A Mount Kailash trekking tour is one of the most challenging treks in the world. With an elevation of 6,638 meters, Mount Kailash is not only one of the highest peaks in Tibet but is also considered one of the holiest mountains for four different religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
In our years of experience as a Tibetan-owned travel agency, we have organized numerous Mount Kailash trekking tours and have seen the transformative effect it has on people. Here are some reasons why you should think about joining a Mount Kailash trekking tour for your next adventure.
Spiritual journey
For Hindus, Mount Kailash is seen as a physical version of Mount Meru, which they believe is the center of the universe. It is described as an incredible ‘world pillar’ that stretches 84,000 miles high, with its roots deep in the underworld and its peak reaching the heavens. They believe this sacred mountain is home to their most beloved deity, Shiva, and his partner, Parvati.
For Jains, Mount Kailash is considered the location where their first prophet attained enlightenment.
For the ancient faith of Bon, Mount Kailash is believed to be the place where their founder, Shanrab, came down from heaven. This mountain was once the spiritual hub of Zhang Zung, the old Bon Empire that encompassed much of western Tibet. Unlike the other religions, followers of Bon walk around the mountain in a counterclockwise direction.
Buddhists view Mount Kailash as the home of Demchok, a highly respected deity in their faith. They believe that this sacred mountain is a significant spiritual place where they can connect with their beliefs and practices. Each year, many Tibetans join on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash during the Saga Dawa Festival, a time that marks important events in the life of Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and entrance into Nirvana.
Even if you do not follow any of these religions, the spiritual energy and atmosphere that surrounds Mount Kailash can be felt by anyone who visits. It is a place where people from different faiths and backgrounds come together to connect with their spirituality and inner selves.
Stunning natural beauty
Aside from its spiritual significance, Mount Kailash is also a breathtaking natural wonder. It is located in the remote Ngari region of western Tibet, surrounded by beautiful snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes. The mountain itself has four distinct faces, each with its own unique beauty.
The northern side of Mount Kailash looks like a crystal palace, while the eastern side has beautiful waterfalls. The southern side is rugged and steep, and the western side features wide grasslands and valleys. This variety makes Mount Kailash a great spot for photographers and people who love to admire the beauty of nature.
Best time to join a Mount Kailash trekking tour
From November to March, the weather around Mount Kailash can be very harsh. Daytime temperatures usually hover just above freezing at -0.8℃, and nights can be particularly cold, dropping to around -20℃. There are only about 10 hours of daylight during this time, and the combination of cold weather and strong winds makes it a tough period for most visitors.
In April, the weather around Mount Kailash is still chilly and blanketed in snow after winter. Late April can be a good option if that’s when you can travel. Rain is rare during this month, making it suitable for trekking. Just make sure to dress warmly and be cautious of the high altitude.
May and June are considered the best months to explore Mount Kailash. During this time, the weather is nice, with little to no rain, and temperatures begin to rise. This season also offers a lively cultural atmosphere, especially with the Saga Dawa Festival happening.
July and August are the wettest months around Mount Kailash, with an average rainfall of about 27.5mm. These months also bring the warmest temperatures.
Finally, September and October are excellent times to visit Mount Kailash. In September, the weather remains warm, while October brings similar conditions to late April.
Tibet Shambhala Adventure Co. Ltd
For over 19 years, we have been providing travelers with unique experiences in Tibet. We are a locally owned and operated company with the main goal of providing personalized and authentic travel experiences to our clients.
Some popular tours we offer:
Our tours are inclusive of accommodation, entry fees, transportation, conservation fees, camping fees, camping equipment, one English-speaking local travel guide, breakfast, and all necessary entry and road permits.
Call our customer support team at +86-13908907271 or email us at sales@shambhala-adventure.com to book your tour today.
