where your documents are checked before moving toward the border.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 10 km
Time taken: 5 to 6 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3700 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Kalapani Camp
The route from Kalapani to Nabidhang is an uphill trek. The stretch is beautiful. One can feel the fast wind blowing in the region so it is advisable to properly cover your head and ears. The most miraculous mountain- OM Parvat is visible from the Nabidhang Camp.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 9 km
Time taken: 7 to 8 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 4245 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Nabidhang Camp
The trek from Nabidhang to Lipulekh Pass is a treacherous one. The best time to cross Lipulekh Pass is between 7 am to 9 am as the weather condition is favorable. So we start this day very early around 3 am so that we reach Lipulekh by 7 am. As you cross the Lipulekh Pass you enter Tibet where Chinese guides join the group for guidance. After a few kilometers buses will be available for you to reach Taklakot (also known as Purang).
Mode of Transportation: Trekking and Volvo Category Bus
Distance covered: 9 km by trek and 13 km by bus
Time taken: 10 to 12 hours
Highest Altitude: 5335 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
This day is for leisure and acclimatization with the environment. You can visit the market and prepare for the Kailash Parikrama and Mansarovar Lake Parikrama. The Chinese authorities check your documents to complete the Immigration and Customs process and take the Kailash Yatra fees. In case the yatries require a pony and porter for Kailash Parikrama has to be informed at this point.
Mode of Transportation: NA
Distance covered: NA
Time taken: NA
Highest Altitude: 3900 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
Darchen is the base for Mount Kailash Parikrama. We will drive from Taklakot to Darchen. Enroute the yatries will also be able to spot Rakshastal. It is believed that Rakshastal is the place where the demon king Ravana meditated and worshipped Lord Shiva. You will also get the first glimpse of Mount Kailash from here. The bus also stops for some time near Lake Mansarovar.
Mode of Transportation: Volvo Category bus
Distance covered: 120 km
Time taken: 4 to 5 hours
Highest Altitude: 4600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
Today is the day when the 48km Mount Kailash Parikrama will start. The yatries will be taken to Yamdwar by bus from Darchen. It is believed that crossing Yamdwar relieves you from the sins you have committed. The yatries will trek from Yam Dwar to Diraphuk. Kailash Parvat will be visible throughout the day. The view of Mount Kailash from Diraphuk is the most beautiful one.
Mode of Transportation: Volvo Category bus and Trekking
Distance covered: 7 km by bus and 12 km by trek
Time taken: 8 to 9 hours
Highest Altitude: 5060 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Multiple-sharing Dormitory
The trek of this day is a long one. The yatries will start early morning from Diraphuk and trek to Junjhui Pu. You will get to see Dolma La Pass (highest point), Shivasthal, Gaurikund, etc.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking
Distance covered: 19 km
Time taken: 12 to 13 hours
Highest Altitude: 4780 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Multiple- sharing Dormitory
After trekking down from Junjhui Pu, the bus will be available for the yatries to take them to Lake Mansarovar. The Parikrama of Lake Mansarovar is 88 km long and is done by bus.
Mode of Transportation: Trekking and Volvo Category bus
Distance covered: 5 km by trek and 95 km by bus
Time taken:
Highest Altitude: 4600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
This day is given to the yatries to rest and charge up for the journey ahead. The yatries spend their day near Lake Mansarovar.
Mode of Transportation: NA
Distance covered: NA
Time taken: NA
Highest Altitude: 4600 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
After completing the Parikrama of Mount Kailash and Parikrama of Lake Mansarovar both, the group drives back to Taklakot from Qugu.
Mode of Transportation: Volvo Category Bus
Distance covered: 65 km
Time taken: 4 to 5 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3900 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Guest house
On this day we return to India. We complete the immigration process at the Tibet-India border and enter India from Lipulekh Pass and then trek to Gunji via Nabidhang and Kalapani.
Mode of Transportation: Volvo Category Bus and Trek
Distance covered: 26 km by Bus and 20 km by Trek
Time taken:
Highest Altitude: 4500 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Gunji Camp
On this day the yatries trek from Gunji to Budhi. They cross natural villages such as Nepalchu, Garbyang, Chialekh, etc.
