Overview
Kailash Inner Parikrama or Kailash Inner Kora is one of the most demanding and spiritual tour packages for all pilgrims. The Kailash Inner Parikrama is about 34 km, requiring walking through Asthapath, Nandi Parvat, Atmalingam, Saptarishi Cave, and Rakshas Lingam.
This tour starts and ends in Kathmandu and is conducted overland by bus. From Kathmandu, we drive to Timure and then head to the Nepal-China border. From Timure, we proceed to Kyirong for acclimatization. From here, the real tour of Kailash Masarovar begins.
Mount Kailash, the holiest of all mountains, holds reigious significance of Mount Kailash for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon practitioners. It is situated in the western part of Tibet. The pilgrimage tour to Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is a journey into a remote and secluded land, where one seems to leave behind material attachments as they travel toward the holy lake.
On this Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage tour of Kailash Parikrama, we take a scenic drive through lush vegetation of conifer, rhododendron, and oak trees, passing through semi-deserted, windswept landscapes to the highest plateau in the world. You can see numerous isolated villages, nomads' tents with flocks of sheep, domesticated mountain goats, and yaks grazing in the vast fields.
Lake Mansarovar, an expanse of sparkling blue water sprawling over several miles, is believed to be the seat of Brahma (the Creator of the Universe). The snow-capped Mount Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati.
The entire Kailash circuit trek is the holiest of all Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimages. Hindu mythology describes Mount Kailash as the sacred dwelling of Lord Shiva, where he sits in a state of perpetual meditation alongside his wife, Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas.
According to the Vishnu Purana, Mount Kailash is the center of the world, with its four faces made of crystal, ruby, gold, and lapis lazuli. It is regarded as the pillar of the world, the center of the world mandala, and is located at the heart of six mountain ranges symbolizing a lotus. The four rivers originating from Kailash flow in four directions, dividing the world into four regions.
About Kailash Inner Parikrama / Kailash Mansarovar Inner Parikrama
The Kailash Inner Parikrama is a 15-day journey that begins and ends in Kathmandu. Pilgrims start their trip by visiting several UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, including the famous Pashupatinath Temple, Swoyambhunath Temple, and Jal Narayan. They also have the chance to witness the spiritual Aarati at Pashupatinath Temple before leaving the city.
From Kathmandu, the group travels by bus to Syabrubesi, a small village in the Langtang region, 113 km away. After reaching Syabrubesi, pilgrims take a short drive to Kyirong, where they stay for a day to acclimatize before proceeding to Tibet.
The next phase of the journey takes the group to Saga/Zonpa, where pilgrims explore monasteries, waterfalls, rivers, and dense alpine forests while catching a glimpse of the holy Brahmaputra River. On Day 7, the Kailash Inner Parikrama officially begins with a visit to Lake Mansarovar by vehicle, followed by a visit to Rakshas Lake.
At these lakes, pilgrims engage in spiritual activities such as havan and meditation. After completing the parikrama, the group travels to Darchen and then takes a short drive to Yamdwar, where they begin the 12 km trek to Diraphuk. Along the way, they witness breathtaking views of the North Face of Mt. Kailash, including the golden morning view.
On Day 11, the Inner Parikrama of Kailash begins in earnest, with pilgrims trekking to spiritual sites such as Ashtapad, Nandi Parvat, Sapta Rishi Cave, and Aatmalingam. Near Aatmalingam, they visit the sacred lakes of White Kunda and Red Kunda before trekking to Serlung Gompa, following the Kailash Gange trail. These spiritual landmarks provide an opportunity for pilgrims to deepen their connection with the sacred mountain.
After completing the Kailash Inner Parikrama, the group begins their return journey, retracing their path back to Saga, Kyirong, and finally Kathmandu. This marks the end of the sacred and spiritually fulfilling Kailash Inner Parikrama journey.
