How Difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred journey for many. Worshipers from all around the world make a pilgrimage to the holy Mount Kailash and the peaceful Lake Mansarovar. But how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has been attracting people from all around the world, especially people who follow the Hindu religion. Mount Kailash is a famous and renowned holy place where travelers visit there and to the holy Lake Mansarovar. In this lake, pilgrims take baths to cleanse their souls. It is believed if you bathe in this lake, your sins will be cleansed.

As much as the Kailash Mansarovar Himalaya and Mount Kailash Parikrama is a blessing to the souls, it can also be physically demanding. All these things raise the question, how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra? To know the challenges you’re right to face even if you’re traveling just for adventure or for spiritual reasons, it is crucial to understand how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Access Nepal is here to make your dream come true. In this blog, we’ll explain in every detail how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is. We will tell you everything about physical challenges, the preparation you need, and what to expect along the way so that you can book your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2024 group from the USA or any place with us.

How Difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Without any delay, let’s be clear about how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. And the simple and clear answer to this is Yes. The difficulty level of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is moderately challenging. Before planning your trip to Mount Kailash, you have to be fully prepared physically and mentally too.

The trip to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will go through high altitude, rough trails, and unpredictable weather which makes the journey challenging. One of the main challenges of this journey is the altitude.

The trek reaches up to the heights of around 5,600 meters (18,373 feet). At such elevation, there will be a high chance of getting altitude sickness. The symptoms of altitude sickness are headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Therefore, acclimatization is a crucial part of this journey as it helps to get used to the altitude.

Similarly, another important thing that plays a big role in how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is to physical fitness. Throughout the trek, you have to walk for several hours each day and the route will be rough, uneven, and rocky adding to the difficulty level.

The pace you need is usually moderate but it requires strength and stamina to walk on the steep climbs. Physical fitness is essential, especially during the circumambulation of Mount Kailash, which is about 52 kilometers long and usually takes three days.

The weather adds another layer of difficulty. At such high altitudes, it can get very cold, especially at night, with temperatures dropping below freezing. You might also face rain, snow, and strong winds. To avoid all of this you have to be fully prepared with the right clothing and gear.

Moreover, the terrain itself is tough, with steep inclines and descents, particularly at the Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters/18,471 feet), which is the highest point of the trek. The trails can become slippery and difficult to walk on if it rains or snows.

Beyond the physical challenges, the Yatra can be mentally tough as well. The long hours of walking as well as the remote and difficult conditions, can make the journey feel exhausting. You have to mind makeup before going here. You will need a strong mindset to stay motivated and positive throughout the trek. Most of all, keep in mind we are here to enjoy the adventure and nature not to compete.

The Historical and Religious Importance of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Mount Kailash standing at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) is located in Tibet, a Chinese autonomous area. This holy place holds immense religious significance for Hindus. They believe that it is to be the home of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. Buddhists also hold in high regard Mount Kailash. They believe this place is the center of the universe and an important site linked to the life of Lord Buddha.

Similarly, Lake Mansarovar at 4,590 meters (15,060 feet) is situated in the same region. This holy lake is another sacred site in the region. According to Hindu mythology, the lake was created by Lord Brahma’s mind, hence the name “Mansarovar,” meaning “mind’s lake.” Pilgrims believe that a holy dip in the lake’s waters can purify one’s soul and lead to spiritual enlightenment.

Given the altitude and rough landscapes, many pilgrims wonder, how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The journey is both a spiritual pilgrimage and a physically demanding trek. Passing through the remote and rough region of Tibet tests your endurance and devotion. Despite the challenges, Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and others see this Yatra as a life-changing spiritual experience.

If you are an enthusiast of learning or experiencing new cultures and traditions you can book your trip to Nepal. We have various packages like the Land of Myths and Wonders Hindu pilgrimage tour, Peace tour-Buddhist pilgrimage tour, and Kali Gandaki to Muktinath Trek.

The Highlights of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

We are already aware of how significant the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is and how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Besides these, it also has the deep meaning it holds for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon. Each one of these religions has different mythological stories connected to Mount Kailash as sacred. Even after knowing how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, devoted pilgrims still choose this trip to show their devotion to god.

For Hindus, they believe that Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati, reside on the peak of Mount Kailash, meditating. Jains consider it the place where their first Tirthankara attained Nirvana. Likewise, Buddhists believe that Mount Kailash is where Buddha represents supreme bliss. The Bon faith, which predates Buddhism in Tibet, considers the region as the seat of all spiritual power.

Visit to Lake Mansarovar

Lake Mansarovar is located at the foot of Mount Kailash which holds a great religious significance. It is the highest freshwater lake in the world. The lake is known for its changing colors, from clear blue near the shores to emerald green towards the center.

During moonlit nights, the lake becomes even more surreal, with the reflection of Mount Kailash on its surface. Pilgrims consider taking a holy dip in the lake a way to cleanse their sins.

