Mount Kailash, located in the remote Transhimalaya range in Tibet, stands as one of the most revered and sacred mountains in the world. Unlike other peaks, Kailash isn’t known for its height or as a destination for climbers; instead, it draws thousands of spiritual seekers and pilgrims each year.
Why is Mount Kailash Sacred?
Mount Kailash holds deep spiritual significance across several major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon faith. In Hinduism, it is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities. Pilgrims from all over the world travel to Mount Kailash to walk around its base in a ritual known as the ‘Parikrama’ or ‘Kora.’ This journey, believed to cleanse one’s sins and lead to spiritual liberation, is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Sacred Site in Multiple Religions
For Buddhists, Mount Kailash is sacred as the home of Demchok, a deity representing ultimate bliss. Like Hindus, Buddhist pilgrims also perform the Kora around the mountain, believing it to be a path to spiritual purification.
In Jainism, the mountain is honored as the place where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, attained liberation. The Bon, an ancient Tibetan religion, also reveres Kailash as the center of the universe and the seat of all spiritual power.
The Mystical Appeal of Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash is not just a physical place but a symbol of the connection between heaven and earth. Its remote location and challenging access add to its mystical allure. Surrounding the mountain are stunning natural landscapes, including the sacred lakes Manasarovar and Rakshastal, which further enhance its spiritual atmosphere.
Is Mount Kailash a Man-Made Pyramid? Exploring Mystical Theories and Ancient Beliefs
In 1999, a team of Russian scientists led by Professor Muldaashev conducted an expedition to Tibet, where they made a bold claim: Mount Kailash is actually an enormous ancient pyramid. Their findings suggest that the peak is a massive man-made structure, surrounded by over 100 smaller pyramids and various monuments, all seemingly aligned toward a central point. This complex is estimated to range from 100 to 1,800 meters high—far surpassing the height of Egypt’s Great Pyramid, which stands at 146 meters. Some theorists believe Mount Kailash could serve as the hub of a global network of sacred sites that exhibit unexplained phenomena.
Mount Kailash: The Axis of the World
Geographic studies support the mystical significance of Mount Kailash, showing that it lies directly in line with Mexico’s Pyramid of the Sun and Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza. Positioned between Stonehenge and Easter Island, Kailash occupies a central point in a world map of ancient wonders, fueling speculation that it’s no ordinary mountain.
The “City of the Gods”: A Monument of Advanced Civilizations?
Muldaashev’s team concluded that the structures around Mount Kailash could be part of the fabled “City of the Gods.” According to their research, this city was allegedly built by an advanced civilization that understood complex energy fields and the manipulation of time and space. These theories have stirred up considerable debate, with many experts challenging the claims due to the lack of concrete archaeological evidence. Nevertheless, the myths surrounding Kailash persist, adding layers to its enigmatic allure.
Mount Kailash: A Stairway to Heaven?
Mount Kailash has long held a special place in ancient texts. In the Vedic scriptures of India, it is revered as the “Axis of the Universe” and the “Stairway to Heaven.” It is believed to bridge Earth with the divine, symbolizing a connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. In these traditions, Kailash serves as a gateway to the celestial realms.
Some also reference theories about a Hollow Earth, which propose that there are entry points on the planet—like the North and South Poles and Mount Kailash—leading to inner worlds with lush vegetation and a temperate climate. Although this theory lacks scientific backing, it adds another layer to the mountain’s mystical reputation.
Why Is Climbing Mount Kailash Forbidden?
Local Tibetan legends warn against attempting to climb Mount Kailash. One popular story recounts a young Tibetan adventurer who set out to reach its summit but was caught in a month-long blizzard that transformed the landscape around him. When he emerged from his shelter, he found that the familiar grasslands had withered, and rivers had disappeared. The legend tells that, in remorse, he stayed on the mountain as a guardian, ultimately turning into a stone statue.
The story has since become a symbolic reminder of Mount Kailash’s sacredness. For Tibetans, Kailash is a holy mountain that no human should disturb, making it an untouchable peak. This belief has solidified its status as an inviolable spiritual barrier for both believers and explorers alike.
Discover More Mysteries About Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash’s mysteries make it a subject of intrigue for spiritual seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and researchers. Whether viewed as a man-made structure, a center of ancient energy, or an untouched holy site, Kailash captivates the world’s imagination, making it one of the most enigmatic mountains on Earth.
The Neighboring “Sacred” and “Ghost” Lakes
The famous Lake Manasarovar, known in Tibetan as “Mapang Yongcuo,” translates to “the jade lake of eternal victory.” This revered “sacred lake” lies next to the ominous Lake Rakshastal, or the “Ghost Lake,” known as “the poisonous black lake” in Tibetan. Unlike its clear and vibrant counterpart, Rakshastal is a saltwater lake with dark blue hues, nearly devoid of life or vegetation. Cattle and wildlife avoid its waters, adding to its eerie reputation. Intriguingly, the presence of these “ghost lakes” beside holy ones is common in Tibet; for example, Serling Tso, or “Ghost Lake,” is near the “Heavenly Lake” Namtso. This duality suggests the presence of light and shadow, yin and yang, coexisting side by side.
