Travellers Guide to Mount Kailash

By Jagdish Krishanlal Arora

Undoubtedly, reading the entire book is invaluable for anyone interested in Mount Kailash, its surrounding regions, and the spiritual and cultural significance it holds. Whether you plan to embark on a journey to Mount Kailash, seek to gain a deeper understanding of this sacred place, or simply wish to enjoy a vicarious travel experience, this book offers a comprehensive and immersive narrative.

From the moment you land in Kathmandu, the book takes you on an engaging and informative journey. You'll explore the vibrant streets of Lhasa, visit ancient monasteries, and go into the rich history and culture of Tibet. The detailed accounts of the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, including the parikrama or circumambulation of the sacred peak, provide a profound insight into the challenges and spiritual rewards of such a journey.

Moreover, the book doesn't merely focus on the physical aspects of the trip but goes into the spiritual, cultural, and historical elements. It explains the significance of the various temples, monasteries, and landmarks you encounter on your way, offering a deeper understanding of the religious traditions and practices associated with Mount Kailash.

Additionally, the book caters to readers who may not have immediate plans to travel to Mount Kailash but are eager to learn more about this extraordinary destination. The rich background information, history, and cultural context ensure that readers can appreciate the importance of Mount Kailash and the traditions surrounding it, even from a distance.

In essence, this book is a gateway to understanding the allure of Mount Kailash, whether as a travel destination, a spiritual pilgrimage, or a source of cultural and historical enlightenment. It provides a holistic and enriching experience for anyone who wishes to explore the mysteries and marvels of this sacred mountain and the lands it touches.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is indeed a profound spiritual journey, and the reverence for Mount Kailash as the abode of Lord Shiva is deeply ingrained in the Hindu faith. Situated at a staggering altitude of 22,000 feet above sea level, this pilgrimage is renowned for its arduousness, often referred to as the most challenging yatra in the world. The meticulously planned Kailash Mansarovar trips offer tourists an opportunity to embark on this spiritual odyssey with well-structured itineraries. Beginning with the awe-inspiring sights in Kathmandu and the spiritual aura of Pashupatinath Temple, the journey sets the tone for the sacred exploration that follows.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jagdish Krishanlal Arora
• Release date: Nov 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223091196

Book preview

Introduction to the Sacred Journey

UNDOUBTEDLY, READING the entire book is invaluable for anyone interested in Mount Kailash, its surrounding regions, and the spiritual and cultural significance it holds. Whether you plan to embark on a journey to Mount Kailash, seek to gain a deeper understanding of this sacred place, or simply wish to enjoy a vicarious travel experience, this book offers a comprehensive and immersive narrative.

From the moment you land in Kathmandu, the book takes you on an engaging and informative journey. You'll explore the vibrant streets of Lhasa, visit ancient monasteries, and go into the rich history and culture of Tibet. The detailed accounts of the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, including the parikrama or circumambulation of the sacred peak, provide a profound insight into the challenges and spiritual rewards of such a journey.

Moreover, the book doesn't merely focus on the physical aspects of the trip but goes into the spiritual, cultural, and historical elements. It explains the significance of the various temples, monasteries, and landmarks you encounter on your way, offering a deeper understanding of the religious traditions and practices associated with Mount Kailash.

Additionally, the book caters to readers who may not have immediate plans to travel to Mount Kailash but are eager to learn more about this extraordinary destination. The rich background information, history, and cultural context ensure that readers can appreciate the importance of Mount Kailash and the traditions surrounding it, even from a distance.

In essence, this book is a gateway to understanding the allure of Mount Kailash, whether as a travel destination, a spiritual pilgrimage, or a source of cultural and historical enlightenment. It provides a holistic and enriching experience for anyone who wishes to explore the mysteries and marvels of this sacred mountain and the lands it touches.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is indeed a profound spiritual journey, and the reverence for Mount Kailash as the abode of Lord Shiva is deeply ingrained in the Hindu faith. Situated at a staggering altitude of 22,000 feet above sea level, this pilgrimage is renowned for its arduousness, often referred to as the most challenging yatra in the world. The meticulously planned Kailash Mansarovar trips offer tourists an opportunity to embark on this spiritual odyssey with well-structured itineraries. Beginning with the awe-inspiring sights in Kathmandu and the spiritual aura of Pashupatinath Temple, the journey sets the tone for the sacred exploration that follows.

Kailash Mansarovar's religious significance goes beyond its stunning natural beauty. Shaped like a lotus, this mountain is considered a beacon of peace on Earth, and circumambulating its peak is believed to cleanse the soul of sins. Pilgrims partake in rituals like taking a holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake and completing the parikrama, a symbolic journey around Kailash Parvat. The yatra embodies a spiritual quest that not only connects devotees with the divine but also serves as a transformative path towards moksha, the ultimate liberation of the human soul. The spiritual resonance of Kailash Mansarovar remains a testament to the profound spiritual heritage of the region, attracting pilgrims from around the world.

