Mount Kailash Outer Kora Trek: Route, Rituals, and Challenges
The Outer Kora is a commonly followed pilgrimage route during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatrain Tibet. It is a spiritual walk around Mount Kailash. Pilgrims perform Kora to pray, show respect and seek guidance. It is an old practice that lets your mind focus on something deeper.
The Outer Kora is about 52 kilometers long. The majority of the pilgrims manage to complete it in 3 days depending on weather conditions and how their bodies respond to high altitude.
The Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters) is the highest point of outer Kora. The route takes you through rocky paths and demands steep ascents. The main challenge of the journey is thin air of high altitude but the scenery is truly spectacular.
The Outer kora offers a profound feeling of peace and completeness. Many pilgrims believe that completing the kora helps them gain better understanding of spiritual truth. For them, it is a step towards their greater spiritual goal.
The Outer Kora can be challenging but at the same time it helps you have a quiet time for thinking and meditating. While the journey tests patience and determination, it also helps you feel accomplished. In short, Outer Kora helps pilgrims ensure a meaningful journey that combines adventure, nature and spiritual growth.
Major Highlights of Outer Kora or Mount Kailash
Cross Dolma La Pass (approximately 5,630 meters), the toughest and highest point that pilgrims will be during the outer kora.
Visit Dirapuk Gompa. A monastery located at the foothills of the northern side of Mount Kailash. The closest view of Mount Kailash can be seen from this gompa.
A chance to visit Gauri Kunda which is situated at 5,608 m.
An opportunity to visit Zuthulpuk Gompa. A historical site linked to the great yogi Milarepa. This quiet place has meditation caves and offers a serene atmosphere.
Holy rivers and streams along the route where pilgrims can perform rituals and offerings.
Mount Kailash Outer Kora: Quick Insights
Distance: 52 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Total Duration: 3 to 4 days
Beginning Point: Darchen or Tarboche
End Point: Darchen
Ideal Time: May to Mid October
Mount Kailash Outer Kora Route 3 Days
Day 1: Drive from Darchen to Tarboche and trek to Dhiraphuk
The first day of the Mount Kailash kora starts with a scenic drive from Darchen to Tarboche. Darchen is the smallest settlement and the gateway to the divine mountain. On this day, the northern face of Mount Kailash can be seen.
From this place, the travelers usually take a short drive to get to the Tarboche Valley, which is the beginning point of the Kora. Those travelers who do not wish to use a vehicle can go on foot right from Darchen.
The first day of walking can be completed in six to seven hours. This day has a great religious meaning as it indicates the start of the sacred parikrama around Mount Kailash. The pilgrims reach Dhiraphuk (4,900 m) by late evening marking the spiritual ending to the day.
Dhiraphuk lies directly north of Mount Kailash. It has a handful of shops and basic lodges. At this scenic place, pilgrims can explore the serene nearby monasteries which adds to a meaningful spiritual highlight to the day.
Day 2: Trek to Zutulpuk via Dolma La Pass
The second day of Kora is considered one of the most strenuous stages. You will depart from Dhiraphuk early in the morning. This day, you can feel the increase in altitude with each step. The air is thin, so it is essential to move in a slow, calm and quiet rhythm.
The ascent is challenging with uneven sections. Most of the pilgrims make their way slowly to conserve their energy. Close to the top of the pass, you can spot a landmark which is considered as the stone of compassion. It is wrapped in layers of prayer flags offered by the pilgrims over the years.
Continuing further, you will reach the top of the pass. After reaching there pilgrims descend to Gauri Kund. This downhill navigation to Gauri Kunda is considered one of the toughest parts of the whole journey due to the loose gravel, slippery areas, and steepness. This lake is religiously significant for many pilgrims.
After the steep descent to Gauri Kunda, the route takes you along the broad and peaceful valley. The trail leading you to Zuthulphuk monastery becomes relatively easier to traverse.
