The Kailash Mansarovar Tour is one of the most revered pilgrimages in the world, offering a spiritually enriching and awe-inspiring experience in the Himalayas.
This sacred journey attracts Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, each of whom has a deep spiritual connection to the region.
In this blog, we’ll explore the major attractions along Kailash Mansarovar Tour, diving into their religious significance, associated myths, and what makes each site unique.
Whether you’re embarking on this pilgrimage for spiritual reasons or seeking an extraordinary adventure, this guide will help you understand the wonders that await.
1. Mount Kailash
At the heart of the Kailash Mansarovar Tour is Mount Kailash, a majestic, snow-capped peak standing at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet). Revered as the earthly manifestation of Mount Meru, the axis of the universe, it holds immense significance for four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
For Hindus, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, where he resides with his consort Parvati in eternal meditation. The mountain is also thought to be the source of four of Asia’s greatest rivers, symbolizing life, sustenance, and spiritual rejuvenation.
According to Buddhist tradition, Mount Kailash represents the center of the universe and is a place where countless Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have attained enlightenment. Jains believe that Rishabhadeva, their first Tirthankara, attained moksha (liberation) here, while Bon followers regard it as the seat of the sky goddess Sipaimen.
The most striking aspect of Mount Kailash is that no one has ever climbed it. It is considered so sacred that setting foot on its summit would be a grave act of disrespect. Instead, pilgrims perform a parikrama (circumambulation) around the mountain, walking in a clockwise direction for Hindus and Buddhists, and counterclockwise for Bon practitioners.
2. Lake Mansarovar
Located at an altitude of 4,590 meters (15,060 feet), Lake Mansarovar is the highest freshwater lake in the world and one of the holiest water bodies in Hinduism and Buddhism. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are believed to be infused with spiritual power, and pilgrims often take a dip to cleanse their sins and purify their souls.
In Hindu mythology, Lake Mansarovar was created by Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, and is considered a reflection of the purity of the mind. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit words “Manas” (mind) and “Sarovar” (lake), symbolizing the creation of life in the mind of the divine.
Buddhists believe that Queen Maya, the mother of Lord Buddha, bathed in the lake before giving birth, making it a site of spiritual rebirth.
Pilgrims traditionally perform a circumambulation of Lake Mansarovar, praying, meditating, and taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. The reflections of Mount Kailash in its calm waters are truly a sight to behold, adding to the mystical aura of the lake.
3. Rakshas Tal (Lake Rakshastal)
Adjacent to Lake Mansarovar lies the lesser-known Rakshas Tal (Lake Rakshastal), a saltwater lake that is equally significant but in a contrasting way. While Mansarovar is associated with purity and divinity, Rakshas Tal is believed to be a lake of darkness, associated with the demon king Ravana from Hindu mythology.
According to legend, Ravana meditated on the shores of Rakshas Tal to gain power from Lord Shiva. Unlike Lake Mansarovar, Rakshas Tal is believed to represent the negative aspects of human nature, such as ego, arrogance, and attachment to worldly desires.
The stark difference between the two lakes—the pristine, sweet waters of Mansarovar and the salty, lifeless waters of Rakshas Tal—symbolizes the eternal struggle between good and evil.
Despite its ominous reputation, Rakshas Tal holds a magnetic allure, with its rugged beauty and the reflection of nearby mountains creating a mystical, almost haunting atmosphere.
4. Gauri Kund (The Lake of Compassion)
Nestled high in the Himalayas at an altitude of around 5,608 meters (18,399 feet), Gauri Kund is a small glacial lake revered in Hinduism. Named after Goddess Parvati (also known as Gauri), it is believed to be the spot where she bathed and where Lord Ganesha was created from her sandalwood paste.
In Hindu mythology, Gauri Kund is also associated with Lord Shiva, who granted Goddess Parvati her wish for a child here.
Pilgrims often visit the lake as part of their parikrama around Mount Kailash, and many take a symbolic dip in its icy waters, seeking blessings for family and fertility.
The lake’s breathtaking beauty, set against the backdrop of towering snow-covered peaks, makes it a place of quiet reflection and devotion for many travelers.
5. Asthapad
Asthapad, meaning “eight steps” in Sanskrit, is a sacred Jain site located near the base of Mount Kailash. It is believed to be the place where the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, attained moksha (liberation) after meditating for years.
The significance of Asthapad in Jainism is immense, as it represents the ultimate path to enlightenment and freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
While Asthapad is not commonly included in most pilgrimage itineraries due to its remoteness, those who manage to visit are rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Kailash and a profound sense of spiritual peace. The site is adorned with ancient stone carvings and statues, further deepening its connection to Jain spirituality.
6. Chiu Gompa
Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking Lake Mansarovar, Chiu Gompa is a small but significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The monastery is said to have been built around a cave where Guru Rinpoche, the legendary figure who introduced Buddhism to Tibet, meditated during his journey.
Chiu Gompa is not only a place of religious importance but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. Pilgrims and trekkers often stop at the monastery to meditate, pray, or simply soak in the serenity of the location.
The peaceful ambiance of the monastery provides a perfect escape from the physical challenges of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.
7. Yam Dwar (The Gateway of the Gods)
Yam Dwar, also known as the “Gateway of the Gods,” is the starting point for the circumambulation (parikrama) of Mount Kailash. Located near the village of Darchen, this small stone structure holds great significance for pilgrims, as it symbolizes the threshold between the physical and spiritual realms.
According to Hindu belief, Yam Dwar is the point where one enters the domain of the gods, and pilgrims offer prayers before passing through to seek divine blessings for a successful journey.
The name “Yam” refers to the Hindu god of death, Yama, and it is believed that crossing through this gate is akin to transcending worldly life and entering a state of spiritual purification.
Conclusion
The Kailash Mansarovar Tour is not just a journey through breathtaking landscapes but also a deeply spiritual experience, connecting pilgrims to their faith and the divine. From the sacred waters of Lake Mansarovar to the towering presence of Mount Kailash, every stop on this pilgrimage offers a unique blend of beauty, myth, and religious significance.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual fulfillment or looking to explore one of the most remote and sacred places on earth, these major attractions will leave a lasting impression. The myths, legends, and serene beauty of this sacred landscape will continue to inspire and awe pilgrims and adventurers for generations to come.
