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The revered Mount Kailash (6638 m) dominates the Tibetan landscape and is a central pilgrimage point for numerous religions. Its four-sided summit adds a hint of mystery to its divine stature. Numerous myths claim that on its summit rests Lord Shiva, and thus, nobody is allowed to climb it for fear that they might disturb his meditation. Two pristine lakes, namely Mansarovar and Rakshas Tal, sit at the base of Mount Kailash, located at a staggering altitude of 14,950 ft. The lakes soothe anyone with their sapphire waters and a gorgeous backdrop of the snow-laden peaks. While Mansarovar has spiritual importance, the other hand, the Rakshas Tal was created by Ravana in an attempt to please Lord Shiva. Thus the lake is salty and deprived of aquatic life. Mount Kailash is believed to be the cosmic axis, world axis, or centre of the world. It is the point where the earth meets heaven. Mount Kailash attract pilgrims of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist religion to circumambulate the divine peak. If you circumambulate around the mountain three times, you are freed from all your sins, and 108 guarantees enlightenment. The route is about 53 km long, and as it sits above 7000 ft., it’s pretty taxing. The Kailash Mansarovar Trek takes you to a spiritual awakening and brings out the best in you.
The Journey to the Holy Land of Lord Shiva
There are different methods through which you can make the Kailash Mansarovar Journey, but these are the recommended ones:
Simikot Kailash Trek
A 20 days trip; commences with a brief sightseeing of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and then a quick flight to Nepalgunj. Another flight takes us to Simikot, and after completing the legal formalities, we trek to Dharapuri. After a walk alongside the Karnali River and through the Laikyo Gompa, we reach Kermi, and as we cross the roaring Salli River, we arrive at Yalbang. Walking along the mighty Karnali and observing the ancient monasteries takes us through Tumkot, Yari, and Hilsa. Upon arrival in Purang, we get our documents checked, and on the route to Barga, you can see the Rakshas and Mansarovar Lakes. We explore the mysterious Garuda Valley and its many caves. The first day of Kora ends when we reach the Dira Phug Monastery, and as we Zuthrul Phug, the second day of Kora ends. Relish the sight of surreal landscapes and breathtaking scenery. After we complete the third day of Kora, we transfer to Mansarovar Lake, and we can also explore the Chui Gompa. We cross the Mayum La Pass (5280m) and cross small towns to reach Saga. From Saga, we observe the glorious Mt. Shishapangma (8013m) and climb the Lalung La Pass (5030m) to reach Zhangmu. We get our permits checked at the border of Kodari; we drive back to Kathmandu, where the trip shall end.
Tibet Kailash Tour
Another option for the Kailash Mansarovar tour is the Tibet Kailash tour, which commences from Kathmandu. After briefly sightseeing its sites and preparing for the time, we approach Nyalam. We get our legal documents checked, and to make our bodies ready for the trek that lies ahead, we take a day off at Nyalam. Explore this quaint town and observe the barren and dry landscape here. We go through the scenic Lalung La Pass (5030m) to arrive at Saga, and from there, a long road leads us to Paryang. Numerous pilgrims are on the road to Mount Kailash (6638m). Head to Mansarovar and take part in the puja. Relish the glorious sight before you, and later drive to Darchen. For three days, trek around Mount Kailash and head to Paryang and Saga. Observing the gorgeous display of the snow-laden mountains and the sapphire blue sky, we return to Nyalam via Zhangmu. The trip is about to come to an end. From there, head towards Kathmandu, where the journey will ultimately halt.
Things need to be careful.
Special care and attention are to be given to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which occurs while taking the Kailash tour because the Tibetan lands generally are above 4000 meters in altitude. It is recommended that you have previous trekking experience before taking this trek, as it sees a drastic rise in elevation. Mountain sickness occurs when you have not adequately acclimated to the landscape. Altitude sickness symptoms are headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. The risk of getting altitude sickness depends on factors like age, where you live, and your level of physical activity.
Some measures which can be used to prevent mountain sickness are inscribed as follows:
- Move slowly and gradually.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take proper time in acclimating to the high altitude.
- Bring proper medications.
- Ensure sufficient sleep and rest.
- Take light baggage to prevent strain on the body while trekking.
Cost and number of days
The number of days required to complete the Simikot Kailash Trek is 20; similarly, the Tibet Kailash tour can be completed in 14 days. The typical costs included in both trips are permits, visa applications, flight costs, accommodations, entrance fees, guide fees, and, if needed, English-speaking guide’s charges. The excluded costs are costs of personal nature, meals, donations, travel insurance, and expenses related to unfavourable circumstances. For information regarding the costs of the trips, please reach us at [email protected] or fill in the ‘Contact Me’ on our website.
Mount Kailash and Manasarovar are exceptionally divine and mesmerizing in equal amounts, and as such, these supreme beauties must be relished at least once. The religious aura that they emit, and blend with the dazzling scenery of the snow-laden mountains, sapphire lakes, and the fluttering of the Chortens, make these destinations a sight to behold. Better late than never; get on the trips to Mt. Kailash (6638m) and Manasarovar and live the unblemished purity.
Tibet Kailash Tour is a central pilgrimage point for numerous religions; plus, its four-sided summit adds a hint of mystery to its divine.