About Kailash Parikrama During Mansarovar Yatra

Complete Route Guide to Kailash Parikrama

The Kailash Parikrama (also called Kailash Kora) is a holy expedition that involves the circumambulation of Mount Kailash, which calls heaven and earth the most sacred mountain for the followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Offered in a 3-day trek, the pilgrimage allows a fine balance of some stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau with spiritual blessings for its followers through a test of physical endurance. Three major sectors constitute the Parsikrama; each offers its challenges and spiritual implications.

Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk

Darchen is a small town located at the foot of Mount Kailash, where the journey starts. From here, pilgrims will walk 13 km to Dirapuk, which is the first stop along the Parikrama route. The trail is fairly easy, with a gradual ascent over rocky terrain and meadows, offering an ever-majestic view of Mount Kailash with each step. Along the way, you will pass a few monasteries and join other trekkers, all walking the same spiritual path. The first day is not too hard but certainly helps with acclimatization to the rising altitude. The trek ends at Dirapuk, a small village at about 5,000 m; here, pilgrims often take some time out for rest and preparations for the tougher sections to come.

Day 2: Passing Dolma La from Dirapuk to Zutulpuk.

This is both the most physically straining and the most spiritually rich day of the Parikrama. The distance from Zutulpuk is about 22 kilometers and includes the dreaded Dolma La pass at 5630 meters, the highest place in the whole Parikrama. Pilgrims want to cross Dolma La before the weather changes in the afternoon, so this trek starts early. The ascent to Dolma La is hard and steep, and one needs to summon all her strength and willpower to push through thinning air at extremely high altitudes. During this mountain trek, one passes numerous holy shrines dedicated to various deities, providing moments for prayers and reflections.

Achieving this goal at Dolma La Pass signifies a major penetration over a threshold into an even more profound experience of awakening. After the pass, the trail turns downward, giving a measure of relief but necessitating caution. The Zutulpuk descent is rocky and uneven, so trekkers must be careful where they step. It is at Zutulpuk, approximately 4790 meters high, that most people make a stop to recuperate from the day's exertions before finding rest. 

Day 3: Zutulpuk to Darchen

This is the last stretch of traveling for most people as they make a final descent into Darchen for an easier yet meaningful 10 kilometers. Completing the full circuit around Mount Kailash on this day provides a much-needed sense of accomplishment after two exhausting trekking days. The trail appears to be downhill and less tiring, although there are a few rugged parts. Trekkers heading back to Darchen find themselves often loaded with gratitude, joy, and reverence for finishing perhaps one of the world's most holy and arduous pilgrimages.

After returning to Darchen, pilgrims ponder the holy journey and celebrate achieving its spiritual mission. The pilgrims experience purification and a connection to the divine results from Kailash Parikrama— a feeling that lingers with them long after their trek.

Challenges Faced During the Parikrama

Kailash Parikrama is a journey, physically and mentally, up to the point of preparing, perseverance, and willpower. At extreme altitude, under constant weather conditions, and along rugged terrain, there are several challenges the pilgrims have to face while trekking. The combination of these factors makes the journey difficult, but it also enhances the spiritual rewards of completing the Parikrama. Here are some of the key challenges faced along the way:

•  The extreme heights and less oxygen near Dolma La Pass (5630 m) cause fatigue and possible sickness from altitude.
• Weather is unpredictable: sudden drops in temperature, rain, or snowfall; additional impediments to trekking, especially in the upper reaches.
• Steep cliffs, muddy terrain, especially with Dolma La; it can really be trying for the pilgrims sometimes.
• Long walking days, sometimes as much as 10 to 22 km a day, require a lot of stamina and perseverance to go through.
• Trekkers camp at high altitudes where it is cold at night with very little warm clothing.
• Mental strength to overcome the physical exhaustion, self-doubt, and tough conditions.
• There are limited facilities along the way, with minimal provisions for adventures; hence the discomfort.

Indeed, these are challenges put before each pilgrim to check the strength and fortitude within. But once the Parikrama is completed, what a joy!

Tips to Overcome Challenges During the Kailash Parikrama

With an effective approach laid out, this guide prepares the pilgrims to face the Kailash Parikrama's physical and mental challenges, thus aiming for a safer and a more gratifying journey.

• Allow time to acclimatize to the altitude by spending some extra days in a relatively lower altitude before starting the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
• Go slowly and take breaks often; do not hurry. This prevents extreme tiredness and allows your body to acclimatize to the adverse situations.
• Keep drinking fluids all over the trek, especially at higher altitudes. It prevents dehydration and altitude sickness.
• Winters are bone-chilling, especially by night and at higher altitudes; pack warm clothes for comfortable and safe travel.
• The trek involves rough terrain, so protect yourself by wearing stiff but comfortable hiking boots that are well broken in.
• Pack some anti-altitude sickness pills (like Diamox), painkillers, and other personally needed medicines, and keep them handy enough to take when needed.
• Your mental strength and focus work wonders. Given the long hours of walking and strenuous conditions, a smiling face and a pinch of patience will always pull you through the darkest hour.
• Carry only the essentials that are useful and necessary; carrying unnecessary things will eventually wear you out. A light and less bulky pack will increase your level of comfort during the trek.
• Follow your guide and local experts regarding the route, weather conditions, and other safety tips to walk smoothly.
• Also, eat energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits to stay on your feet throughout your trek.

Conclusion

Completing the Kailash Parikrama isn’t just a physical feat—it’s a deeply personal and spiritual journey that leaves a lasting impression. Every step taken around the sacred Mount Kailash is believed to purify one’s soul and bring peace, clarity, and divine blessings.

For a complete overview of the entire Yatra and its cultural backdrop, read our Ultimate Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Guide. It's the perfect companion to this sacred path.

Nepal Trek Adventures has introduced a unique itinerary for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for the years 2025 and 2026 for individuals who would want to experience this transformative journey. Join this spiritual pilgrimage and walk under expert guidance with all the required assistance. Book the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra today and stand ready for one of the life-altering journeys in spirituality.