Perched in the Trans Himalaya range in the Tibet Autonomous region of China, Mount Kailash is not merely a tall snowcapped peak with stunning views, but it is a revered spiritual destination.
Standing tall at 6,638 meters, this peak is considered the holiest mountain in the world in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion alike. Therefore, every year thousands of pilgrims embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Tour.
The highlight of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is to perform the Kailash Parikrama which is a pilgrimage around Mt. Kailash where the pilgrims, almost from all four above mentioned religions, circumambulate the sacred peak.
Remember that Mt. Kailash is an unclimbed peak, and this journey is not to reach its peak but to encircle the mountain, which takes around 3 days to complete.
This is an elaborate journey involving many rituals, traversing rugged terrains, and crossing high altitude passes while witnessing the majestic beauty of the different faces of the mountain. So, in this guide, we have included a detailed breakdown of Kailash Parikrama.
Significance of Kailash Parikrama
Before knowing the details of the Kailash Mansarovar yatra and its highlights, it is important to know the religious significance of it and understand why thousands of pilgrims from Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon go on this journey.
Believed to be the center of the universe by all these religions, despite each one having their own theory about why the peak is sacred, circumambulating Mt. Kailash is believed to cleanse the soul of the pilgrims along with awakening them spiritually.
In Hinduism, it is believed that Mt. Kailash is the home of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva and his consort Mata Parvati. And Kailash Parikrama is believed to release the pilgrims from the cycle of rebirth and death.
For Buddhists, this peak is an earthly manifestation of Mt. Meru, and it is considered the abode of Demchok (Chakrasamvara) who is considered a wrathful deity representing ultimate bliss. They refer to Kailash Parikrama as ‘Kora’ and they believe that it purifies their soul.
In Jainism, the peak is called Ashtapada and they believed that their first Tirthankara- Rishabadeva attained enlightenment here. They circumambulate the peak in a counterclockwise direction.
For followers of Bon religion, Mt. Kailash represents the abode of the sky goddess Sipaimen. They too circumambulate the peak in order to remove negativity and cleanse past karmic actions.
Therefore, Kailash Parikrama, although addressed by different names in different religions, is a common practice in many religions and is also a symbol of different religions coming together to honor a similar belief.
Day 1: Yamadwar to Deraphuk
Starting Point: Yama Dwar
Ending Point: Deraphuk
Distance: 12 km
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
The official journey of Kailash Parikrama starts from Yama Dwar, translated as ‘Gateway of the God of Death’. This symbolizes your entry into this spiritual quest and underworld after leaving behind all the worldly attachments.
At Yamadwar lies the South face of Mount Kailash and Hindus and Tibetans start and end their parikrama/kora from the South face of Mount Kailash. After seeking blessings here, the trek is started.
Trekkers proceed through rocky terrains and high-altitude regions amid the thin air as they make their way onto the trail. Many Tibetan pilgrims even complete Kora by doing dandavat pranam (full prostration) instead of just walking which is a display of their immense faith.
After a few hours of walking, you will reach places like Shershong and Chuku Gompa where you can rest and bask in the stunning view and spiritual realm of the region.
As you reach Deraphuk, you will be seeing glimpses of the North face of Mt. Kailash, which is a spectacular view in itself. The north face is often regarded as the ‘Face of Brahma’.
The Deraphuk Monastery will be your resting spot for the day after a trek of almost 10 to 12 kilometers which you will be covering within 6 to 8 hours of walking in the rocky terrains and challenging conditions.
Day 2: Deraphuk to Zuthulphuk
Starting Point: Deraphuk
Ending Point: Zuthulphuk
Distance: 22 km
Duration: 8-10 hours
The second day of Kailash Parikrama is often regarded as the toughest day of the journey as you will be crossing high altitude mountain pass- the Dolma La Pass.
As you start your day at Deraphuk, you will be navigating a steep ascent as you go towards the Dolma La Pass which will be the highest point of the trek at 5,640 meters (18,504 ft).
The ascent, although extremely challenging given the altitude and the rough terrain of the trail, is extremely rewarding in terms of the views and the serenity that you will encounter.
Dolma La Pass is considered to represent the highest point of Parikrama and mark the spiritual journey from life to death and rebirth. Pilgrims often rest and pray at the top of the pass and acknowledge the spiritual divinity.
Descending from the pass is an equally challenging task as the path is quite steep and requires proper navigation. While coming down, trekkers often visit the sacred Gauri Kund where pilgrims usually collect water of the ‘Lake of Compassion’.
As you continue, a mix of rocky paths and gradual descents takes you to Zuthulphuk which is your resting spot for the day, from where you can witness the majestic views of the south face of Mt. Kailash.
The distance covered on the second day of Kailash Parikrama is around 22 kms and is covered within 10 to 11 hours of a challenging and tiring journey.