According to scientific research, Manasarovar and Rakshastal were once a single lake before geological and climatic changes separated them. This split represents the concept of good and evil as two facets of a single origin, embodying the Taiji principle where opposites coexist as one.
Sunset Symbol: The “Swastika” on Mount Kailash
At sunset, Mount Kailash casts a unique shadow resembling a swastika symbol on its rocky surface. This symbol, revered as a sign of luck and infinite cosmic cycles, adds to the mystical allure of the mountain. Many pilgrims and tourists gather to witness this remarkable shadow, viewing it as a manifestation of Mount Kailash’s spiritual significance.
The Paradoxical Snow Patterns of Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash is a year-round sunlit peak in the region, shining with an unusual glow. Despite not being the highest mountain in its area, it remains covered with snow on its sunny face throughout the year, while the shaded side rarely accumulates snow. This unusual natural occurrence defies conventional weather patterns, presenting an extraordinary sight often associated with the sacred lands of Tibet.
The Legend of Mount Kailash and the Hidden Shambhala
Mount Kailash is deeply intertwined with legends of Shambhala, a mythical kingdom nestled between the Himalayas and the Gobi Desert, representing the ideal spiritual realm in Tibetan Buddhism. Sometimes referred to as Shangri-La, Heaven, or Eden, Shambhala is said to be inhabited by enlightened beings, further shrouding Mount Kailash in a veil of divine mystery. Tibetans believe that spiritual masters continue to reside in this concealed city, enhancing the mountain’s spiritual allure.
The “Face of Shiva” on Mount Kailash
Historical texts such as the Indian epic Ramayana and Tibetan chronicles depict Mount Kailash as an object of reverence dating back to 1000 BCE. In Tibetan, it means “Mountain of the Divine,” while in Sanskrit, it is known as “the abode of Shiva,” one of Hinduism’s supreme deities. Observers have noted that the western face of Mount Kailash resembles a human face, which Hindu devotees interpret as an image of Shiva. The deep grooves circling the mountain’s middle are thought to symbolize the serpent coiled around Shiva’s neck.
Mount Kailash as the Source of Four Great Rivers
Mount Kailash’s glaciers give rise to over 250 streams, including four major rivers that flow from each side of the mountain in the four cardinal directions. These rivers, named after divine animals—the Horse, Lion, Elephant, and Peacock—each originate from a unique source: the Yarlung Tsangpo (Horse), the Sutlej River (Elephant), the Indus (Lion), and the Ganges (Peacock). These sacred rivers flow thousands of miles in separate directions but eventually converge in the Indian Ocean, symbolizing the unity of diverse paths leading to a common destination.
A Journey Like No Other
Visiting Mount Kailash is not just about a physical pilgrimage; it’s a profound spiritual journey. The trek around the mountain is considered to bring about deep personal transformation and enlightenment. Despite the difficulties in reaching it, with strict travel regulations and challenging conditions, the spiritual rewards are said to be immense.
The Mystery of Aging at Mount Kailash’s Peak: Unsolved Phenomenon or Supernatural Forces?
In 1999, the Russian expedition team initially aimed to reach the summit of what they called the “Tibetan Pyramid,” Mount Kailash. However, local lamas advised them to strictly follow a designated route and avoid straying, warning that entering certain tantric areas could have serious consequences. Heeding the lamas’ guidance, the team ultimately abandoned their plan to ascend to the top.
During the climb, four athletes reportedly passed away, experiencing accelerated aging that seemed to resemble rapid cell decay. Others who survived the attempt were stricken with unexplained illnesses within one or two years, leading some to believe that strange energies might be at play. Some locals claim that spending twelve hours near Kailash is equivalent to two weeks elsewhere, as hair and nails supposedly grow faster in the area. This strange phenomenon has led many to question whether mysterious forces reside within the Mount Kailash region.
Did Hitler Send an Expedition to Find Mount Kailash’s Secrets?
According to popular tales, Adolf Hitler allegedly ordered an SS expedition led by Heinrich Harrer to travel to Tibet and locate the mystical land of Shambhala, which was rumored to lie near Mount Kailash, considered by some as the Earth’s axis. The head of the SS, Heinrich Himmler, is said to have believed that reversing the Earth’s axis would allow for time travel, taking Nazi Germany back to 1939 to alter its course in history.
In his book, Tibetan lama Chögyal Namkhai Norbu suggested that an entrance to an inner world lies at Mount Kailash, with Shambhala, an advanced civilization ruled by the deity Amitabha, as its hidden capital. In Tibetan Buddhism, Mount Kailash is seen as an earthly representation of Mount Meru, a mythical mountain at the center of the universe, possessing immense spiritual energy.
This intertwining of myth and Nazi ambition fuels a curious connection between Mount Kailash and legends of a subterranean Shambhala. For the Nazis, accessing a hidden civilization with advanced energy sources and the power to manipulate time might have been an irresistible goal in their desperate attempt to change the tide of war.
