Mount Kailash is a sacred mountain recognized by the world and is recognized as the center of the world by the Bon religion, Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and ancient Jainism in Tibet, China. Mount Kailash is the main peak of the Gangdise Mountains in China and one of the ten most beautiful and stunning mountains in China.
The mysterious thing about Mount Kinabalu is that the sunny side of the mountain is covered with snow all year round, while the shady side is snow-free all year round. Even if it is covered with snow, it will melt as soon as the sun comes out, which is exactly the opposite of the normal nature. It makes people feel religious and amazed.
The towering and majestic Mount Shenshan is both majestic and quiet. It is surrounded by many strange peaks, and has wonderful rocks, canyons, shrubs, ancient cypresses, and clean springs.
Mount Kailash is often surrounded by white clouds, and it is difficult to see its true appearance. The peak is covered with snow all year round, towering above all other peaks, which is extremely visually and spiritually shocking.
There are five temples around Mount Kailash. Nianri Temple is the first stop, followed by Zhilapu Temple, Songchu Temple (also known as Huanbian Temple), Jiangzha Temple and Sailong Temple, of which the latter two are located on the inner line.
Attractions Location: Baga Township, Purang County, Ali Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region
Tickets: RMB 150
Opening hours:
All day
Contact Details: 4006666712
Time reference: More than 3 hours
This itinerary is for travelers who want a brief visit to the Mount Kailash area to witness the majestic peak and surrounding landscapes.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in guesthouses or simple lodges in Darchen. Tibetan staples like tsampa, yak butter tea, and noodles.
Souvenirs: Prayer flags, yak wool products, Tibetan jewelry, and hand-carved wooden crafts.
Spend two days exploring the base camp area with scenic views and cultural experiences.
Accommodation/Food: Guesthouses or camps in Darchen; sample yak stew and Tibetan barley cakes.
Souvenirs: Handwoven scarves, prayer beads, and local artisan crafts.
This itinerary offers a deeper exploration of Mount Kailash’s spiritual surroundings and local culture.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in Darchen guesthouses or tents; enjoy Tibetan butter tea and yak meat dishes.
Souvenirs: Thangka paintings, prayer flags, yak wool products, and traditional jewelry.
Experience the beginning of the famous Mount Kailash kora (pilgrimage) and spiritual journey.
Accommodation/Food: Basic guesthouses or tent camps along trekking route; local Tibetan food and yak butter tea.
Souvenirs: Handmade prayer beads, traditional scarves, and carved wooden crafts.
Combine sightseeing with a partial pilgrimage circuit around Mount Kailash.
Accommodation/Food: Guesthouses and tent camps on trek; simple Tibetan meals and snacks.
Souvenirs: Prayer flags, yak wool scarves, handwoven textiles, and local jewelry.
This itinerary covers part of the sacred Kailash kora, allowing a spiritual trek combined with cultural discovery.
Accommodation/Food: Tent camps or guesthouses on trek; Tibetan food staples including tsampa, yak meat, and butter tea.
Souvenirs: Thangka paintings, prayer beads, yak wool scarves, and traditional wooden crafts.
This full pilgrimage route circumambulates Mount Kailash, a deeply spiritual and physically challenging journey.
Accommodation/Food: Tent camping along the route; simple and hearty Tibetan meals. Bring sufficient supplies for the high-altitude trek.
Souvenirs: Prayer flags, yak wool clothing, traditional jewelry, thangka art, and handcrafted wooden prayer wheels.
In the vast plateau, Mount Kailash stands majestically like a throne under the clear blue sky. This pyramid-like mountain is the ladder leading to the door of happiness for believers. The peak is often surrounded by white clouds, and locals believe that it is a blessing to be able to see the peak. Looking up at the legendary sacred mountain from a close distance, it is so close, so beautiful, and so sacred!
The reason why Mount Kinabalu is called Mount Kinabalu is because it has a kind of power that can shock people. We are not believers, but watching the believers kowtow all the way to worship is very shocking!
It was raining and snowing in our tent the night before, but luckily it stopped in the morning. Although there were dark clouds along the way, the snow-capped mountains were still very sacred and spectacular! The clouds would sometimes disperse, and we could see the back of Mount Kailash from afar.
Although I didn't have obvious altitude sickness, I felt very weak, probably because the altitude was too high and the air was too thin. I climbed one slope, then another, and there was another slope behind, and it seemed that I would never reach the end. I actually wanted to just walk to the temple in front and stop, because I heard that I could see the sacred mountain from the temple in front. Every time I asked passers-by how far the temple was, they said it was almost there, and I kept moving forward with passion.
This is a magical place. My mind was so blank that I couldn't figure out why I came here to hike. To keep warm, I wore a jacket and a down coat, but I still felt cold, hungry, and uncomfortable. There was no village in front of me and no store behind me. I couldn't reach the end point. I was confused about whether to go back or forward. I felt very bad.
