Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar Tour

Lake Mansarovar: The Sacred Lake

Lake Mansarovar, located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, is one of the holiest and highest freshwater lakes in the world. It sits at an altitude of 4,590 meters (15,060 feet), near Mount Kailash, and holds deep religious and spiritual significance.

Religious and Mythological Significance

1.     Hinduism:

• Believed to be created by Lord Brahma, the lake is considered a symbol of purity.
• A dip in the waters is said to cleanse all sins and help attain moksha (liberation).
• Linked to Lord Shiva and Parvati, often mentioned in Hindu scriptures.

2.     Buddhism:

• Considered the Lake of Consciousness and associated with Buddha’s teachings.
• Tibetan Buddhists believe that Queen Maya, Buddha’s mother, was spiritually purified by its waters before giving birth.

3.     Jainism:

• Known as "Pundarika Lake", it is believed to be the place where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, attained spiritual liberation.

4.     Bön Religion:

• Considered sacred and associated with their supreme deity, Tonpa Shenrab.

Geographical Features

• Size: Approximately 88 km (55 miles) in circumference.
• Depth: Around 90 meters (300 feet).
• Type: Freshwater lake.
• Source: Fed by melting glaciers from the Kailash region.
• Nearby Lake: Rakshastal (Lake of Demons), which has salty water and is associated with Ravana in Hindu mythology.

Pilgrimage and Parikrama (Circumambulation)

• Many pilgrims perform a circumambulation (kora) of the lake, which is about 90 km (56 miles).
• Bathing in the lake and drinking its water are believed to purify the soul.

How to Visit Mansarovar Lake

Routes to Reach

1.     Via Nepal:

• Kathmandu → Simikot → Hilsa → Taklakot → Gyirong → Saga →Mansarovar
• Popular among Indian pilgrims as part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

2.     Via Lhasa (Tibet, China):

• Lhasa → Shigatse → Saga → Lake Manasarovar

Best Time to Visit

• May to September (summer months) when the weather is favorable.
• Avoid winter (October to April) due to extreme cold and high-altitude conditions.

If Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is in your travel bucket list, you can link here for a more comprehensive trip plan: https://tibetuniversaltravel.com/tour/lhasa-everest-kailash-guge-expedition-tour/

Or you can email us on losal@tibetuniversaltravel.com