Kailash Parvat – One of the World’s Unclimbed Peaks

Mount Kailash or Kailash Parvat is one of the most popular peaks located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. However, the mountain has not yet been climbed. It is not that no one has attempted to climb this mountain. Over the years, there have been many mountaineers who have made an attempt, but they all have failed.

There is more than just one reason as to why Kailash Parvat remains unclimbed to this date. The mountaineers and trekkers who visit the mountain have, whatsoever, been able to explore the amount to an admirable extent since visitors are also allowed in the mountain up to a certain region.

In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about Kailash Parvat and why not a single person on Earth today has been able to climb it. Make sure to read till the end!

Overview of Kailash Parvat

Mount Kailash is popular among trekkers and Hindu devotees all around the world. Located in Tibet, the mountain is very close to the tripoint between Nepal, China, and India. Hence, visitors from especially these three countries visit Kailash Parvat most often.

The mysterious mountain has been a subject of interest among not just South and East Asian nationals but also among anyone who studies or tours mountains globally. The mountain is believed to be the holy abode of Lord Shiva.

The mysteries of Mount Kailash or Kailash Parvat remain one because of the secrets that the peak is believed to hold. This does not mean that one cannot go close to the mountain. Mountaineers and pilgrims can take a tour around the base camp in Darchen and move a little ahead.

But, no one is allowed to climb the mountain. Kailash Parvat sees visitors from all around the world each year. Every visitor has a different motive. Some go there for an exceptional trekking experience while others go there to pay a visit to the famous religious peak in the form of a pilgrimage.

Visitors are expected to remain strictly disciplined and bound by the rules of the Tibetan region when they’re in Mount Kailash. The holiness and religious significance of the mountain has made the rules stricter for the visitors. Your experience in the mountain is likely to be more managed and smooth due to this reason.

Milarepa Was The Only Person Who Climbed Kailash Parvat

Climbing Mount Kailash is something one can only imagine, and when you’re realistic, not even that. But what if we tell you that there had been one person who was able to climb the only unclimbed mountain several years ago?

As tough as it may be for one to believe now, especially if they have attempted or heard stories about attempts to Kailash Parvat, the story of the climb is believed to be true. There had been a Tibetan poet who was also a sage who climbed Kailash Parvat.

Upon returning from the mountain, he had accepted that the journey had not been easy for him. He had to conduct a deep prayer for Lord Shiva to climb the mountain. The sage also mentioned the presence of God in the mountains.

Milarepa mentions that the mountain is impossible to climb because Lord Shiva is at rest there and is still highly trusted by Hindu devotees today. According to the tales from ancient times, he was the only one on Earth who got to know holy secrets that were meant to remain unknown to the mortals.

Mystery of Kailash Parvat

There are many mysteries connected with Kailash Parvat. From it being the home of Lord Shiva to the peak holding energies that are still not explainable to human beings, the mountains remain unexplored to many extent.

Mountaineers from all around the world have made their attempt at climbing the holy mountain. But to no avail. No one has yet been able to climb the mountain. According to Tibetan beliefs, Milarepa was known for their exceptional knowledge of religion and God, which helped him climb the peak.

In the world today, no one would have the same knowledge and capacity to climb the mountain even though they may be determined enough. Some of the most questionable and fascinating mysteries of Kailash Parvat are listed below:

Time Stops In Kailash Parvat

Trekkers and pilgrims visit the mountain all year long. A weird phenomenon that has not been explained even by science is the fact that time stops as you move around the mountain. If you’re taking a watch with you, it will stop working entirely.

Many believe that it could be due to heavy gravitational pull. Others, likewise, consider it time to stop religious beliefs.

You Grow Older

Pilgrims and adventurers have felt a change in their appearance and even age when they have visited the mountain. Without any explanation, anyone who has gone to Kailash Parvat has felt that their nails and hair grow longer.

Not only do visitors feel like they have spent too many days, months, and even years at the peak on a single visit, but they also feel as if they have grown old. This experience applies to almost every other person who has gone to the mountain.

