Our journey to the sacred Manasarovar and Mount Kailash began on July 13, 2013, from Kochi, reaching Kathmandu by evening. The following day was spent exploring Kathmandu before embarking on a four-day road trip towards Manasarovar. The journey included an acclimatization stop at Nyalam, where we took a small trek to adjust to the altitude. On the evening of July 18, we finally arrived at Manasarovar, greeted by clear skies and a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash. The pristine lake’s divine waters offered a rejuvenating experience, and the next morning, we performed puja on its banks before proceeding to Darchen, the base camp for Kailash.
The first day of our parikrama around Mount Kailash was remarkable, with an up-close view of its majestic western face. However, by evening, heavy rain set in, continuing through the night. Considering the risks, our group chose to turn back, while some from other groups braved the weather to continue the trek. As we prepared to return, the skies cleared briefly, revealing a stunning view of Kailash’s northern face. On the way back, I climbed a small hill near Nandi Parvat, getting as close as possible to Kailash’s base. Unfortunately, my path was blocked by an ice-covered passage, forcing me to retreat. By evening, we reached Darchen and decided to return a day ahead of schedule.
During our return journey, we visited a monastery in Dongba and Milarepa’s Cave, adding to our spiritual experience. The early return granted us an extra day in Kathmandu, allowing us to visit the Swayambhunath Temple and Durbar Square. Finally, on July 26, we boarded our flight home, cherishing unforgettable memories of an awe-inspiring pilgrimage to Manasarovar and Kailash. The journey was not just an adventure but a deeply spiritual experience that will remain etched in our hearts forever.
Experience the journey’s unforgettable moments with daily highlights, capturing scenic beauty, cultural experiences, spiritual encounters, and breathtaking adventures along the way.