Mount Kailash

Location: Remote Ngari Prefecture, western Tibet (31.0675°N, 81.3119°E), near the China-India-Nepal trijunction.
Elevation: 6,638m (21,778 ft), lower than Everest but geologically unique with a symmetrical four-faced pyramid structure.
Rivers: Birthplace of the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali (feeds the Ganges).
Formation: Composed of conglomerate rock on granite base, shaped by tectonic collisions over 50 million years.

Hinduism: Abode of Lord Shiva, who meditates eternally atop Kailash with Goddess Parvati. The 52km Kora (circumambulation) is believed to grant moksha (liberation).
Buddhism: Known as Kang Rinpoche ("Precious Snow Jewel"), home to Demchok, a wrathful Buddha manifestation. Clockwise Kora purifies sins.
Jainism: Ashtapada, where the first Tirthankara Rishabhadeva attained enlightenment.
Bon: Sacred to Tibet’s indigenous faith; counterclockwise Kora honors founder Tonpa Shenrab.

Route: 52km trek (3–4 days) around the base, crossing the 5,638m Drolma La Pass.
Rituals: Pilgrims prostrate, chant, and offer tsampa (barley flour). One Kora in the Tibetan "Year of the Horse" equals 13.
Challenges: Altitude sickness, harsh weather (-30°C winters), and limited facilities.

Religious Ban: Summiting is forbidden as it’s considered sacrilegious (China enforces strict permits).
Myths: Locals believe supernatural forces repel climbers; scientists cite extreme weather and steep faces.

Best Time: May–September (warmer, stable weather).
Permits: Tibet Travel Permit + Aliens’ Travel Permit (book via agencies).
Nearby Sites:
- Lake Manasarovar (4,588m): Sacred lake for ritual baths.
- Guge Kingdom Ruins: Ancient Tibetan empire remnants.

Ecology: Fragile alpine environment with rare species like Tibetan antelope.
Tourism Impact: Waste management and visitor quotas enforced to protect sanctity.

Introduction