The journey to Kailash Mansarovar is fraught with difficulties at every turn but still hundreds of pilgrims undertake this every year…do you know the reason why? This destination is incomparable! Set aside every other pilgrimage because this is the KING of them all not just for Hindus but for Buddhists and Jains as well. Going there and back gives you a sense of achievement and of fulfillment, of having something done worthwhile for a change.
However, it is important to understand from the very outset that it is not for everyone…. Are you physically fit? Do you have what it takes to complete such an arduous journey? What kind of ailments do you suffer from? Will you be able to walk the long miles and climb, mountains when the need arises? Answers to all these questions are quite relevant since it will ultimately determine whether you are selected for the Yatra.
Religious significance
For the Hindus, Mount Kailash is the earthly counterpart of Mount Meru, considered the spiritual heart of universe. Upon it is our heaven or Swarga the abode of Gods in accordance to Hindu mycology. It is believed that when you visit this ultimate pilgrimage destination you are completely cleansed of all your sins. An important part of the Yatra is the visit to Mansarovar Lake situated at 4558 m/14,950 feet altitude, the highest site freshwater body in the whole world. A drink and bath in this lake is an important ritual at part of reaching as close to Lord Brahma as possible. Pilgrims circumambulate Mansarovar Lake and the mountain in a clockwise direction to complete the circuit of 52 km. Walk around the lake is of 100 km taking 4-5 days in all.
What you should know?
Kailash Mansarovar Trek is never for the weak hearted and not, for the infirm as well. You need to trek across freezing temperatures at high altitudes where you court danger at every turn and need to do hard labor. Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) recognizes this as trekking expedition involving high risks for both person and property. If you are not fit medically or physically, it may very well prove to be hazardous. After all, you have to trek at 19,500 feet maximum altitude in an inhospitable clime complete with rugged terrain and extreme cold. However, this has not deterred the brave hearts who have trudged through this cold desert since time immemorial. So do you have it in you to do the same?
Weather situation
So what kind of weather do the pilgrims experience when undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Trek? Tibet is cold and dry. Also, weather here changes quite rapidly so you need to be prepared for anything especially for worst to happen! During June-September days remain quite warm and pleasant and temperatures over between 15°C to 20°C. Afternoons however are quite windy. At the evening when the mornings you will feel the chill with mercury hovering between -2°C – 0°C.
Pilgrims, adventurers, and anybody who wishes to undertake a tour that combines hardships with ultimate fulfillment at the end are welcome on board as the next Kailash Mansarovar Trek commences. So are you in?