Kailash Parvat Has Many Names

Though not a mystery, you would be amazed by the fact that Kailash Parvat is not only called so. It has more than just one name throughout cultures. The diverse name list of the mountain makes the religious significance of the peak all the stronger.

In Sanskrit, the peak is called Kailasa, in Tibetan language, it’s called Kangri Rinpoche, and in Bon, it’s called Water’s Flower. These are not all the names that people from different backgrounds have given to Kailash Parvat to this date. There are plenty of other names among different cultures.

Center of Universe

In Tibet, people consider Kailash Parvat to be the center of the universe. This belief has been counted as one of the many mysteries of Mount Kailash. A cosmic mountain in the mythical world called Mount Meru is known as the center of the universe.

Kailash Parvat, similarly, is considered to be the representation of Mount Meru in the human world at the present time. Infamous stories one would often hear about the mountain being responsible for the birth of the universe.

Among Hindu devotees, Kailash Parvat is the navel of the universe. Geographical discoveries in the later time have pushed this narrative and made the beliefs stronger.

Lord Shiva Lives in Kailash Parvat

You may have heard of Lord Shiva living in Kailash Parvat through pop culture references like movies, TV series, books, etc. But, the assumption goes a long way back to Hindu and Buddhist scriptures from ancient times that have always mentioned the same.

A big reason as to why visitors have still not been able to climb or even fairly speaking, been allowed to climb the mountain is mostly due to this reason. There have been no sightings of the Lord in Kailash Parvat to this day but the energy you feel in the mountain is one you’ll never feel elsewhere.

You Cannot Climb Mount Kailash.

You will for sure be restricted from climbing Kailash Parvat. And you won’t be able to either. It is mostly because of the pull that a climber feels against the peak. Anyone who has attempted to climb the mountain has either been forced to return because of the conditions of the mountain, or physical ailments or has faced severe injuries.

Taking a look at all that has happened throughout the past in Kailash Parvat, it can be concluded that it is not in the power of a normal being to climb the peak. This means you can be the world’s best mountaineer but still fail at the goal of climbing Mount Kailash.

Connection Between Heaven and Earth

Kailash Mountain is considered to be a connection between heaven and earth. This belief is made stronger by the fact that it is connected with spiritual and religious figures. Since a normal human has never been able to climb the peak, it can well be considered that one cannot go to the mountain until it’s time for his demise.

Another fact that justifies the mountain being connected to heaven is that those who get lost in the mountain are never found. No scientific or geographic fact has yet backed this phenomenon.

The face of Lord Shiva

Not only is Kailash Parvat considered to be his abode, but you can also see the face of Lord Shiva on the mountain. The shape looks very natural and does not seem human-made. As you proceed towards Yamdwar, aiming at the mountain, you will see a human-like face greet you.

Hindu, Buddhist, Bon, and Jain devotees globally pay a visit to the mountain just to look at the face in Mount Kailash.

Story of Adi Kailash

Goddess Parvati is Lord Shiva’s consort. According to religious stories about Adi Kailash, Lord Shiva would often spend his time meditating and his consort would always seek more time with him.

It would take a great amount of passion and devotion towards Lord Shiva to have a devotee’s wishes fulfilled. Goddess Parvati, a sage herself, did not hold herself back from doing the same for her husband’s divine attention.

She wished for Lord Shiva to dwell in Adi Kailash with her. The goddess would do everything in her will to have him fulfill her desire. Lord Shiva was impressed by what his wife had to offer and gave in to her wish of dwelling with her in Adi Kailash. Since the mountain is known as the dwelling spot of God.

Furthermore, it is believed that anyone who has a clear heart and intentions, humility, and pure devotion towards Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati will be blessed with the ability to climb Adi Kailash with ease.

Mysterious Om Parvat

A very strange mountain closer to the tallest peak in the chain Kailash Parvat, is Om Parvat. Visitors have often seen signs of different types including the Hindu symbol, Om close to the mountain which is also a reason why the mountain has its name.

