A Complete Guide to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are some of the grandest spots of the Himalayan. Located 865km from Delhi, the two spectacular features are also well known for their religious relevance to the devotees of a Hindu god known as Shriva. This has led to the organization of a special Kailash Mansarovar Yatra festival by the Ministry of External Affairs each year from the month of June to September. For many spiritual travelers, this journey stands as A Complete Guide to the Best Tourist Attractions in the trans-Himalayan region, combining devotion with breathtaking landscapes.

To complete the pious Yatra, there are a solid 22 days of which 14 are held on the Indian Territory while the remaining eight are at the Chinese Territory of Tibet. The total distance covered during the Yatra is 647km on the Indian side while on the Chinese side it is 243km. Many pilgrims today also explore the option of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra By Road, which adds a distinct dimension to the overall experience.

Recommended Information: Kailash Mansarovar  Tour Operator 

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is popular for its cultural significance, religious importance and arduous nature. The long Yatra trek winds its way through high altitudes in freezing weather that involves hard labor. To the feint hearted, it is like courting danger. Yet the Yatra Pilgrimage with its arduous tasks has been in existence since time immemorial and holds religious importance not only to the Hindus but to Buddhists and Jains too.

Trekking at high altitudes of over 19,000 feet above the sea level in rugged terrain and severe cold can be a tough nut to crack for individuals who are not medically fit. Because of the strains involved in this exercise, the Indian Mountaineering Foundation has recognized KMY as a trekking expedition with significance owing to the risks to self and property. This means before undertaking the great step, a pilgrim has to follow some safety guidelines that the following write up may address. In many ways, understanding these precautions is as essential as knowing How to Complete Char Dham Yatra in 10 days with proper planning and preparation.

Religious Significance;

Mt Kailash is regarded by Hindus as a mortal manifestation of Mt. Meru, a spiritual universal center according to Hindu mythology. They believe that Svarga or heaven is based here and one gets cleaned of sins once they visit the place. Part of the pilgrimage during the tour is visiting Mansarovar Lake and taking a bath. This is an assurance of reaching Lord Brahma’s Paradise and drinking the holy waters said to cleanse the sins of several lifetimes. Part of the pilgrimage involves going round the holy mountain as well as the Mansoravar Lake.

The Yatris Selection Process;

The nature of this journey is only applicable to very fit individuals who do not have cases of asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. The selection process is done through a computerized system and the chosen candidates informed 3 or 4 weeks before departure. The candidates are required to be in New Delhi 3-4 days before Yatra commences. Two medical tests are performed to determine individual fitness and one more to ensure the candidate is able to trek in high altitudes. The last test is performed at Gunji after a candidate has scaled around 3,500 meters. Anyone found to be unfit is not allowed to go further.

Indemnity Bond and Declaration;

Other than the above mentioned, there are some more formalities required. Selected Yatris are supposed to sign and indemnity bond, acknowledging that they are going for the Yatra at their own risk. At the same time, they are required to sign that in case of disaster they can be evacuated using a helicopter. The last part of the form is a consent authorizing cremation of remains on the Chinese side in case of death. Then again, the pilgrims must ensure their passports are valid for six months from the commencement of travel date.

Short tips for the Trip;

• As much as Indian and Chinese authorities provide medical help, a pilgrim is advised to carry along essential medication and a First Aid kit.
• Clothes need to be carried according to given guidelines.
• While mountain climbing, one should to take plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Light food rich in carbohydrates is ideal.
• When feeling tired, there is no need to push one’s self beyond limits. Instead, it is imperative to take short breaks in between the journey.
• Do not take alcohol and avoid smoking during travel to limit dehydration.
• It is better to climb slowly to avoid altitude sickness or any other arduous activity.