Few tourists travel to this remote western corner of Tibet. For most that do, there is only one destination in mind- the Simikot Kailash Trek. From time immemorial, this area has been sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and the followers of Bon, Tibet’s indigenous religion. Even today, pilgrims from all over the Himalayan region travel to Kailash to perform arduous Parikrama or Kora (circumambulating of the mountain), often prostrating themselves the entire way. Ancient cosmography identifies Kailash with the mighty mountain Sumeru, the central peak of the world. To Buddhists, the “Father Mountain” represents the means to enlightenment; Lake Manasarovar, the “mother principle,” represents transcendental consciousness. Hindus consider Kailash to be the throne of Lord Shiva, one of the three principal gods of the Hindu pantheon, whose long, matted hair forms the holy Ganges River.
As a Bon center, it is the soul of the country and assures protection for all Tibetans. Specifically, the area is outstanding. At 6,714 meters. Kailash is a glittering snow-crystal towering above the Tibetan Plateau like a beckoning jewel, visible from miles away. Manasarovar is famous as one of the highest lakes in the world. Mt. Kailash is considered the power place of Shiva’s head Chakra and thus the manifestation of the illusory wheel of sensory emanation. Since Kailash is Mount Sumeru, its summit is considered the heaven for higher-level Gods; it is also the five Buddhas’ heaven.
Overview
The Simikot Kailash trek is a unique adventure that combines trekking in the remote areas of Nepal with visiting the sacred Mount Kailash in Tibet. It’s a challenging journey that requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes. The trek typically starts with a flight to Simikot, followed by trekking through remote villages and crossing high passes before reaching the border with Tibet. From there, the trek continues to Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash, where you can experience the sacred circumambulation (Kora).
Trip Highlights
- Nepal Entry:The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Simikot in Nepal's remote Humla district. Trekking in Nepal:
- Trekking in Nepal: You'll trek through picturesque landscapes, potentially visiting Rara Lake or other scenic areas, before crossing into Tibet. Crossing into Tibet:
- Crossing into Tibet: After trekking in Nepal, you'll cross the border (usually near Hilsa) into Tibet and drive towards Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.
- Kailash Kora: The main attraction is the circumambulation (Kora) of Mount Kailash, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
- Mansarovar Lake: You'll also visit Mansarovar Lake, a large, high-altitude freshwater lake that is considered sacred.
- Lhasa (Optional): Some tours extend beyond Kailash and Mansarovar to include the ancient city of Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.
