Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Archives -

Why Kailash Yatra Is Regarded As The Supreme Pilgrimage Tour?

In the far west of the Tibet rests a divine mountain known as Mt. Kailash. Although full of challenges, the holy Kailash Mansarovar yatra attracts millions of worshippers from all around the world. Considered as the most striking mountain of China, Kailash stands tall like a gigantic Egyptian Pyramid surrounded by barren landscapes. The rumours are, the sacred mountain was created by a superior civilization in the ancient age. However, as of now, it is a revered site for pilgrims who wish to cleanse their sins of past and present lives.

Pilgrimages have always been a keen aspect of every culture’s spiritual essence. Considered as the centre of spiritual existence in Hinduism, the Kailash Yatra holds importance for other religions as well like Buddhism, Jainism, Tibetan Bonpo. Drinking and bathing in Lake Mansarovar, and a parikrama of Mount Kailash tends to bring good fortune to the worshippers.

In earlier times, Indians could easily visit the revered site. However, nowadays one has to apply for the holy visit with various documents and other formalities. Still, only a lucky few can complete the entire Kailash journey due to its harsh temperature, altitude and miles of walking. Although the trek is daunting and strenuous. It will be worth-every-penny and time if you can endure its harshness and challenges.

Religions Associated with Mt. Kailash

Amazingly, Kailash Yatra is a prime pilgrimage to the four separate religions – Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon.

Hindus believe Lord Shiva, one of their three main deities, meditates and lives at the top of Mount Kailash. The holy centre of the Earth!
Jains believe the first Tirthankara (a teacher of God) named Rishabhanatha attained nirvana or freedom from rebirths.
Tantric Buddhists believe the mountain is the home of the Buddha Cakrasamvara (literally, “supreme bliss”).
The Tibetan Bon believe the mountain is the spiritual seat of power.

Amazing Facts and Folk tales

Various folklores revolve around this place. Did you know Kailash was termed as Mount Meru in Buddhist Texts before the word Kailash came into existence? Also, there’s a theory that suggests the perfectly-shaped Kailash cannot be a natural occurrence. The mountain was placed and then carved out in symmetry triangular form by the superhumans.
As per the ancient text, no mortals can set their foot on the top of the sacred Mount Kailash. It is holy ground and also the abode of the Gods. He who dares to scale the mountain will be put to death. Many mountaineers tried to ascend the mountain, however, no one could summit it. The unfavourable and strange weather conditions forced the climbers to descent back.
The shape of the lakes is a matter of discussion since the antique ages. Lake Mansarovar, the sacred and the highest freshwater lake in the world have a perfectly round shape which resembles the sun. On the other hand, Rakshas Tal Lake takes the shape of the crescent moon. Both of these lakes represent negative and positive energies. Moreover, Lake Mansarovar is freshwater and always placid even during stronger winds. And the Rakshas Tal have salty water and is always stormy and rough.
Most of the times, Kailash top is fringed with a lot of clouds. It is said, if you can see the summit, you are lucky and blessed. Mount Kailash has four faces, which directly point to the four directions of the compass. In addition to this, according to the ancient text, the mountain is said to be the link between heaven and earth. The followers of Kailash believe that the peak is the gateway to heaven. Mahabharatha legends, the Pandavas along with Draupadi attained moksha whilst trekking up the peak, though one of them slipped from the mountain.

What are the challenges the pilgrims face?

Lake Mansarovar--- glistening and glowing — Lake Mansarovar— glistening and glowing

Having said that, the Kailash is a supreme pilgrimage destination, not all pilgrims get the entry permits, or can complete the entire trek. Only a lucky few people get the opportunity and the strength to finish the majestic journey of Kailash.

There are a plethora of huddles a Yatri has to go through. Approval of Visa from China Embassy, medical check-up, entry permits, documents verification and more. After getting a green signal from all of these, one has to endure the weather conditions of the Kailash region. Some people were returned due to countless reasons such as mountain sickness, injury, etc. The journey of Kailash is supremely remarkable if one can endure the tough climb and adjust with the bare minimum amenities given on the trek by the China authorities.