We finally arrived at the legendary temple at around 3 or 4 in the afternoon, but we could only see the back of the sacred mountain, which was 5,280 meters above sea level. If we wanted to see the front of the sacred mountain, we had to hike over the pass at 5,680 meters above sea level, and we would probably have to stay in tents again at night. We evacuated because we were feeling sick from the altitude sickness, and we all regretted not holding on until the last moment.
Looking back, we didn't plan well. Generally, it's OK to circumambulate the mountain for 2 days, as long as you are in good health, have enough equipment, and try to travel light. You can choose to take some food that supplements a lot of calories, such as chocolate compressed biscuits. Maybe it's because I have been at the plateau for several days, and my brain has been in a state of hypoxia, my IQ has dropped, and my mind is blank most of the time. It's not okay to go without enough faith and preparation. I admire from afar, pray for the health and safety of my family, and pray for our safety on this journey. Goodbye, Gang Rinpoche! I left with deep regret!
Mount Kailash is located in the north of Purang County in the southwest of the Tibet Autonomous Region. It means the mountain of gods in Tibetan. The peak is 6,656 meters above sea level. It is the main peak of the Gangdise Mountains and the second highest peak in the Gangdise Mountains. It is one of the ten most beautiful and stunning mountains in China.
Gangdise is called "Gang Rinpoche" in Tibetan, which means the treasure of snow mountain. It is said that Gangdise is the place of Omolongren or Western Paradise in the middle and west of the 80 million worlds. It was the holy place where 80 million sages were born and the Buddha's teachings were spread. It is the geographical and cultural center of Jambu Continent and the hometown of the ancient Zhangzhung Yungdrung Bonpo Buddhism.
Mount Kailash is also a sacred mountain in many religions. It is called Mount Jirosa in Sanskrit. The northern foot of Mount Kailash is the source of the Shiquan River in the upper reaches of the Indus River. It is said that Bon religion originated from this mountain; Hinduism believes that this mountain is the residence of Shiva and the center of the world; Jainism believes that this mountain is the place where its founder, Rishabanatha, attained enlightenment; Tibetan Buddhism believes that this mountain is the residence of Heruka, representing infinite happiness. There are many believers from home and abroad who circumambulate the mountain all year round.
Mount Kailash is recognized by everyone as a sacred mountain and the center of the world, so circumambulating Mount Kailash is the ultimate destination to increase one's own spiritual practice. I remember watching the movie "Mount Kailash" last year. I didn't understand it at first. I thought there would be a long description of the scene of circumambulating Mount Kailash. I didn't expect that the whole movie was almost over, and Mount Kailash hadn't arrived yet! Instead, the last few minutes were the highlight. The old man passed away at the foot of Mount Kailash and began to practice in another world. This was the greatest affirmation of his life.
Mount Kailash is 6,700 meters above sea level. It and Lake Manasarovar to its south are the most representative sacred mountains and lakes in Ali.
Mount Kailash is also the source of four rivers: the Lion Spring River, the Horse Spring River, the Elephant Spring River and the Peacock River.
Mount Kailash is a sacred mountain recognized by the world and is known as the king of sacred mountains. It is also recognized as the center of the world by Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, the native Tibetan Bon religion, and ancient Jainism. The greatest wish of a Buddhist in his life is to make a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. Even if he dies on the way, he is happy because his soul will ascend to heaven.
Mount Kailash is one of the three sacred mountains in Tibet. The number of believers who come to circumambulate the mountain is the largest among the three sacred mountains in Tibet. The snow-capped peak of Mount Kailash can be seen from more than 100 kilometers away, and it is even more magnificent when the sun shines on the golden top.
Mount Kailash is indeed a sacred mountain, the center of the world. Even before I approached it, I couldn’t help but feel awe just looking at it from afar. This was my first time to circumambulate the mountain. I had been there twice before and always felt regretful just looking at it from afar. I deliberately walked the Ali Grand Loop again, wanting to complete the circumambulation of the mountain step by step. When I approached Mount Kailash and looked up, it was so tall and huge in front of me, and all the hardships were worth it. Awe!!!
Mount Kailash is one of the four sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism.
As the vehicle got closer and closer to Mount Kailash, the more I felt how unbearable my initial thought was. It has a nearly perfect cone shape, like a huge snow mountain palace, which is extremely visually and spiritually shocking. Even if we are just ordinary travelers, looking up at Mount Kailash is enough to make us feel awe!
