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Introduction: A Mystic's Claim to the Most Sacred Mountain
Mount Kailash, the spiritual epicenter for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, has seen no shortage of legends. But among them, the tale of Milarepa—a Tibetan Buddhist saint and mystic—stands out as one of the most powerful.
This isn't just a story of spiritual devotion. It's a tale of divine competition, supernatural feats, and the triumph of compassion over ego.
Who Was Milarepa?
Milarepa (1052–1135 CE) was one of Tibet's greatest yogis and poets.
A disciple of Marpa the Translator, Milarepa is known for his deep meditation, mastery of the elements, and for achieving enlightenment in one lifetime.
He is revered across Tibet and Himalayan regions as a symbol of spiritual perseverance and purity.
The Legend: Milarepa vs. Naro Bonchung at Kailash
Before Buddhism spread in Tibet, the Bon religion was dominant. According to Tibetan lore, Mount Kailash was originally the domain of the Bon followers, and its spiritual energy was said to favor them.
Enter Naro Bonchung, a powerful Bon master. When Milarepa arrived at Kailash, Naro Bonchung challenged him, claiming the mountain belonged to Bon and that Buddhists had no right to it.
They agreed to a divine competition to determine who truly deserved the mountain. The winner would claim spiritual dominion over Mount Kailash forever.
The Magical Contest on Kailash
Various versions of the story exist, but all agree on one point: it was a supernatural showdown of epic proportions.
The Challenge:
Whoever reached the summit of Kailash first would be declared the spiritual master of the mountain.
Naro Bonchung mounted a drum-shaped flying contraption, using Bon rituals to lift himself toward the peak.
Milarepa, rather than relying on tools or spells, sat in meditation and waited.
As Naro Bonchung ascended with speed and pride, Milarepa suddenly flew up — using nothing but the power of his mind — and beat him to the summit, placing his footprint on the south face of Kailash.
Milarepa's Footprint: A Divine Mark on Kailash
To this day, Tibetans claim you can still see Milarepa’s footprint embedded in a rock on the southern slope of Mount Kailash. This footprint is a sacred relic to Tibetan Buddhists and a symbol of spiritual victory.
This act sealed Kailash as a Buddhist spiritual site, while still being venerated by Bon followers, Hindus, and Jains.
Spiritual Meaning of the Milarepa-Kailash Story
Victory of Compassion over Ego: Milarepa won not by force but through humility and true yogic power.
The Inner Ascent: The story reflects the idea that spiritual elevation doesn't require tools, just inner transformation.
Unity of Paths: Despite the contest, Milarepa honored Naro Bonchung and encouraged peaceful coexistence of faiths.
“I conquered not the mountain, but the illusion that one can ever own it.” – Attributed to Milarepa
Pilgrimage and the Legacy of Milarepa
During the Kailash Parikrama, many pilgrims stop near Dirapuk Monastery, a sacred spot where Milarepa is said to have meditated. Pilgrims:
Pay respects to Milarepa's cave, where he practiced severe austerities.
Meditate at the footprint site, feeling a strong spiritual vibration.
Remember the tale as a lesson in humility and inner strength.
Did Milarepa Actually Climb Kailash?
No human has physically climbed to the summit of Mount Kailash. It is forbidden and considered sacrilege in both Hinduism and Buddhism. The story of Milarepa’s flight is symbolic, emphasizing that true spiritual ascent requires no physical climbing.
Visiting Kailash as a Buddhist Pilgrim
If you're a follower of the Buddhist path, or simply inspired by Milarepa’s teachings, visiting Kailash is more than just a journey—it’s a soul-awakening.
Tips:
Visit Dirapuk Monastery to connect with Milarepa’s energy.
Read the Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa before the journey.
Meditate at Lake Mansarovar, a spot Milarepa is said to have blessed.
Final Words: Milarepa’s Message Echoes in the Wind of Kailash
More than a thousand years after his mystical journey to Kailash, Milarepa’s story lives on—not just in books, but in the prayers of pilgrims, the chants in the wind, and the silence of the mountain.
In a world obsessed with speed and conquest, Milarepa reminds us that the truest victories are silent, internal, and invisible.
Plan Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Travel Pocket offers specialized spiritual journeys to Kailash for Buddhist and Hindu devotees alike.
Buddhist Kailash Tours
Inner Kora with Milarepa Cave Visit
Tibetan Guide with Language Support
Permits, Accommodation & Oxygen Support
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