Gauri Kund | Travelpocket

Introduction to Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund, often referred to as the Lake of Compassion, is a sacred glacial lake situated at an altitude of approximately 5,600 meters in Tibet. Located on the trail of the Kailash Parikrama, just below the Dolma La Pass, this holy site holds immense religious significance for Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon devotees undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

In Hindu mythology, Gauri Kund is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati, also known as Gauri, performed penance and took a spiritual bath. The lake is a key stop on the pilgrimage route for those seeking divine blessings and spiritual purification.

Mythological Significance of Gauri Kund

According to ancient Hindu texts, Gauri Kund is the site where Parvati created Lord Ganesha. While bathing in the kund, she sculpted a child from the dirt of her body and breathed life into him. This child, later known as Ganesha, was tasked with guarding her. When Lord Shiva returned and was denied entry, he beheaded Ganesha. On realizing the truth, Shiva resurrected him with the head of an elephant, making Ganesha the remover of obstacles.

This story makes Gauri Kund not only a spiritual destination but also a symbol of rebirth, devotion, and maternal love.

Location and Geography

• Altitude: ~5,600 meters (18,372 ft)
  

• Region: Tibetan Autonomous Region, near Dolma La Pass
  

• Access: En route during the second day of the Mount Kailash Outer Kora trek (Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk)
  

Due to its high altitude, the lake remains frozen for most of the year. During the Kailash Yatra season (May to September), pilgrims get a chance to view or bathe in its icy, turquoise waters.

How to Reach Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund is not accessible by road and is only reachable by foot as part of the Kailash Outer Kora trek. Here is the general route:

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route via Kathmandu (Nepal)

• Kathmandu ? Syabrubesi ? Rasuwagadhi ? Kerung ? Saga ? Mansarovar ? Darchen
  

• Begin Parikrama from Darchen ? Dirapuk ? Dolma La Pass ? Gauri Kund ? Zuthulpuk
  

Note: The climb to Dolma La Pass is the most physically demanding part of the yatra, and reaching Gauri Kund involves a steep descent on rocky terrain. Most pilgrims catch a glimpse of the kund from above, as climbing down can be treacherous.

Spiritual Importance of Gauri Kund for Pilgrims

1. Sacred Bathing Ritual:
   Pilgrims believe that bathing or sprinkling water from Gauri Kund can wash away sins and cleanse the soul.
   

2. Emotional Healing:
   Many describe a feeling of emotional release, tears, or deep peace upon viewing the lake — a phenomenon often attributed to its divine energy.
   

3. Rare Darshan:
   Unlike Mansarovar, not all pilgrims are able to reach or bathe in Gauri Kund, making it a rare and precious part of the yatra.
   

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gauri Kund is during the Kailash Yatra season , typically between May and September. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, and Dolma La Pass is accessible.

Important Tips for Pilgrims

• Altitude Caution: At over 5,600 meters, Gauri Kund is in a high-altitude zone. Pilgrims must be properly acclimatized before the trek.
  

• Physical Fitness: The trek from Dirapuk over Dolma La is steep and strenuous. Prepare well in advance.
  

• Photography: Photography may be restricted in some religious areas; always ask guides before taking pictures.
  

• Safety Gear: Trekking poles, proper footwear, and layered clothing are essential for this segment.
  

Gauri Kund vs Mansarovar Lake

Conclusion

Gauri Kund is more than a glacial lake — it is a spiritual symbol, a mythological birthplace, and one of the most divine points on the Kailash Yatra route. For those who reach it, the sight of its still waters against the harsh terrain of the Himalayas brings about a sense of humility, wonder, and deep inner peace.

Whether you bathe in its waters or simply witness its serenity from above, Gauri Kund offers a rare spiritual experience that stays with pilgrims for a lifetime.