Mode of Transportation: Trek
Distance covered: 17 km
Time taken: 8 to 10 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 3200 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Budhi Camp
The Yatries trek from Budhi to Mangti and then a bus is available at Lakhanpur from where you will be transported to Dharchula.
Mode of Transportation: Trek and Non-AC Bus
Distance covered: 35 km by Trek and 20 km by Bus
Time taken:
Highest Altitude: 3200 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Dharchula TRH
Today you will be going to your last destination of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The yatries will be taken to Jageshwar from Dharchula.
Mode of Transportation: Non AC Bus
Distance covered: 200 km
Time taken: 6 to 7 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 1870 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: KMVN Jageshwar TRH
This is the last day of your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. We drive from Jageshwar to Delhi. With this, we end the holy Yatra with the blessing of Lord Shiva.
Mode of Transportation: AC Bus
Distance covered: 430 km
Time taken: 11 to 12 hours approx
Highest Altitude: 1870 meters
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Type: Hotel
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package
Kailash Mansarovar is the supreme pilgrimage destination located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet- the autonomous region of China. Mount Kailash is believed to be the center of spiritual existence for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Taking a dip in the holy water of Lake Mansarovar is considered to purify the soul by cleansing the sins and delivering a healthy life. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is recognized for its sanctity, cultural value, and formidability. Going on the Mansarovar Kailash Yatra brings good fortune to the devotees.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be undertaken by two routes, one is the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India route and the other is the Nepal route of Private companies.
One can start Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Delhi by the Government of India route. The Indian Government following the designated route takes pilgrims to Tibet directly from India through two borders: the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and the NathuLa Pass in Sikkim.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal route starts mainly from Lucknow or Kathmandu. The yatris cannot directly enter Tibet from India by the private companies route, so all the yatris have to transit via Nepal to enter Tibet. Most of the private companies offer Mansarovar Yatra Package from Lucknow or Kathmandu, hence one has to reach either Lucknow or Kathmandu from Delhi to go on the Yatra to Kailash Mansarovar with a private operator.
There are many ways to go on Kailash Manasarovar Yatra from Delhi:
There are no direct flights between India and Tibet. You can take a flight from Delhi to Lucknow or Delhi to Kathmandu. After reaching Lucknow you can join the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter Group or after reaching Kathmandu you can join the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Bus Group as well as Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter Group to continue your journey to Kailash Manasarovar.
Delhi to Lucknow Flight- Air India, Air Asia, Indigo, and Vistara offer flights between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Chaudhari Charan Singh International Airport (LKO). The fastest flight between these destinations takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Delhi to Kathmandu Flight- Nepal Airlines, Indigo, Vistara, and Air India offer flights between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). The fastest flight between these destinations takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The rail network between India and Tibet is still not developed. One can either take a train from Delhi to reach Lucknow for joining the Helicopter Kailash Yatra Group or take a train from Delhi to Gorakhpur and then a bus from Gorakhpur to reach Kathmandu for joining the Helicopter or Bus Kailash Yatra Group.
There are many Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Super Fast, Express, Sampark Kranti, and other trains available between Delhi and Lucknow as well as Delhi and Gorakhpur. The time taken by the fastest train between Delhi and Lucknow is 6 hours and 25 minutes approx and between Delhi and Gorakhpur is 11 hours and 20 minutes approx.
The distance from Delhi to Kailash Mansarovar is about 1800 km. Delhi is located at a distance of 580 km approx from Lucknow (10 hours approx drive) and 1100 km approx from Kathmandu (24 hours approx drive). There are plenty of bus and taxi services available that one can take between these destinations. The beautiful scenery along the route is soothing to the eyes. After reaching Lucknow or Kathmandu on your own, you will join the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Group to continue your journey to the Holy Land of Lord Shiva.
Hilsa is the Nepal-Tibet border for the helicopter route of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Rasuwagadhi is the Nepal-Tibet border for the bus route of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
For More Details about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packages & its Cost:
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Kathmandu
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Bus
Shortest Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
info@triptotemples.com
+91-8510007751
