The Kailash Parikrama, a sacred pilgrimage route, involves trekking around Mount Kailash, one of the most revered mountains in the world.
Located in the remote western region of Tibet, this journey forms a central part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage attracting thousands of devotees and adventure seekers each year.
The Yatra includes both the circumambulation (Parikrama) of Mount Kailash and a visit to the sacred Lake Mansarovar, believed to be a source of spiritual purification.
This challenging trek, set against the dramatic landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, holds immense religious significance for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
Mount Kailash is valued more in four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the ancient Bon faith. The trek is referred to as a profound spiritual journey.
However, it is physically demanding and quite challenging for those looking for adventure in high-altitude terrain. Below is the comprehensive guide to Kailash Parikrama.
Kailash Parikrama Overview
Mount Kailash lies within the Himalayan Mountain range in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The region is known for its raw beauty, majestic peaks, and remote landscapes.
The trek is approximately 52 Kilometers (32 miles), circling Mount Kailash, which is known as “Parikrama” or “Parikrama.” The trek begins at an elevation of 4,675 meters (15,340 feet) in the small town of Darchen.
The Highest point to reach is Drolma La Pass at an elevation of 5,630 meters (18,471 feet). The Parikrama takes typically 3 days to complete depending on the pace and physical fitness of the pilgrims.
Spiritual Significance
Mount Kailash is considered the holy site places in many religions, each having their own beliefs and deep importance to the mountain.
In Hinduism, they regard this place as the adobe of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities in the Hindu religion that represents the power of destruction and regeneration. Devotees take the Parikrama as an act of devotion, looking for blessings from Shiva.
In Buddhism especially in Tibetan Buddhism, the mountain is believed to be the home of Buddha Demchok (Chakrasamvara), as he gained liberation and enlightenment. The circumambulation is performed to accumulate merit and gain enlightenment.
In Jainism, the Mount Kailash is considered as the sacred place where their first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, achieved liberation (moksha).
Similarly, Mount Kailash has a significant value in the Bon religion, one of the ancient religions that precedes Buddhism in Tibet. They consider the place as the axis of the world and the central hub of the bon cosmology.
While performing Parikrama, Bon followers do it counterclockwise, unlike the pilgrims of other religions who walk clockwise.
Best Time to Trek
The weather in Tibet is unpredictable and harsh because of the high elevation and proximity to the Himalayan range. Therefore, selecting the right season to embark on the Kailash Parikrama is essential.
The best season to go on a trek for Kailash is May to September. The days are longer and the temperatures are often milder during these months making the night cold. The risk of snow and cold winds is lower compared to the winter months.
Late autumn and winter (November to March) are not recommended to do the trekking in Kailash area. Avoid trekking in these months as the area experiences harsh winter conditions, making the path challenging and often difficult to walk due to snow.
Permits and Regulations
Since Mount Kailash is in a restricted region of Tibet, solo travel is not permitted. Therefore, you must be traveling with a licensed guide in a registered group.
It is better if you join in the organized trip through a travel agency that arranges all the essential permits, logistics, and transportation. A registered tour operator is necessary for bookings and several permits are required.
Tibet Travel Permit, Alien’s Travel Permit, and Kailash Region permit are mandatory and must be obtained before the trip for all visitors to Tibet including Mount Kailash.
The Route
The Kailash Parikrama route is divided into several stages and trips can be arranged from three different countries; India, Nepal, and Tibet. However, the actual Parikrama starts from the place called Darchen.
Darchen is a small yet dusty settlement having minimal lodging and food options. Trekkers stop for the night here to rest before beginning their journey.
Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (20 km, 6-8 hours)
The journey starts with a moderate ascent through the Lha Chu Valley, providing breathtaking views of the western and northern faces of Mount Kailash. You will pass through Chuku Monastery along the route.
You will be rewarded with stunning views of Mount Kailash’s north face as the day ends at Dirapuk Monastery (4,950 meters).
Dirapuk to Zutulpuk Monastery via Drolma La Pass (22 km, 8-10 hours)
This is the strenuous part of the journey, as you have to traverse the highest point of the trek, Drolma La Pass (5,630 meters). The ascent is sheer and physically taxing, and the high altitude makes it even more challenging.
