Considered the entrance to the divine realm of Lord Shiva, it’s believed that Lord Yama (God of Death) guards this gate.
Every pilgrim must pass through Yam Dwar before beginning the 3-day Mount Kailas Parikrama.
Pilgrims are encouraged to leave behind their ego, fears and material desires as they cross Yam Dwar.
According to beliefs, walking through Yam Dwar with a pure heart grants one moksha (liberation).
Yam Dwar is located near Tarboche in Tibet, en route to Mount Kailas. Accessible via organized tours, it marks the start of the Kailas parikrama.
Near Darchen, Tibet
Approximately 15,000 feet (4,572 meters)
Mount Kailas
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism
Part of Kailas Manasarovar Yathra only
May to September