The Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimages for thousands of faithful and the adventurous each year. Hidden in the pristine recesses of the remote Tibetan plateau are the awe-inspiring wonders of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar — a place of inestimable beauty, and one of the strongest religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon faith. It is a journey that is as much a physical test of endurance as it is a spiritually transforming experience, and Nepal is one of the easiest points to commence this sacred yatra which takes the pilgrims to some of the most holy places in the region.
In this write up we are going to discuss about the history, importance, travel routes, preparation tips and spiritual experience of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra from Nepal, so those who have plan to perform this pilgrimage will get detailed idea of it.
Kailash and Manasarovar as Icons of Spirituality
Mount Kailash: Soaring to an altitude of 6,638 metres, Mount Kailash is believed to be the earthly embodiment of Mount Meru, the cosmological center of the universe. It is the house of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati according to Hindus, Buddhists call it the residency of Demchok (Chakrasamvara). Jains treat it as Mount Ashtapada, the place where the first Tirthankara Achal was immortalised after his asceticism. Adherents of the Bon religion consider it as the throne of divine power.
Lake Manasarovar: Nestled at an elevation of 4,590 meters, Lake Manasarovar is considered the creation of Lord Brahma. Its clear waters are believed to wash away sins, help to purify soul and pave the way for moksha (liberation). Swimming in the lake is believed to be holy and it is obligatory to circumambulate the lake.
These are all part of a holy trail that is not bound by religion, drawing followers from around the world.
Why Begin the Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa?
Selecting Nepal as the base point for Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa has its pros – –
The following are the reasons:
Ease of Access – Nepal is a neighbor to Tibet, an attractive option for travelers from India and around the world. The capital city, Kathmandu, is a primary source for permits and travel arrangements.
Various Route Options – Unlike other entrences, Nepal provide an overland way and a flight strating point to Kailash, which meet pilgrims of different requirements and cost.
Rich Cultural Experience – Commencing the expedition from Nepal, the journey offers an opportunity to visit Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city, which is home to ancient temples, monasteries, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, adding to the overall spiritual experience.
Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa 1st Route: Kathmandu – Nylam – Dongba – Mansarovar – Darchen – Dirapuk – Zuthulpuk 2nd Route: Kathmandu – Mansarover – Darchen – Dirapuk – Zuthulpuk Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Nepal Cost, Route, Booking, Height, and Importance Information.
Subject to Permit Availability Tour Itinerary The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter package offers one with the opportunity to get pleasure from the superb nature of the hilly region.
There are two main ways for the Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa:-
Overland Route via Kyirong Border
This trail is followed by a good number of pilgrims who prefer foot over road travel as they can acclimatize to the high altitude in slow steps.
Kathmandu to Syabrubesi: The trek starts with picturesque drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Syabrubesi (1,420m, near Nepal- Tibet border).
Entering Tibet: Travellers cross the border at the Rasuwagadhi-Kyirong border in coordination with authorised tour operators.
Kyirong to Saga: The drive goes past Tibetan towns and beautiful scenery.
Lake Manasarovar: Pilgrims arrive in days of driving for holy rituals at the sacred lake.
ROUND MOUNT KAILASH: (Mount KAILASH PARIKRAMA) Devotees walk around Mount Kailash which is 52 kilometers.
This trip only costs you 13 -15 days.
Helicopter Route via Simikot
Perfect for those who are short on time or hate long distance travel overland.
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: Pilgrims board a short flight to Nepalgunj, a town in the southwest of the country.
Fly to Simikot Flight to Simikot : A small aircraft takes you from Nepalgunj to Simikot, a mountain airstrip, in the morning.
Helicopter to Hilsa: Pilgrims line up to take a helicopter to Hilsa, on the Nepal-Tibet border.
Road to Manasarovar and Kailash: Pilgrims are driven across Tibet to Lake Manasarovar and the peak of Kailash.
This route is 9-12 days, quicker but more expensive.
Kailash Kora (Parikrama)
The Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) is one of the most integral part of the yatra. Pilgrims walk around the foot of Mount Kailash, a distance of about 52 kilometers, over the course of three days:
Day 1 (Darchen to Dirapuk: 12 km): Moderate walk with views of Kailash’s north face.
Day 2 (Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass, 22 km) – The toughest day, as pilgrims climb the 5,630m Dolma La Pass.
3 Day (Zuthulpuk to Darchen, 18 km) – Gradual downhill finishing the parikrama.
Ideal Period for the Yatra
- Extreme weather has restricted its opening operation during certain months of the year:
- Best time would be from May to September when the weather is calm and roads are then passable.
- The winters are severe and accumulate a lot of snow, and it was difficult to ask for travel back then.
Physical and Mental Preparation
The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra from Nepal is a tough journey, both physically and mentally.
Pilgrims must prepare adequately:
Fitness Regime: Include light fitness in your daily schedule with a mix of walking, cardio, yoga and breathing exercises to build your stamina.
Altitude Acclimatization : Go to high elevation areas days back to start the journey to guard against altitude sickness.
Medical Checkup: A Complete health check-up is mandatory, especially for people with heart, lung and blood pressure ailments.
What to Pack: -Warm clothes -Trekking or hiking shoes -Personal medicine -Water bottles -Energy snacks
Permits and Documentation
Special permits need to be obtained as the yatra passes through Tibet:
- Chinese Group Visa
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Alien’s Travel Permit
- Restricted Area Permit
Challenges of Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa
As spiritually uplifting as the pilgrimage is, there are also obstacles:
- High Elevation – Considered different and very high risk of AMS.
- Desolate Circumstances – Survival becomes the norm with fewer medical resources and less comfortable lodging.
- Cost – The trip can be costly, particularly by helicopter.
Transformative Experience
It is an unforgettable experience and life changing one, not withstanding the challenges the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra from Nepal offers. Pilgrims frequently talk about the great stillness and peace and humbling they experience. Following the sages foot-steps, contemplating on the shores of Lake Manasarovar and gazing on the solution Kailash is some thing only life time dreams are made of.
Conclusion
The Kailash manasarovar yatra from Nepa is not a cake but a rigorous journey that checks one’s physical capabilities and spiritual beliefs. Those making the journey, be it by land or air, will have a chance to feel the spirit and breath of the gods, marvel at the stunning vistas, and engage with ancient ways of being, all while traveling on the roof of the world.
It is a holy yatra for those in pursuit of truth, spiritual evolution and self-realization. Setting out on this pilgrimage from Nepal is not only convenient but it is spiritually gratifying, hence it became the choice for tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world.