Similarly, the descent is equally challenging after the pass is over, crossing by the holy lake Gauri Kund revered in Hinduism. The day ends at Zutulpuk Monastery (4,835 meters), which is renowned for its meditation cave.
Zutulpuk to Darchen (10 km, 3-4 hours)
The last day is reasonably easier, back to Darchen following a level track. Trekkers are frequently filled with a feeling of satisfaction once they finish the circumambulation.
Preparation
The Kailash Parikrama is a difficult trek requiring the walk at a high elevation and steep ascents, especially near Drolma La Pass. Trekkers should be in good physical shape and able to walk across rough terrain for several hours.
Some regular exercises or training such as cardio fitness, endurance exercises, and strength training are key to preparing before going for this pilgrimage.
The Journey involves walking at heights over 4,500 meters, where pilgrims or trekkers are exposed to thin air and a significant risk of altitude sickness.
Proper acclimatization is crucial to adjust to the high-altitude surroundings. Many trekkers stay or spend time in Lhasa or Saga (4,640 meters) prior to starting the Parikrama. Gradually ascending and taking rest days at high-elevation areas help minimize the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Similarly, prepare for the unpredictable weather and pack the gear accordingly. Warm clothes, layers, trekking boots, trekking poles, and sleeping bags are the must to pack on your backpack.
Accommodation and Food
There are basic guesthouses available at the stops of Dirapuk and Zutulpuk. These guesthouses are simple with basic facilities; and often offer shared rooms with minimal facilities.
Some groups choose to camp along the path, though it takes packing your equipment or hiring porters.
Food options are also limited along the trek having the basic Tibetan meals including rice, noodles, and soup. Many trekkers carry their own snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars.
Hiring Porters and Yaks
You can hire porters or yaks if you are concerned about carrying heavy gear at high altitudes. They can transport your equipment, leaving you free and easing your walk. You can arrange to hire them through your tour operator.
Cost
The total cost of the Kailash Parikrama journey depends on the personal expenses, group size as well as the tour operator. The cost of the trip might range from $2,000 to $5,000 per person on average. This usually includes permits, guide services, meals, accommodation, and transportation.
Health and Safety
Altitude Sickness might become one of the problems, particularly after reaching a high altitude. The main symptoms of altitude sickness can vary widely ranging from headaches and nausea while severe cases may require evacuation.
It’s crucial to acclimatize properly, hydrate well, and be aware of any symptoms of sickness. Medications like Diamox also help to prevent altitude sickness, though this should be taken to consult with a doctor before consuming.
Due to the trek located in a remote region and high elevation, it is recommended to purchase reliable travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuations. Evacuation might be necessary in case of severe injury and altitude sickness.
Appropriate Cultural Conduct
It is significant that you respect regional culture when trekking. While doing Parikrama or trekking, walk or round Mount Kailash in a clockwise manner, with the exception of Bon followers.
Do not point your feet at religious objects, shrines, or statues to honour places of worship. Always get permission before taking photos of local people or religious practices.
Dress appropriately or wear modest clothing such as long sleeves tops and pants for a religious environment.
Nearby Attractions
Along with the journey, there are many nearby attractions such as Lake Manasarovar, Tirthapuri Hot Spring, etc.
Lake Mansarovar is one of the holiest as well as the freshwater lake in the region, which is also believed to have purifying properties. Devotees often take ritual baths here before and after the Kailash Parikrama.
On the other hand, the Tirthapuri hot spring is another sacred water, which is situated at the bank of Sutlej. Pilgrims traditionally bathe here as it serves as a place of self-purification for pilgrims after completing the Parikrama.
Final Thoughts
The Kailash Parikrama is a spiritually enlightening experience in addition to being a physically demanding journey. Many visitors see the trip as a form of devotion, an opportunity to connect with the divine and cleanse oneself of negative Karma.
Proper preparation, both physically and mentally, is required for an effective and fulfilling pilgrimage around one of the most revered mountains in the world.