Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash

pilgrimage site

Type
Pilgrimage Site
Best season
Monsoon
Things to do
2+

Mount Kailash, a 6,638-metre peak in the remote Tibetan plateau, is among the most sacred mountains on earth — revered by Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, by Buddhists, Jains and the Bon faith alike. Pilgrims undertake the arduous 52-km kora (circumambulation) around its base; the peak itself is never climbed.

When to go

Best visited in the short summer yatra season (Jun-Sep), subject to official arrangements.

Why visit

The most sacred mountain in Asia — abode of Shiva and holy to four faiths, centre of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Cultural notes

Sacred across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon, Kailash is believed to be the cosmic axis (Mount Meru). Completing the kora is considered to wash away a lifetime of sins.

How to reach

Reached on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand), Nathula Pass (Sikkim), or overland through Kathmandu, Nepal. Access depends on India-China arrangements and official yatra registration.

Mount Kailash guide & itineraries

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