Kailash Inner Kora : Guide on the Yatra around Kailash
Mount Kailash is one of the most renowned and sought-after pilgrimage sites for religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jain, and Bon. This spiritual journey is famous for the Kora, which involves pilgrims hiking around Mount Kailash through various places along the trail. Because of the mountain's religious importance, trekkers and devotees visit the holy Mount Kailash. Apart from its spiritual significance, Mount Kailash Kora also offers visitors stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenic beauty. During this tour, you will witness stunning mountain peaks with a heavenly, clear blue sky, attracting thousands of travelers annually. The trails and routes of this region take you on a journey to the past, where you will experience the rich history of humanity and the evolution of landscape through time. The completion of this Kora rejuvenates pilgrims and fills them with immense happiness and a sense of fulfillment. The Kailash region also offers an incredible adventure among the fascinating wonders for those seeking to experience the area's natural elements. To better understand the Kailash Kora, this blog describes the Inner Kora, Outer Kora, and its spiritual significance. We will also discuss the detailed itinerary, the best time to visit, and preparation and cultural practices for the tour in detail as well.
Spiritual Significance of Kailash Kora
Although Mount Kailash holds religious importance in multiple religions, Kailash Kora is the most significant in Hinduism. According to Hindu scripts and holy books, Mount Kailash is considered Lord Shiva's abode. It is believed that he meditated on this mountain and resided with his wife, Parvati, and other gans. Additionally, Vishnu Puran states that the four faces of Mount Kailash comprise four elements of the earth: crystal, ruby, gold, and lapis lazuli. Thousands of Hindu and Shiva devotees visit this holy site to perform Kailash Kora or Parikrama in a clockwise direction starting from the southern end. People believe that performing a single Kora or revolution around the mountain is equivalent to completing one circle of life. It is also believed that the sacred peak is the axis mundi of the earth, a point that connects heaven and earth. To further understand the significance of Kailash Kora, you must know about the Inner and Outer Kora described below.
Kailash Inner Kora Map
Kailash Inner Kora
Inner Kora is a shorter route to perform the parikrama that takes you to the southern end of Mount Kailash. It is an intense and more challenging journey as compared to the Outer Kora. This route covers a distance of around 30 kilometers and offers stunning views and a profound connection to the divine energy of sacred Mount Kailash. The main highlight of the Inner Kora is the trail, which many devotees consider to be the ultimate pilgrimage. However, this route is less used due to the challenges of the trail and the need for special permits. This journey is the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance because of high altitudes, rugged terrain, and unpredictable weather. Despite these challenges, many pilgrims choose this route as they believe that it takes closer to the divine spirit of Mount Kailash. This intense journey begins from Darchen, but you can complete this trek in 2 days due to its shorter distance. The detailed itinerary with key landmarks is given below.
Kailash Inner Kora complete Itinerary
Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk - 18km
Darchen (4,575m) is Mount Kailash's base and the Inner Kora's starting point. Your journey to Dirapauk begins with an ascend through rugged terrain, where you will witness the spectacular view of Mount Kailash. This route covers a distance of around 18 kilometers, which takes 6 to 7 hours to complete. You can drive about 10 km up to Yamdwar and start Parikarma to Derapuk for 8 km.
Day 2: Dirapuk - Charan Sparsa - Derapuk-07 km
We start a Charan Sparsa holy walk from Derapuk to touch the feet of Lord Shiva. It is the closest point to approach mount Kailash. Charan Sparsa is know the inner kora which can be combine with outer kora.
Day 3: Depart to Zutulpuk Via Dolman Pass ( 5634m)
The most challenging part of this route is the high-altitude Drolma La Pass (5,630m), a sacred point where devotees leave offerings for the god. Inner Kora leads you to two of the most famous monasteries of the Kailash region: Zutulphuk Monastery (4,835m) and Dirapuk Monastery (5,080m), where you will experience the ultimate spiritual connection with god and nature.
