Mount kailash (22028 feet) is considered as the holiest mountain in the world. It is lying between the Himalayas and Karakurum ranges in western Tibet. From the peak of Mount kailash, one can enjoy the views of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal. Mount kailash tour is considered as one of the most demanding and challenging tour among pilgrimages around the world. It is considered very auspicious to make a pilgrimage around its fifty-three kilometers circuit or 32 miles parikrama.
The entire area of Mt. Kailash has its own religious importance which includes the high-altitude lakes of Mansarovar and Rakshesa. Mt. Kailash is considered sacred by followers of three major religions, Buddhists, Hindus and Jains. For Hindus, Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva and Manasarobar Lake is the soul of Brahma. In local language kailash is known as Kailash Kang Rimpoche. Jains pray it as Mt Ashtapada, the mountain where religion’s founder, Rishabanatha had achieved spiritual liberation.
Another thing that makes kailash even more unique is this place is origin of four most sacred rivers of the Indian sub-continent- Sutlej, Karnili Indus and Brahmaputra. Nature lovers can find numerous types of abnormal species of flora and fauna here. This region is known as center of the universe, which attract researchers and scholars from all over the world.
While doing parikrama, you will pass through many traditional Tibetan villages where people live a very simple life and still practice ancient Buddhist culture. If you are want to know more about Tibetan culture, these villages are the best place to see Tibetan’s traditional daily life.
The best time for kailash tour is from May to October as these months are warmer comparatively other months. At other time, these areas are covered by heavy snow.
How to get there:
Tour must be booked in advance with travel agencies since you need permit and Guide and vehicle.There two roads from Lhasa to Mt kailash, the northern route and the southern route. The southern route is part of Tibet-Xinxiang highway which is normally used route by travelers. One the way, you will get a chance to see stunning views of the Himalayas, Gangdisê Mountains, Yarlung Zangpo Valley, amazing alpine lakes and huge grassland with hundreds of yaks and sheep.