In a remarkable achievement, 7-year-old Abhushan Khadka from Kathmandu has become the youngest person to reach the 5,620-meter-high Dolma La Pass on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra without oxygen support. This extraordinary feat was made possible through the expert guidance and support of Namaste Holidays Tours & Treks Pvt. Ltd., a leading travel agency in Nepal.
About Abhushan Khadka
Abhushan Khadka, a resident of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 16, is a first-grade student at Deerwalk Sifal School. Despite her young age, she has demonstrated exceptional courage and determination by undertaking a journey that challenges even seasoned adult trekkers.
The Journey to Mount Kailash
On August 21, 2024, corresponding to Bhadra 5, 2081 in the Nepali calendar, Abhushan embarked on a 12-day pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. The journey involved traversing a total distance of 52 kilometers, with 40 kilometers covered on foot over three days. The highlight of the pilgrimage was reaching the sacred Dolma La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,620 meters (18,265 feet).
Significance of Dolma La Pass
Dolma La Pass holds immense spiritual significance for pilgrims, being associated with the goddess Dolma (Tara) in Tibetan Buddhism. Reaching this pass is considered a pivotal point in the Mount Kailash pilgrimage, symbolizing the crossing from the past to a new beginning.
Namaste Holidays' Role in the Expedition
Namaste Holidays, under the leadership of Managing Director Basanta Baral, played a crucial role in organizing and facilitating this record-setting journey. With over 23 years of experience in pilgrimage tours, the agency ensured that all necessary preparations and safety measures were in place to support Abhushan's ascent without the need for supplemental oxygen.
Expertise in High-Altitude Pilgrimages
Namaste Holidays is renowned for its expertise in organizing high-altitude pilgrimages, including the revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Their comprehensive services and experienced guides provide travelers with the confidence and support needed to undertake such challenging journeys.
A New World Record
According to Managing Director Basanta Baral, Abhushan's accomplishment is unprecedented. While there have been instances of young climbers reaching significant heights—such as a 7-year-old girl ascending Mount Kilimanjaro in 2018—Abhushan's journey to Dolma La Pass at such a young age, without oxygen support, stands as a unique record in the realm of high-altitude pilgrimages.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and holds sacred importance in Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating the mountain brings spiritual merit and purification. Abhushan's successful pilgrimage at a tender age serves as an inspiration, highlighting the profound spiritual connection that transcends age.
Conclusion
Abhushan Khadka's record-setting journey to Mount Kailash, facilitated by Namaste Holidays, exemplifies the spirit of adventure and devotion. This achievement not only sets a new world record but also underscores the capabilities of Namaste Holidays in organizing safe and successful high-altitude pilgrimages for travelers of all ages.
Read full published article at: https://sarajuonline.com/47/3485/10/03/