The side of Mount Kailash facing the sun is covered with snow all year round, which is the side of the Wanfu Steps. I think it is very strange, like a ladder leading to the sky. So far, no one has reached the top of the mountain. It is said that even the most powerful climbers in the world are afraid to climb it. I think it is a kind of respect and awe. The power of nature is unpredictable. In short, there are many legends about the God of Ten Thousand Mountains.
Mount Kailash is even more gentle, like a girl, lying there quietly.
There is always a little cloud on the top of Mount Kailash that prevents us from seeing its full picture, which further deepens its mythical color.
The back of Mount Kailash has been melting, forming a sharp contrast with the front.
What makes Mount Kailash different from other peaks is that it stands alone in the western section of the Gangdise Mountains, without any other peak competing with it. The perennial snow-covered mountain makes it impossible for tourists along this section of National Highway 219 to take their eyes off it.
When I saw it, I don’t know if it was a psychological feeling or something else, but I felt it was majestic, sacred, and pure!
We passed Mount Kailash at around 8 o'clock. The sunset glow was hazy and charming, so beautiful that it took our breath away. When taking pictures, we held our breath and tried not to let our hands shake. Only after taking the pictures did we dare to take deep breaths.
In different seasons and weather conditions, its main peak is usually surrounded by clouds. It is even more rare to have two days in which the full view can be seen at night or in the morning. Many people wait for several days in the small town of Tarqin at the foot of the mountain but still find it difficult to see its true appearance.
Mount Kailash is the most "friendly" snow-capped mountain I have ever seen, but no one has climbed to the top. This may be the effect of its inviolable majesty.
Following the direction pointed by the Mani Stone, you can see the majestic Mount Kailash, which is often surrounded by white clouds. Locals believe that it is a blessing to be able to see the top of the mountain. We saw it today, which means we are blessed people.
This place has become known to more and more people through a movie, but I haven't seen it. I only know about it from National Geographic. I only know that it is a world-recognized sacred mountain and is recognized as the center of the world by many sects. It is 6,656 meters above sea level and is covered with snow all year round. It is like a big pyramid. No one has ever climbed to the top, and it is often surrounded by white clouds. Locals believe that it is a blessing to be able to see the top, but we are so lucky that we saw it as soon as we arrived. There is no sense of mystery at all.
Because we have no religious beliefs, we are not strong in herd mentality, and it is difficult for us to be inspired by Buddhist culture. We are not good enough in personal cultivation and cannot understand the mystery. In addition, we are not physically strong enough in the plateau, so we did not plan to circumambulate the mountain. In fact, for most Han tourists, it is only for taking photos. Moreover, the entrance fee is 150 yuan, which means it is going to be developed. I heard from the locals that this place will be completely demolished and rebuilt soon, and 10 billion yuan will be invested to build it into a famous tourist town. After all, many people come here to worship every year. The accommodation conditions here are really not very good now, the environment is also messy, and the price is not cheap.
Holy Mountain~The sacred mountain in the minds of Tibetans, sunrise and sunset, surrounding mountains, all can be photographed from various classic angles
I didn’t feel much when I was circumambulating the mountain, but after circumambulating the mountain, I really felt that my strength was doubled.
In fact, the best place to take photos of Mount Kailash is along National Highway 219. If you don’t circumambulate the mountain, there is no need to go to the village at the foot of the mountain.
The unique mountain shape, covered with snow all year round, and the strange wrinkles on the mountain that look like a ladder to heaven, coupled with the mysterious religious color, make people look up to it with awe.
The southern mountain is full and round, with snow all year round. The northern mountain has formed a concave cliff under the action of glaciers. The glacier on the north slope is the source of the Shiquan River.
When I first saw it, I was not surprised, nor shocked, and even felt that it was not very eye-catching. At the foot of the sacred mountain, secular life was as usual, peaceful and beautiful.
The center of the world is a very meaningful place. I have been there every year in recent years. The biggest significance of the place is to circumambulate the mountain. From the perspective of scenery alone, it is average, but the significance is great.
When you go to the sacred mountain, your body will reach its physiological limits, and your past life and your present life will suddenly appear before your eyes!
Shantideva said: At a certain moment in life, we should walk to a quiet place without hesitation, which will lead us to the path of enlightenment. So countless people walked on the mountain road at an altitude of 5,630 meters, step by step, to measure the quiet land of the soul with their feet, to come to Mount Kailash to circumambulate the mountain, to wash away all sins, and to seek the path of "enlightenment".
The mountain is not magnificent from a distance, but it is very magical. It is the only mountain with a white top. My companions call it a small ice cream. The afterglow of the sunset is printed on the top of the mountain, a piece of orange, with a different kind of beauty.
Mount Kailash, the god of mountains, the world center of the three major religions, worship the sacred mountain and purify your soul
I was so amazed that I burst into tears. It was more sacred and solemn than the snow-capped mountains of ABC and EBC. I sat at the foot of the sacred mountain for half an hour, taking photos, praying, meditating, and drinking tea. I felt that the hard work before was so justified.