Each sunset allows you to get a glimpse of such symbols against the mountain in the sky. Besides this, there are many Mani figure stones that you’ll find along the way.

Lake Mansarovar

Lake Mansarovar is a holy destination for pilgrimage. Similarly, you will see a good number of trekkers come for a visit to this lake as a part of their adventure. The main source of Lake Mansarovar is Kailash Parvat.

In your journey to Kailash, this lake is going to be a major highlight. The serene lake looks beautiful all year long. You will find yourself immersed in the beauty of the blue lake which holds a spiritual energy of its own.

Rakshasatal

Rakshasatal, or Demon Lake, is a lake that did not originate naturally. Ancient Hindu stories suggest that the lake was dug by Rakshasa King Ravana. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. When he could not impress God with his spiritual efforts, he offered God Rakshasatal.

The lake is still present in the present-day Kailash region. Just like Lake Mansarovar, Rakshasatal also holds great spiritual energy.

Snowcap in Kailash Parvat Never Melts

The snowcap in Kailash Parvat has remained the same since millennials. It is believed that the snow caps in the mountain never melt. As of the current time, global warming has made a negative impact on all mountains around the world, including the famous mountain chain, the Himalayas.

On the other hand, Kailash Parvat seemingly has not been impacted by the changes in nature. The snow remains at the top of the mountain all year long. Even the most intense summer season has not been able to melt the snow in Mount Kailash.

Man-Made Appearance of Kailash Parvat

Most mountains are either pointy or have a shape that cannot be considered unique. This is not the case for Kailash Parvat. The mountain top resembles a human-made pyramid. There aren’t many mountains in the world that look similar to this mountain.

Moreover, the faith among devotees that Lord Shiva resides in Kailash Parvat is made stronger because of the shape of the mountain. It is easy to believe that the mountain accommodates God and his consort Goddess Parvati.

Where is Mount Kailash Located?

Mount Kailash is located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The mountain is close to China, Nepal, and India. Hence, it can be climbed from any of the countries. Kailash Parvat falls among the peaks in the Transhimalaya or Gangdise mountains range.

The mountain is situated in the lap of Tibet. The Tibetan mountain holds prominence not only in Tibetan culture but among cultures throughout the world. Even though the peak is in Tibet, it is not just the Tibetan people who have culturally influenced the region.

You would find an equal number of Hindu, Buddhist, Bon, and Jain followers on their journey to the mountain. The nationalities of visitors are not limited either. Yet, since Mount Kailash is in Tibet, you will find a heavy influence of Buddhist and Chinese culture in the food, lifestyle, and the inhabitants along the trails.

How Can You Go To Kailash Parvat?

Mount Kailash is accessible from more than just a location in the world. You can be from any country, including those in the West, and reach Mount Kailash without difficulty by flight. The most convenient route to Kailash Parvat would be from Kathmandu, Nepal.

The regulations in Tibet are slightly more strict than those in Nepal. Traveling directly to Tibet can often be problematic due to visa, permit, and route difficulties. Nepal’s regulations for tourists are more laid-back.

When you go to Kailash Parvat directly from Nepal, you can spend a few days in Kathmandu and explore the city as well. The amenities are mostly very cheap in comparison to those of any other country from where you can access Kailash Parvat. This becomes an instant advantage for visitors who are on a budget.

Additionally, you can process your Chinese visa from Kathmandu. The entire process is going to take a few days. Since you will be traveling or going on short excursions around the city, you won’t be wasting days in the hotel room. Instead, you will have more to explore.

Processing your visa on your own can put you in a challenging spot. To make things easier,
Above The Himalaya will handle not just your Chinese visa processing but almost every other aspect that might otherwise make your journey difficult.

With us, you can enjoy safe and smooth travel from your country to Tibet. We also follow an unchanging itinerary which makes it simpler for travelers to move from one place to another without delays.