By late afternoon, pilgrims reach Zuthulpuk Monastery. Reaching the monastery means you have completed the most physically challenging day of the Outer Kailash kora.
Day 3: Zutulphuk Monastery to Darchen
The final kora day starts off at the Zuthulpuk Monastery. The route passes through a wide valley. Along the way, you will mostly pass through flat sections. So, walking becomes relatively easier compared to the first two days. The path also has some sandy sections and scattered stones.
You will be walking through the wide path while heading down on this day. So, navigation becomes relatively easier. As you progress, the landscape softens into open plains. Then, you will come across prayer stones, mani walls and little bridges.
Soon afterwards, you will reach Darchen, which marks our completion of the Mt. Kailash circuit. The completion of the Outer Kora rewards you with feeling of accomplishment, tranquillity and gratitude.
Mount Kailash Outer Kora Trek: Rituals
The Outer Kora itself is the central ritual of the Mount Kailash pilgrimage. It is believed that walking around the sacred mountain in clockwise direction is an act of deep devotion and purification.
The pilgrims cover entire circuit on foot. They walk approximately 52 kilometers. This journey is undertaken with mindfulness and with utmost respect for the sacred land. The pilgrims take the journey very slowly reciting mantras and spinning prayer wheels.
The Outer Kora has spiritual significance. It is a symbol of the soul’s movement toward liberation. The devotees believe that completing whole circuit enhances inner peace and cleanses past karma.
Some other rituals that are practiced by pilgrims during the Outer Kora are:
Reciting Sacred Mantras and Offering Prayers
During the pilgrimage, people chant mantras to seek blessings. The sound of these prayers fills the valleys creating a powerful sense of spiritual energy along the route.
The pilgrims stop at significant spots like monasteries, stupas and natural sacred sites to pray. They also make the offerings. These performed rituals are very significant as they are acts of devotion that express the pilgrims’ respect for Mount Kailash.
Prostrations
During the pilgrimage many devotees perform full body prostration. It is an expression of deep humility and devotion.
By lowering their forehead, hands and knees to ground pilgrims symbolically release their ego to get spiritual blessings and feel divine energy of Mount Kailash. Many pilgrims perform prostration at key locations on the route.
Offering Prayer flags
The practice of offering prayer flags during Mount Kailash Outer Kora along the route is one of the most sacred and important rituals. It is common for the believers to attach the colorful prayer flags to holy places or monasteries.
Each flag has prayers and mantras written on it, and the wind is thought to be the carrier of these blessings for the spreading of goodwill, compassion and spiritual energy across the mountains. Some pilgrims, along with the flag also place mani stones or small offerings to express gratitude and connect with their faith.
Spiritual and Symbolic Dip in Sacred Waters
Many pilgrims believe immersing themselves in Lake Manasarovarand Rakshastal can help them purify their spirit. Currently, due to the local regulation, entering the lake directly is prohibited. So, pilgrims can perform the dip symbolically by taking some water for their rituals at specific designated areas.
The symbolic dip is believed to remove negative energies which help pilgrims ensure a meaningful spiritual journey.
Meditation
Many Pilgrims choose to do meditation during the journey for mental purity and spiritual insight. The tranquil atmosphere of the mountain inspires pilgrims to meditate. The quiet mountain surroundings help pilgrims feel peaceful.
By doing meditation, they can think clearly and feel closer to nature. In addition, through mediation, pilgrims often feel calm and strong. They can become more aware of themselves, which makes this journey a truly meaningful experience.
Challenges of the Outer Kora
The Outer Kora around Mount Kailash is generally manageable with the right preparation. However, it does have some challenges that should not be underestimated.
This holy Kora takes place in one of the world’s most isolated high altitude regions which tests your endurance. Here are some notable challenges of the Outer Kora:
High Elevation
The high elevation throughout the route is one of the major factors that contribute to the difficulty of the Outer Kora. Most of the time you will be at an altitude above 4,500 meters and even cross Dolma La Pass which stands at over 5,630 meters.