The Places to Explore During Kailash Inner Parikrama
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Asthapath:
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Asthapath is a section of the Kailash Inner Parikrama. It consists of 8 holy points or spots along the route, each of which holds significance in the spiritual journey. It is said that these 8 points represent the different stages of spiritual growth, and pilgrims must walk through these sacred points while meditating and praying. This part of the journey is believed to have profound effects on one's soul and offers spiritual blessings.
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Nandi Parvat:
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Nandi Parvat is an important part of the Kailash Inner Parikrama. This mountain is situated near Mount Kailash and is believed to resemble the shape of Nandi, the divine bull that serves as Lord Shiva’s vehicle. Pilgrims view this mountain as a symbol of devotion to Lord Shiva. The trek around Nandi Parvat provides pilgrims with a closer connection to Shiva and his divine presence, as it lies close to the sacred Mount Kailash.
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Atmalingam:
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The Atmalingam is a sacred site located near Rakshas Tal and is part of the Kailash Inner Parikrama route. It is believed to be a self-manifested (Atma) Shiva Lingam, symbolizing the soul of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims who travel this route stop here to offer prayers and seek blessings. The Atmalingam is seen as an important point for spiritual awakening and is revered for its powerful, divine energy. It is said to grant inner peace and liberation to those who have the devotion and faith to seek it.
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Saptarishi Cave:
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The Saptarishi Cave is another sacred site during the Kailash Inner Parikrama. It is believed to be the place where the Saptarishis, the seven great sages, meditated and attained enlightenment. This cave is located along the parikrama route and is associated with deep spiritual significance. Pilgrims visiting the Saptarishi Cave are said to connect with the ancient wisdom and blessings of these sages, which is considered a powerful experience in the journey towards spiritual growth.
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Rakshas Lingam:
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Rakshas Lingam is located near Rakshas Tal (Demon’s Lake) in the vicinity of Mount Kailash and is a vital stop along the Kailash Inner Parikrama. The story behind Rakshas Lingam is rooted in Hindu mythology, where it is said that a demon (rakshasa) tried to obstruct the worship of Lord Shiva. The demon was ultimately turned into a Shiva Lingam, thus becoming a symbol of divine power and transformation. Pilgrims offer prayers here to seek divine protection and blessings from Lord Shiva.
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Highlights of the Kailash Inner Parikrama
- A full day Kathmandu Valley Tour with UNESCO heritage sites including Pashupatinath Temple, Swoyambhunath Temple and many more.
- Drive drive to Timure by sightseeing of the nature of the Nepal with the China Border
- Driving to a small Tibetan village in the Purang County.
- Drive to happy land "Saga".
- Drive to the holy Lake Mansarovar
- Sightseeing the Rakshash Lake.
- Puja and Hawan at the Lake Mansarovar.
- Parikrama at Yamdwar and trek Diraphuk
- Trek to the Charan Sparsha
- Ashtapad Sherlung Gompa, Nandi Parbat, Sapta Rishi Cave and Atmalingam in Kailash Inner Parikrama.
FAQ on Kailash Inner Parikrama/Kailash Inner Kora
How long does it take to do Kailash Parikrama?
The entire Kailash Parikrama journey, starting and ending in Kathmandu, takes about 15 days. However, the actual Parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash itself can be completed in 3 days.
Can we touch Mount Kailash during Parikrama?
No, touching Mount Kailash is not allowed. Pilgrims show their reverence by circumambulating the sacred mountain, completing the Parikrama without making physical contact.
How many km is Kailash Parikrama?
The 3-day Kailash Parikrama covers approximately 52 kilometers (32 miles), starting from Darchen.
What is Inner Parikrama of Kailash?
The Inner Parikrama of Kailash is a more challenging and spiritually significant circumambulation of the sacred mountain. It also takes 3 days and begins and ends at Darchen, covering sites such as Ashtapad, Nandi Parvat, Sapta Rishi Cave, and Atmalingam.
What is the benefit of Kailash Parikrama?
