Mount Kailash

Fast Fact:

Altitude: 6714 M

Peak Season: April – October

Sacred to: Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon and Jainism

Mount Kailash, a place of profound religious significance, is revered by multiple religions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon, and Jainism. The name “Kailash” has its origin in Sanskrit, and in Tibetan, it is known as Gang Rinpochen, which translates to “the precious snow mountain.”

Situated in the Nyari Prefecture of the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China, this sacred mountain soars to an altitude of 6714 meters. It serves as the principal source of four major rivers:  Sutlej, Indus, Brahmaputra, and Karnali.

Owing to its extreme sacredness across numerous great religions, it has remained unclimbed. Devotees from around the globe undertake the Kora, a circumambulation around the mountain, in the pursuit of spiritual merit. Each year, a vast number of believers flock to the region to embark on pilgrimages, which typically involve trekking around both the holy Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash.

For young locals, completing one circumambulation might take a single day, while many others finish it within two to three days. There are a variety of hotels along the Kora route where pilgrims can find respite and rest.

Frequently, this pilgrimage journey is combined with a visit to Lake Manasarovar, one of the most sacred lakes in Tibet.

For a detailed trip itinerary of the Holy Mount Kailash, click here.

Religious Significances:

Hinduism:

In Hinduism, this holy mountain is venerated as Mount Meru, the very symbol of the stairway leading to heaven. In certain Hindu scriptures and tales, it is vividly described as the abode of Shiva. Here, Shiva is said to dwell in divine harmony with his consort Parvati and their children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. It is a place of profound spiritual significance and a focal point of devout worship and pilgrimage.

Buddhism:

Within the realm of Buddhism, Mount Kailash represents the central Mount Meru in Buddhist cosmology. Pilgrims, driven by their faith and the pursuit of spiritual merit, engage in the solemn act of walking or circumambulating the mountain. There are numerous captivating historical and mythological stories intertwined with Buddhism and this holy peak. Some adherents believe that the summit of Mount Kailash is the sacred residence of Buddha Demchok, adding an extra layer of mystique and reverence.

Jainism:

In Jain religious beliefs, it is held that Rishabhanatha, the esteemed founder of Jainism, achieved Moksha (Enlightenment) on Mount Kailash. This event has bestowed upon the mountain an ineffable status within the Jain faith, making it a site of deep veneration and a destination for those seeking a closer connection to their spiritual roots.

Bon:

In the Bon religion, the holy Mount Kailash occupies a position of utmost centrality as the heart of the ancient Bon empire of Zhang Zhung. It is believed that Tonpa Sherab, the visionary founder of the Bon religion, attained enlightenment on this very mountain. His profound spiritual experience has left an indelible mark on the religious and cultural heritage associated with Mount Kailash.

Consequently, this holy mountain is far more than a mere tourist attraction. It is a sanctuary held sacred by multitudes of religious believers. It presents an ideal travel destination for those eager to expand their cultural horizons and embark on a profound spiritual journey offering a unique opportunity to engage with the rich tapestry of global religious and cultural diversity.

The prime time to visit this remarkable attraction is between May and October. During this period, the region enjoys relatively favorable weather conditions, ensuring a more comfortable and fulfilling travel experience.

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