Beside the holy lake in the snowy mountains, the sky is high and the clouds are light, my soul is free and my mind is lofty; the breeze is chilly and I am really happy. This photo is my WeChat profile picture, not bad
Although Mount Kailash is located in Tibet, India is more dependent on and yearns for it than we are. In addition to the religious reasons mentioned above, as the main peak of the Gangdise Mountains, the two major rivers of India, the Ganges and the Indus, both originate here. "Shiva's Paradise", a respectful name for Mount Kailash from Hinduism, is also the most beautiful name for the sacred mountain in my opinion.
The center of the world, Mount Kailash.
Mount Kailash is a sacred mountain recognized by the world and is recognized as the center of the world by the Bon religion, Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and ancient Jainism in Tibet, China. Mount Kailash is not the highest mountain in the region, but only its snow-capped peak can shine with a strange light under the sun, which is eye-catching. It is said that the most famous Mount Xumi in Buddhism refers to Mount Kailash.
It is known as one of the four sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism, along with the Meili Snow Mountain, the Amnye Machen Mountains, and Gaduo Jowo in Yushu, Qinghai.
The reason why Mount Kailash is called Mount Kailash is because it has a power that shocks people.
We are not believers, but when we see believers going on pilgrimage with perseverance, we are also infected by this power.
On a rainy day, when the rain stopped, I waited in the viewing area for the dark clouds to leave so that I could see the true face of Mount Kailash. I learned about the name of Mount Kailash from the movie "Mount Kailash" directed by Zhang Yang. I learned about the believers' super-godlike faith in it and that it is a sacred mountain in the minds of believers. Fortunately, I waited for the dark clouds to leave and saw a little bit of the top of the sacred mountain. It was very sacred and spectacular!
August is the peak season for believers to circumambulate the mountain and make pilgrimages. Not only are there Tibetans from all over the country on the street, but there are also believers from border countries such as India and Pakistan who come to circumambulate the mountain.
In the morning light, Mount Kailash is surrounded by golden light, and the gradually brightening sun lifts its mysterious veil, making it look even more majestic and tall! People give all the beautiful words to the holy lake, believing that bathing in the lake water can cleanse the soul, and the ghost lake is like a foil to the holy lake. But we prefer to believe that the two lakes separated by a hill are two tears of the sacred mountain, looking at the sacred mountain from a distance for thousands of years, and never leaving!
During the circumambulation, I saw Nepalese people spontaneously picking up trash while circumambulating Mount Kailash in my country. This really shows their deep respect for the sacred mountain! Later, my friends who were traveling with me also picked up trash while waiting for me. So I still recommend that everyone who goes to circumambulate the mountain, please bring your own garbage bags.
Things to note when circumambulating the mountain: You should check the weather conditions before going up the mountain, because the temperature difference on the mountain is quite large, and sometimes there will be heavy rain or even hail, especially in the afternoon.
The year of the horse in the Tibetan calendar sees the most pilgrims circumambulating the mountain. It is said that the Buddha Shakyamuni was born in the year of the horse, and circumambulating the mountain once in the year of the horse is equivalent to circumambulating the mountain 13 times in other years, and is the most effective and accumulates merits.
Mount Kailash is often shrouded in white clouds, making it difficult to see its true appearance. The top of the peak is covered with snow all year round, towering above all other peaks, and is extremely visually and spiritually shocking.
Mount Kailash: It means "mountain of gods" in Tibetan. It is one of the four sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism, along with the Meili Snow Mountain, the Amnye Machen Mountains, and Gaduo Jowo in Yushu, Qinghai. It stands like a big pyramid on the plateau of Purang, Ali. It is a world-recognized sacred mountain and is known as the king of sacred mountains. It is also recognized as the center of the world by the Bon religion, Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and ancient Jainism in Tibet, China. The special mountain shape is very different from the surrounding peaks, full of religious piety and holiness. Believers circumambulate the mountain here all year round. It is said that Mount Kailash is often surrounded by white clouds, and it is a blessing to be able to see the top.
You can see it on the roadside after passing Lake Manasarovar. It is worth seeing just for its high religious status.
I chose a road that leads to the foot of the sacred mountain. The road was particularly bad. We went up the mountain from behind the Tarqin Border Police Station and arrived near the sacred mountain about four or five kilometers later. We parked the car at the foot of the sacred mountain. This is the internal road of several temples at the foot of the sacred mountain. Not many people know about it, and there are few people.
The clouds dispersed and I could see Mount Kailash from afar. I saw it from afar when I was about to leave. Although I could only see it from afar and couldn't see it directly or up close, I still felt lucky to have seen it in this life.