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are considered among the holiest places in the world. Completing the Parikrama is believed to cleanse past sins, bring spiritual enlightenment, and fill devotees with positive energy.
What is the purpose of Parikrama?
The main purpose of Parikrama is to seek spiritual purification and divine blessings. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating the sacred site helps cleanse past sins, whether committed knowingly or unknowingly, and brings them closer to enlightenment.
What is the inner core of Mount Kailash?
The inner core of Mount Kailash refers to the sacred, unapproachable center of the mountain, which is considered the spiritual heart of the world. In Hinduism, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and its inner core is a symbol of divine power. Geographically, the core is composed of a unique rock formation that makes the mountain an enigmatic and revered destination for spiritual seekers.
What is the Parikrama in Kailash?
The Kailash Parikrama (or Kora) is a sacred pilgrimage journey where devotees walk around Mount Kailash in a clockwise direction. This circumambulation is a spiritual practice in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions. The Kora is believed to purify one's soul and help achieve spiritual enlightenment. Pilgrims generally perform the Parikrama to earn blessings, rid themselves of sins, and attain liberation (Moksha).
Read This Also : Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra of Different Packages
Itinerary
15 Days Kailash Mansarovar Inner Parikrama Tour (Overland-By Bus)
Day 04: Immigration, drive to Kyirong (2700 m/24 km/1-3 hrs)
After breakfast, a short walk to RasuwaGadhi (Nepal-China border). Once after completing the immigration and custom formalities in Nepal - Tibet side at Rasuwa Gadhi, then continue drive to small city Kyirong.
Accommodation – At Kyirong standard Hotel on twin sharing.
Food – Veg. buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner
Day 06: Drive to Saga/Zonpa(4500Mtr/169km/5 hrs)
After breakfast drive to Saga (169km-5hrs) en-route passing Ghungtang-La (5236M) views old Monasteries, beautiful waterfall, river and dense Alpine Forest and will have glimpse of Holy River Brahmaputra.
Accommodation – At Saga standard Hotel / 4 sharing.
Food – Veg. buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner
Day 07: Drive to Lake Mansarovar(4500Mtr/466km/7 hrs)
After breakfast, drive towards the sacred holy Lake Mansarovar. It’s very auspicious day for all people as they will have first glimpse of Holy Lake Mansarovar and view of Mt. Kailash from Horchu. After, completing the local immigration will continue your drive further and complete Lake Mansarovar Parikrama by vehicle.
On the way find a beautiful place to take memorable groups picture of Kailash, Mansarovar and Rakshash lake. This is the moment all are eagerly waiting for has arrived. The breathtaking view Manasarovar and magnificent view of galaxy is something amazing memories for everyone to cherish for lifetime.
Accommodation – At Mansarovar Tent Hotel or mud house on dormitory sharing.
Food – Veg. buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner
Day 08: Puja, hawan and Drive to Darchen(4700Mtr/40km/1 hrs)
It’s very auspicious day for all Yatries. To be in the abode of god itself is a lifetime achievement..Everone can just have bath at the banks of the Holy lake Sarovar, continued by Puja, Havana work Meditation andspiritual activities etc. After lunch drive to to Darchen.
Accommodation – at Darchen standard Hotel on 2-4 sharing.
Food – Veg. buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day 09: Drive to Yamdwar and trek to Diraphuk.(1st day Parikrama)(4900Mtr/12km walk/6 hrs)
After breakfast, will have a short drive till Yam Dwar (7km). This is the starting point for Kailash Parikrama. After having the darshan of Yamdwar all the pilgrims start their first day trek towards Diraphuk (which is 12km trek) either by walk or they can hire horse as well as porter to carry your bag packs while trekking.
Enjoy the serenity of nature around you with quite sounds of flowing river aside and have the view of Nandi Kailash while on the way.you will have the North face Mt Kailash darshan from Deraphuk. Never miss the opportunity of seeing the first sunrays on My Kailash early in the morning which is something spectacular and visual treat for everyone (GOLDEN MT KAILASH) .
