Acharya Karan V -In Hinduism, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Hindus consider it as a pilgrimage site and visit it to offer their obeisance to the Lord. The entire Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has a special significance in every pilgrim, if the icy mountains of Mount Kailash fill the pilgrims with awe, bowing before Lord Shiva. The fresh and rejuvenating water of Lake Mansarovar strengthens their faith, cleansing their soul from the burden of the past deeds.

Located at an altitude of 15 thousand feet above sea level, the Mansarovar Lake is believed to be the only freshwater lake in the world, situated at such a high altitude above sea levels. The lake has the source of many other rivers nearby, like Sutlej, Bharamputra and Indus. According to the Hindu mythology, the lake or “Sarovar” in Sanskrit first originated in Lord Brahma’s mind or “Manas” and later it appeared on the Earth, hence it was named “Mansarovara”

The religious passion of the devotees is very much evident for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, by the fact that they come all the way from various parts of the world, only to trudge through the icy deserts and mountains throwing extreme weather conditions at them. It’s each side or face of Mount Kailash has a name i.e. Southern side is called the Sapphire face, Northern as Gold, Eastern as Crystal and Western as Ruby. Even the adverse atmospheric conditions are not able to dampen their spirits and determination to take a dip in the holy lake. Hindus believe that taking a ritual bath in the lake will ensure their posthumous trip to the abode of Lord Shiva and drinking the water will cleanse their soul from all the sins committed not in one but hundred lives. There is a total fifty three kilometre parikrama (encircling route) known as Kailash parikrama.

In Buddism, the Mansarovar Lake holds a sacred place. It is believed that, Buddha, after receiving the nirvana, meditated around this lake a lot. He also delivered lots of religious discourses around the lake. The lake is also quite popular with Tibetan Culture. Mesmerized and influenced by the sanctity and serenity of the place, many Tibetan monks chose the place to build their monastery. One visiting the lake can witness lots of Tibetan Monasteries around Mansarovar. The famous “Chiu” monastery – built on a hill – is also located here. In Jainism Kailash Mountain is referred to as Asthapada the nirvana place of Guru Rishadev.

The Kailash Mansarovar has been a sacred place for ages. Each entity in this region is blessed and related to several of the folklore and fabulous stories from primeval scriptures and narrative tales. Devotees visiting the place with the flame of faith in their hearts are bound to have their wishes fulfilled.