Mount Kailash and Kunlun: A Parallel to Chinese Mythology
Some believe Mount Kailash resembles China’s mythical Kunlun Mountain, home to divine realms and often viewed as a gateway to parallel worlds. Like Kunlun, Mount Kailash is a sacred symbol that exists not only in physical form but in the realms of spiritual belief. This enigmatic quality places Kailash in the unique position of bridging the material world with the mystical, much like other legendary places that seem to exist across parallel universes.
Plan Your Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash
If you’re seeking a journey that transcends the physical and touches the spiritual, Mount Kailash is a destination like no other. Whether you’re drawn by its religious significance, its mystical beauty, or the promise of spiritual growth, a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Make sure to plan your trip carefully, considering the travel restrictions and necessary preparations, to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual journey of a lifetime.
The Tale of Mount Kailash: Buddhism vs. Bön for the Sacred Mountain
In 1093, a legendary dispute erupted between two revered masters—Milarepa of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and Naro Bonchung, a master of the indigenous Bön religion. Naro Bonchung, seeing Mount Kailash as a sacred Bön site, opposed Milarepa’s intent to meditate there. Unable to resolve their differences, they agreed to a contest of spiritual power: whoever reached the peak of Mount Kailash first would claim the mountain for their faith.
As the race began, Naro Bonchung sped toward the summit, while Milarepa calmly slept. Just as Naro Bonchung approached the top, he was shocked to find Milarepa already seated there in deep meditation, waiting for him. Startled, Naro Bonchung lost his footing and tumbled down the mountain, leaving a great gash along the rock face where his large drum struck as he fell—a feature still visible today. This tale marks the turning point where Kailash became a revered site for Tibetan Buddhists, symbolizing rebirth and spiritual revival.
Mount Kailash’s Mysterious Yeti: The “Chemo” Legends
Local Tibetan residents tell tales of a mysterious creature known as “Chemo,” believed to roam the area around Mount Kailash between September and November. In one account, a 14-year-old child sleeping near a sheepfold was attacked by Chemo, leaving him with torn ears that bent downward after healing. The creature, alarmed by the child’s screams, allegedly fled, leaving behind large footprints with five toes, a broad instep, and tufts of brownish-yellow hair with a pungent odor.
In 1996, before climbing Mount Kailash was prohibited, climbers reported seeing strange footprints and even caves filled with animal remains, such as sheep skulls and yak skins. However, some scientists believe that these sightings may actually be of Tibetan brown bears, known locally as “Tibetan Blue Bears.” DNA testing on hair, teeth, and feces samples from purported Himalayan “yetis” showed matches with various bear species, including the Asian black bear and the Himalayan and Tibetan brown bears. Therefore, many speculate that the legendary Chemo is more likely a Tibetan brown bear than an unknown creature.
Sparse Wildlife Around Mount Kailash
The mystical aura surrounding Mount Kailash seems to influence the natural world, as this sacred area is notably sparse in wildlife. Legends say that the mountain’s unique spiritual energy affects the behavior of animals, leading to fewer species nearby. However, on a journey from Lhasa to Mount Kailash, travelers can spot rare wildlife such as Tibetan wild asses, antelope, yaks, and black-necked cranes, especially near rivers and grasslands along the route.
Mount Kailash’s Many Names Across Religions and Languages
Mount Kailash is revered in multiple religions, each giving it a unique name. In Tibetan, it’s called “Gang Rinpoche,” meaning “Precious Snow Mountain.” Hinduism refers to it as Mount Kailasa, derived from the Sanskrit word “Kelasa,” meaning “crystal,” and considers it the abode of Shiva. In Bon literature, it’s called “Water Flower” and “Sea Water Mountain.” These diverse names reflect the mountain’s deep spiritual significance across cultures.
Soul Purification Through Circumambulation
According to Tibetan Bon tradition, Mount Kailash is home to 360 guardian deities. Completing a single circumambulation, or “kora,” is believed to purify one’s sins in this life, while 12 circuits protect one from hell’s suffering. Walking the kora 108 times is said to lead to enlightenment. In Tibetan Buddhism, circumambulating Mount Kailash during the Year of the Horse, when Shakyamuni Buddha was born, multiplies the spiritual merit of each circuit by 12, equating to the merit of 13 circuits in other years.
Buddhists walk clockwise around Mount Kailash, while Bon practitioners walk counterclockwise. Pilgrims pass each other quietly, each absorbed in their devotion. Some practice prostration, symbolizing unity of body, speech, and mind with the Buddha’s teachings. In the documentary Kora, a pilgrim shares how his pilgrimage helped him reform his life, leaving behind former habits and embracing a path of self-improvement.
In 2018, the writer made the outer kora pilgrimage around Mount Kailash, a 56-kilometer journey completed in two days over 20 hours. They look forward to attempting the inner kora soon and welcome fellow pilgrims to join them on this sacred path.