At this altitude low oxygen may lead to altitude sickness. Walking in such paths on foot can be difficult. So, it is important to take the time for acclimatization and keep walking at a slow, comfortable pace in order to survive these harsh conditions.
Tough Trail Conditions
The Kora is a physically demanding activity that requires lengthy hours of walking over rocky and rugged paths. In addition, you will have to make steep climbs and descents at several sections.
When the pilgrims cross the Dolma La Pass it can be particularly exhausting due to steep and uneven path. The high altitude trails and tough trails should be traversed with caution to stay safe and secure.
Weather Conditions
The weather in the area of Mount Kailash is unpredictable. The sunny day can change to gloomy with strong winds quickly.
Also, it is common for the temperatures to drop suddenly, especially in the area close to the high pass areas. So, it is crucial to have the right layering to adjust quickly to weather related changes.
Keeping updated on real time weather and trail conditions with your guide and heading out only in secure conditions is also necessary.
Mental Fatigue
While Outer Korea is physically demanding, it also requires you to have a lot of mental strength. The long drive during the initial phase, being at an unfamiliar high altitude can be difficult to adapt to for some.
Just thinking about the long distance that is still ahead can be mentally draining, creating self-doubt, anxiety, or a feeling of tiredness before the body is actually tired.
So, being mentally prepared is a must.
It is essential to have realistic expectations about the journey. In addition, you must also have patience and endurance.
You may break the journey into small and manageable stages. You have to maintain a slow walking rhythm. Also, remembering the purpose of doing Kora can help ease mental pressure.
You may practice calm breathing and do meditation to save mental energy and gradually get to the destination with self-assuredness, resilience and calmness.
Inner and Outer Kora: How do They Differ
The Outer Kora and Inner Kora vary mainly because of the accessibility and difficulty level. The Outer Kora is a pilgrimage around Mount Kailash, which lasts for around 3 days. Although the adaptation to altitude can be the biggest challenge, it is mostly manageable for most of the pilgrims who are reasonably fit.
On the other hand, the Inner Kora is an ultimate adventure. The trek is of a much shorter distance than that of the Outer Kora and can be completed in a day or two, which can be totally exhausting and draining. Generally, the inner kora is only recommended for those pilgrims who have a high level of fitness and some high altitude experience.
The Inner Kora is very much spiritual and thoroughly isolated. It gives a rare opportunity to walk through the sacred sites but also requires strong mental stamina. It is suitable for well prepared trekkers or devoted pilgrims seeking deep spiritual immersion. Those who can handle tougher physical challenges can also opt for the inner kora.
The choice between the Outer and Inner Kora is a matter of personal endurance and trekking experience. If your physical condition is moderate and you want a rewarding spiritual trip then the Outer Kora is the perfect choice. On the contrary, if you are fit and experienced in high altitude trekking and want a remote experience, Inner Kora can be a good choice.
Tips for a Smooth Completion of Mount Kailash Outer Kora Trek
Prepare yourself physically by doing cardio and strength exercises at least 4 to 6 months before the trip.
Hike to nearby hilly areas to get familiar with navigating the varied paths.
Dress in layers. It can help you adapt to the varying temperatures. Make sure to pack comfortable thermals. Warm jackets and windproof outerwear is also essential for the journey.
Wear reliable footwear while trekking. Waterproof trekking boots are a must. Also, bring light sandals for the hours of resting.
Bring the necessary trekking gear like trekking poles and flashlights.
Carry essential items in first aid like high altitude medications, sanitizer and personal medicines in your backpack.
Eat nutrient rich meals.
Follow acclimatization techniques to adjust to the high altitude. Walk gradually.
Stay hydrated.
Pack light but smart. Carry essential documents, permits, and emergency contacts in a daypack.
Follow the instructions provided by your local guide.
