New Delhi: Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, are among the most revered spiritual landmarks in the world. Mount Kailash, a majestic peak in the Himalayas, is considered sacred by followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon religion. In many regions of Asia, the mountain peak is considered auspicious and is also known as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ or the place where Lord Shiva is believed to reside, according to Hindu beliefs.
Buddhists regard it as the home of Demchok, a representation of supreme bliss. Jains revere it as the site where Lord Rishabhdev attained liberation, while Bon practitioners consider it the seat of spiritual power. Due to its unique shape, this mountain peak is considered spiritual and is a dream destination for many Asians, especially Indians, to visit at least once in their lifetime.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, China closed all travel routes for Indians and suspended the annual Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Now, after five years, India and China have decided to resume the yatra this summer, as announced on 27 January 2025.
Kailash Mansarovar
It is believed that Kailash Mansarovar is the dwelling and meditation site of divine beings. The unique aura of this place is said to be why Mansarovar exists here and nowhere else. The holy lake is often compared to the mind of the gods—calm, serene, and unshaken, like the still waters of the lake itself. Its tranquillity mirrors the strength and peace of the surrounding mountains, symbolising the perfect harmony between stillness and resilience.
For devotees and spiritual seekers, Mansarovar is not just a physical location but a representation of divine calmness and inner peace, making it a place of immense spiritual and religious significance. It has long been considered one of the most sacred places on Earth to seek divine blessings and a path to heaven and God.
About Lake Mansarovar
Mansarovar is considered one of the holiest places, as legends suggest that the lake serves as a bathing spot for gods during the sacred time of Brahma Muhurta. According to Hindu mythology, the lake was first imagined and created by Lord Brahma in his mind, which is why it is called Mansarovar. The name derives from two Sanskrit words: manas, meaning mind and intellect, and sarovar, meaning lake.
Lake Mansarovar, situated nearby, is the highest freshwater lake in the world, sitting at an altitude of 4,557 metres above sea level. It is one of the highest lakes globally and is known as an ideal place for deep meditation and spiritual focus. Additionally, Lake Mansarovar is the source of four major rivers: the Brahmaputra, Ghagra, Sindhu, and Satluj.
Significance of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
For Hindus, Mount Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The yatra is believed to cleanse the soul, absolve sins, and bring devotees closer to divine salvation.
For Buddhists, Mount Kailash represents the centre of the universe, and the yatra is considered a path toward enlightenment. For Jains, the pilgrimage symbolises the site where Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara, attained spiritual liberation. Followers of the Bon religion believe that Kailash is a sacred site where their deity resides, and the yatra serves to honour the divine.
For Sikhs, it is considered a place where Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, spent time and deeply studied meditation.
Mount Kailash is regarded as the centre of the Earth, surrounded by six other mountain ranges, with its region considered the focal point of the entire universe.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage undertaken by thousands of devotees annually. The journey is challenging yet deeply fulfilling, offering not only religious significance but also breathtaking natural beauty. It is also regarded as one of the most difficult yet most significant pilgrimages for Indians, particularly Hindus, worldwide.
Devotees rejoice! The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to resume in 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about this sacred pilgrimage. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips