Mount Kailash, a majestic peak rising to 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) in the remote region of Tibet, is much more than just a mountain. It holds deep spiritual significance for millions of people around the world.
Revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, Mount Kailash is often regarded as the spiritual center of the universe. Despite its grandeur, it remains one of the most mysterious and enigmatic places on Earth.
In this blog, we’ll uncover some interesting facts about Mount Kailash that highlight its religious, cultural, and geographical importance. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a trekker, or simply fascinated by sacred landmarks, these facts will help you understand why Mount Kailash is one of the most awe-inspiring and revered places on the planet.
1. No One Has Ever Climbed Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash remains one of the few unclimbed peaks in the world. Despite its relatively moderate height compared to other Himalayan giants, no one has ever successfully summited it—and it’s not because of the challenge.
Climbing Mount Kailash is strictly forbidden due to its immense religious significance. Many believe that scaling the sacred mountain would be a sacrilege, as it is considered the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism.
In fact, even seasoned mountaineers, like Reinhold Messner, have refrained from climbing it out of respect for its spiritual importance.
2. Mount Kailash Has Many Names
While many of us know it as Mount Kailash, the sacred mountain is referred to by various names in different religions and cultures. In Hinduism, it’s called Kailash Parvat and is believed to be the spiritual abode of Lord Shiva.
In Buddhism, it is known as Kang Rinpoche, meaning “Precious Snow Mountain.” Jainism refers to the mountain as Ashtapada, where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, attained Nirvana.
In the Bon religion, it is called the “Nine-Story Swastika Mountain.” These names reflect the mountain’s deep-rooted significance across various spiritual traditions.
3. It’s the Axis Mundi: The Center of the Universe
Many ancient texts describe Mount Kailash as the Axis Mundi, or the center of the universe. In Hindu cosmology, it is regarded as the cosmic axis, connecting the heavens, Earth, and the underworld.
Tibetan Buddhists believe that Mount Kailash is the home of Demchok, a wrathful deity representing supreme bliss. The mountain is also considered the earthly representation of Mount Meru, the mythological axis of the world, in both Hinduism and Buddhism.
4. Four Major Rivers Have Their Source Near Kailash
Mount Kailash is not only a spiritual hub but also a geographical marvel. Four of Asia’s major rivers originate near the mountain, supplying water to a significant portion of the continent.
These rivers are the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali (Ghaghara). These rivers are lifelines for millions of people across South Asia, and their source near Mount Kailash only adds to the mountain’s significance.
5. The Sacred Kailash Parikrama
One of the most revered activities for pilgrims on their trip to Mount Kailash is performing the Kailash Parikrama or Kora—a 52-kilometer (32-mile) circumambulation around the mountain. The Parikrama is considered a deeply spiritual act, believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring spiritual merit.
Completing the Parikrama is a physically demanding task due to the high altitude, with the highest point being the Dolma La Pass, at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet). For many, this sacred walk is the highlight of their pilgrimage.
6. The Mystery of the Swastika Shadows
One of the most intriguing phenomena associated with Mount Kailash is the Swastika-shaped shadow that appears on the southern face of the mountain at certain times of the day.
The Swastika is a sacred symbol in many cultures, symbolizing good fortune, and its natural appearance on the mountain adds to the sense of mysticism and wonder surrounding Kailash. For Buddhists, the Swastika-shaped shadow is seen as a sign of auspiciousness, further emphasizing the mountain’s divine nature.
7. Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar
Located near the base of Mount Kailash is the Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. The lake holds great spiritual significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.
According to Hindu mythology, the lake was created by Lord Brahma and is believed to purify the soul. Pilgrims often combine their visit to Mount Kailash with a dip in the sacred waters of Lake Mansarovar, believing that it absolves sins and brings peace to the mind and soul.
8. It’s a Pilgrimage Site for Multiple Religions
One of the unique aspects of Mount Kailash is that it is a pilgrimage site for four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Each religion has its own legends and spiritual significance associated with the mountain.
For Hindus, it is the abode of Lord Shiva. Buddhists believe it to be the home of Demchok, while Jains revere it as the site where Rishabhadeva attained enlightenment.
The Bon religion also considers Kailash as their most sacred mountain. This shared reverence makes Kailash a symbol of unity across diverse spiritual traditions.
9. Pilgrims Perform the Parikrama on Foot, While Some Prostrate
While many pilgrims walk around Mount Kailash, others choose to perform the Parikrama in a more devout manner—by prostrating themselves along the entire path. This means lying face down, then rising and stepping forward to repeat the act continuously until they complete the full circuit. This arduous process can take weeks, but those who undertake it believe it is a supreme act of devotion and spiritual purification.
10. Mount Kailash Is Often Referred to as the Stairway to Heaven
Due to its sheer spiritual importance, many ancient texts and cultures refer to Mount Kailash as the “Stairway to Heaven.” This idea resonates deeply with pilgrims who believe that visiting Kailash brings them closer to the divine.
The mountain’s pyramid-like shape and isolation from other peaks give it an otherworldly appearance, further enhancing the belief that it is a celestial gateway.
Final Thoughts
Mount Kailash is more than just a mountain—it’s a spiritual and cultural icon, revered across different faiths and nations. Its mysterious allure, combined with its unscaled peak and deep religious significance, make it one of the most fascinating places on Earth.
For those seeking both adventure and a connection to the divine, visiting Mount Kailash is a journey unlike any other.
If you’re planning to visit, make sure you prepare both physically and spiritually. Whether you’re there for pilgrimage or sheer curiosity, Mount Kailash promises a life-changing experience filled with mystery, wonder, and deep reverence.
