Mount Kailash is one of the most sacred mountains in the world. It is situated in the remote west of Tibet and has a great spiritual significance to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and the Bon religion. Thousands of pilgrims and other travelers visit this holy mountain every year to complete the Mount Kailash Kora, which is a sacred trek that goes around the mountain.
Kailash Kora is a spiritual trail along with a demanding high-altitude trek. The road goes through rough areas, isolated scenery, and very elevated areas. Due to this reason, it is necessary to plan and be physically prepared. The Kailash Kora could be a much safer, more comfortable, and more meaningful experience with some good preparation.
The following guide is explanatory of all the information you should know before trying the Kailash Trek, such as physical training, acclimatization, packing, permits, and psychological preparation.
Understanding the Mount Kailash Kora
The Mount Kailash Kora is a pilgrimage path that surrounds Mount Kailash. The entire circuit measures approximately 52 kilometers (32 miles) and typically is completed in three days. The journey starts at Darchen, a small village at an altitude of around 4,670 meters (15,321 ft).
The hardest activity during the Kailash Trek is the Dolma La Pass, which is located at the height of 5,630 meters (18,471 ft). The level of oxygen is considerably reduced at such an altitude, and the weather also changes quickly. It is difficult physically, even for an experienced trekker, because of the high elevation.
Nevertheless, pilgrims believe that it is a blessing and the accomplishment of the Mount Kailash Kora purifies the spiritual world. The trek is an opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in Tibet for many travellers.
Physical Preparation for Kailash Kora
Physical fitness is one of the most significant sections of Preparation for Kailash Kora. The trek is associated with protracted walks, mountainous climbs, and elevation.
The Kailash Trek can be done even if you are not a professional mountaineer, but a minimum of endurance is required. It may be tiresome walking over rough surfaces for some hours daily and at elevated levels.
You should prepare your body at least 2 to 3 months before the trip. Walking, hiking, jogging, and cycling are some activities that can be performed to enhance stamina. The steep parts of the Mount Kailash Kora can also be prepared by regular uphill walking or using the stairs.
Training in strength and endurance may also be beneficial. Leg, core, and back light strength exercises can help decrease fatigue on the trek. The better and healthier you are prior to the journey, the more comfortable the journey will be.
Importance of High-Altitude Acclimatization
The greatest difficulty in the Kailash Trek is the altitude. There is a point where the body begins to supply itself with less oxygen, and that is when you are over 3,000 meters (9,843 ft). Around Mount Kailash, the trekking path lay way beyond this stage.
Appropriate acclimatization is one of the major components of the preparationfor Kailash Kora. In the majority of tour itineraries of Kailash, travellers spend a few days in Tibet and then start the trek. Places such as Lhasa, at 3,650 meters (11,975 ft) and Saga, at approximately 4,640 meters (15,223 ft), facilitate travellers adjusting progressively to the higher altitudes.
Spending time allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.The symptoms of altitude sickness might consist of headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Adapt to the slow walking, be hydrated, and do not overwork yourselves.
In case of severe symptoms, it may be required to move to a lower altitude. During the Mount Kailash Kora, it is essential to listen to your body.
Mental Preparation for the Kailash Trek
Physical fitness is necessary, but mental preparedness is significant in accomplishing the Mount Kailash Kora. The trek may be quite demanding because of the elevation, unpredictable weather, and isolated nature.
The Kailash Trek can have pilgrims spending 5 to 8 hours daily walking during the Kora. The most challenging part is the second day when traversing Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 ft).
It is better to be psychologically ready to spend 3 days walking, to endure cold, and to stay in a place of simple accommodations, as it can make the journey easier. The ability to be patient, determined, and have a positive mind is essential for the trek.
Many travelers see the Mount Kailash Kora not only as a physical challenge but also as a spiritual journey.The slow pace and reverence of the pilgrimage process further give significance to the pilgrimage.
Choosing the Best Time for the Mount Kailash Kora
Another significant aspect of preparation for Kailash Kora is to time your trip. Trekking around Mount Kailash has a short trekking season due to the extreme weather in Tibet.
Mount Kailash Trekking is mostly done between May and September, which are the most favorable months. The temperatures are relatively lower, and the trekking trails are available during this period.
Summer days are normally clear, and trekking is easier. Nevertheless, the weather may be unpredictable, particularly at high altitudes such as Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 ft), even though it is located in the Himalayan region.
It is also common to travel during the Saga Dawa Festival, which is typically held in May or June. It is one of the holy periods for pilgrims to Mount Kailash Kora.
Packing the Right Gear for the Kailash Trek
The Mount Kailash Kora can be made much more comfortable with the help of packing the right equipment. Since the trek involves high-altitude, the temperature may fall very fast, particularly in the mornings and evenings.
Warm clothing is essential. Layers of clothing are ideal because you can adapt to the changes in the weather. It is highly suggested to wear a good down jacket, thermal layers, and gloves, as well as a warm hat.
Comfortable trekking boots are also necessary. Trails along the way are often rocky and uneven, and therefore, a good pair of shoes will prevent any accidents and blistering of the feet during the Kailash Trek.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, trekking poles, a small backpack, etc are other helpful things. Good Preparation for Kailash Kora can also include bringing your personal medicines and medication for altitude sickness.
Permits and Travel Arrangements
One has to use special permits to travel to Mount Kailash since the area is in Tibet. No independent travel is permitted, and therefore, the majority of the visitors participate in guided tours.
The travelers generally require a Tibet Travel permit and more permits covering the Mount Kailash region. These documents are usually organized by the tour operators.
The trip usually begins at Lhasa at 3,650 meters (11,975 ft), or Kathmandu, Nepal. Then, tourists go through the Tibetan plateau to Darchen at 4,670 meters (15,321 ft), the entry point of the Mount Kailash Kora.
It is always necessary to plan travel logistics in order to have a good experience and avoid unnecessary time loss.
Typical Route of the Mount Kailash Kora
The Kora around Mount Kailash normally takes three days. Starting with Darchen (4,670 meters (15,321 ft), the trek proceeds clockwise around the holy mountain.
The initial day entails walking up toDirapuk Monastery, which is approximately 5,080 meters (16,666 ft). This part is a marvelous scene of the north side of Mount Kailash.
The second day is the hardest one. Trekkers will cross Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 ft) and then will reach Zuthulpuk Monastery at approximately 4,790 meters (15,715 ft).
The last day is a comparatively easy hike to get back to Darchen, which is the completion of the Kailash Trek.
Respecting Local Culture and Spiritual Traditions
The Mount Kailash Kora is a trekking route around Mount Kailash, and it is considered a very sacred pilgrimage by many religious groups.
Pilgrims walk slowly, recite prayers, or conduct common rituals on the path. It is necessary to respect the local customs and spiritual traditions.
Some of the religious regions have restrictions on photography, and foreigners must never ignore the advice of local guides. Respectful behavior helps preserve the sacred atmosphere of the Mount Kailash area.
Final Thoughts
The Mount Kailash Kora is a journey that one will never forget because it is a spiritual journey coupled with natural beauty as well as a physical challenge. The adventure takes one through the Tibetan plateau and circles one of the most sacred mountains in the world creates a memorable experience for all people who pass through it.
Good Preparation for Kailash Kora is necessary to make the trek safe and enjoyable. Physical fitness, acclimatization, packing, and mental preparation are all significant in ensuring that the Kailash Trek is successful.
The Mount Kailash Kora is not only a trek with the right preparation and respect towards the sacred landscape. It is a life-changing experience that most of the travelers will remember throughout the rest of their lives.
