Mansarovar Kailash Yatra is one of the most difficult and challenging journey in the world. This sacred land is visited every year by hundreds of devotees. Apart from pilgrims it is also being frequented these days by some thrill seekers. So if you are looking for a spiritual journey that will transform your life, then head for Kailash Manasarovar. However, be warned, that this journey is not for the weak! This journey is not only tough physically, but also emotionally demanding and might leave you on your nerves. But once you come back, you will find yourself completely transformed.
Kailash Mountain
Kailash Mountain is a gigantic mountain rising 21,778 feet above the sea level. Known among the Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva-God of rebirth and destruction. Mount Kailash is considered as a holy place by millions of people, yet visited by few hundred due to its remote location. You will not only encounter treacherous weather here, but also other hardships like lack of supplies and basic amenities. You might hardly encounter a living soul here apart from the pilgrims. Mount Kailash was considered once as the center of the world. This mystical place is revered by four religions- Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and Bon (Pre Buddhists). Mount Kailash is the source of holy rivers Brahmaputra, Indus, Karnali and Sutlej. It is believed that a single parikrama or revolution of the mountain purges all sins committed whereas 108 parikramas can give way to salvation. You may find it exceedingly difficult to complete the parikramas of the Kailash within a day. Normally it takes 3 days to complete the parikramas. Since this is one of the most difficult treks in Asia, make sure you are completely fit and healthy before embarking on this journey.
A view of Kailash Manasarovar
Mansarovar Lake
Manasarovar lake is located at a height of 4580 mt and is one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world. Here you will be mesmerized by the snow capped Kailash mountain being reflected in the crystal clear water of Manasarovar Lake. Lake Manasarovar is considered as an embodiment of purity. One dip or swim in the water is believed to purge the sins of 100 lifetimes. The water of Lake Manasarovar is also said to have magical healing properties.
Visit during June – September if you want to take a dip in the lake. You will find the lake frozen solid during the winter months. The water of the lake is blue and emerald green. There are a few lodge and tents nearby frequented by pilgrims. However, these accommodations will have minimal basic facilities. There are a few Buddhist Monasteries dotting the shores of Manasarovar Lake. The view from the Chiu Gompa Monastery, which is built on a steep hill is breathtaking. Lake Rakhastal is adjacent to Manasarovar Lake. Lake Rakhastal is considered as the “lake of demons”.
Kailash Manasarovar History
Kailash and Manasarovar have a mystical charm about them that has aroused and attracted the attention and imagination of people since time immemorial. For long, civilizations of Asia have considered Kailash as a holy site.
The Mount Kailash is believed to the abode of Hindu god Lord Shiva. The vedas and puranas also considered it as heaven and resting place for soul. It is believed that the four faces of this sacred mountain is made up of gold,ruby, crystal and lapis lazuli. People of other faiths also have legends associated with this Kailash mountain. In Buddhism it is believed that Kailash mountain is the home of Buddha Demchok who is a symbol of harmony. Kailash Mountain is sacred for the Bons, as it is believed that a battle of sorcery took place at Kailash mountain between Milarepa winner of Tantric Buddhism and Naro-Bonchung, spokesman of Bon. Kailash mountain is also referred to as the holy mountain Ashtapada. At Ashtapada, Rishabdeva, their first Tirthankar attained Niravana.
Kailash Manasarovar – Heavenly bliss!
The lake Manasarovar is believed to be conceived in the mind of Lord Brahma and then created on Earth. According to the Hindus, Lord Brahma is the creator of the universe. In Sanskrit, its name “Man” is for mind and “sarovar” is for lake. Manasarovar lake holds more religious significance for Hindus than for Buddhists. In Buddhism, Manasarovar lake is also known as the Anavatapta. The legend states that at Manasarovar lake, Queen Maya conceived Buddha.
At Kailash and Manasarovar experience, history, spiritualism and beauty in its most pristine form.
Visit Kailash Manasarovar and you will find yourself transcending to some other spiritual level. In spite of being one of the most difficult pilgrimage, Kailash Manasarovar yatra is a life changing journey. Whether you want to attain salvation and purge all your sins or discover more about yourself and the world. Kailash Manasarovar yatra is definitely an unforgettable journey. We shall give more information about planning the trip in the next article.
