The existence of Mount Kailash—the holy abode of Lord Shiva dates back to 30 million years ago. This hallowed peak has defied the test of time and has even remained one of the unclimbed peaks of the world. This Mountain holds immense cultural and religious importance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons. For Hindus, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most revered yatras. While the existence of this sacred mountain can’t be exactly stated, however, it has remained erect for centuries. 

Lake Mansarovar is a refreshing freshwater Lake located close to Mount Kailash. Both Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash are mentioned in several Hindu scriptures— Shiv Purana, Skanda Purana, and other Shaivite literature. In addition, the mountain is also mentioned as ‘Mount Meru’ or ‘Kang Rinpoche’ in Buddhist literature.

Let us take into the journey of reading to discover how old is Kailash Mansarovar. This blog is also packed with some interesting Mount Kailash facts that you need to know.

Discovering The Legend Of Lake Mansarovar

Lake Mansarovar is one of the world’s holiest lakes situated in Kailash Mansarovar. The water of Lake Mansarovar is believed to be the purest and most sacred. According to a legend, Lake Mansarovar was first visualized by Lord Brahma and later it materialized on Earth. The name Mansarovar is derived from two words—Manas (Mind) and Sarovar (Lake). The Lake is positioned amidst a stunning backdrop of Kailash Mansarovar range. Also, the river Sarayu is said to have been born out of The Lake. It is regarded as an exemplification of brightness and positivity. It is also believed that Goddess Parvati bathed in the Mansarovar Lake. Pilgrims usually carry the water of Mansarovar Lake as a token of blessing while returning from the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is believed that the yatra remains incomplete if a pilgrim does not carry the water of Lake Mansarovar while returning from Kailash Mansarovar. In the Buddhist tradition, Queen Maya gave birth to Lord Buddha at Lake Mansarovar.

In Hindu sacred texts, there are panch sarovars—-Narayan Sarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Pushkar Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, and Lake Mansarovar. The Lake Mansarovar is situated in Tibet. A ritual which is taking a dip into the waters of Lake Mansarovar is believed to have great significance. The Lake is also visible from Nepal’s Limi Lapcha Valley. 

Can We Trace The Existence Of Mansarovar Lake And Mount Kailash?

The existence of Mount Kailash can be said to be somewhere 3,500 years old. Ravana—the king of demons and one of the greatest devotees of Lord Shiva tried to lift Mount Kailash. However, he failed to do so as Lord Shiva put his feet on the Kailash due to which the hands of Ravana were stuck inside the mountain. Ravana recited the famous ‘Shiv Tandava Stotram’ to please Lord Shiva. 

The existence of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar can’t be exactly traced back. The legends and tales associated with this holy pilgrimage site date back to the era of Satya Yuga. The mountain and the lake can be said to be much older than the scriptures as well. Earlier, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra could only be done by the fewer people. However, now this holy site is attracting more and more devotees from around the world. Since COVID-19 and the India–China military standoff, the routes have been shut. However, now the diplomatic relations between India–and China have strengthened and more and more pilgrims can now go for the darshan.

Contact us for more details on Kailash Mansarovar Darshan and other Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage packages.