The most challenging part is when you will have walk 53 km in three days to finish the Parikrama (the most sacred part of the yatra) or circumambulation of the sacred Mt. Kailash. It might sound a piece of cake, but it is not. The high-altitude pressure along with bare minimum oxygen tends to discourage the Yatris. It’s best if you daily undertake a 30 to 60 min workout session to walk extensive kilometres. And if you can complete it, congratulations in advance, you are the lucky few chosen to be blessed by the Supreme God.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is from May to October, which is usually during the summer and Monsoon months. As most of the year, the sacred mountain is roofed with clouds. During these months, you will get clear and arresting views of the Kailash. And if you are planning to visit Kailash Mansarovar during the winters, carry heavy woollens as you are bound to encounter bitter cold.

Let this be filled with the blessing from the sacred mountain. Choose from a minimum of 9 days via helicopter and a maximum of 16 days overland tour for your visit to Mt Kailash. With our four Kailash Mansarovar Yatra packages you can make your spiritual journey to Mt. Kailash come true.

Kailash Mansarovar Tour- 14 Days
Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Helicopter Ex Lucknow – 9 Days
Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Helicopter Ex Kathmandu – 11 Days
Kailash Mansarovar Tour Overland Tour Ex Lhasa – 16 Days

Mt. Kailash in all its might and divinity

Lastly, Mount Kailash is a pilgrimage and not a trek. Those of you who are thinking about it as a trek, mind you, it’s meaningless if you are not able to feel the spiritual energies while you take a parikrama of the sacred Kailash. When you go there as a pilgrim and not as a trekker, you will be awestruck with the vibes you will feel there and it will awaken you to be a more wonderful you.

In a world filled with materialistic pleasures, we forget to connect with our spiritual self. There are days when we tend to introspect our prospects, past decisions or seek healing and forgiveness. However, we are so busy in our daily life that our feelings do not last long. But what if you can feel more deeply and can connect with your spiritual being? Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a journey of forgiveness, a journey of healing, a journey of self-proclamation and more. Encapsulated by immense beauty, Kailash Yatra boasts of a journey that connects with your soul.

Get inspired with these popular stories on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trek: A Spiritual Journey to the Himalayas

Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: What to Expect

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Trek: Experience A Unique Combination of Adventure and Spiritual Ecstasy!

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Offers Tranquility and Soul-stirring Natural Charm

Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: What to Expect

Life beyond human form is what you feel when you reach Kailash Mansarovar passing through explicit terrains, imperial environments and fascinating vibes. The journey entices one to such a core that the strenuous climb seems a piece of cake if one is in a complete trance state to reach an altitude not achievable by many.

The journey will introduce you to key attractions; a sacred Parikrama around the Mount Kailash and a holy dip in Mansarovar Lake. You will also get a chance to admire the splendorous of the blue lake Pieko-Tso and Yarlung Zangpo. Another major attraction of the yatra is Yama Dwar, the gates of the lord of death. It is a place of great religious and mythological significance. Also, the distinct four sides of Mt Kailash resemble the cardinal points of the compass. Both geography and mythology combine to lend the Mount Kailash, a charm of its own.

When we think of Mount Kailash, all that comes to the mind is a spiritual journey to the abode of God Shiva. For sure there is no shrine but you can definitely meet the divine. The place is invariably sacred to Hindus as it is to Jains, Bons and Buddhists. Kailash Mansarovar is to these faiths as Mecca is to Islam. However, one must believe that Kailash is the seat of all spiritual power and if you truly believe it nothing will surpass your devotion.

What’s unique about full moon on Mt. Kailash?

Standing in high spirits at 22,000 feet, Mount Kailash on a full moon night is just majestic. It is said a dip in Lake Mansarovar at the night of new moon washes away the sins of current and past 100 lives. Feel the spiritual powers around while you circumambulate the lake in a ring on full moon night. Wash away sins of seven past lifetimes with a Parikrama while 108 Parikramas provide eternal oblivion or Moksha or Nirvana. Watch the stunning super moon over Mount Kailash and its imagery reflected on the Mansarovar lake; one of the most picturesque view on the yatra.

Many stories revolve around the significance of full phase of moon on the lands of Lord Shiva. The call for Full Moon Kailash Yatra 2019 is to be a part of sheer spiritual energy that the natural surroundings of Kailash region emanate. One such story reveals that Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati come alive on full moon night. Numerous devotees flock to the lake for this magical moment, but only a human of pure heart will be able to see it. Pilgrims who have seen it can’t believe their eyes. As on full moon there is an abundance of energy and spirituality around the lake. It seems as if the moon god itself want to come down and pay tribute to the divine Shiva.