Temples

Mount Kailash is surrounded by five important monasteries: Nyari Monastery, Drirapuk Monastery, Dzultripuk Monastery, Selung Monastery, and Gyangzha Monastery. Each of these monasteries has its own story. All of them feature different and unique sculptures, statues, murals, and thangkas.

In the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you can take your time and explore these holy temples. Visiting these temples not only gives you an adventure but you will also get to learn about culture, beliefs, and new experiences.

The Sacred Walk of Kailash

The Kailash Kora is a 52-kilometer sacred walk that circles Mount Kailash in a clockwise direction. This sacred walk is a test of faith, strength, and endurance for pilgrims.

This pilgrimage trail is known as the outer kora. To complete this, it takes about three days to complete. Pilgrims start from Darchen and pass through the Derapuk and Zutulpuk Monasteries, crossing the Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters, the highest point of the yatra.

Kailash Charan Sparsh

The Kailash Charan Sparsh is a special pilgrimage where pilgrims can physically touch the base of Mount Kailash. This yatra starts from the Derapuk Monastery on the north side of Mount Kailash. You will also walk on the glacier of the Gange River.

The path is difficult due to the melting glacier. Moreover, it takes almost a full day to complete the round trip, covering about 7 kilometers. Pilgrims offer prayers, meditate, and perform puja at the base of Mount Kailash. They do this with the faith of receiving blessings from Lord Shiva.

The Inner Kora – Nandi Parikrama

The Inner Kora, or Nandi Parikrama, is one of the most challenging sacred walks. It brings pilgrims even closer to Mount Kailash. The route starts from Darchen, passing through the Sealong Monastery, Saptarishi Cave (known as Guru Rimpoche Cave in Buddhism). Afterward, you will finally reach the highest point at over 5,800 meters.

This trek is very demanding due to its steep and brought paths, unpredictable weather, and limited permits. Only a few dedicated people can get access due to the strict permits.

Rakshas Tal – The Poison Lake

Rakshas Tal, known as Lang-Tso in Tibetan, is a lake situated to the west of Lake Mansarovar. It is believed to have originated through the meditation of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, who meditated nearby for 1,000 years to gain supernatural powers.

The lake has salty water, and no living creatures reside in it. It is considered a lake of negative energy. In this river, Ravana is said to have gained power that later led to his downfall. Some pilgrims visit the lake to perform spiritual rituals and offer prayers to cleanse negative energies.

Best Time to Visit Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Though traveling brings new experiences and adventure, it also requires good preparations. Before going on any trip, you must know about the weather and the best time to visit to enjoy the trip fully.

Likewise, before going to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you should know about the weather conditions there and how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. At Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar, throughout the year weather conditions change and are not stable.

One of the best times to visit Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is between May to June and between September to October. During these months, the weather will be sunny, temperatures will be comfortable, and the skies will be clear. Around this time, you will get to see the mountain views much more clearly, so it is the perfect time to visit

Weather Details

May to June & September to October: These months have good weather for trekking with cool, fresh air and lots of sunshine. Temperatures during the day can reach around 7-11°C. In the nights, the weather is colder with temperatures dropping below freezing.

These months are the best time for visitors. The bright sunshine and clear skies make the trek more enjoyable.

July & August: Monsoon Season

Around July and August (Monsoon season) is also recommended to go for a trip. However, around this time, there will be light rainfall. But still, the rain doesn’t make the place muddy. Interestingly it makes the atmosphere mystical atmosphere with fog and fresh air.

Tips for Rainy Season:

• Wear waterproof clothing and cover your backpack.
• Wear shoes that have strong grips as the path will be slippery.

November to April: Not Recommended

Visiting from November to April is not advised due to extremely cold weather and heavy snow. Temperatures can drop as low as -18°C, and roads may be blocked. In the end, how difficult is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra? choosing the right season can make all the difference.

Auspicious Time: Saga Dawa Festival (May or June)

The Saga Dawa Festival is a significant event for Tibetan Buddhists. This festival marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. It is celebrated with religious activities around Mt. Kailash.

The Saga Dawa Festival happens on the 15th of April in the Tibetan calendar, which is usually in May or June in our calendar. This festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism.

Throughout this month, local Tibetans hold many religious ceremonies. They believe that by being generous on this day and during the month, they can earn great spiritual rewards

During the Saga Dawa Festival, thousands of devoted Tibetan pilgrims gather on Barkhor Street to walk around the Jokhang Temple. Others participate in the Tsekhor and Lingkhor kora, walking in circles around sacred sites.

This important month attracts many pilgrims to Mount Kailash, making it a peak time for worship. The weather during this time is also great for visiting Kailash Manasarovar.

If you are interested in learning new cultures and traditions, then picking a date during the Saga Dawa festival will be perfect. It’s a great time for visitors to experience Tibetan culture.