After the first day of Kailash Kora, we continue from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk (Dzuthulphuk), the second day of the Kailash Kora is the most challenging and spiritually transformative part of the sacred circumambulation. This day’s journey takes pilgrims from Dirapuk Monastery (4,950m / 16,240ft) over the formidable Dolma La Pass (5,630m / 18,471ft), the highest point of the trek, before descending towards Zuthulpuk Monastery (4,790m / 15,715ft). The day is marked by steep ascents, breathtaking views, and deeply significant spiritual landmarks.
Starting the Second Day of Kora
The parikrama begins in the early morning, just before dawn, as the air is crisp and the sky lightens over the rugged Tibetan landscape. Pilgrims and trekkers usually leave Dirapuk by 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM to ensure they cross the pass before the high-altitude winds pick up. Before starting, Yolo Hike’s Team will serve you Tea/Coffee and breakfast and monitor you for signs of altitude sickness, seeking to identify headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, coughing, or any significant changes in your coordination or mental state. If there is any signal, they will return to the Darchen. The initial steps of the journey consist of a steady uphill climb along a rocky, uneven path that gradually becomes steeper as one approaches Shiv Tsal, an important spiritual site along the route.
Shiv Tsal – A Symbolic Death and Rebirth
Shiv Tsal is a sacred site where pilgrims perform a symbolic ritual of clearing past burdens and seeking spiritual renewal. Many devotees leave behind old clothing, hair, and personal items, signifying the release of their sins and attachments from past lives. This place is often filled with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and pilgrims pause here for a moment of prayer and reflection before embarking on the toughest section of the ascent. It is a difficult trail to reach Shiv Tsal, so what we will do is pray from the trail, catch a glimpse, and keep moving towards Dolma La Pass.
The Grueling Ascent to Dolma (Drolma) La Pass
From Shiv Tsal, the trail becomes significantly more demanding, with a steep and rocky incline leading to Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The climb is physically exhausting due to the high altitude and lack of oxygen, but it is considered the ultimate test of devotion and perseverance. Pilgrims chant mantras, recite prayers, and rely on their faith to push through the final steps toward the Pass.
Upon reaching the summit of Drolma La, pilgrims, and trekkers find themselves surrounded by a stunning landscape adorned with thousands of colorful prayer flags, you can also carry the prayer flags and include your resemblance in Dolma La. This pass is named after Drolma (Tara), the Goddess of Compassion, and is believed to be the point where past karma is erased, allowing one to be spiritually reborn. Pilgrims often bow their heads in reverence, offering prayers before beginning the descent.
A Sight of Gauri Kunda
Shortly after crossing Dolma La, a steep descent begins, leading to the sacred Gauri Kunda, a pristine turquoise lake associated with Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu tradition, Gauri Kunda is the celestial lake where Parvati would bathe, and it is believed that its waters possess the power to purify one’s soul. Pilgrims take a moment here to offer prayers and collect water from the lake as a sacred keepsake.
Those who are in good condition and healthy can reach Gauri Kunda and collect the holy water. As it is an extreme trail to reach there, you can give a few bucks to Tibetan or Nepali Guides and ask them to collect it for you.
The Spectacular North Face of Mount Kailash
As the trail continues downward, the entire north face of Mount Kailash comes into view. This sight is considered one of the most awe-inspiring moments of the pilgrimage, as the massive, snow-capped peak towers above the barren Tibetan landscape. The north face is especially significant in Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism, with many pilgrims stopping here to meditate and absorb the profound spiritual energy emanating from the sacred mountain.
Final Descent to Zutulpuk Monastery
After passing Gauri Kunda and enjoying the breathtaking views of the north face, the trail continues its descent along a rocky and winding path toward Zuthulpuk Monastery. By late afternoon, most pilgrims reach Zuthulpuk, where they rest for the night before completing the final stretch of the Kora on the third day.
Alternate Stay for Charan Sparsha on the Second Day
For those who wish to undertake Charan Sparsha, an extended pilgrimage to touch the base of Mount Kailash’s north face, an alternate stay can be arranged. Instead of descending to Zuthulpuk Monastery, some trekkers set up camp closer to the north face to complete this sacred journey. Charan Sparsha, meaning “touching the feet,” is an extraordinary experience for devoted pilgrims who seek to connect with Mount Kailash physically. This route, however, requires additional preparation, proper acclimatization, and special permissions.
Conclusion
The second day of Kailash Kora is an intense physical and spiritual journey, testing the limits of endurance while offering profound moments of transcendence. Crossing Dolma La Pass, witnessing the sacred Gauri Kunda, and standing before the north face of Mount Kailash and overnight at Zuthulpuk are experiences that leave a lasting impact on the souls of those who embark on this pilgrimage. For those seeking deeper devotion, Charan Sparsha presents an opportunity to touch the sacred mountain itself, further elevating the spiritual significance of Kailash Parikrama and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
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