Why Should Every Hindu Do Kailash Parikrama?

Trip to Kailash is a holy pilgrimage for many religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Devotees of these religions believe that walking around Mount Kailash or making Kailash Parikrama is a sacred activity. 

In this blog, we will cover why every Hindu in the world must make a trip to Kailash and do Kailash Parikrama.

Let’s dive in.

What is Kailash Parikrama?

Kailash Parikrama means circumambulation of Mount Kailash. There are two types of Kailash Parikrama: Outer Kora or Inner Kora. Let’s learn about Koras in brief.

1. Outer Kora

The outer parikrama is 52 kilometers long, which is usually completed in 3 days. This Parikrama route includes: Darchen→ Yamdwar →Derapuk→Zuthulpuk→Darchen. You can complete this Parikrama on foot or ride on pony.

2. Inner Kora

The inner circumambulation is 30 kilometers long. This Kora is done by Tibetan monks and especially dedicated seekers. The route of the inner kora includes: Darchen→Selung→Saptarishi cave→Gyandrek→Darchen.

Although this circumambulation is shorter, it is much more difficult than the outer circumambulation. The trekker has to walk through a rugged, rocky, and risky way that involves getting closer to the mountain and reaching its base.

During the Kailash Parikrama, you can see the four unique sides of Mount Kailash. The South West and North are visible in both Koras, but the East Face is hidden and pure can only be seen on the Inner Kora. 

Fun Fact: Kailash Parikrama is open to Indian passport holders in 2025.

Reasons Every Hindu Should Do Kailash Parikrama

Let’s dive into the reasons why every Hindu must make Kailash Parikrama.

1. Spiritual Purification and Burning of Past Karmas

The major purpose of the Kailash Parikrama is to purify the soul, ask forgiveness for the accumulated sins, and burn past karmas. It is just like confessing to the known or unknown bad deeds you have done and asking Lord Shiva for forgiveness.

2. Deepening Connection with Lord Shiva

In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is one of the deities of the Tridev. As mentioned in holy books, Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva. Thus, reaching Kailash is like getting near to God’s home.

When we closely look at Kailash Parvat, it looks like a lingam, which is a representation of Lord Shiva. Shivalingam Parikrama is a way to show respect. Thus, circumambulating the mountain is a profound act of devotion, believed to bring the devotee closer to Shiva and receive his blessings.

3. Pathway to Moksha

In Hinduism, Mukti or Moksha means liberation of a soul from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The circular path or the Kora in Kailash Parikrama mirrors the vicious and endless cycle of birth and rebirth. Circumambulating the Kailash with a pure heart symbolizes breaking the cycle of birth and rebirth and moving toward liberation.

4. Inner Spiritual Awakening

In Hinduism, spiritual awakening means knowing your true self and feeling one with God. Such awakening means waking up from confusion, letting go of ego, and realizing you are.

Making Kailash Parikrama is another step to spiritual awakening. 

When you walk around the sacred Mount Kailash, you leave behind ego, pride, and past burdens. You get to make self-reflection, surrender, and connection with the divine.

5. Test of Faith, Endurance, and Detachment

Kailash Parikrama is physically demanding as it lies in high altitudes, has rough terrain, and harsh, cold weather. Enduring these challenges reflects deep faith in Lord Shiva, believed to reside at the mountain’s peak. 

Final Thoughts

Mount Kailash is believed to be the center of the universe. For Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons, being in the Kailash region fulfills their spiritual dream. They perform Kailash Parikram, which is walking around the mighty Kailash Parvat.

By performing Kailash Parikram, past sins get cleaned and bring the performer closer to moksha (freedom from rebirth). The Prikrama can be done via the inner or outer Kora. Inner Kora is shorter but tougher than outer Kora; that’s why many devotees choose Kailash Parikrama by outer Kora. Overall, Kailash Parikrama is tough; it tests devotees’ faith and strength, but it brings spiritual peace.

Looking for a reliable Kailash Tour Travel Agency? A trip to Kailash is the best option for you. Contact us for further details.

Read More: Trip To Kailash: A Detailed Guide To Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

• How hard is Kailash Parikrama?

It is very challenging due to high altitude (over 18,000 ft), cold weather, and rough terrain. It requires physical fitness and mental strength.

• How long does it take to do Kailash Parikrama?

The outer parikrama takes about 3 days to complete (around 52 km).

• Can we touch Mount Kailash during Parikrama?

No, touching Mount Kailash is not allowed. It is considered highly sacred and must be respected from a distance.

• What is the inner core of Mount Kailash?

The Inner Kora is a shorter but tougher route of about 30 km. This route gets closer to the mountain. Only experienced trekkers and monks usually attempt it.

• When is the best time to undertake Kailash Parikrama?

The best time is from May to September, especially June to August, when the weather is relatively stable and the paths are open.