Pilgimage to Kailash and Mansarovar Lake 11-12 Days

This tour has really gained momentum in the recent years as Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is sacred to Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and Bons alike. It is believed that a pilgrimage to this site must be conducted at least once in a life time.  Legends, spiritual significance and the amazing landscape of Kailash and Mansarovar Lake draws crowds from all corners of the globe.

 

Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar carries profound spiritual prominence for multiple religions. For Hindus - Manasarovar is revered as the resting place of Lord Vishnu, the preserver god in the Hindu trinity and Kailash the dwelling of Mahadev. Bathing in its sacred waters is thought to cleanse one of the sins and bestow blessings.  In Jainism, Mt. Kailash is known as Mt. Astapada and is the place where the creator of the faith, Rishabhadeva attained freedom from rebirth. Kailash and Mansarovar Lake also hold significance in Buddhist and Bon traditions. As per Buddhist texts Kailash is known as the mythological Mt. Meru and is central to its cosmology. Kailash is considered the father and the Lake Mansarovar the mother.   

 

The overland tour starts early in the morning from Kathmandu to the Chinese border at Kyirong. Upon arrival the Tibetan host on the other side initiates the process of entering into Tibet. This extraordinary drive over the roof of the world leaves behind lush green vegetation as it gently unfolds the jagged mountain peaks. The long drive leaves behind the towns of Saga on the Tibetan plateau to Darchen near Lake Mansarovar. The kora (cricumbulation) of the lake is done on a “Green Vehicle”. As you gaze upon the lake, the view of its vast expanse is mesmerizing with pristine greenish-bluish color that reflects the purity associated with the lake, taking in the awe-inspiring panorama surrounding it. Towering over the northern shore stands the legendary Mount Kailash, its snow-capped peak piercing the heavens. 

 

 After a rest day for acclimatization and those who feel fit and willing may venture out for the kora of Mt. Kailash for 3 days reaching the height of 5630 meters at Dolama La.  The enthusiasts are rewarded with views one cannot express in words call it superb, enthralling, spectacular or whatever, leave it to you. The return leg is the same as the approach. 

 

Another option is the approach from the western Nepal town of Simikot with a flight via Nepalgunj. Helicopters or Jeeps are available at Simikot for the ride to the border town of Hilsa for entry into Purang, Tibet and then a ride to Darchen.  You can either use this option to enter or exit Tibet.