Aerial Darshan
Chartered Flight - 03 Days
by Avinash Anant, Delhi
26th Sep, 2025
For years, I dreamt of a spiritual journey that went beyond travel — something that would test my physical strength, cleanse my inner being, and connect me to a divine energy. That dream took shape when I finally embarked on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, with a focus on the challenging yet soul-transforming Inner Kora Trek of Mount Kailash.
I am Avinash Anant from Delhi, and in this blog, I share my personal experience of this extraordinary journey — not just as a traveler but as a seeker.
The Call of Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash is not just a mountain. It is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva by Hindus, the home of Demchok by Buddhists, the axis of the universe in Jainism, and the mystical seat of power in Bon religion. Across faiths, Kailash symbolizes liberation, balance, and truth.
For me, the calling was deep. The Inner Kora — unlike the Outer Kora that most pilgrims complete — is a rare, sacred, and strenuous path that circles closer to the very heart of Kailash. Only a few devotees, blessed with the right physical stamina and spiritual intent, dare to walk this sacred trail.
The Cosmic Axis
My journey started from Delhi. Flying into Kathmandu, I felt the buzz of adventure. The city, filled with spiritual energy, was the first stop for permits, preparations, and blessings. I joined my group of fellow yatris, each carrying their own dreams and faith.
The first few days were spent acclimatizing, performing rituals in Pashupatinath Temple, and mentally preparing for the journey ahead. The excitement was building, but so was the anxiety of the unknown.
The Route Towards Kailash
From Kathmandu, we traveled overland via Timure and Kerung, gradually ascending into Tibet. The landscapes changed dramatically — lush green valleys gave way to stark, breathtaking Tibetan plateaus.
The long drives were tiring, yet every glance out of the window was a reward — snowy peaks, nomadic settlements, fluttering prayer flags, and endless skies. Each mile took me closer to the divine mountain.
Lake Mansarovar – The Sacred Waters
Before the Inner Kora, we reached Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Words fail to describe its serenity.
Taking a dip in its icy waters is believed to wash away lifetimes of sins. I remember the freezing cold biting into my skin, but instead of discomfort, I felt a strange warmth in my heart. Standing there, facing Mount Kailash reflecting in the crystal-blue lake, I understood why countless sages chose this place for meditation.
Outer Kora: The Prelude
Before the Inner Kora, pilgrims usually complete the Outer Kora, a 52 km trek around Mount Kailash. It takes three days, crossing high-altitude passes like Dolma La (5,630 m).
This trek itself is no less than a test of endurance. The altitude made every step heavy, the cold winds pierced through layers of clothing, and yet my determination never wavered. The sight of Kailash at every turn kept me moving forward.
By the end of the Outer Kora, I felt humbled — as though stripped of ego, fears, and worldly concerns.
The Inner Kora Trek – A Sacred Challenge
Now came the most awaited part — the Inner Kora. This route is not open to all. It requires special permission, high-altitude acclimatization, and spiritual preparation.
Unlike the Outer Kora, which circles at a distance, the Inner Kora moves closer to the mountain, almost touching its divine energy. The trek passes through sacred sites such as:
Charan Sparsh – where one can literally touch the feet of Kailash.
Ashtapad – believed to be the place where the first Jain Tirthankara attained liberation.
Shiva Tsal – where pilgrims symbolically leave behind their past life, ego, and attachments.
Atma Linga – a sacred formation near the mountain, radiating spiritual power.
The terrain was treacherous — rocky paths, steep ascents, glaciers, and unpredictable weather. The air was so thin that even a few steps left me gasping. But at every halt, I felt the magnetic pull of Mount Kailash guiding me forward.
Physical Struggle, Spiritual Reward
No words can truly capture the intensity of the Inner Kora. It was as much a battle with my body as it was with my mind. The cold winds were relentless, and my legs felt like they carried stones. At times, doubt crept in — “Can I really do this?”
But then, looking up at the majestic black peak of Kailash, shining against the sky, all doubts vanished. I realized this was not just a trek; it was a pilgrimage of the soul.
Every step closer to the mountain felt like shedding layers of ego, pride, and illusion. At Charan Sparsh, as I bowed down to touch the divine rock, tears flowed without reason. It was a moment of surrender, of feeling insignificant yet infinitely connected.
Moments of Transformation
There were countless moments during the Inner Kora that transformed me:
The silence of the mountains, broken only by the sound of prayer chants.
The kindness of fellow yatris who shared warmth, water, and courage.
The realization that no wealth, no achievement, no possession compares to the peace of walking in the shadow of Kailash.
In those high-altitude moments, I felt stripped of worldly identity. I was no longer Avinash from Delhi, no longer defined by roles or titles. I was simply a soul, walking towards its source.
Return Journey
Completing the Inner Kora was not the end — it was a beginning. The return journey through the rugged landscapes of Tibet felt lighter. My body was exhausted, but my spirit was renewed.
Back at Lake Mansarovar, I sat by the shore and gazed at Kailash one last time. The mountain stood still, unchanged, eternal — yet I was not the same person anymore.
Lessons from Kailash Yatra – Inner Kora
This journey taught me lessons that no book or teacher could:
1. Faith moves mountains within us. Physical strength is important, but it is faith that keeps you walking.
2. Ego dissolves in the face of the divine. Kailash reminds you of your smallness in the grand scheme of the universe.
3. Silence speaks louder than words. In the quiet of the Inner Kora, I heard my own truth.
4. Life is a pilgrimage. The trek is tough, unpredictable, yet beautiful — much like life itself.
Final Thoughts
Standing at the feet of Mount Kailash during the Inner Kora Trek was not just a travel milestone; it was a turning point in my life. I returned to Delhi with more than photographs and stories — I returned with a sense of peace, humility, and purpose.
To anyone considering this sacred journey, I say: prepare well, physically and mentally. Respect the mountain, respect the culture, and walk with devotion. Kailash does not call everyone, but if you feel the call, know that it is a blessing.
As I write these words, the memories remain fresh. The sound of prayer wheels, the sight of prayer flags dancing in the wind, the feel of snow under my boots, and the aura of Mount Kailash — all are etched in my heart forever.
The Kailash Inner Kora Trek is not just a trek; it is the journey of a lifetime, a dialogue between you and the divine. And for me, Avinash Anant from Delhi, it will forever be the most sacred chapter of my life.
