In recent years, the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Kailash believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, has been suspended. However, the Uttarakhand Tourism Department is now considering offering pilgrims the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Mount Kailash from the old Lipulekh peak.
This alternative route, located on the western side of the Lipulekh Pass, which serves as the gateway to Tibet, could provide a spiritual and scenic experience for devotees. Let’s explore this development in more detail.
About Mount Kailash Mansaroval Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a highly revered pilgrimage, particularly for Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain devotees. It offers a unique opportunity to visit the extraordinary form of Lord Shiva, represented by a distinct black granite structure that includes the sacred Shivalingam. Mount Kailash, the holiest mountain on Earth, is revered and worshipped by pilgrims, yogis, and devotees from around the globe.
Undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered the ultimate “Tirth Yatra”, enlightening the ignorant and expanding the mind to perceive new meanings in life. This journey to the abode of Lord Shiva, Nirvana, is both a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and a profoundly sacred experience.
The Significance of Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash holds immense significance as the holiest mountain, revered by four major religions. In Hinduism, it is believed to be the divine throne of Lord Shiva. In Buddhism, the mountain is associated with the highest tantric meditation deity, Demchong, symbolizing supreme bliss. Even before the advent of Buddhism in Tibet, the indigenous Bon religion considered Mount Kailash sacred. According to Bon mythology, the founder of Bon, Shenrab, descended from heaven at Mount Kailash.
Hence, followers of the Bon religion view the entire region around Kailash as mystical, considering the mountain to be a nine-story swastika, the seat of all spiritual power. For all these religions, Mount Kailash is the origin of four rivers—the Indus, Brahmaputra, Sutlej, and Karnali—which symbolize the life-giving forces dividing the world into four regions.
The Suspension of Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra
The Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra through the Lipulekh Pass was last conducted in 2019. Unfortunately, it was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has not resumed since. This indefinite suspension has left countless pilgrims yearning for a chance to embark on this sacred journey.
Exploring Lipulekh Peak as a Religious Tourism Destination
To find an alternative to the traditional Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, a team consisting of tourism department officials, district authorities, adventure tourism experts, and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) officials recently visited the old Lipulekh peak. Their objective was to assess the feasibility of developing this spot as a religious tourism destination.
The Potential of ‘Kailash Darshan’ from the Old Lipulekh Peak
The team’s findings suggest that ‘Kailash Darshan’ from the old Lipulekh Peak could serve as a viable alternative to the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. Pilgrims who are unable to undertake the arduous journey to Mount Kailash due to age or health concerns can now have a spiritual experience by visiting the peak.
The Journey to the Peak
Situated at an altitude of 19,000 feet above sea level, the old Lipulekh Peak offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash. To reach the peak, a snow scooter can transport pilgrims from the base, which is conveniently located 1,800 meters from the Lipulekh Pass.
However, it’s important to note that the journey is not without challenges. The ascent is marked by gusty winds and four critical bends that require careful navigation.
The Role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
The Border Roads Organisation has played a crucial role in facilitating access to the old Lipulekh Peak. They have constructed a road that extends up to the base of the peak, making it easier for pilgrims to reach this spiritual destination. Their efforts have greatly contributed to opening up the Lipulekh Pass region for religious tourism.
The Experience of Vyas Valley Residents
Residents of Vyas Valley have expressed their support for the exploration of Lipulekh Peak as an alternative pilgrimage site. In the past, pilgrims who were unable to proceed to Mansarovar due to old age or health issues would visit the old Lipulekh peak to catch a glimpse of Mount Kailash.
Visitors to the peak have reported a thrilling and awe-inspiring view of the sacred mountain, with only the challenges of gusty winds and the four critical bends posing potential obstacles.
Conclusion
With the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra currently suspended, the Uttarakhand Tourism Department’s initiative to explore the old Lipulekh Peak as an alternative route is a welcome development. This could offer devotees an opportunity to experience the spiritual presence of Mount Kailash without embarking on the traditional pilgrimage. The efforts of the tourism department, district authorities, adventure tourism experts, and the Border Roads Organisation in assessing and developing this site highlight the commitment to providing a meaningful and accessible spiritual experience.
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