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Introduction: What is Kailash Inner Kora?
For most pilgrims, the Kailash Parikrama means the Outer Kora. This is a 3-day sacred walk around Mount Kailash. But beyond this lies a far more intense, deeply spiritual, and rarely accessed path: the Kailash Inner Kora.
This inner circuit is thought to be the closest any person can get to Lord Shiva’s divine presence at Mount Kailash. It is not just a trek—it is a surrender of ego, a test of faith, and a walk into the heart of divinity.
Understanding the Difference: Outer Kora vs. Inner Kora
Kailash Inner Kora Route Overview
The Inner Kora is a loop inside the Outer Kora. It goes around the mountain and passes sacred sites. These sites are not open during the regular parikrama.
Key Sites Along the Inner Kora:
Charan Sparsh – Touching the “feet” of Lord Shiva
Saptrishi Cave—Where seven sages are believed to have meditated
Nandi Parvat Darshan – View of Shiva’s celestial vehicle
Ashtapad—Mythical place where Rishabhdev attained Moksha
Yam Dwar (starting point) – Gateway to the realm of the gods
These locations are said to hold spiritual vibrations so intense, they are felt more than seen.
What is Charan Sparsh in Kailash Inner Kora?
“Charan Sparsh” literally means “touching the feet.” In the context of Inner Kora, it refers to reaching the base of the South Face of Mount Kailash, where pilgrims attempt to touch or come as close as possible to the divine presence.
This is not just a symbolic gesture—it is believed to cleanse all lifetimes of karma and awaken the higher self.
Important Facts About the Inner Kora Trek
Starting Point: Darchen (same as Outer Kora)
Altitude: Goes above 19,000 feet
Route: Begins like Outer Kora, diverts near Dirapuk
Restrictions: Chinese permits are very limited
Duration: ~2–3 days, depending on weather and altitude
Who Should Attempt the Inner Kora?
This path is not for everyone. The Inner Kora is generally recommended for:
Physically fit individuals who have completed the Outer Kora before
Spiritual seekers on advanced sadhana paths
Small guided groups with prior high-altitude experience
Those with special permission and support from Tibetan guides
The Inner Kora is not open to regular tourist groups. It requires special arrangements, guides familiar with the terrain, and acclimatization.
Risks & Safety Considerations
Steep terrain and thin oxygen levels make this route dangerous for those unprepared.
No medical help en route
Requires mental focus, strong intent, and physical training
Tibetans believe that one should only do the Inner Kora when “called” spiritually, not by curiosity or ego
Ashtapad—The Final Step of Inner Kora
Located beyond the main trail, Ashtapad is believed to be the place where the Jain Tirthankara Rishabhdev attained Moksha. The literal meaning is "Eight Steps."
For pilgrims from all traditions, it is considered a gateway between the material world and the divine realm.
Right now, only foreign pilgrims can visit because of border controls. However, some yatris still get a distant darshan during their Inner Kora circuit.
Spiritual Benefits of Kailash Inner Kora
Said to clear deep-rooted karmic cycles
Enhances meditative awareness and inner silence
Brings a sense of rebirth and surrender
Many claim to experience visions, vibrations, and divine presence
In essence, the Inner Kora is less about physical movement and more about internal transformation.
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Conclusion: A Journey Meant Only for the Sincerely Called
Not everyone is meant to walk the path of the Kailash Inner Kora. It's not promoted commercially, not shown in tourist ads, and rarely captured in photos. It is a spiritual circuit that calls to the heart, not the eyes.
If you ever feel drawn to it—not by the thrill of the unknown, but by the call of the soul—know that Lord Shiva invites only a few. And if you're one of them, the Inner Kora will change you forever.