Lake Mansarovar is considered sacred as Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati are believed to have a bath in his lake. The lake washes away your sins if you believe in the powers of holy water of the sacred lake. The best time to bathe is between 3-5 am as it is the time of gods. On a full moon night many pilgrims have visually seen the god and Goddess taking a holy dip. They have also seen the holy water getting dispersed just like when a human takes a holy dip. The entire night boasts of exceptional beauty that varies from spiritual godly vibes to.

What will you call such stories, a complete myth or faith? Whatever it is if you want to see heaven while on earth, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra on a full Moon night will make you believe you lived a day in heaven. “If you can really be with Kailash even for a few moments, life will never again be the same for you. It is a phenomenon beyond all human imagination.” – Sadhguru

Spiritual Yatras 2018: Nanda Devi Yatra, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The religious and spiritual heritage of India provides a profound insight into its history, culture and civilization. It is not only responsible for creating an image that defines the ethnicity of the nation but has deeply affected the religious life of other parts of the world. The gravity of this intangible cultural heritage is strongly evident in the popular spiritual yatras to Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra, Roopkund, and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is a beautiful journey to see how spirituality has kept the roots stronger and contributed to the sense of oneness at the same time.

Home to many different religions and beliefs, India is a country which has been associated with spiritual significance since time immemorial. The spiritual energies have even added charm to those ordinary destinations which are now touted as significant religious places of the country. And as tourism has grown manifold, the spiritual places of India have gained immense fame worldwide.

What’s unique about trekking to these spiritual destinations?
While trekking itself boasts of a challenging journey, trekking to spiritual places like Roopkund and Kailash Mansarovar is symbolic of attaining spiritual bliss amidst en route moraines, streams and snow-capped mountains. Undertaking such pristine trails dotted with pilgrimage sites represent a unique bond between nature’s art and spiritual energy. Don’t miss the chance to get hypnotized by a spiritual yet adventurous rhythm of the trekking expedition to Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra (Roopkund) and Kailash Mansarovar.

Here are two accounts of trekking expeditions carried out to Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra, Roopkund

Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra includes a trekking expedition to Roopkund. Being the most significant pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra holds immense spiritual importance. As it is organized in every 12 years, it witnesses a huge gathering where people from different faiths and religions unite to honor Goddess Nanda Devi. It is believed that it is a religious journey in which the goddess has to be taken to the abode of Lord Shiva, located in the icy folds of the mighty Himalayas. In particular, the journey is reckoned to be a significant event in the life of a Hindu devotee.

Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra is a three-week-long grand procession that begins from Nauti village near Karanpraayg and ends at Hemkund near Roopkund. Often referred to as Himalayan Mahakumbh, it is a festive occasion in Uttarakhand in which devotees from both Garhwal and Kumaon regions of the state along with people from across the globe come together to participate. The yatra begins when the ‘Kunwar’ of the village Kansua inaugurates it in a customary manner.

According to the locals, the yatra is a testimony to the story which says that the Goddess Nanda Devi, the consort of Lord Shiva and the daughter of the ruler of mountains, left her village and went to Nanda Devi Parbat. It is also said that heavy rain occurs on this day symbolizing the goddess’ act of crying as she was leaving her home. It is a journey which lends a deep insight into the culture, lifestyle, flora and fauns of the ‘Land of Gods’, Uttarakhand. What adds a tinge of uniqueness to the yatra is that the devotees remain barefoot throughout the yatra despite the harsh climatic conditions.

Trekking expedition to Nanda Devi, the second highest peak of Indian Himalayas, is one of the most arduous treks. Home to the scenic beauty of the snow-clad peaks, the surreal nature that prevails around them and the exotic range of flora and fauna in the vicinity, trekking to Nanda Devi offers an experience of one-of-its-kind. The trek crosses through exhilarating passes, winding trails, lush forests and picturesque meadows. Also, it offers a plethora of opportunities to register the sublime beauty of nature in the mind which can perceive everything in its multitude and vastness.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

The best way to witness a divine circuit of thousands of pilgrims across the world is to embark on a spiritual journey to the Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake. The journey to these spiritual destinations is not only a jewel that reflects the nature’s beauty at its best but also serves as the source of inspiration for several religions and beliefs. There is nothing better than Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for those people who have devoted and wish to devote their entire life to a journey to wash their sins and seek blessings from the deity they worship.

