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Introduction
Mount Kailash Parikrama is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the world — a 52-kilometer circumambulation of Mount Kailash, believed to be the spiritual center of the universe. Unlike a typical trek, this journey is a spiritual surrender, performed with devotion, reverence, and faith.
For Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, completing the Parikrama around this untouched and unclimbed peak symbolizes the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Every step around Kailash is believed to purify the soul and dissolve lifetimes of karma.
In this detailed guide, we walk you through the entire Parikrama — the route, the challenges, its spiritual meaning, and how to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What is Mount Kailash Parikrama?
Parikrama (also known as Kora in Tibetan) means circumambulation or walking in a circular path around a sacred object. In the case of Mount Kailash, the Parikrama is a ritual walk around the entire base of the mountain, completed over three days at high altitude and through rugged terrain.
Significance by Religion:
Hindus believe the Parikrama destroys all sins of the past.
Buddhists consider it a path to enlightenment.
Jains believe it honors Rishabhadeva, who attained moksha here.
Bon followers perform the Kora in a counterclockwise direction.
Distance and Altitude
Total Distance: ~52 km (3-day trek)
Highest Point: Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters / 18,471 feet)
Starting & Ending Point: Darchen, Tibet
Average Altitude Range: 4,600–5,630 meters
This is not a trek for the faint-hearted. Even physically fit individuals can face breathing difficulty due to altitude.
3-Day Kailash Parikrama Itinerary
Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk (Approx. 12 km)
Starting Point: Darchen (4,670 m)
Mid-Point: Yam Dwar — the symbolic gateway to the gods
End Point: Dirapuk Monastery (4,900 m)
Time Taken: 5–6 hours
Highlights:
First full view of Mount Kailash's North Face
Visit to Yam Dwar, a deeply spiritual threshold
Gradual altitude gain, scenic valley walk alongside the Lha Chu river
Tip: This is considered the most scenic and easiest day of the trek.
Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk (Approx. 22 km)
Start Altitude: 4,900 m
Highest Point: Dolma La Pass (5,630 m)
End Point: Zutulpuk Monastery (4,790 m)
Time Taken: 9–12 hours
Highlights:
Climb to Dolma La Pass: the most physically demanding segment
Visit Gauri Kund (the sacred lake of Parvati)
Spiritual rebirth symbolism: ascend to Dolma La (death), descend toward Zutulpuk (rebirth)
Caution: The climb to Dolma La is steep and oxygen levels are very low. Use oxygen cylinders if needed.
Day 3: Zutulpuk to Darchen (Approx. 14 km)
Trail: A relatively flat and open valley walk
Time Taken: 3–4 hours
Highlights:
Visit the cave where Milarepa, the great Tibetan saint, meditated
End the Parikrama and return to Darchen for rest or onward journey
This final day offers time for reflection and emotional closure of the spiritual journey.
Key Pilgrim Spots During Parikrama
Fitness and Medical Requirements
Medical fitness certificate is often required before starting Parikrama.
Acclimatization is critical — spend at least 2 days in Taklakot before the trek.
Those with heart, lung, or high BP conditions should consult doctors and consider Darshan-only options.
It is mandatory to carry:
Basic medicines
High-altitude sickness tablets
Portable oxygen cylinder
Can You Skip the Parikrama?
Yes. Many pilgrims — especially senior citizens — opt for Kailash Darshan instead, from Yam Dwar or Darchen. Even viewing the mountain is spiritually meritorious.
Read more: Kailash Darshan Without Parikrama
What to Carry for the Trek
Thermals, down jackets, and rain gear
Trekking shoes with good grip
Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
Water bottles and electrolytes
Dry snacks and energy bars
Walking stick or trekking pole
Personal oxygen supply if needed
Passport and required permits
Kailash Parikrama vs Inner Kora
Read more: Mount Kailash Kora
Final Reflections
The Mount Kailash Parikrama is more than a trek — it is a spiritual initiation. Every step brings you closer to the divine, tests your endurance, and strips away ego and worldly attachments. For most pilgrims, completing the Parikrama is not just a physical triumph but a deeply personal transformation.
If you're planning your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025, and your health permits, make this sacred walk a part of your experience. It is a journey you will remember, not just in this life — but in every life to come.
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