The same circumambulation route, sincere people make pilgrimages, brave people climb, I am just a traveler. Like other travelers coming from all directions. It is just that at this moment, Mount Kailash is the most sacred existence in our hearts. We all stagger around her and express our greatest respect to her. Why should we still seek meaning at this moment?
Generally speaking, it is OK to circumambulate the mountain for 2 days, as long as you are in good health and have sufficient equipment. The equipment I am talking about is warmth and water, try to travel light, and you can choose some food that supplements a lot of calories, such as chocolate compressed biscuits.
It is said that if pilgrims circumambulate the mountain once, they can wash away all their life's sins; if they circumambulate the mountain ten times, they can avoid the suffering of hell in five hundred reincarnations; if they circumambulate the mountain a hundred times, they can become Buddhas and ascend to heaven in this life; and if they circumambulate the mountain once in the Year of the Horse, the year when Sakyamuni was born, they can increase their merits twelvefold, which is equivalent to thirteen circumambulations in a normal year.
There are also traces of people crawling around the mountain.
Because one of my companions and I were not fully equipped, we chose to give up the circumambulation and headed for the ruins of the Guge Dynasty. The other two companions started a two-day and one-night circumambulation. In fact, at the beginning they did not know that they could complete the circumambulation in two days. The decision to circumambulate the mountain was definitely made under the premise of ensuring life first, not to compress the time deliberately for the sake of rushing. Oxygen cylinders are really not needed, there is no need to buy them!!
All the oxygen cylinders we bought in Saga were useless, and the only thing useful for circumambulating the mountain was glucose.
By the way, they looked exactly like those exaggerated comparisons of before and after entering Tibet on the Internet, not much different, maybe even more exaggerated. It really wasn’t an exaggeration at all. One of the companions was originally a white and fat person, but he got tanned and his skin was dark red, like a completely different person. When we went to pick them up, they all laughed so hard that they fell down. That scene is unforgettable.
After turning back to National Highway 219 from Tarqin for a while, Mount Kailash unexpectedly appeared on our right.
When planning the route, I asked my companion if she would consider circumambulating the mountain. She said that it is not okay to go without sufficient faith and preparation. Yes, just admire from afar. Pray for the health and safety of my family.
This is a magical place. I walked the second route of my hiking route in 2014. I cried while walking there. I couldn't understand why I had to hike there. It was really cold, hungry, uncomfortable, and in a bad mood. There was no village in front and no shop behind. The distance to go back was almost the same as that to go forward. I was very desperate. A bed cost 80. Later, with the help of my friends, I walked all the way down. I didn't get out of the valley until 12 o'clock the next night! At night, I saw the sky full of stars. This is the most profound and spectacular starry sky I have ever seen! Shenshan really touched me! I have come here and grown up! It is a place worth pilgrimage...
I watched "Kang Rinpoche" in the cinema before, and I felt a little bit of its sacred meaning. I had the same mentality as Mount Everest, thinking that I would be satisfied if I could see part of it. As a result, when we arrived at the prayer flags at the foot of Mount Kailash, the complete Mount Kailash appeared in front of us. I was really excited at that time! I almost cried! At that time, I was very tempted to leave the team and realize my wish to circumambulate the mountain. Although it did not come true in the end, I believe that I will definitely come back to circumambulate the mountain! Thank you! Thank you for letting me see the most beautiful you!
The shape of Mount Kailash is really easy to recognize, especially the middle part, which is like a ladder! My companion said that he came here so many times last year, but he only saw Mount Kailash three times, so I sincerely hope that you who go to the Ali area will be lucky enough to see the true appearance of Mount Kailash!
The small hillside with a close view of Mount Kailash is 5100 meters above sea level, much higher than the 4680 meters of Yulong Snow Mountain, but everyone went up and strongly recommended this attraction. Although it was hailed when we reached the place where tourists stopped to go down the mountain, fortunately we had already returned to the hotel
After the hail, the weather cleared up and the summit of Mount Kailash was in full view. It is said that those who see the summit are lucky!
When we arrived at the ticket office of the Mount Kailash scenic area, the staff there was very enthusiastic and told us: If you don't want to circumambulate the mountain, there is no need to enter the scenic area. It is recommended to find a good location nearby to take pictures. You see, Tibetan fellows are honest and kind. We saved hundreds of dollars invisibly. Although it was cloudy, the sacred mountain of Mount Kailash was still clearly presented in front of us. We were so lucky!
Circumambulating the mountain is a physical torture for me. It makes you really empty yourself while circumambulating the mountain.
My companions told me that if you can’t hold on any longer, look at the sacred mountain, it will give you strength.
He will stay with you until you complete this baptism.
Oxygen is still necessary. Hiking at an altitude of 4600-5700 meters will cause serious lack of oxygen for people like us who don’t often go to the plateau.
