The holy abode of Lord Shiva, Panch Kailash represents the various myths, legends and their beautiful manifestations through these majestic mountains that hold a simple aspect- divinity.
The panch kailash has these 5 explorable peaks namely- Kailash Mansarovar, Adi Kailsh, Mani Mahesh, Kinner Kailsh and Shrikhand. These peaks each represent a different aspect of divine nature and the cultural roots it has imbibed in us. Each year, millions of pilgrims travel to these peaks to attain salvation for their souls and seek mindful blessings from Lord Shiva.
As beautiful as this journey is, the journey is surely a tough one. The pilgrimage demands a lot of grit and faith and as faithful as we are, we are ready to undertake a journey that resolves our minds and uplifts us.
Culturally, these peaks hold a plethora of significance for not just Hindu community, but faiths including Buddhism, Jainism, Chinese and Bons communities as well. Their scattered locations around Tibet, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh make them a tumultuous journey but a very rewarding one.
Enriched with mythical heritage and vedic importance, each of these peaks has a story to tell!
Spiritualism, mystery, and adventure all meet in the five sacred peaks and abodes of Lord Shiva. People of almost every faith, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Chinese, and Bons, consider Kailash Mansarovar, Adi Kailash, Kinnaur Kailash, Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash, and Manimahesh Kailash—the Panch Kailash in the midst of the majestic Himalayas—to be holy sites of pilgrimage. We've said that India always has the Himalayas' vastness, and this time it's no different. India is home to four of the five Panch Kailash shrines; Kailash Mountain is one of the most revered mountain peaks in the world and is home to one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations in the world. It is significant to a plethora of religions and beliefs and is one of the three in Himachal Pradesh and one in Uttarakhand. Did you know that no one has ever scaled this peak, which is also referred to as Lord Shiva's home? One of the most challenging pilgrimage journeys in the world, this has managed to preserve the sacredness and spirituality of the location. This location not only hosts a single popular pilgrimage, but also a number of other pilgrimages to which pilgrims come from all over the world, including Bangalore, Chennai, Kerala, and other southern cities. Follow in the footsteps of the gods and goddesses to find your own way to heaven. The stories revolve around the nature of the gods, their homely abode, their physical remnants, the ultimate salvation that comes with the power of Lord Shiva’s blessings.
When you feel the Lord calling you, some of the best spiritual Kailash Yatras are mentioned below:-
2. Adi Kailash
Does Kailash Mansoravar Yatra need a passport?
Ans- Yes, since the peak is located in Tibet, a part of China, a passport is mandatory for traveling internationally.
Can Kailash Mansarovar Yatra be attempted solo?
Ans- Unfortunately, the Chinese government issues visas only in groups. Even if you travel with certified national travel agencies, it is not approved.
If an individual fails to pass the medical exam at Gunji, will they be allowed to proceed further, despite their spouses and family having passed?
Ans- It is of utmost importance to pass the medical examination. If an individual fails to do so, they will be sent off despite their whole family or spouse proceeding further.
Why is a medical test necessary?
Ans- Pilgrims can suffer from various conditions like Hypoxia, Pulmonary Edema, Acute Mountain sickness as well as heart problems while traveling at a high altitude. Although the groups are aided with Liaison officers, there is a significant medical risk.
What are the age restrictions for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Ans- Persons from 18-70 years of age are allowed to attempt this yatra, in the face of proper medical fitness.
What happens if a yatri suffers medical problems along the way?
Ans- There are arrangements with ITBP doctors along the journey on the Indian side. However, if the pilgrim encounters a major problem on the Chinese side, the evacuation may take around 48-72 hours, and that too on their own cost/
How are the pilgrims selected for the Yatra?
Ans- Firstly, the yatris are selected through a random lottery system, where the selected people undergo medical examination in Delhi. Different medical examination points in Gunji, Sherathang are established for people traveling from other parts of the country.
What is the cellular connectivity in these areas?
Ans- Most of the cellular networks stop working after reaching the last habitable point & at high altitudes, the signals are sparsely available.
How many days does it take in general to complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Ans- It takes about 9-16 days in total to explore the peak and the areas around it.
How much time goes into Parikrama?
Ans- A total of at least 3 days goes into complete parikrama of the peak.
Is there any permit required for trekking in Himachal?
Ans- In some places, you will require a permit from the local police, forest department. In the high altitude areas near the border, Inner Line Permit and Protect Area Permit might be required.
What are the things I need to carry while going on these high altitude treks?
Ans- Carry proper trekking gear, which includes- rucksack with rain covers, head torch, UV protection sunglasses, water bottles, non-skid trekking shoes & slippers. For clothing, make sure to pack thermal warmers, full fleece sweatshirts, thick pairs of socks, gloves, rain wear & caps as a must. Make sure to carry toiletries that protect you from UV rays and lip balms.
How to become physically fit for these journeys?
Ans- Regular treadmill running, cardiovascular strengthening exercises and breathing exercises should be done on a regular basis to build strength for these treks.
How long does it take via helicopter to reach Manimahesh?
Ans- it is just a 7 minute ride from Bharmour helipad from where it is just about 2-3 km on foot.