Day 4: Zutulpuk to Darchen.
The fourth day of the Inner Kora journey involves returning to Darchen.Along the trail, you will recall all the memories and spiritual experiences of the journey, and upon reaching Darchen, the Inner Kora is complete.
Day 5: Darchen to Inner Kora- Darchen
The day is the main and famous but adventures part of the inner kora holy walk, It is start with 7 kilometer drive from Darchen to Sealing Monasrery then visit the sacred region of Mount Kailash including Saralung Monastery, Asthapath, Nandi Kora, Sapta Rishis Caves, Altmalingam . We will back to Darchen in the Evening.
Kailash Outer Kora
The Outer Kora is a standard route most pilgrims take to perform parikrama around Mount Kailash. This route is longer in distance but more accessible for most trekkers and pilgrims due to fewer challenges than the Inner Kora. You will cover a distance of around 56 kilometers in 3 days, walking an average of 6 to 7 hours a day. This spiritual journey offers stunning views of majestic mountains, vivid landscapes, and numerous sacred sites and monasteries. Thousand of devotees perform Kora through this route, believing that completing the circuit purifies the soul and brings them closer to enlightenment. Additionally, Outer Kora facilitates you with well-managed trails, resting points, and meditating spots. The detailed itinerary for the Outer Kora is discussed below.
Kailash Outer Kora Itinerary
Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk
Like the Inner Kora, the first day of the Outer Kora starts from Darchen. The trek to Dirapuk offers a gradual ascent to higher altitudes. You must take necessary precautions and acclimate properly, as higher elevations threaten altitude sickness. The day’s trek ends when you reach Dirapuk, which covers a distance of 21 kilometers in about 12 hours.
Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulphuk
On the second day, after resting overnight in Dirapuk, you will head towards Zutulphuk. The trail becomes challenging as you cross Drolma La Pass and ascend to a higher altitude with low oxygen levels. Day two ends upon reaching Zutulphuk, covering a distance of around 22 kilometers in about 12 hours.
Day 3: Zutulphuk to Darchen
On the final day, you will return to Darchen, covering a distance of 12 kilometers in about 6-7 hours. The trail back is relatively easy, as you will face a gentle descent, crossing Drolma La Pass. You will witness beautiful valleys along the route and picture one last memory of holy Mount Kailash. And that's the end of a spiritual journey through Outer Kora with some unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Major landmarks of Kailash Inner and Outer Kora
- Seralung Monastery
- Nandi Parbat
- Atmalingam
- Sapta Rishi Caves
- Asthapath
- Tarboch Flagpole
- Charan Sparsa
- Kuber Kund
- Dirapuk Monastery
- Drolma La Pass
- Gauri Kunda
- Zutulphuk Monastery
Seralung Monastery: An ancient Monastery located near the Darchen. The monastery is know as the center of learning Buddhism and Meditation. The monastery is famous in Kailash Region.Distance from Darchen to Seraling Monastery: about 7 kilo meter by drive from Darchen.
Nandi Parvat: A sacred peak near the Mount Kailash in the shape of Nandi, also know as the vehicle of Lord Shiva. It is a holy peak in Kailash Inner Kora.
Atmalingam: A Sacred and natural rock formation considered of Shiva Lingam. Atmalingam is a highly sacred for ritual and prayers during Inner Kora.
Sapta Rishi Caves: These Caves are know as where the great seven sages meditated. The area is know for the spritual energy.
Asthapad: The perfect place for the Mount Kailash Southfafe Darshan. It is known as eight steps. Believed that it is jain pilgrimage site where Rishabhadeva attained Nirvana.
Tarboch Flagpole: About 10 km drive from Darchen. It is Located near the Yamadwar that marks the staring point of outer kora. Main central of the Saga Dawa Festival celebration.
Charan Sparsh: Charan Sparsha a holy walk about 4 km from Derapuk to touch the feet of Lord Shiva. It is the closest point to approach mount Kailash. Charan Sparsa is know the inner kora with outer kora combine in an extra day.