The circumambulation takes 1.5 days (46km hike from 4am to 9am on the first day, 10km hike from 8am to 10am on the second day)
It is really not that easy to circumambulate the mountain. It is very dangerous. You must make sufficient strategies and plans before going. In addition, the climate on Mount Kailash is harsh, with frequent winds and snow. The altitude is over 5,000 meters. If you do not have a strong physique and enough faith, it is best not to try. It usually takes two days to circumambulate the mountain.
A movie about the pilgrimage road makes people familiar with Mount Kailash. In Tibet, the greatest wish of a Buddhist in his life is to go on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. They believe that:
Circumambulating Mount Kailash once can wash away all the sins of a lifetime; circumambulating ten times can save one from the sufferings of hell for 500 reincarnations; and circumambulating a hundred times can ascend to heaven and become a Buddha.
Believers walk or kowtow around the sacred mountain, which usually lasts for 1-3 days.
For ordinary people like us, circumambulating Mount Kailash may be a physical and psychological challenge. But the peace of mind you gain in the end will make you know that it is all worth it. Mount Kailash has an average altitude of 3,900 meters, but if you want to circumambulate Mount Kailash, you need to conquer the highest altitude of 5,630 meters, Zhuoma La Pass. This means that ordinary people are performing high-intensity actions at high altitudes, so if you have strong altitude sickness in Lhasa, it is best not to do this dangerous sport.
If you have a strong altitude sickness during the circumambulation, it is recommended that you interrupt the circumambulation to take care of your body. (Every year, there are people who die from altitude sickness during the circumambulation, so do it according to your ability and don’t try to be strong. When you feel you have reached your limit, take a proper rest or end the circumambulation early. This limit can only be determined by each person).
Of course, altitude sickness is not a terrible thing. For most people, circumambulating Mount Kailash is still possible.
I simply checked some guides online. It's about 50 kilometers to circumambulate the mountain. It's at a high altitude, so ordinary people need two days to walk nearly half of the distance on the first day and stay on the mountain. The next day, walk the other half of the distance.
What you need to circumambulate the mountain: trekking poles (one is enough, two is also good), sunglasses, glucose, oxygen tanks, some chocolate and Snickers, thick clothes, gloves, face towels, and comfortable shoes are best. In fact, teammates are very important for circumambulating the mountain. If someone gives up, it will be difficult to persevere. In terms of time, it usually takes two days. We set out at around 5 o'clock in the morning of the previous day and returned to Tarqin at 1:30 in the afternoon of the second day. Many people choose to stay overnight in Zhire Temple. Before circumambulating the mountain, the master kept suggesting that we should cross the pass on the first day, and it would be very fast and easy on the second day. It is indeed like this. The most difficult part of the whole circumambulation process is actually crossing the pass and crossing the pass.
It is really a very courageous and meaningful thing to circumambulate the mountain. After circumambulating the mountain, you will feel a sense of accomplishment. However, passion and curiosity alone are not enough. You must be fully prepared and mentally prepared.
As for tickets, it seems that fees are required. There is also a 150 yuan fee for circumambulating the mountain. It depends on the time and luck. I didn’t pay any fees at that time. It may be because I arrived in Tarqin too late and the toll office was closed, or it may be because I set out too early for the circumambulation and the toll office was not open yet.
There are supply points on the mountain, one every seven kilometers.
Remember to bring a thermos cup. You can order a pot of green tea at the supply point and pour a cup of it into the thermos cup when you leave. Green tea is made by Tibetans themselves to replenish their energy. It tastes salty and tastes better than butter tea.
The toilet is really dirty, even dirtier than the original toilet in my opinion. Just bear with it and wait until it gets dark to find a secluded place to go to the toilet. It is also really cold at night, so keep warm.
Don't forget to protect yourself from the sun when you circumambulate the mountain. Girls should remember to apply sunscreen when they are tired and resting. I didn't apply it for one day. After circumambulating the mountain, I looked in the mirror and felt that I had completely turned into a Tibetan.
Then you don’t need to bring a camera or a power bank, they will just be a burden. I’m so tired that I don’t even want to take out my phone.
The ticket for the circumambulation is 150 yuan, and you don’t need to buy a ticket if you don’t want to circumambulate the mountain.
We had planned to circumambulate Mount Kailash in two days, but the three of us incredible finished it in one day. We started at 6:00 in the morning and finished at 10:30 in the evening. We were so tired... But we fulfilled our biggest wish of this trip, which was to make Mount Kailash a reality!
Near noon, visibility was still very low, as if a thin veil was cast over the sacred mountain. I watched Mount Kailash slowly disappear from my sight...
I, Thanos, snap my fingers and the clouds and fog will dissipate
I wonder why there are so many duplicate locations in the same place.
