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Introduction
While the Outer Parikrama of Mount Kailash is a sacred experience in itself, there is a deeper, more spiritually intense journey known as the Inner Kora or Inner Parikrama. This is not just a trek — it is a sacred path of inner awakening, believed to be reserved for the truly devoted, spiritually prepared, and physically fit.
The Mount Kailash Kora (Inner Kora) offers closer views of the holy peak, including the north face, south face, and sacred sites like Charan Sparsh, Ashtapad, Saptarishi Cave, and Nandi Parvat. It's considered so sacred that even mentioning it in prayer is believed to bring spiritual progress.
In this blog, we explore what the Inner Kora truly is, who can attempt it, what spiritual significance it holds, and how it differs from the more commonly known Outer Kora.
What is the Inner Kora of Mount Kailash?
The Inner Kora is a more intense, high-altitude route that circles closer around Mount Kailash, often requiring climbing over glaciers, walking on ice, and camping at remote high-altitude locations. It is also known as the “Inner Parikrama”, and is believed to grant liberation (moksha) to those who complete it with devotion.
Unlike the Outer Parikrama, which is around 52 km long and accessible to most pilgrims, the Inner Kora is only for a few selected seekers. It includes mystical places that are not visible on the outer route.
Key Features of the Mount Kailash Inner Kora
Sacred Spots on the Inner Kora
1. Charan Sparsh (Touching the Feet of Kailash)
The closest point where pilgrims can touch the mountain
Reached via a difficult trek from North Face (Dirapuk)
“Charan” means feet, “Sparsh” means touch — symbolizing the devotee's surrender at Shiva’s feet
Read more: Charan Sparsh : The Divine Touch Point of Kailash
2. Ashtapad (Eight Steps to Salvation)
Believed to be the place where Rishabhadeva, the first Jain Tirthankara, attained moksha
Offers a direct view of the South Face of Mount Kailash
Symbolic of ashta siddhis or eight stages of enlightenment
3. Saptarishi Cave
A hidden meditation site where the Seven Great Sages (Saptarishis) are believed to have meditated
Full of mystical energy; often only accessible with a local Tibetan guide
4. Nandi Parvat
A sacred peak facing Mount Kailash
Symbolizes Lord Shiva’s mount, Nandi the bull, eternally watching his master
Considered the guardian of the Inner Kora route
How is Inner Kora Different from Outer Parikrama?
Who Can Attempt the Inner Kora?
Only a small number of pilgrims can physically and spiritually withstand the challenge of the Inner Kora. It is recommended for:
Those who have already completed Outer Parikrama
Physically fit and high-altitude-acclimatized individuals
Pilgrims with previous trekking experience above 5,000 m
Spiritually committed seekers
Travelers with special group arrangements and permits
Many Indian pilgrims opt for Charan Sparsh as the safest part of the Inner Kora, which is achievable with moderate fitness.
When is Inner Kora Possible?
The Inner Kora can only be attempted during specific months when the snow has melted and the trails are passable — typically June to September. However, even during this window, weather changes can impact safety and accessibility.
Is It Allowed for Everyone?
No. The Chinese authorities restrict access to the Inner Kora. Only those with group permits, guides, and official escorts may enter the inner zones. Many standard Kailash tour operators do not offer Inner Kora, but some specialized pilgrimage companies do arrange Charan Sparsh or limited Kora routes.
Inner Kora in Buddhist and Bon Traditions
In Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions, Inner Kora is seen as a path of deep spiritual cleansing and transformation. Many monks attempt it as a form of meditative practice, not just physical pilgrimage.
They believe that doing the Inner Kora erases all karmas, even without doing the outer route, especially when performed with true devotion and intention.
Should You Attempt the Inner Kora?
Ask yourself:
Have you completed the Outer Parikrama?
Can you trek at 5,500–6,000 m altitude?
Are you mentally prepared for hardship and limited comforts?
Do you seek more than blessings — a transformation?
If yes, the Inner Kora might be your next spiritual step.
Final Thoughts
The Mount Kailash Inner Kora is one of the most spiritually intense paths a human can walk on Earth. It demands physical strength, mental resolve, and spiritual surrender. For those who seek not just darshan but immersion, not just prayer but oneness, the Inner Kora is the ultimate expression of devotion.
If the Outer Parikrama is a circle around divinity, the Inner Kora is entering the divine space itself.
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