Major Attractions in Mount Kailash

There are plenty of attractions in Mount Kailash that are not even close compared to any location worldwide. This is mostly because of the many religious sites that are present in the region with evidence.

Some attractions in Kailash Parvat are popular mostly because of their natural beauty. You can find the attractions below during your Kailash Parvat journey:

Mountains, Including Kailash Parvat

Mount Kailash is not the only attraction source when it comes to the mountains in the region, though it is the major one. There are plenty of mountains like Om Parvat, Adi Kailash, and a few other mountains in the same mountain chain.

The peaks look brilliant all year long because most of the peaks never see their snowcaps melt. You will see a good number of visitors traveling to and from the peak all year long. The mountains also have religious significance, which further makes your journey exciting.

Lakes and Rivers

There are plenty of lakes and rivers in the Kailash Parvat region. The Kailash Parvat is the foundation of rivers like the Indus River, Brahmaputra River, Karnali River, and Sutlej River. Each river is located in different regions in and outside of Tibet.

Besides the rivers, the lakes that we’ve mentioned above, Lake Mansarovar, and Rakshsatal are just as beautiful. All these water sources usually give visitors the aesthetic sight their eyes would crave, especially if they are from urban cities.

Tibetan Culture

You will never feel as at home yet experience uniqueness in the form of traditions as you will in Tibet. The Tibetan culture is not only limited to the food and lifestyle of the people. The places are highly influenced by the Tibetan people.

Chinese culture has spread all over the Kailash region for centuries. As of now, the main language of the Kailash Parvat area is Tibetan. People are quite hospitable as they are very used to having visitors all year long.

Monasteries

There were many sages who had their influence around the Kailash region. There is a famous monastery called Tirthapuri monastery, which is among the smaller monasteries in the Kailash Parvat area.

You can pay your visit to these monasteries as a short excursion during your tour. The monasteries hold an essence of Buddhism and Tibetan culture but are open for visits regardless of the visitor’s religion.

Milarepa’s Cave

The only person who is said to have been successful in climbing Kailash Parvat is Milarepa. He had meditated in a cave for a long period which is now known as the Milarepa cave. The cave has not changed its form over the years.

This cave becomes an attraction for anyone who pays a visit to Mount Kailash. You will find pilgrims lined up in this cave as well. Once, a very quiet and abandoned cave during the time of the sage himself, it can never seen without visitors now.

Darchen Town

Darchen town is the location from where your Kailash Parvat tour will start. There are plenty of festivals that are celebrated by the locals of Darchen. The town is mostly rural but it is very lively. The peak seasons mostly call for the happy noises of tourists and the festive seasons are just as brilliant.

The townspeople mostly follow Tibetan and Buddhist culture. You can find the people of Darchen follow Hinduism to a good extent as well. In comparison to all the other locations in China, you are likely to find the most Hindu population in Darchen.

Tirthapura Hot Spring

Visitors can take a dip at the Tirthapura hot spring. The spring water is sourced naturally from the mountain. Of course, the rules and regulations of the Kailash Parvat region are strict, but you can still enjoy a warm dip in the spring water without restriction.

The hot spring is a great attraction and has healing energy. Taking a short dip in the water can relieve your stress and help you relax on your otherwise active trip.

Best Season To Visit Kailash

There are the best seasons to visit Kailash Parvat. The mountain is crowded all year long but it sees more people in a few seasons in comparison to others. You can decide which season to pay the visit as per your preference, which may depend on the factors mentioned according to the different seasons below:

Summer and Monsoon

Kailash Parvat sees a lesser number of visitors in summer and monsoon in comparison to winter, fall, and spring. Summer and monsoon seasons also invite heavy rainfall. If you are not an experienced trekker or have not gone to the mountains before, then it is best to avoid these seasons.

The main reason why you will not see as many visitors in summer and monsoon is because there is heavier rainfall during these times of the year. The rainfall causes your routes to become slippery and the possibility of snow and water falling on your pathway always invites danger.