We started circumambulating the mountain from Tachin at 10am this morning and arrived at the Shishapangma Hotel at Zhire Temple at 5pm. As a result, we were not allowed to sleep in a standard room for 3 people, and there was no room for 3 or 4 people. We could only sleep in a room for 6 people (600 yuan) and we were not allowed to share a room. We went to sleep in the Tibetan tent opposite Zhire Temple. We stayed in the white tent opposite the public toilet. It cost 80 yuan per berth, just like the one at Mount Everest, but the service was ridiculously bad. We couldn't charge it. He kept playing music on his phone when we were resting. I tried to stop him, but it was useless. He just ate and chatted until 12:45. He just ate, sang and chatted like this, completely ignoring that we had to get up early at 5am to circumambulate the mountain! Then in the early morning, three women came in and shouted at us to get up. I looked at my phone and it was only 4 o'clock. There was still an hour before we had to get up. I told them it was only 4 o'clock, and they said oh oh oh, let's sleep for a while... When I got up at 5 o'clock, the stove was cold, and there was no hot water to wash my face. I didn't sleep well all night. I got up at 5 o'clock in the dark to circumambulate the mountain. I felt dizzy all the way because I didn't sleep well. I finally returned to Tarqin at 5 pm... I have been in Tibet for a month and have always felt that Tibetans are very simple, but this time I found such uncultured Tibetans! If you don't want to do business, you can say it earlier. If you do business, you have to act like a business. I advise those who come to circumambulate the mountain to pay attention.
It's a pilgrimage, the environment doesn't matter, just pay attention to altitude sickness and safety, everything else is good, you can see the starry sky if you have the chance
Mount Kailash is the world's most sacred mountain. You can only hike up to the mountain without circumambulation. Consider your physical strength before deciding whether to circumambulate. It generally takes two to three days of hiking.
Mount Kailash is often shrouded in white clouds, making it difficult to see its true appearance. When we first arrived, we were not so lucky, the clouds were very thick and we could not see anything. However, as the clouds gradually dispersed, our heartbeats also accelerated little by little. Wow, the dome-shaped pyramid was revealed, becoming clearer and clearer, and finally presented to us without reservation. Even the huge ice troughs on the mountain and the Buddhist swastika grid were very clearly presented to us, allowing us to witness its majestic appearance with our own eyes.
The Buddhist swastika is a symbol of spiritual power in Buddhism, meaning the eternal existence of Buddhism, representing auspiciousness and protection. Locals believe that it is a blessing to be able to see the top of the mountain.
After buying the ticket and entering the scenic area, the real mountain trekking began. At the beginning, everyone was full of energy, walking at the same speed, lining up in a uniform team, and "mighty" into the mountain.
We met a Tibetan family who were doing prostration. They didn't understand Chinese. Although their equipment was dirty, their foreheads showed how pious they were. They must have come all the way from far away. Their foreheads were swollen. They took a short break here. The road in front of us was still covered with various stones in the soil, but they didn't mind and started prostration again.
One of the special things about Mount Kailash is that no matter from which angle you look at it, it is in the shape of a triangular pyramid.
After climbing one slope, there is another slope, and there is another slope behind it. It seems that there is no end, so some people call it the "Slope of Despair". But don't be afraid, after all, it is only 4 kilometers and you will reach the end.
The weeding journey was long and arduous, but it could not hide my inner yearning. My husband said that he could clearly see the excitement in my eyes. The moment I saw Mount Kinabalu, I felt that everything was worth it.
The town at the foot of Mount Kailash has mature living facilities such as hotels. The best hotel there is a four-star hotel.
It is recognized as a sacred mountain by the world. It is also recognized as the center of the world by Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, ancient Zhangzhung Buddhism "Bon" and ancient Jainism. It is one of the ten famous mountains in China. The mysterious thing about the sacred mountain is that the sunny side of the mountain, for some unknown reason, is covered with snow all year round; while the back of the sacred mountain is always snow-free. Even if it is covered with snow, it will melt as soon as the sun comes out, which is exactly the opposite of the normal nature.
When I saw the sacred mountain Mount Kailash for the first time, I was shocked deep in my heart!
The religious significance is far greater than the scenery. If you only come for the latter, you may be disappointed. I highly recommend the night on the northern foot of Mount Kailash, across from the Zhire Temple. The Milky Way is gorgeous and it is the most beautiful starry sky I have ever seen.
Mount Kailash is the main peak of China's Gangdise Mountains and one of the ten most beautiful and stunning mountains in China. The mysterious thing about the sacred mountain is that the sunny side of the mountain, for some unknown reason, is covered with snow all year round; while the back of the sacred mountain is always snowless, and even if it is covered with snow, it will melt as soon as the sun comes out, which is exactly the opposite of the natural law. The towering and upright Mount Kailash is both majestic and quiet, surrounded by many strange peaks, and there are also wonderful rocks, canyons, shrubs, ancient cypresses, and clean springs.
