Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage to mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake that holds immense religious and spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons. The journey involves circumambulating Mount Kailash and visiting Lake Manasarovar, both situated in the remote and awe-inspiring landscapes of Tibet.
Mount Kailash, towering at an elevation of 6,638 meters above sea level near Lake Manasarovar 4,590 meters, is revered as the divine residence of the Hindu God Lord Shiva. It is the highest peak in the Kailash Range and an integral part of Tibet's Trans-Himalaya. Comprising gleaming granite and crowned with immense white glaciers, a journey to Mount Kailash promises breathtaking vistas. Embark on the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to circumambulate this holy peak.
In Hinduism, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of the religion. It is considered to be a sacred site where Lord Shiva resides with his consort, Parvati. It's believed that Lord Shiva sits in meditation at the summit of Mount Kailash.In Buddhism, Mount Kailash is associated with Tantric Buddhism, specifically with the Buddha Demchok (Chakrasamvara), who represents supreme bliss. The mountain is also believed to be the dwelling place of the Buddhist deity Samvara. Mount Kailash is also revered in Jainism as Ashtapada, believed to be the site where the founder of Jainism, Lord Rishabhadeva (also known as Adinath), attained enlightenment. It's also believed to be a site where many other Jain saints achieved spiritual liberation.
Lake Mansarovar, standing at the base of Mount Kailash at approximately 4,500 meters, is recognized as the world's highest freshwater lake. Its captivating feature lies in its ever-changing colors clear blue near the shores and emerald green at the center.
The 16-day Kailash Manasarovar Yatra begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, with visa preparations. On the first day, we drive to Timure along the Pashang Lhamu highway, reveling in the remote Nepali landscape. The following day, we proceed to the Nepal-Tibet border, complete immigration formalities, and head to Kyirong city for exploration.
In Tibet, our second day entails driving to Saga, crossing at an altitude of 5,200 meters and witnessing the Brahmaputra river. Continuing our journey, we traverse from Saga to Manasarovar Lake, passing picturesque Tibetan villages and plateaus, with the holy Mount Kailash visible en route. Upon reaching Mansarovar Lake, we spend time soaking in its sacred ambiance.
The next morning, we partake in a holy bath and pooja with water from the lake before a brief drive to Darchen. Here, we prepare for the Kailash Kora, commencing the spiritual pilgrimage by driving to Yamadwar. Along the Kora, we encounter the divine sight of Mount Kailash and meet local pilgrims. After a 5-hour trek, we arrive at Dirapuk for a close-up view of Kailash.
Ascending to Dolma La pass at 5,663 meters the following morning, we descend to Zutulphuk. We can visits to Gauri Kund Lake, revered as the Lake of Compassion among Hindus, Asthapad at the base of the Kailash mountain range, and the Tarboche flagpole—an emblematic site embodying Tibetan spirituality. On the final day of the Kailash Kora, we trek to Sersiu valley before driving back to Darchen, marking the completion of our journey. From Darchen, we drive back through Saga, Kyirong, cross the Nepal-Tibet border, and return to Kathmandu.
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Kailash Manasarovar Yatra highlights
- A spiritual journey to Kailash, Tibet
- Great travel experience in Tibetan Plateau
- Stunning views of the Mount Kailash, known as the home of almighty Lord Shiva
- Get peace with panoramic scenic beauties of and, the nearby glacier of the Mount Kailash
- Experience a circuit tour, known as parikrama of the holy Mount Kailash
- Holy bath at the hot spring of Tirthapuri
- Scope to view and experience a holy dip in the worldwide highest freshwater lake i.e. Lake Mansarovar
The best time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The best time to travel Kailash Manasarovar is from May to September. Because of the cold temperature after September traveling to Kailash it will be a bit difficult. We would suggest our guests to make a plan to travel to Kailash Yatra between May to September.
Why may to September is the best time to visit to Kailash Mansarovar?
May to September is generally considered the best time to visit Kailash Manasarovar for several reasons:
Weather Conditions:
Milder Temperatures: During these months, the weather is relatively mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This makes it more comfortable for travelers.
Less Extreme Cold: Kailash Manasarovar is located in a high-altitude region where temperatures can drop significantly. During the summer months, the nights are not as bitterly cold as during the winter, making it more bearable for visitors.
Accessibility:
Roads and Trails: The roads and trekking trails leading to Kailash Manasarovar are more accessible during the summer months. Snow and ice accumulation are less, facilitating smoother travel and trekking experiences.
Pilgrimage Season:
Religious Festivals: Many pilgrims visit Kailash Manasarovar during the summer months, especially around the time of the Saga Dawa festival, which celebrates the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death. This adds a cultural and spiritual aspect to the journey.
Lake Conditions:
The sacred Manasarovar Lake is usually free from ice during the summer months, allowing pilgrims to perform rituals and take a holy dip in the lake more comfortably.
Flora and Fauna:
Vegetation: The region experiences some growth in vegetation during the summer months, adding a touch of greenery to the otherwise stark landscape.
Wildlife: Summer is a better time for spotting wildlife in the region as some animals become more active during this period.
Photography Opportunities:
Clear Skies: The chances of clear skies are higher during the summer months, providing better visibility of the stunning landscapes and the sacred Mount Kailash.