So never miss this once in a lifetime opportunity.Yatries who are not doing Parikrama will have Darshana at yamdwar and return back to Darchen and stay there until the Parikrama yatries come back to Darchen.
Accommodation –At Deraphuk, Guest house on dormitory sharing.
Food – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Charan sparsh back to Darchen (inner Kailash)(5340Mtr/7km/7-9hrs)
Charan Sparsh is bottom part of North face Kailash. Excursion to Charan sparsh(5340 Mtr). Your trek is 7 km which is bit tuff. Charan means feet and Sparsh means touching. Piligrims feels soo blessed to touch the holy feet of lord Shiva.
After touching the foot of Mt. Kailash performing Pooja prayers and meditation pilgrims return back to Dirapuk. From there starts the origin of the holy sacred river called Bhagirathi/ Gange which is first water source on the earth as per Bhagawat Puran and back to Darchen.
Accommodation – at Darchen Standard Hotel on 2-4 -sharing.
Food – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day 11:Treks Inner part of Kailash(4700Mtr/20km/14hrs walk)
This is the very important day for all pilgrims, as well as very difficult journey throughout the trip. Earlier morning trek ( Inner part of Kailash ) to Ashtapad, Sherlung Gompa, Nandi Parbat, Sapta Rishi Cave and Aatmalingam.
Near Atma Lingam there are 2 Important holy lake white kunda and red Kunda. After pray & spiritual activates, trek down to Serlung Gompa following the trail of Kailash Gange and back to Darchen.
Accommodation – at Darchen stander Hotel on Twin sharing.
Food – Veg.Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day12:Drive back to Saga(4500Mtr/500km/7 hrs)
After breakfast return journey to Saga with wonderful memories & blissful experiences for lifetime.
Accommodation – At Saga 3 star standard Hotel / 4 sharing.
Food – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day 13: Drive back to Kyirong(2700Mtr/169km/5 hrs)
After breakfast drive back to Kyirong or Timure Border .
Accommodation – at kyirong/Timure standard Hotel / 2-4 sharing.
Food – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day 14:Drive back to Kathmandu (Nepal)(1400Mtr/165km/7 hrs)
After breakfast drive back to (China-Nepal) Border, Complete the immigration & custom formalities at Rasuwa Gadhi then short walk to our hotel at Timure. After lunch drive to Kathmandu.
Accommodation – at kathmandu 3 star Hotel Twin sharing.
Food – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner. – Veg. Buffet Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner.
Day 15: Departure
Certificate will be issued for successfully completing Mt Kailash Parikrama to all pilgrims from tour organizer…….
Transfer to airport/onward your journey.
Food – Veg. buffet Breakfast.
Inclusions
- Hotel /Food/Meal – Hotels, Pure Veg. Indian food (dinner/breakfast/lunch) as per above itinerary
- Transportations-, all required Bus/van transportations as per above listed trip itinerary in Nepal &Tibet., Pilgrimage’s bags border transportation cost.
- Permit/Visa -Tibet china visa, Tibet Entry permit, & all local Taxes, Kailash & Mansarovar lake parikarma entry fee., Inner cora Permit fee, climbing Rope, harness, Expedition climber guide.
- Supporting crew- Experience Indian cook, English and Hindi speaking Nepalese guide, English speaking Chinese guide & requires Nepalese Sherpa’s/claiming Guide .
- We provide – Medical first aid, Oxygen gas Cylinder, Down jacket, Duffle bag, Day pack (Duffle bag, Day pack & warm cap as a souvenir gift from our company)
- We provide hot Savor water for all yatries,So no one need to worry about the freezing cold Savor water for bath.
- Toilet Tent,Toilet chair and shower tent for ladies in Mansarovar .