Day 3: Zuthulphuk to Darchen
Starting Point: Zuthulphuk
Ending Point: Darchen
Distance: 12 km
Duration: 4-5 hours
The journey from Zuthulphuk to Darchen marks the final day of the Kailash Parikrama when the pilgrims will be fulfilling their circumambulation after a challenging journey.
This day is relatively easier as you will be coming across several gradual descents and even the terrain is mostly flat and manageable despite being rocky in many parts.
This approximately 13 km descend from Zuthulphuk to your starting point Darchen will take you approximately 4 to 5 hours and will allow you enough time to reflect on your entire journey.
As you walk, you will see the West face of Mt. Kailash, which is regarded as the ‘Face of Varuna’ which symbolizes diving introspection and tranquility as you will be nearing the completion of your Kailash Mansarovar journey.
Upon reaching Darchen, the Kailash Parikrama is completed, and it is a moment of immense spiritual significance for all the pilgrims who then perform their specific rituals and offer prayers to express their gratitude for a successful journey.
Different faces of Mount Kailash and their significance
Throughout the Kailash Parikrama, you will encounter four different faces of Mount Kailash, and each of these four faces have different features, different aspects of spirituality, and equal significance.
North Face
The north face of Mt. Kailash is the one which is encountered first by the pilgrims, and it is often associated with divine power and spiritual awakening. This is often known as the ‘face of mystery’ or the gold face too as it is said to be made of gold.
It features crisp and sharp features showcasing an intimidating and menacing feeling, and Hindus believe that this face depicts a powerful aspect of Lord Shiva. Therefore, meditating and praying here is believed to establish connection with the divine.
South Face
The South Face of Mt. Kailash often appears to be rugged with many ridges and steep slopes, which are considered to represent the turbulences and trials that one might come across while on the path to enlightenment.
Many people have reported seeing a straight line running from the top to the base through this South Face, and Hindu pilgrims believe it to be the spine of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be made up of Lapis Lazuli.
This face is often perceived as a representation of liberation while also serving as a reminder of the perseverance that will be required within the pilgrims to reach their spiritual goal.
West Face
The West Face is a majestic and rather divine face of Mt. Kailash as many pilgrims can see many different things on this face depending on their vision and their dedication. Some have even reported seeing a large face like that of a human when observed carefully.
This face is often associated with tranquility, introspection, empathy, and benevolence. It is said to be made up of Ruby.
East Face
Said to be made up of crystals, the East Face of Mt. Kailash is believed to be the most mysterious face of the peak as it is quite hard to see when compared to the other faces of the peak and it can be seen only from a distance.
This face is said to represent rejuvenation, new beginnings, and spiritual rebirth. The East Face doesn’t have rugged surface, rather it features a smooth surface unlike the other faces of the peak.
Combined together, the multidimensional perspective of Mt. Kailash adds to the mystery surrounding it as well as to its divine aura, which is the reason why pilgrims from all over the world embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Tips to Conquer the Challenging Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
While the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an adventurous, holy, and divine experience which will leave you contented by all means, this journey can be quite challenging too.
You will be exploring the rugged terrains in the high altitude region, going as high as 5,600 meters, where you will be presented with many challenges. Therefore, we have certain tips to make your journey easier:
- You will be exploring the altitudes beyond 5000 meters which can present many challenges related to acute mountain sickness. So, make sure that you embark on Kailash Parikrama only after you are well acclimatized.
- There is no hurry to complete the Parikrama and you can take your time for it. So, pace yourself and walk slowly without any rush to cover more distance with less difficulties.
- Enjoy the journey rather than focusing on how to end it fast. You will be treated to a myriad of experiences. Make sure that you make the most of all these experiences including the views, the places, and the divinity of the region.
- Drink enough water and electrolytes to stay hydrated during the trek. Avoid drinking anything that dehydrates you, like caffeinated drinks.
- Maintain a proper balanced diet during the trek. Include more carbohydrates and proteins in your diet. Also carry some protein bars and nutritious snacks to have in between the walk.
- When you are packing for the trek, make sure that you don’t pack anything extra and also make sure that you pack all the essentials. This can make a major difference in your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- If you find it difficult to complete the Kailash Parikrama on foot, there are options of mules and horses available from Yama Dwar for the needy people. Consider getting one of these for your ease. However, hire these only if you absolutely need help.
- Engage in proper physical preparation well in advance from your trek as you will require a good amount of physical fitness to complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- Mental strength is of utmost importance during the trek. So, prepare your brain for the challenges and cultivate a positive mindset.
- Use the help of trekking essentials like trekking poles which can make your trek slightly easier.
Conclusion
All in all, the Kailash Parikrama is not just a fun activity to do but it is of extreme religious importance in many religious groups all across the world. It is a profound spiritual experience that is believed to bring transformation, and even enlightenment.
While the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra challenges your body, mind, as well as soul, it also gives back a chance to form a divine connection with nature and to reconnect with your spiritual essence.
Therefore, if you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Kailash Parikrama will leave an indelible mark on your life.
