Kailash Mansarovar is undoubtedly one of the top pilgrimage places to explore by tourists and spiritual seekers. Also known as the “Navel of the World”, this place is visited by people from all religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, etc. The spiritual essence and the magical charm of this place can transform the life of a person. As the place has a great religious significance, people from all over the world are excited to undertake this journey. However, the journey to Kailash is not an easy feat as it poses certain challenges before the pilgrim. Let’s understand these challenges one by one: –

High Altitude

One of the biggest challenges while undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is altitude sickness. Due to the high altitude of this area, it becomes extremely difficult for some pilgrims to tread on this path. People who face altitude sickness experience a few symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and nausea during their trip.

Lack of Modern Amenities

The tourists will get basic accommodation and facilities during the Kailash tour. They will get small rooms and shared bathrooms. Also, there are dim chances of getting a good Wi-fi connection here. Thus, you need to use your mobile to access the internet. This poses big hurdles for you during your Kailash Mansarovar tour.

Extreme Weather

The Tibet weather is extremely cold as the temperature at night is at the freezing level. The ones who are averse to low temperatures will face difficulties while trekking around Mount Kailash. The weather here changes quickly which increases the troubles of pilgrims during the yatra. Thus, you need to wear protective clothing throughout the Kailash tour.

Strenuous Trekking

The whole trekking area around Mount Kailash is extremely difficult for the travelers. Thus, you need to walk for at least 6-7 hours a day whether you choose Inner Kora or Outer Kora. The trek is extremely challenging for the ones who are not fit to walk. The Outer Kora is less difficult and you can reach there within 3 days. However, the inner Kora is more difficult and you need to be physically fit to tread this path.

Limited Food Options

You will find a lot of restaurants on the Mount Kailash route. However, the downside is that you will only find local Tibetan food here. Most of the food items that you can have during the Yatra will be cooked by the cook offered by your tour operator.

More Energy Required

The pilgrims need more stamina to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. As the trekking is more time-consuming, you need increased energy levels to complete it. If you get exhausted quickly, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not for you.

Language Barrier

The people of Tibet don’t speak international language so you will face problems communicating with them. Most local people speak their native language. Thus, you will need to depend on your Tibetan guide if you need anything there.

No Privacy

There won’t be any privacy during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, as you will travel in a group if you book a tour operator. Besides, you will also get shared accommodation during this tour. Thus, do not expect to get any privacy during your entire trip.

How to Overcome These Challenges?

Most people face the above-mentioned challenges which thwart the progress of their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. However, you can overcome these risks and challenges easily through the following ways: –

Pack Essentials

Make sure to pack your essentials before starting your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. As the weather is cold in this area, you just need to pack essential things and gear for your tour. If you have the proper gear and clothing, you won’t be much affected by the cold weather of this place. A few important things you need during your tour include the following:-

• Make sure to use qualitative thermal gloves, hat, and undergarments. This will help you stay warm in the cold weather.
• Wear waterproof boots to prevent slipping on the wet ground. Some of the important things you should keep with you include a raincoat, backpack, water bottle, snacks, etc.

Mental Preparation

You not only need to be physically but also mentally sound to overcome the challenges involved in your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. If you are mentally prepared to undertake this tough journey, you can finish this Yatra without being stressed. Here is what you should do during this tour: –

• You should be focused on the successful completion of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and remain positive throughout the entire Kailash Mansarovar journey. You should consider that all the difficulties you face during the Kailash journey will purify you and lead you to the path of self-discovery.
• It is advisable to keep chanting mantras during your Kailash Yatra. Make sure to maintain your inner strength during this tour.
• Share your experiences with fellow pilgrims and don’t shy away from getting their support.
• Take good care of yourself during the tour. Make sure to take rest between the yatra. This will provide energy to you.

Prepare for the Unexpected

You should be prepared for an unexpected situation during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Remember, there are many challenges in the yatra such as medical emergencies, weather changes, or delays due to natural events and roadblocks. You can overcome this problem through the following ways: –

• Make sure to carry your medical kit with all the essential items in them such as first aid items, altitude sickness tablets, anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, etc.
• Book a trusted travel operator to manage any kind of unforeseen circumstances during this yatra.
• Due to the unexpected challenges, you might face delays or obstacles during the yatra. However, you need to maintain your patience, adaptability, and flexibility during this yatra. This will help you come out of any stress you face during your journey.

Handling Fatigue

There is a high possibility of getting dehydrated and exhausted during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. However, you can easily manage it through the following ways: –

• Don’t forget to get hydrated throughout your yatra. Make sure to carry a water bottle with you and sip it at regular intervals. Refill your water bottle once it is empty.
• Carry energy drinks with you and consume them on regular intervals. This will help you energized during the tour. Consuming energy drinks will provide you the much desired nutrients during your yatra.
• Take nutritious meals while trekking. Some of these types of meals include soups, vegetables, rice, dal, etc. These food items provide you with the essential nutrients you require during your yatra.
• You will get exhausted after the trekking. Take short breaks during the yatra and get hydrated. Besides, you must get rest at the campsites during the parikrama and enjoy a good sleep at night.

Handling any Medical Condition

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is full of troubles. You also have limited medical facilities during the trip. Thus, you will find difficulty in getting timely treatment for any medical condition you experience during the yatra. However, you must be prepared to cope with these challenges. Make sure to carry a first aid kit and other important medications for common medical conditions. You can also consider getting travel insurance to handle these medical conditions.

Navigating the Trek

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is too difficult to take. It involves rough and steep terrain including mountain ascents, river crossing, and rocky paths. Thus, it is natural to get exhausted during the Kailash Parikrama. However, you must keep the following things in mind before trekking: –

• Make sure to prepare yourself physically before undertaking this yatra. Emphasize on building stamina and endurance. The best way to do this is to engage in a few aerobic activities such as cycling, hiking, and walking months before your tour. Strengthen your legs and keep your cardiovascular system good before undertaking the Kailash yatra.
• Do not make haste while trekking. Rather, keep a slow pace and take regular breaks to get energized. This will save you energy during the trekking.
• Make sure to use trekking poles while trekking. This will help you trek safely even on a slippery terrain. These poles help in distributing the weight which will reduce pressure on your knees.
• Also, make sure to wear the best footwear during trekking. These shoes provide good ankle support and reduce the risk of blisters and sprains. With the help of good footwear, you can trek without making a halt.
• If you are having problems in trekking the terrain, you can hire yaks or local porters. They will carry your heavy luggage and make the trek much easier for you.

Conclusion

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not an ordinary pilgrimage as it tests your patience at each step. Pilgrims who undertake it face numerous challenges during this trip. However, you can easily overcome these challenges with the above-mentioned tips. If you, too, are looking to undertake a Kailash Yatra, the above tips will guide you throughout your journey. Your Kailash Yatra will be much easier if you plan it with one of the best tour operators. We offer a range of tour packages for Kailash Yatra at affordable rates. Also, we offer several other pilgrimage tour packages. If you are looking for more options for pilgrimage tours in India, you can count on us for the best package.

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