Exclusions
- Personal Horse riding expenses ,Personal use porter,
- Travel insurance, Rescue and emergency evacuations service, medical and hospital expenses (in case you become sick on the way),
- Extra Night accommodation in Kathmandu /Timure/Kyirong/saaga other places due to bad weather or any other Chinese reason is charged.
- Groups visa splitting charge & extra transportation cost if returning earlier from Kailash Yatra.
- Beverage/drinks and additional tips.
Terms & Conditions
Process, Term& condition
- Necessary to send color Scan copy of Passport of pilgrimage with name list 40 days before departure for permits processing.
- We need 6 Month valid ordinary Passport but Diplomat passport is not acceptable.
- PAN card scan copy is required (Indian citizen only).
- Should deposit Rs 20,000 or USD $ 300 per person as advance before processing.(0 non-refundable)
- Indian pilgrimage- Should send Original Passport to our Delhi office By courier (Blue dart ) 10 days before from the departure date for China visa Process.
- NRI/Other Citizen’s Original Passport will collect after arrival in Kathmandu.
- Original voter ID card is mandatory to fly from India to Kathmandu.
- Indian citizen who are 70 Years or above:
- Has to submit Medical Examination Report from Indian Government Hospital within 6 months before your journey starts.
- Two direct relatives required.
- Has to deposit 1000$(USD) before the journey to the company (China GOVT) for any sudden demise.
- Health examination is done before Parikrama by Chinese doctors. once you get the approval from doctor then only you can go for Parikrama.
- Before the Kailash departures, must clear all remaining Payment.
Cancellation Policy:
- After process the Kailas Permit $USD 200 will be charged as cancellation.
- 5 days before of departure date, INR 25,000/ USD 0 will be charged as cancellation.
- Same days before departure date, 70 % will be charged as cancellation
If suddenly program has changed Due to weather problem, natural disaster, landslide, technical problem and political movement, Chinese reason, all additional expenses should be paid by themselves
General Information regarding Kailash Mansarovar Tour.
- Insurance: Medical Insurance not compulsory for visa processing but will usefully you do insurance in case any health problem arises during travel.
- Oxygen cylinder: Our Company will provide oxygen cylinder in emergency. Usually, oxygen cylinder is not required. However, some pilgrimage we prefer to carry their own handy oxygen cylinders. You may buy small portable cylinder in Tibet. It may cost approx. Yuan 20-30 per cylinder.
- Food during Tour: Our cooks will be traveling with you during the entire trip.Our Staff will carry all necessary cooking items and will provide Indian vegetarian food during Yatra..
We recommend that you bring the following items to make your journey more comfortable:
- Wind Proof Jackets -1/ Towel-1 / Washing Kit - 1,Warm Thick Pullover-1,Rain Coat-1
- Pants-4/ Sun Heat-1 , Cotton Full Sleeve T-shirt - 4 ,Thermal Underpants-2
- Long/Vest /Warm Full T-Shirt - 2 ,Trekking Shoes -1,Rubber Sandal 1.
- Warm Woolen Shocks - 5 ,Warm Gloves-1 – Water Bottle (1Ltr. Capacity)-1
- Sun Glass-1 Flash Light with Extra Batteries-1, Sunscreen Lotion UV30+,lip guard /Moisturizer Cream-1
- Pocket Knife/Sewing Kit/Button/Cigarette Lighter/Dust Masks-1
China Government Notice!!!- Don’t take any picture, tape record, newspapers, political things or anything related to Dalai Lama , If found in Tibet, on the spot China Army will control and take legal action.
- Should carry dry food Items to make your journey more comfortable
- Carry regular medicine -Diamox250 mg. 20 tablets and Personal First Aid Kit.
- Money exchange: Others currency (except UDS $) are not accepted in China but is acceptable in Nepal. Pilgrimage should exchange your Currency to ChineseCurrency in Kathmandu/Nepal.
- Temperature -Average (May to September): 4 - 20 ºC Day Time / -1-2ºC Night Time
GALLERY
