The Mystical Mount Kailash

The majestic and mysterious Mount Kailash, situated in the high-altitude and arduous terrain of the Tibetan plateau, has been attracting pilgrims for centuries. The author has covered the subject in a multi-dimensional manner, exploring geographical, geological, axis mundi, historical, religious, mystical, and mysterious contexts. Various aspects of the circumambulation undertaken by followers of Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and ancient Bonpos are discussed in detail. These include the outer and inner Parikramas (Koras) of Mount Kailash, the important monasteries, and holy spots on the route, as well as the types of geographical and climatic hazards faced by pilgrims. The nearby holy lake of Manasarovar, invariably visited by pilgrims to Mount Kailash, is also vividly described, including the spiritually refreshing holy dip in its ice-cold water and circumambulation of the lake. Breathtaking color images of the important spots during the approach and circumambulation add to the overall appreciation of the subject.

The multiple routes to Mount Kailash by land and air, through Nepal and Tibet, and the Indian Government-sponsored routes from the west (Pithoragarh district) and east (Sikkim State) have been discussed. Under "Panch Kailashas," the author has briefly described the other sacred mounts, also called Kailash, located in India.