The key attractions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra include a sacred Parikrama around the Mount Kailash and a holy dip in Mansarovar Lake. The journey also provides a chance to embrace the beauty of the blue lake – Pieko-Tso and Yarlung Zangpo. It enables one to experience some cathartic moments and rejuvenate their soul by taking a holy dip in Mansarovar Lake, which is considered sacred in four religions; Hinduism, Bön, Buddhism and Jainism. Situated at an altitude of 22, 028 ft above sea level, Mansarovar is the largest freshwater lake in the world.

Another major attraction of the yatra is Yama Dwar, which means the gates of the lord of death. It is a place of great religious and mythological significance. Yama Dwar is considered as the entry door to the heavenly paradise, Kailash. It is believed that one must abandon the mortal self to enter the region of Kailash, which is equated to the divine world. Both geography and mythology combine to lend the Mount Kailash, a charm of its own.

Further, the grandeur of Kailash does not lie in the height that other peaks of the Himalayan range boast of, but in its distinct shape resembling the cardinal points of the compass in the form of four sheer faces. Amidst the natural beauty that this area of permanent peace beholds lies an opportunity to set the mind free from all shackles. And, partake in the spiritual ecstasy that the solitary location of this place emanates.

If the best view comes after the hardest climb, there is no better example than trekking expedition to the Mount Kailash. With varied levels of difficulty, trekking to the Mount Kailash is not that easy as it seems to be in the slumber of your dreams. There is a lot of gasping and puffing involved in climbing an altitude of around 6638 m. At times, it even becomes difficult to put one foot in front of the other. However, the natural surroundings of the place will keep you motivated throughout the journey. So, feel the thrill of challenging your inner potential to complete a difficult feat, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Somebody has rightly pointed out that spirituality lends dimension and direction to the life that humans lead in the search for the truth about their existence. So, get ready to ride on the chariot of belief and hope to locate the key to you life and beyond. Do not hesitate to add a beautiful chapter in the story of your life that can become the source of inspiration and joy even when memories start ageing.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Trek: Experience A Unique Combination of Adventure and Spiritual Ecstasy!

There are several places in India that are considered to be the spiritual destinations, however, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has something special to boast about. It is a journey which represents a unique bond between nature’s creativity and the sheer spiritual energy that the place emanates. Being a perfect exemplar of the “image of God” recreated by the sacred texts of the religions across the globe, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is popular for providing a lifetime kind of experience. It not only helps to revive the lost connection with one’s own self but also offers a chance to get appealed by the feelings of being integrated, unified, organized and whole.

The major attractions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra include a Parikrama of Mount Kailash and a holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake. The journey is also famous for the difficult feat that the trekking enthusiasts have to cover in order to fulfil their passion for adventure and thrill. Being one of the most arduous treks, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra also gives a chance to live an epic climbing adventure.

Best Time to Visit: The best time for the trekking expedition to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is considered from mid-May to mid-October. During this time period, the weather remains steady and visibility of the region is at its finest. Moreover, the temperature levels are cool throughout the day. In addition, it is believed that the best time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is during Saga Dawa Festival. Being one of the important festivals in Tibetan Buddhism, it witnesses a huge flock of tourists who wish to have a quick glance at the cultural roots and traditional heritage of the region.

Tracing Our Steps To The Holy Abode of Mount Kailash
Before signing up for the trekking expedition to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar trek, there were several things that gave me cause to wonder. In the moments when my decision was swirling around the waves of uncertainty, I was confident of rediscovering the most neglected “me” on the journey. With a streak of adventure and a hope for joy, I stepped into the unknown zone to battle against the nightmares of living into a world of constructions.

The trekking expedition to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra took its flight when I reached Kathmandu, the sprawling capital of Nepal. Perched at an elevation of about 1,400 meters, it lies on the bowl-shaped Kathmandu valley which is the spiritual heart of the state. It is believed that the valley is created from the bed of a sacred lake by deity Manjushri and is symbolic of the beautiful patchwork of terraced fields and sacred temple towns showcasing the glory of the architects and artisans of Nepal. The beauty of the place was immensely captivating and drifted my mind to the astounding scenic views that nature beholds. Despite getting tired after such a long journey, the curiosity to explore more of the area was intact. But the call of drowsy eyes and waning strength made it difficult for me to play my curiosity to the fullest.

