The Kailash Manasarovar Tour: A Spiritual and Adventurous Journey

The Kailash Manasarovar Tour is one of the most revered pilgrimages for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. Located in the remote reaches of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Mount Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and a symbol of spiritual significance. The adjacent Lake Manasarovar, believed to be created by Brahma, adds to the sanctity of the region. This guide provides detailed information on the journey, key highlights, itinerary, and essential tips for a successful pilgrimage.

Why Visit Kailash Manasarovar?

Mount Kailash (6,638 meters/21,778 feet) and Lake Manasarovar are not just geographic landmarks but spiritual symbols. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating Mount Kailash on foot is a sacred ritual that will bring good fortune, purify sins, and grant enlightenment. The journey to this remote region, while challenging, offers breathtaking landscapes, deep spiritual experiences, and an opportunity to witness diverse cultures.

Highlights of the Kailash Manasarovar Tour

Mount Kailash

• Description: Known as Kang Rinpoche in Tibetan, Mount Kailash is a peak in the Kailash Range, part of the Transhimalaya in Tibet. It is considered sacred in four religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
• Highlights: Undertake the Kailash Kora, a 52-kilometer circumambulation around the mountain, considered to be an ultimate pilgrimage.

Lake Manasarovar

• Description: Situated at 4,590 meters (15,060 feet), Lake Manasarovar is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.
• Highlights: Perform a ritual bath in the lake's pure waters and meditate on its serene shores.

Tirthapuri Hot Springs

• Description: Located near Mount Kailash, these hot springs are believed to have healing properties.
• Highlights: Relax in the natural hot springs after the rigorous Kailash Kora.

Rakshas Tal (Lake)

• Description: Also known as the 'Lake of the Demon', Rakshas Tal lies near Lake Manasarovar and has a contrasting salty water composition.
• Highlights: Enjoy the stark beauty and tranquil environment of the lake.

Asthapad

• Description: Located at the base of Mount Kailash, Asthapad is considered a holy site for Jains.
• Highlights: Explore the spiritual significance of this site, where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, is said to have attained nirvana.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal, and transfer to your hotel.
• Attend a briefing about the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation

• Visit Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple.
• Prepare for the journey and complete necessary paperwork.

Day 3: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

• Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,400 meters/4,593 feet).
• Overnight stay at a guesthouse.

Day 4: Syabrubesi to Kerung

• Cross the Nepal-Tibet border and continue to Kerung (2,700 meters/8,858 feet).
• Acclimatization and rest.

Day 5: Kerung to Saga

• Drive to Saga (4,640 meters/15,223 feet), passing through the scenic Tibetan landscape.
• Overnight stay at a guesthouse.

Day 6: Saga to Lake Manasarovar

• Continue the drive to Lake Manasarovar (4,590 meters/15,060 feet).
• Perform rituals and take a holy dip in the lake.
• Overnight stay in a guesthouse.

Day 7: Lake Manasarovar to Darchen

• Drive to Darchen (4,575 meters/15,010 feet), the base camp for Mount Kailash.
• Rest and prepare for the Kora.

Day 8: Darchen to Diraphuk

• Begin the Kailash Kora by trekking to Diraphuk (4,900 meters/16,076 feet).
• Overnight in a basic guesthouse or camp.

Day 9: Diraphuk to Zuthulphuk via Dolma-La Pass

• Trek over Dolma-La Pass (5,630 meters/18,471 feet) to Zuthulphuk (4,835 meters/15,863 feet).
• This is the most challenging day of the trek.
• Overnight stay in a basic guesthouse or camp.

Day 10: Zuthulphuk to Darchen

• Complete the Kora and return to Darchen.
• Overnight stay in a guesthouse.