Nestled in a remote corner of western Tibet, the sacred Mount Kailash stands as a treasure of unparalleled significance. For millennia, it has drawn seekers of divinity, purity, and redemption, transcending religious boundaries to touch the souls of Hindus, Buddhists, Bonpos, and Jains alike. Pilgrims from across the globe embark on a journey to this holiest of places, undertaking the sacred Parikrama or kora that follows ancient devotional rituals. Trekking through otherworldly canyons and immersing themselves in the pristine waters of Lake Mansarovar, these pilgrims embark on a spiritual odyssey that culminates at the transcendent Dolma La pass, an elevation that transcends not only the physical but also the emotional, offering a profound revelation to those who undertake this sacred pilgrimage.

In a world filled with captivating destinations, there are few places as spiritually charged and mystically enchanting as Mount Kailash. This sacred mountain, nestled in the remote corners of the Himalayas, beckons pilgrims, travellers, and seekers from all walks of life. The journey to Mount Kailash is not your typical adventure; it is a transformative pilgrimage, an odyssey of the soul, and an immersion into the heart of ancient spirituality. Over the course of 16 days, this voyage takes you from the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the high plateaus of Tibet, offering you a profound encounter with nature, culture, and the divine.

The trip begins in Kathmandu, where you'll be welcomed to Nepal, the gateway to the Himalayas. Your first day takes you to the revered Pashupatinath Temple, where you'll witness the captivating aarti ceremony, a sacred ritual that has been performed for centuries. The following day unfolds with visits to Jal Narayan Temple and Guhyeshwari Mata Temple, sites steeped in history and spirituality. Returning to your hotel, you'll engage in a trip briefing and get to know your fellow travelers, setting the stage for the extraordinary journey ahead.

As the days progress, you'll go deeper into the spiritual and cultural tapestry of the region. Your exploration takes you to Kailashnath Mahadev, home to the world's tallest Shiva statue, and the revered Doleshwar Mahadev Temple, believed to be the head of Shri Kedarnath. This phase of your journey in Kathmandu lays the foundation for the spiritual significance you'll soon discover in the heart of the Himalayas.

The voyage then extends to Lhasa, Tibet, where you'll acclimatize to the high altitudes and immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture. A city sightseeing tour introduces you to the Jokhang Temple, the bustling Barkhor Street, and offers you a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Potala Palace.

From Lhasa, you embark on a scenic drive to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Your journey continues through picturesque Tibetan plains, leading to Saga County, aptly named The Lovely Place or Happy Land. Here, you'll bask in the breathtaking landscapes and the intersection of three vital routes, setting the stage for the sacred Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailas.

Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest spiritual lakes on Earth, welcomes you with open arms. As you complete 70% of the Lake Mansarovar parikrama, you'll be graced by the awe-inspiring sight of the lake and the mighty Mount Kailash, a view that will stay etched in your memory.

The rituals and puja at Lake Mansarovar mark a pivotal moment in your pilgrimage, and the journey

The Journey's Genesis

THE RAIN OUTSIDE SHOWED no signs of relenting, drumming a rhythmic melody on the café's windows. I sat at a corner table, nursing a cup of coffee while watching the world pass by through the misty window. The hum of chatter enveloped the room, creating a cozy ambiance.

I had always felt the allure of adventure deep within me. Exploring the unknown, discovering hidden secrets, and unravelling mysteries called to me like a siren's song. This rainy evening, my thoughts turned to a new journey, and Mount Kailash, a mystical and sacred place, emerged as a topic of fascination.

I had read about Mount Kailash, and it wasn't just a mountain; it was a place filled with spiritual significance and hidden secrets. Ancient legends spoke of treasures, mysterious inscriptions, and a profound connection to the universe. Some said the mountain held more than what met the eye.

The idea of embarking on a journey to Mount Kailash began to take root. I started researching, looking at possible routes, and gathering information on the logistics. With proper planning, it seemed achievable. My journey wouldn't just be about sightseeing; I would actively explore, seek out the hidden gems, and attempt to unravel the mysteries of Kailash.

It was a big commitment, but I believed this adventure could change my life. The decision was mine, and as the rain tapped on the café's windows, I knew I was in. The journey to Mount Kailash had officially begun.

In the days that followed, I immersed myself in the preparations. I gathered books, maps, and began researching the best way to reach the sacred mountain. It was no simple task; the journey to Mount Kailash was a pilgrimage, both physically and spiritually. I contacted local experts, navigated visa requirements, and god into the rich history and legends surrounding the mountain.

My commitment to the trip deepened with each passing day. My conversations buzzed with excitement and anticipation. I discussed gear, travel itineraries, and the cultural significance of the journey. I pored over schedules, considered weather patterns, and calculated travel expenses. I explored the spiritual aspects of the trip, reading ancient texts and delving into the philosophy surrounding Mount Kailash.

As I sat in my favourite café, sketching my vision of the mountain and meticulously planning every detail, I became increasingly drawn into the world of Mount Kailash. The mountain wasn't just a destination; it was a tapestry of myths and mysteries, an embodiment of the human spirit's unquenchable thirst for adventure and discovery.

My evenings were spent in animated conversation with myself, fuelled by the anticipation of the journey. I poured over maps, charting my route and discussing the intricacies of high-altitude trekking. As I exchanged stories of past adventures with myself, I recognized that this trip was unlike any other.

As the café's lights dimmed and