Next day, I began my sojourn by seeking blessings at Pashupatinath Temple and Budhanilkanth Temple. This was the day when I drove from Kathmandu to Dhunche to reach Kyirong. Here, my way had been blocked by the immigration formalities that need to be completed before moving ahead. Thankfully, I carried all the documents that saved me from any mishap and helped to enter in those geographical boundaries to which nature had not added any fence, unlike humans. If the journey through this place has to be explained in few words, I must say it was a journey of introspection. It not only enlightened me on the superficial construction of boundaries by humans but also offered moments where one can seamlessly relate to one’s own fragmented self.

Further, I reached Dongba, a place of majestic beauty which knows no bounds. Home to a panoramic view of the blue lake Pieko-Tso and the astounding views of Yarlung Zangpo (the Brahmaputra River), the place lends an experience of one-of-its own kind. The beautiful mountain terrains and high plains double the level of excitement of hiking.

The best part about this location is the highs and lows of this terrain that lead to the sight of an abode of purity, Mansarovar Lake. Nestled in the lap of nature at an altitude of 22,028 ft above sea level, it is the highest freshwater lake in the world. The crystal clear blue water of the lake and its emerald green appearance has never failed to sway the mind of thousands of tourists across the world. The view of such an exceptional beauty of nature gave me a plethora of opportunities to turn into a photographer to create negatives for the moments lived in ecstasy and excitement.

And therein arrives the time to start trekking to Mount Kailash. As the first day of Kailash Parikrama begins, Yama Dwar served as the starting point of the trekking expedition. Yama Dwar, the Gates of the Lord of Death, is believed to be the gateway where all mortal bonds have to be shaken off to meet the deity of great religious relevance, Lord Shiva. It is a place of symbolism where truth prevails and the spiritual concept of supreme reality holds value. It also offers the closest views of a place of great religious significance and mythological importance, Mount Kailash.

Standing tall at 21,778 feet, Mount Kailash is considered to be the source of four mighty rivers of Asia including the Brahmaputra, the Ganges, the Indus and the Sutlej. Mount Kailash is a testament to one of the popular sayings, ‘The best views come after the hardest climb.’ When the rays of the sun fell on such a mighty mountain, the whole region brimmed with light and transformed into a matrix of unbelievable possibilities. For a while, it seemed that the Lord himself has sent a messenger to remind that after darkness, comes the light, and that life holds in surprise for those who know how to give fire to the flickering hopes. Before descending through rocky paths and loose stones, it was time to dig deep into those experiences that made this journey worth-undertaking.

Must-carry essentials:

Trekking shoes and Trekking pole
Duffel bag
Torch with extra batteries
Hand gloves
Warm clothes
Tracksuit
Extra pair of socks
Moisturizer
Camera
First Aid Medical Kit

To think back to ones’ own childhood, it reminds us of our free self where the idea of a creative life used to inspire us. However, when we started growing, those creative impulses have been slowly replaced by the struggles of life. But one should never forget that life offers a chance to all to design it beautifully. The imbalances that clog lives and limit the innate capacity for joy cannot keep one away from adding a memorable experience to the calendar of his life. So, do not hesitate to play hide and seek with perceived realities to restore the fun that sometimes lies in living life on the edge. And one such experience lies in the trekking expedition to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Offers Tranquility and Soul-stirring Natural Charm

Situated at a height of 21,778 feet, the majestic Mount Kailash is said to be an abode of Lord Shiva hailed as ‘destroyer of evil’. The grand mountain is nestled in the South-Western part of Himalayas Tibetan Plateau. Also, located in close proximity to Lake Rakshasta and Lake Manasarovar, Kailash paves the path for four major rivers of Asia i.e. the Brahmaputra, Indus, Sutlej and Karnali.

Therefore, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra doubles as a pilgrimage for ardent Hindus and a journey into the magnificent Himalayas for wanderers.

The Most Fascinating Journey Ever!

The journey to Kailash Parvat is not just a regular yatra, it is a completely life-changing experience for those who undertake it. A hike to this breathtaking, isolated, eternal and fascinating sacred spot is like a journey within oneself. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is like an experience of a lifetime!