It is just as sunny and hot during summer time which may cause irritation and delay in touring and trekking days among the travelers. Likewise, there have also been times when experienced trekkers completed their journey in Kailash Parvat even during these seasons.

Anyone who has a tight budget but the right expertise to trek during the summer season might benefit. The cost of amenities is mostly lower during the off seasons like summer and monsoon. Airfares are possibly going to be cheaper as well.

Winter

Winter is popular for Kailash Parvat excursions among adventurers and pilgrims worldwide. You have to be extra cautious when you are trekking during this season because of the extreme cold and snowfall.

The view of the mountain becomes unbelievably serene and lovely when you look from afar, especially if you are in Darchen. Your tour or trek to the mountain, however, can be a bit challenging if you are not seasoned as a trekker or a mountaineer.

A beginner trekker might prefer to go for the peak seasons instead of touring the mountain during winter. An adrenaline junkie with more experience might opt for this season for a memorable adventure.

Since you won’t be climbing the mountain, your journey has the chance of being easier than you may think. If you want to complete your Kailash Parvat trip with ease, then it is best to go there during the peak seasons.

Like summer and monsoon, the cost of amenities in Kailash Parvat is going to be slightly less than it will during the peak seasons. Airfares are possibly going to be cheaper too. A beginner should, however, choose peak seasons to remain comfortable and secure all trip long.

Fall

You will see a good number of trekkers and pilgrims approach Kailash Parvat during the fall. This is the season when you can get the most appropriate temperature for travel at a higher altitude. The scenery of the mountains and the town below won’t disappoint you in any way, either.

Travelers often find themselves immersed in the holy beauty of the mountain and the blue sky that perfectly complements the peaks and lakes of the Kailash region. The area does not have too many wildlife species. Despite this, you can spot some Himalayan fauna species roaming around.

A photographer can get the best opportunity to click a picture when he is in Kailash Parvat. The photos will have the clarity they need to look good as well. The temperature of Kailash is just as perfect for the visitors whether they are trekking or on a pilgrimage.

If you want to travel in the back of a mule, then that can be easily made possible because the trails are clear from rainfall and snow. The roads are not slippery which makes your trip simpler and enjoyable.

The main advantage of going on the Kailash Parvat tour during the fall is that you won’t have to delay your trip days. Delays and postponements are made due to bad weather conditions. So is never the case during this season.

Along with more availability of proper amenities, you will get more opportunities to interact with travelers from different countries. This gives you the chance to know more about people from other nations, learn their language, and culture, and share opinions and knowledge about trekking or religion.

Spring

By far, the best season for both beginner and experienced travelers to travel to Kailash Parvat is spring. During the spring season, the sky is very clear and mostly blue. The bluish tint of the sky makes the mountains even more attractive.

You can take amazing pictures even from afar during this season. The lakes look their best during this season because of the seasonal favorability. Trekking and pilgrimage are always simpler even for someone who has never trekked or gone on a pilgrimage before.

While visiting Kailash Parvat during most seasons, as mentioned above, might tire you, your body will not feel very tired during spring. The amenities available in the Kailash region this season will also make you feel comfortable.

The roads are not very slippery due to snow and rainfall either. Clear and dry roads are much easier to cover in comparison to pathways that are filled with snow or with water puddles everywhere.

There is always a crowd of visitors who visit the mountain during this season, which opens opportunities for higher social interactions. Tourists from all around the world often share their views on the mountain and their own country, as well as their knowledge and experiences.

You can get the perfect chance to interact with people and learn about their culture and language. Plenty of celebrations in this season will make your travel even more interactive in Kailash Parvat.

The Kailash Saga Dawa festival is the most popular celebration during May or June, representing the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar. At this festival, the sky is filled with kites, you will find yourself devouring delicacies like never before, and music or dances that are as fun to view as they are religiously significant.

You will also find the weather and temperature to be perfect. If you’re lucky, then Himalayan wildlife will appear in front of you giving you a sight of a lifetime. In spring, the chances of this happening are higher than in any other season.

