Kailash Parikrama – Sacred Mount Kailash Pilgrimage

Circumambulating Mount Kailash (Kailash Parikrama) is a revered pilgrimage for Lord Shiva devotees. It is believed to cleanse all past sins and lead the soul toward moksha (liberation).

Spiritual Significance

Mount Kailash is considered the divine abode of Lord Shiva, standing tall in the Himalayas as a symbol of cosmic power and spiritual strength. Kailash Parikrama, or walking around this sacred mountain, is more than a physical journey—it is a transformational spiritual experience. Devotees undertake this sacred trek with the faith that it purifies the soul, destroys accumulated karma, and grants blessings of peace, wisdom, and liberation.

➡️ Highlights of Kailash Parikrama

1️⃣ The full circumambulation covers approx. 52 km
2️⃣ Devotees walk with devotion and mindfulness, chanting mantras like Om Namah Shivaya
3️⃣ It is performed clockwise by Hindus and Buddhists, counter-clockwise by Bon followers
4️⃣ Considered equivalent to lifetimes of penance and spiritual sadhana

➡️ Benefits of Performing Kailash Parikrama

✅ Burns past karmas and sins
✅ Deepens the connection with Lord Shiva
✅ Aids in emotional healing and inner awakening
✅ Inspires devotion, humility, and self-realization
✅ Believed to grant moksha – freedom from the cycle of birth and death

➡️ The Parikrama Journey

• The traditional Kailash Parikrama spans approximately 52 km, usually completed in 3 days:

  Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk (approx. 20 km)
  
  Day 2: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass (the highest point at 18,600 ft)
  
  Day 3: Zuthulpuk to Darchen (approx. 12 km)
   

Many devotees also take a dip in the sacred Lake Mansarovar, which lies at the foot of Mount Kailash and is believed to purify body and soul.

➡️ Devotional and Transformational Aspects

• Undertaking Kailash Parikrama is a test of faith, endurance, and inner strength.

• Pilgrims chant "Om Namah Shivaya" throughout the journey, surrendering to Lord Shiva.

• The harsh terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather symbolize overcoming ego and worldly attachments.

➡️ Who Can Do It?

• The pilgrimage is recommended for those in good physical and mental health.

• Many consider it a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual awakening and soul purification experience.

➡️ Legend Says…

One Parikrama of Kailash equals a lifetime of penance. Completing 108 Parikramas is said to lead to instant Moksha.

Conclusion

Kailash Parikrama is not just a journey around a mountain—it is a journey within, helping seekers transcend worldly limitations and experience the divine presence of Lord Shiva in its purest form.