Mount Kailash is often surrounded by white clouds, and it is difficult to see its true appearance. The peak is covered with snow all year round, towering above all other peaks, and is extremely visually and spiritually shocking. There are a total of 5 temples around Mount Kailash. These five temples have many popular legends and rich sculptures, statues, murals and other cultural relics, but they have been destroyed to varying degrees. Tianya Travel Outdoor Club tells everyone that there is no wasted journey in life. Every step counts. Some people come here for salvation, some for escape, some for their parents, and more for all living beings! Face life, death, growth and letting go along the way calmly. In contrast, we want to pick up too much, and want to let go too little.
The main purpose of this trip is to circumambulate the mountain. The scenery is average during the day. At night, you can see the Milky Way from the Zhire Temple, which is very spectacular. In the early morning, you can see the golden mountain in the sun. There are many supply stations on the mountain in summer, but fewer or none in winter.
When I saw Mount Kailash with my own eyes, the world became quiet.
After turning the mountain, you will see a wide open space in the canyon. In the near distance, there are green grass and flowers. In the distance, there are flowing springs and gurgling streams. On both sides, there are layers of brown cliffs and rocks. Melted snow water flows down from the rocks. The whole valley is like a world of Sumeru, and it is quiet under the view of the sacred mountain. Looking at the sacred mountain from here, the peak is covered with snow and reaches the sky. Surrounded by the surrounding peaks, it is like an immortal sitting on a lotus platform, majestic and upright, yet quiet and solemn. Near dusk, the peak is covered with a colorful crown under the reflection of the setting sun, showing the true nature of the "King of the Holy Mountain".
Mount Kailash is the main peak of the Gangdise Mountains and the source of the Shiquan River in the upper reaches of the Indus River, with an altitude of 6,656 meters. It is known as one of the four sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism, along with the Meili Snow Mountain, the Animachen Mountains, and the Gaduo Jowo in Yushu, Qinghai. It is called Jiloso Mountain in Sanskrit. Tibetan Buddhism believes that this mountain is the residence of Heruka, representing infinite happiness. Believers circumambulate the mountain all year round; Hinduism believes that the mountain is the residence of Shiva and the center of the world; it is said that Yungdrung Bon originated from this mountain; Jainism believes that this mountain is the place where its founder, Reshabanasa, attained enlightenment.
The majestic Mount Kailash can be seen along the G219 National Highway, and you can even see it on the way to Lake Manasarovar.
It was a rare and precious experience. I am confident that I can complete the 3 circumambulations. I am only looking forward to the next circumambulation. 🙏 It snowed on the first day, and I stayed in the tent and hardly slept. You can also stay at Zhire Temple or Shisha Pangma Hotel (I met several tourists from India or Nepal on the way, and they all stayed at Shisha Pangma Hotel).
Arriving at Mount Kailash in the evening, the mountaintop is surrounded by white clouds, which gives Mount Kailash a mysterious color.
Mount Kailash is a sacred mountain recognized by the world! You must go and see it (and circumambulate the mountain if you can)
At 1,314 kilometers along the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, you can already see the sacred mountain, Mount Kailash. A majestic pyramid towers into the sky. This is the center of the world that believers believe in. They circumambulate mountains, rivers, and pagodas just to get here, not for this life, but for the afterlife. My teammates said that the pattern on the sacred mountain is like a stairway to heaven.
There are two types of circumambulation of Mount Kailash: the big circumambulation is more than 50 kilometers, which usually takes two to three days for most people, and the small circumambulation is more than 20 kilometers, which usually takes one day. We planned to spend two days on the big circumambulation. In the morning, we had a simple meal and set off at around nine o'clock. It was already the off-season for tourism, and the scenic spot had closed as early as October 13, which saved us the entrance fee of the scenic spot. The sky was blue and cloudless, and the warm sunshine sprinkled on my body, but it still couldn't relieve the coldness of nearly ten degrees below zero.
Soon after leaving Tarqin, after passing two bays at the foot of the mountain, Mount Kailash showed its white cap from the top of the nearby hillside. At first glance, it seemed to be very close, and the further we walked, the more its true appearance was revealed. The mountains along the way were barren, the water was gradually freezing, and a thick layer of ice formed in the ponds and depressions, which shone like white jade in the sun. The pilgrims who were worshipping and circumambulating the mountain in groups of three or two, either alone or in groups, all had kind faces, and they would say "Tashi Delek" to each other when they met and passed by each other. I don't know if it was their nature or because they were infected by the divinity of this sacred mountain.