Spiritual Places To Visit In Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Tibet Autonomous Region,China | Pilgrimage Destination India

Spiritual Places To Visit In Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, China

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage destination located in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, and is considered one of the holiest places on earth by four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The journey to Kailash Mansarovar is believed to be a life-changing experience, allowing pilgrims to connect with their spiritual self and gain inner peace.

Spiritual Places In Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a journey of a lifetime, and it takes pilgrims to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful places on earth. The journey begins in the small town of Kathmandu, Nepal, and takes pilgrims to the holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, which are located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a journey that is steeped in spirituality, and it is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any pilgrim.

The Sacred Lake Mansarovar

Lake Mansarovar is a freshwater lake located at an altitude of 4,590 meters above sea level. The lake is considered to be one of the holiest lakes in the world, and it is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. According to Hindu mythology, the lake was created by Lord Brahma in his mind, hence the name Mansarovar, which means "mind-born lake." The lake is also believed to be the source of four of the world's great rivers: the Brahmaputra, the Sutlej, the Indus, and the Karnali.

The Holy Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a sacred mountain located in the Kailash Range in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The mountain is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and it is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Bonpos. The mountain has four faces, each facing one of the cardinal directions, and it is believed that circumambulating the mountain once washes away the sins of a lifetime.

The Tarboche Flagpole

The Tarboche Flagpole is a significant landmark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is a giant flagpole that is erected every year during the Saga Dawa festival, which celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. The flagpole is adorned with thousands of prayer flags, and pilgrims circumambulate it while offering prayers and making wishes.

The Nandi Parikrama

The Nandi Parikrama is a trek around Mount Kailash, and it is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the world. The trek takes pilgrims around the holy mountain, and it is believed that completing the trek brings blessings and good fortune.

The Astapad

The Astapad is a plateau located at an altitude of 4,800 meters above sea level. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva resides with his consort, Parvati. The plateau offers breathtaking views of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, and it is believed to be a place of great spiritual significance.

The Gauri Kund

The Gauri Kund is a holy lake located at the base of Mount Kailash. The lake is named after Goddess Parvati, who is also known as Gauri. It is believed that taking a dip in the lake washes away sins and brings blessings.

The Dirapuk Monastery

The Dirapuk Monastery is a monastery located on the north side of Mount Kailash. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the region, and it is believed to have been founded in the 11th century. The monastery is an important stop on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and pilgrims often visit it to seek blessings and perform religious rituals.

The Zutul-puk Monastery

The Zutul-puk Monastery is a monastery located on the east side of Mount Kailash. It is believed to have been founded by the Tibetan saint Milarepa, and it is considered to be one of the most sacred monasteries in the region. The monastery is known for its unique architecture and beautiful wall paintings, and it is a must-visit for any pilgrim on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

The Saga Dawa Festival

The Saga Dawa festival is one of the most important festivals in Tibet, and it is celebrated during the fourth lunar month of the Tibetan calendar. The festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, and it is a time when pilgrims from all over the world come to Mount Kailash to participate in religious ceremonies and offer prayers.

The Barkha Plain

The Barkha Plain is a vast plain located near Lake Mansarovar. It is believed to be the place where the epic battle between Lord Shiva and the demon Ravana took place. The plain is a place of great spiritual significance, and many pilgrims visit it to perform religious rituals and seek blessings.

The Importance of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a journey of great spiritual significance, and it is a testament to the power of faith and devotion. The journey is challenging and requires a great deal of physical and mental endurance, but it is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any pilgrim. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a reminder that there is more to life than material possessions, and that the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment is the ultimate goal of human existence.

Hidden facts about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, China:-

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in Tibet, China. Here are some lesser-known facts about this holy journey:

