Kailash Inner and Outer Kora: Complete Guide , Best time to Visits , Permits

Introduction: The Sacred Circumambulation of Lord Shiva's Abode

Mount Kailash, located in the remote Ngari region of western Tibet, is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers as the spiritual axis of the world. Considered the throne of Lord Shiva, this majestic peak remains unclimbed and untouched. Instead of summiting, devotees perform a sacred circumambulation known as “Kora” or “Parikrama” around the mountain, which is believed to cleanse sins and offer spiritual liberation.

There are two major routes:

• Outer Kora (Outer Parikrama): The standard pilgrimage route around Mount Kailash.
  

• Inner Kora (Inner Parikrama): A more spiritually intense and physically demanding route that takes devotees closer to the heart of the sacred mountain.
  

Kailash Outer Kora: The Standard Pilgrimage Path

What is Kailash Outer Kora?

The Outer Kora of Mount Kailash is a 52-kilometer trek that encircles the base of the mountain. It is considered one of the most powerful spiritual journeys in the world.

Highlights of the Kailash Outer Kora

• Starting Point: Darchen (4,575 m)
  

• Key Stops: Dirapuk Monastery, Dolma La Pass (5,645 m), Zuthulpuk Monastery
  

• Duration: 3 days (typical itinerary)
  

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to High (due to altitude and terrain)
  

• Best Time to Visit: May to September
  

Spiritual Significance

According to Hindu beliefs, completing the Outer Kora once can wipe away the sins of a lifetime. 13 Koras are believed to lead to salvation, and 108 Koras are said to offer Nirvana or Moksha.

Buddhists believe that circumambulating Mount Kailash helps purify karma and leads to spiritual awakening. The clockwise route followed by Hindus and Buddhists symbolizes devotion and surrender.

Kailash Inner Kora: A More Intimate Spiritual Experience

What is Kailash Inner Kora?

The Inner Kora of Mount Kailash, also known as the Nandi Kora, is a much shorter but extremely strenuous pilgrimage path that passes much closer to the sacred mountain. This route requires special permission and is only accessible under favorable weather conditions.

Highlights of the Kailash Inner Kora

• Route Length: Approximately 34 km
  

• Key Points: Charan Sparsh, Nandi Parvat, Asthapath, Serlung Monastery
  

• Entry Point: From Dirapuk Monastery
  

• Altitude: Over 5,600 meters
  

• Duration: 2 days
  

• Difficulty Level: Very High (steep climbs, rocky paths, altitude risk)
  

Spiritual Importance of Kailash Inner Kora

The Inner Kora offers unparalleled closeness to the spiritual core of Mount Kailash. Pilgrims can touch the sacred Charan Sparch (footprint of Lord Shiva) and visit the mystical Nandi Parvat, believed to be the divine guardian of Kailash.

Only the spiritually prepared and physically fit should attempt the Inner Kora. According to Tibetan Buddhist texts, completing the Inner Kora equals 13 Outer Koras in spiritual merit.

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Key Differences: Kailash Inner vs Outer Kora

Feature	Outer Kora	Inner Kora
Distance	52 km	34 km
Difficulty	Moderate-High	Very High
Duration	3 Days	2 Days
Accessibility	Open to all pilgrims	Requires special permission
Spiritual Merit	One Outer Kora = removal of lifetime sins	One Inner Kora = 13 Outer Koras
Scenic Points	Dolma La Pass, Dirapuk	Charan Sparsh, Nandi Parvat, Asthapath

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Best Time for Kailash Parikrama Trek

• May to September is considered the best time for both Inner and Outer Kora.
  

• The full moon during Saga Dawa Festival (usually in May or June) is highly auspicious for undertaking the Kora.
  

Permits and Requirements

• Chinese travel Permit is mandatory for all foreign nationals.
  

• Tibet Entry Permit and Alien’s Travel Permit are required.
  

• Inner Kora needs special approval, usually arranged by certified tour operators.
  

• Travel Pocket offers pre-arranged Kailash Yatra package with permits, guided treks, and logistic support.
  

Physical Fitness and Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization is key; spend at least 2–3 days at Darchen or Manasarovar.
  

• Practice hiking, high-altitude walking, and breathing exercises in advance.
  

• Carry essential medications, energy bars, and water purification tablets.
  

Why Choose Travel Pocket for Kailash Parikrama Tour?

Travel Pocket has over a decade of experience organizing spiritual pilgrimages. We provide:

• Pre-arranged permits for both Inner and Outer Kora
  

• Expert Tibetan and Indian guides
  

• Oxygen backup and medical support
  

• Accommodation and transport in Tibet
  

Conclusion: A Journey Beyond the Physical

The Kailash Inner and Outer Kora is not just a trek — it's a spiritual rebirth. The Outer Kora offers a holistic circumambulation around the divine mountain, while the Inner Kora allows the rare opportunity to step closer to Shiva’s cosmic energy. Both routes require determination, devotion, and a readiness to surrender to the sacred.

Whether you seek Moksha, inner peace, or a divine connection, the journey to Mount Kailash will transform you forever.

FAQs – Kailash Inner and Outer Kora

Q1: Can anyone do the Kailash Inner Kora?
No, only physically fit pilgrims with special permits and acclimatization can undertake the Inner Kora.

Q2: Is the Outer Kora suitable for senior citizens?
Yes, with proper acclimatization and support, many older pilgrims complete the Outer Kora successfully.

Q3: How do I get a permit for the Kailash Kora trek?
Only authorized travel operators can help you obtain the required Chinese and Tibetan permits.

Q4: Is it possible to complete both Inner and Outer Kora in one trip?
Yes, with careful planning and adequate fitness, both Koras can be covered in a single journey.