A Himalayan mountain
in southern Tibet that is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists as a pilgrimage
site (tirtha).
Kailas is said to be Mount Meru, the universe's core,
according to Hindu mythology.
The peak of Mount Kailas is also said to be where the deity
Shiva resides.
The essential act of pilgrimage to Kailas for both Hindus
and Buddhists is to walk around the mountain, metaphorically crossing the whole
globe.
The trek starts at Manasarovar, a lake at the mountain's
foot that is known as the Lake of the Gods in Hindu mythology.
The sixty-five-mile circuit is exceedingly challenging due
to a number of factors: Even in June (the traditional pilgrimage month), the
region is exceedingly isolated, the temperature is harsh and unforgiving, and
the circuit itself is physically demanding, with its highest point over 19,000
feet above sea level.
Storms may strike at any time of year, and unprepared
pilgrims might quickly perish from exposure.
Given these challenges, only a small percentage of
individuals undertake this pilgrimage; nonetheless, those who do are rewarded.
For long years, Chinese travel restrictions in Tibet
prevented anyone from making this journey.
These prohibitions have been lifted since the early 1990s,
and small groups of religious pilgrims are once again undertaking the hallowed
pilgrimage.
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
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