Kailash & Manasarovar: A 14-Day Expedition in Tibet

Mt. Kailash, situated in the far western corner of Tibet, is regarded as the most sacred peak in Asia. Rising to an impressive height of 6,700 meters, this mountain’s striking, symmetrical cone shape is perpetually capped with pure crystalline ice, a sight celebrated in countless mythological and literary traditions. Towering majestically north of the Himalayan range, Mt. Kailash (also known as Mt. Kailas) is revered as a holy pilgrimage destination by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bön religion alike.

For Tibetans, Mt. Kailash represents Mount Meru—the “navel of the earth”—and is believed to be the place where Tonpa Shenrab, the founder of the Bön faith, descended from the heavens. Hindus worship it as the sacred abode of Lord Shiva, Buddhists regard it as the residence of the deity Samvara, and Jains consider it the sacred site where their prophet Rishabha attained enlightenment. Known to Tibetans as Kang Rimpoche, meaning “precious snow-peak,” the mountain’s four sheer walls, snow-covered summit, and the vibrant procession of Tibetan pilgrims winding through its valleys create an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Mt. Kailash is also the source of four of Asia’s great rivers—the Karnali, Indus, Sutlej, and Brahmaputra (Tsangpo)—all originating from this sacred ground. Pilgrims undertake the renowned three-day trek, known as the Parikrama or Kora, circumnavigating the mountain by crossing the 5,630-meter-high Drolma La pass. Hindus and Buddhists perform the trek clockwise, while followers of the ancient Bön tradition go anti-clockwise. It is believed that completing this pilgrimage cleanses a lifetime of sins.

To complete the sacred journey, pilgrims bathe in the holy waters of Lake Manasarovar, a breathtaking lake nestled on the Tibetan plateau, framed by the imposing peak of Gurla Mandata—adding a final spiritual touch to this profound pilgrimage.