1. Limited number of pilgrims: Only a limited number of pilgrims are allowed to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra every year. The Chinese government sets a quota of around 1,000 pilgrims from India and 500 from other countries.
2. High altitude: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes place at a very high altitude, with the highest point of the journey being the Dolma Pass at 19,500 feet. The high altitude can pose a challenge to the health of pilgrims, and it is important to take proper precautions.
3. Lengthy journey: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a lengthy journey, usually taking around 21 days to complete. The journey includes travel by road, helicopter, and trekking.
4. Political sensitivity: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a politically sensitive issue between India and China, and the yatra has been suspended in the past due to political tensions between the two countries.
5. Significance for multiple religions: Mount Kailash is considered a sacred site for multiple religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The Mansarovar Lake is also considered a holy site and is believed to be the source of four major rivers in Asia.
6. Eco-sensitive zone: The Kailash Mansarovar region is an eco-sensitive zone, and pilgrims are required to follow strict guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment. The region is home to several rare and endangered species, including the snow leopard and Tibetan antelope.
7. Weather challenges: The weather in the Kailash Mansarovar region can be unpredictable, and pilgrims may face extreme temperatures, high winds, and even snowfall during their journey.
8. Accommodation and facilities: Basic accommodation and facilities are provided to pilgrims during the journey, including tents, food, and medical facilities. However, pilgrims should be prepared for basic living conditions and limited access to modern amenities.
9. Physical and mental preparation: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be physically and mentally challenging, and it is important for pilgrims to undertake proper preparation and training before embarking on the journey.
10. Spiritual significance: For many pilgrims, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual journey that represents a deep connection to their faith and a chance to seek blessings and enlightenment. The journey is often seen as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for spiritual growth and personal transformation.

How to travel by road to Tibet Autonomous Region, China and the nearest bus stand

To travel by road to Tibet Autonomous Region, China, you can take a bus or hire a car from major cities in China such as Chengdu, Xining, or Lanzhou. These cities have bus stations from where you can take a bus to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The journey from Chengdu to Lhasa takes around 36 hours, while the journey from Xining to Lhasa takes around 22 hours. The journey from Lanzhou to Lhasa takes around 24 hours.

The nearest bus stand to Tibet Autonomous Region depends on your starting location. For example, if you are starting from Chengdu, you can take a bus from the Xinnanmen Bus Station. If you are starting from Xining, you can take a bus from the Xining Bus Station. If you are starting from Lanzhou, you can take a bus from the Lanzhou Bus Station.

It is important to note that the journey to Tibet by road can be challenging due to the high altitude and the rough terrain. It is advisable to consult with a doctor before embarking on the journey and to take all necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Additionally, foreigners are required to obtain a special permit to enter Tibet, and this permit can only be obtained through a registered tour agency.

How to travel by train to Tibet Autonomous Region,China, and the nearest railway station

If you are planning to travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region in China by train, you can take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. This railway is the highest railway in the world and is considered an engineering marvel. The railway connects Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.

The nearest railway station to the Tibet Autonomous Region is the Lhasa Railway Station. The Lhasa Railway Station is located in the southern part of Lhasa and is about 25 kilometers away from the city center. The railway station has several facilities, including waiting rooms, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

To reach Lhasa Railway Station, you can take a flight to Lhasa Gonggar Airport, which is located about 60 kilometers away from Lhasa. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to reach the railway station.

Alternatively, you can also take a train from other cities in China to Xining Railway Station and then transfer to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway to reach Lhasa Railway Station.

It is important to note that traveling to Tibet Autonomous Region requires a special permit, which can only be obtained through a travel agency in China. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your trip well in advance and to book your train tickets and travel permits through a reliable travel agency.

How to travel by air to Tibet Autonomous Region, China and the nearest airport

Traveling to the Tibet Autonomous Region in China by air is a convenient option for many travelers. The nearest airport to the region is the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, which is located about 60 kilometers from Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.

The Lhasa Gonggar Airport is a modern airport that offers direct flights to major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. There are also international flights available from Kathmandu, Nepal.

To travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region by air, you will need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit. This permit can only be obtained through a registered travel agency in China and is necessary for all foreigners traveling to Tibet.

Once you have obtained the Tibet Travel Permit, you can book your flight to Lhasa Gonggar Airport through a travel agency or directly with the airlines. It is recommended that you book your flight well in advance, as flights to Lhasa can be in high demand during peak travel seasons.

Upon arrival at the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you will need to go through customs and immigration. You will also need to show your Tibet Travel Permit before being allowed to enter the region.

FAQs

Q.1 How long does the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra take?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra usually takes around 25 days to complete.

Q.2 Is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra safe?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be challenging, but it is generally considered to be safe. However, it is important to follow all safety guidelines and to be prepared for the journey.

Q.3 What is the best time to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The best time to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is from May to September.

Q.4 What should I pack for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

You should pack warm clothing, comfortable shoes, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a hat.

Q.5 Can I go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra alone?

No, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra must be done in a group, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide.