Last summer, as the city was engulfed by sweltering heat, I resolutely strapped on my backpack and set foot on a pilgrimage to Kailash, following the call of my heart. That journey was like an adventure through time and faith. Every moment remains vivid in my memory, and that’s why I’m eager to share this shock and awe with you this summer.
Driving west along the winding National Highway 219, the scenery outside the window kept changing. From the vast expanse of the northern Tibetan grasslands to the rolling snow-capped mountains and the crystal-clear lakes, every view was a visual feast. When Mount Kailash finally came into sight, I could barely catch my breath — its pyramid-shaped peak towered majestically, and the eternal snow sparkled with a holy glow under the sun, as if bridging the gap between the mortal world and paradise. Revered as the center of the world in Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon, and Jainism, legend has it that Lord Shiva once practiced penance here, imbuing this land with boundless mystery and divinity.
On the kora route, I met Raj, an elderly man from India. In his seventies, his face was etched with the marks of time, yet his eyes gleamed with unwavering determination. He prostrated himself every three steps, each bow brimming with devotion as he murmured scriptures. I accompanied him for a while, and he told me in broken English that this was the lifelong wish he’d cherished — to seek peace for his family and salvation for his own soul. Watching his slight but resolute figure fade into the distance, I suddenly understood that Kailash is more than just a mountain; it’s a spiritual haven for countless souls.
Summer is the perfect time to visit Kailash. During the day, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, it’s delightfully comfortable. Wearing a lightweight windbreaker, I strolled along the mountain paths, where the breeze carried the fragrance of green grass and the earthy scent of soil. At night, as the temperature dropped to 5°C – 10°C, I’d wrap myself in a thick down jacket and lie in my tent. Listening to the howling mountain wind buffeting the tent, I’d look up through a small gap and be greeted by a sea of stars, as if I could reach out and touch them. In that moment, I truly grasped the profound beauty of “Heaven and Earth have great beauty, but they do not speak.”
In summer, Kailash comes alive with vibrant festivals. I was fortunate enough to witness the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Devotees from around the globe, adorned in colorful attire and holding prayer flags, circumambulated Mount Kailash in a magnificent procession. The fluttering flags rustled in the wind, and the chants of the pilgrims rose and fell, creating a symphony that stirred the soul. The Tibetan opera performances were equally mesmerizing. The performers, wearing vivid masks and elaborate costumes, brought ancient legends to life with passionate drumbeats and melodious arias. Standing among the crowd, I couldn’t help but cheer and clap, feeling as if I’d stepped into one of those tales myself.
Every scenic spot here is a masterpiece of nature’s creation. Lake Rakshastal, with its deep blue waters, exudes an air of mystery and coolness. The barren land around it, devoid of vegetation, is eerily silent. Standing alone by the lakeside, I felt the fierce wind whistling past and watched the churning waves crashing against the shore. A mix of fear and excitement welled up inside me, as if I was having a silent dialogue with the power of nature. In contrast, the town of Darchen is full of hustle and bustle. In a quaint shop, I was drawn to a brightly colored Tibetan carpet. The kind-hearted shopkeeper, an old granny, couldn’t communicate with me verbally, but she warmly took my hand and used gestures to introduce her treasures. In the end, I bought that carpet. It’s not just a souvenir; it’s a token of the simplicity and kindness of the Tibetan people.
If you’re longing for an extraordinary summer adventure, Kailash will not disappoint. Start your journey from Lhasa and head west along National Highway 219 to experience the vastness of the grasslands, the grandeur of the snow-capped mountains, and the tranquility of the lakes. Remember to book accommodation in Darchen in advance, pack warm clothes and sun protection, and most importantly, bring a curious and respectful heart. When you set foot on this land, you’ll find that this is not just a trip but a spiritual cleansing and a deep conversation with yourself. Kailash awaits you to write your own wonderful story!
Travel Tips
- Document Preparation: A border pass is required to visit Kailash. You can apply for it at your place of household registration or in Lhasa. It’s advisable to consult in advance about the application process and required materials to avoid any delays. If you plan to participate in pilgrimage activities, additional permits may be needed for certain special areas, so make sure to understand the relevant policies beforehand.
- Altitude Sickness Management: The average altitude of the Kailash area exceeds 4,500 meters. It’s recommended to start taking altitude sickness prevention medications one to two weeks before departure. After arrival, avoid strenuous exercise and give your body enough time to acclimatize. If symptoms such as headache or nausea occur, rest immediately, and seek medical help if the condition worsens.
- Clothing and Equipment: Even in summer, the temperature difference between day and night is significant. In addition to light summer clothes, be sure to bring thick down jackets, thermal pants, windproof gloves, and other warm clothing. Choose professional, non-slip hiking shoes to protect your feet. High – factor sunscreen, sun hats, sunglasses, and other sun protection items are essential to prevent skin and eye damage from the intense ultraviolet rays.
- Health and Safety: Get relevant vaccinations in advance and carry common medications such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills. When hiking on the kora route, follow a gradual approach and allocate your energy rationally. Carry enough drinking water and high – calorie foods, such as chocolate and energy bars, to replenish energy in a timely manner.
- Culture and Taboos: Respect local religious beliefs and customs. When circumambulating the mountain, follow the clockwise direction, and do not cross prayer flags or mani stones. Do not take photos of local believers or religious activities without permission. When visiting Tibetan homes, follow the host’s arrangements and avoid touching religious items such as indoor Buddha statues and scriptures.
- Communication and Network: Signal coverage is weak or non – existent in some areas of Kailash. Inform your family of your itinerary and estimated return time before departure. You may consider bringing a satellite phone to ensure communication in case of emergencies.