Situated at a height of 15,015 feet, the emerald green and sacred blue Manasarovar Lake is just at a distance of 20 km from Kailash Parvat. The lake is said to be an embodiment of purity which has the power to wash away your sins and heal your wounds.

The spiritual journey involves meditation sessions, satsangs and bhajans which would subsequently be followed by the difficult yet exciting trek to the North face of Kailash. You will get an opportunity at the Kailash Mount to meditate in the presence of the Almighty.

Hidden Jewels on Kailash Route
On this journey, one would visit the world’s highest city and the capital city of Tibet, Lhasa. There are several tourist attractions on the way to Kailash such as Jokhang temple, Bhakor Street, Sera Monastery, Potala Palace, and the lively Lhasa market.

One can enjoy the stunning picturesque sights of Darchen, Dirakphuk and Zuktulpuk.

My Journey to Sacred Mount
We all arrived at the Tribhuvan International Airport which is situated 6 km away from the city centre. After reaching Kathmandu airport, I first met my tour representative, he gave me a warm welcome, and we later moved toward the booked hotel. I completed all the check-in facility and went to relax for a while after lunch. Later, the tour representative introduced me to 9 other trekkers who were set to undertake this exciting journey. He then briefed us about the program schedule. When the session got over, I thought to take a stroll in the hotel garden.

Next day, we woke up to a striking view of sunrise in the valley that was echoing due to pleasing sound of chirping birds. Afterwards, I enjoyed an appetizing breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant. Our guide came to the hotel and briefed us about today’s itinerary and then he took us to the most sacred temples in Nepal, Pashupatinath and Budhanilkanth dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu respectively. Our lunch was organised in a Nepali Restaurant, where we savoured some authentic delicacies like Thupka, Sel Roti and Momos. We also paid a visit to the Patan Museum and the Taragaon Museum.

Day 3 involved 6 hours bus journey from Kathmandu to Dhunche. Though the unsteady path was quite tough to handle, the drive through the majestic mountains was lovely. The one thing that propelled us throughout was acquaintance with the rare sights of nature away from the hustle-bustle noise of the city. We spent a night at a booked guesthouse. Next morning, after consuming yummy paranthas and curd, we moved toward Rasuwagadi, a point from where initial trekking began. The moving clouds, lush greenery mountains and chilly wind added an excitement to our journey. After a few hours of walk, we reached Lipulekh Pass where we waited for the Chinese authorities to complete the immigration facilities. After 1.5 hours of monitoring by the officials, we boarded a bus that took us to Kyirong. We spent a night at a lodge in Kyirong. We explored Kyirong markets and monasteries on the 5th day.

Next day, while moving to Dongba, pictorial views of mountain terrains and blue lake, Pieko-Tso and Yarlung Zangpo (the Brahmaputra River) worked as a feast to our naked eyes. After 7 hours, we reached Dongba guest house for night stay.

Now, it was the day to trek to the highest and holiest lake in the world, Lake Mansarovar. We first crossed Mayumla Pass where we had our lunch. Later, we reached Prayang County and we stayed there for 15 minutes to catch a glimpse of striking Mount Kailash.

The view of blue and emerald green lake was overwhelming. The blend of snow-capped mountains, incredible vistas of sand dunes and white clouds were simply majestic and truly breath-taking. This was a spiritual day of meditation and prayers. I experienced a revitalizing and cleansing dip in the purest lake, which is said to have the power to wash away all our sins. We stayed overnight in the camp set on the banks of the lake. Next morning, it was a time to get ready for a trek that was as testing as it was rewarding.

We packed up our stuff and drove to the starting point of the trek, Yamadwar, and then hiked to Dirapuk. En route, we beheld the sights of cliff-top monasteries, and yak caravans gently wandering over snowy passes. Finally, the time to experience the powerful and inexpressible phenomenon of this sacrosanct mountain arrived. For half an hour, we indulged in the exquisiteness and immensity of the esoteric Kailash. We spent a night at its base.

On Day 8, we moved from Dirapuk to the north face of Kailash for meditation and then back to Dirapuk. Then we headed back to Manasarovar and one more night was spent in amidst the mountain and beautiful lake.

Next morning, the journey to Zuthulphuk began with a steep climb up to the Dolma-La Hi