Kuber Kund: Small and sacred water body associated with Kubera, Kubera is know as a god of wealth. It is famous for Hindu pilgrims to get blessing for the prosperity.
Dirapuk Monastery: The Monastery is in outer kora, you can enjoy the best view of nothface of mount Kailash with sunset and sunrise views. We stop for overnight here.
Drolma La Pass: The Highest and hardest day of the outer Kora ( Parikarma) it is at the hight of 5634m. The pass on second day of the Kailash outer kora.
Gauri Kund: You can visit the holy Gauri kinda in outer kora. The lake Gauri Kunda is related with Goddess Parvati. You can have door Darshan after a Dolman pass or can visit in person.
Zutulphuk Monastery: Located in Zutulpuk. The last day of outer kora. The Monastery is associated with Milarapa ( Tibetan Yogi) also know as meditation Caves.
What is the Difference between Inner Kora and Outer Kora?
The main differences between the Inner Kora and Outer Kora are the distance, difficulty level, and accessibility of the route. The Inner Kora is shorter in distance but physically challenging and requires special permits. On the other hand, Outer Kora is less demanding and more extended with proper acclimatization days. Both routes have their own significance and unique experiences. We recommend you take Outer Kora, but if you want a more adventurous experience, you can go for the Inner Kora.
Preparation for the Inner and Outer Kora
Proper preparation is crucial while going for Inner and Outer Kora. The following tips and recommendations will help you overcome challenges and unforeseen circumstances throughout the journey.
Perform Physical and Mental Exercises
The Kailash region's high altitudes and challenging landscapes demand physical and mental preparedness. We recommend following the proper fitness regime and exercises to boost physical and mental endurance. Involve yourself in activities focusing on cardiovascular fitness, strength, and stamina. Start your training three months before the trek and go for short practice hikes, which help your body to adapt to the altitude effectively. Besides physical readiness, mental preparation is also crucial for the Kailash Kora. Long treks like this can mentally drain you, which demands emotional resilience and a positive mindset. So, it is best to start meditating and breathing exercises to build mental endurance and prepare yourself for any unforeseen circumstances along the trail.
Obtain Necessary Permits and Travel Documents
The Tibet Travel Permit, the Alien's Travel Permit, and the Military Permit are essential permits you must obtain before going to the Kailash Kora. Additionally, special licenses are needed for the Inner Kora. We recommend you choose a reputable and reliable tour operator like Dream Tibet to ensure these documents are well-processed in advance.
Pack Essential Gear and Equipment
Gear and equipment are essential for a high-altitude tour like Mount Kailash Kora. We recommend packing the following items to overcome the challenges of high altitudes, rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, freezing temperatures, altitude sickness, and injuries.
- Layered clothing, sleeping bag
- Sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, knee support
- Water bottles, purification tablets
- Snacks, dry fruits
- Necessary medication and first-aid kit
Choose Best Time for Kailash Kora
The best seasons for the Kailash Kora are spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather in this region is unpredictable, with sudden temperature changes. However, spring and autumn offer stable weather and mild temperatures. The spring season is also famous for the Saga Dawa festival, where thousands of pilgrims gather to celebrate Buddha’s birth and enlightenment. So, we recommend you commence the sacred Mount Kailash Kora in spring and autumn.
Why Choose Dream Tibet?
Choosing a reliable Dream Tibet is essential for a successful Mount Kailash Kora. With 22 years of experience organizing treks in the region, we are well-known for our knowledge of the area and the challenges you face during the trek. Our company will provide customizable itineraries, experienced guides, and comprehensive support to overcome the obstacles of Kailash Kora. We focus on safety, comfort, and cultural immersion, making your trek an unforgettable experience for a lifetime. So, if you want to fulfill your spiritual dream of conquering Mount Kailash and completing Kailash Kora, please get in touch with us for further details.