Things To Remember On Your Journey To Kailash Parvat

Even with our guidance, going to Kailash Parvat will require you to remember a few things by yourself. These things are not very tough to remember or follow but require some discipline and mindfulness:

Don’t Use Swear Words or Act Insensitively

When you are in a holy location, it becomes your responsibility to act in a civil manner. When you use swear words or act in an insensitive manner, you will trigger people around you. The locals, as well as the people traveling with you, may take action against you.

Be Respectful Towards Tibetan Culture

The Tibetan people are welcoming and will treat you with great respect if you also act respectfully. Making fun of their language or culture may lead to serious consequences. You should also keep in mind to talk in a smaller tone when you visit monasteries.

Being respectful towards the Tibetan culture also includes wearing the right kind of clothes when you go to the monasteries. It is best if you keep your footwear outside the monastery before you enter.

Learning a few words in their language can work as a form of respect. Greeting the locals will also help you in getting help and engaging in social interactions.

Travel Insurance Is Important

You need to travel with a peace of mind. When travelers go to a location like Kailash Parvat without travel insurance, they may feel insecure along the way. We assure you that if you are careful and prepared enough, your journey will be simple and safe. But having travel insurance will keep your mind at peace when you are on this trip.

Don’t Litter

Littering Kailash Parvat region is going to be disrespectful towards the locals. Make sure to keep the surroundings as clean as possible. You can keep garbage inside your bag and later dump it in a garbage can.

Pack Wisely

Many travelers make mistakes in packing. When you overpack, you will have to carry more load than necessary which also makes your trip difficult. For some travelers, the traveling budget can also exceed because they have to pay for a porter.

Underpacking can also be an issue. You only need to pack what you need. It can be impossible to borrow essentials from other travelers due to a lack of resources in the mountains. Henceforth, it is best to prepare a list of all the things you will need before starting your trip.

Mental and Physical Preparation

Your trip is going to be either easy enough or too challenging for you. This will entirely depend on the skills and preparation you have before the travel to Kailash Parvat starts. Training every day for a few hours by going for a short run, walking a few kilometers from your house, climbing stairs, and practicing cardio can be of good help.

In order to prepare yourself mentally, you have to do proper research about Kailash Parvat. There are plenty of blogs you can check and many magazines in a local library or videos on the internet can suggest the hardships and the level of easiness related to this travel.

You also should prepare to challenge yourself physically and mentally because even if you don’t have to climb the mountain, the peak region is not the easiest to conquer. Anyone with good mental clarity and physical fitness can proceed with the trip without issue.

Additionally, you can consult with our experts at Above The Himalaya Trekking to get thorough
details about the trek by phone. If you are in a trekking circle, you can also take advice from the trekkers who have gone on the Kailash Parvat trip before.

Even a pilgrim can seek advice and information from our experts or connect with someone with interests alike. When you follow the tips we have mentioned, there will be no doubt of ease in your Kailash Parvat trip.

Conclusion

Kailash Parvat is an example of heaven on Earth. From the peaceful mountains that are shaped like Shiva linga to the serenity of a location that is always crowded yet is the most tranquil on the planet, you will feel it all during your trip to Kailash Parvat.

The mountain has yet to be traveled by pilgrims of old age and young travelers. Therefore, it is as safe as can be. All you have to do is be careful and mindful during the trip, and the rest will be handled by the tour operators at Above The Himalaya Trekking.

Most Asked Questions

Can I book the Kailash Parvat trip for 2025?

Yes, you can book the trip to Kailash Mansarovar yatra for 2025 now. Contact us through our contact number or simply connect with us on Whatsapp or email.

Is visiting Kailash Parvat from America possible?

You can easily visit Kailash Parvat from America by first landing in Nepal. Your journey from America to Kailash and back would take around 16 days.

To what extent can I access Kailash Parvat?

Travelers will be able to take a round of Kailash Parvat during their tour. Touching or attempting to climb the mountain is strictly prohibited.