In a landmark initiative for Hindu pilgrims and adventure seekers, Uttarakhand Tourism has launched the ‘Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil’ pilgrimage, allowing devotees to witness the revered Mount Kailash, the celestial abode of Lord Shiva, without crossing international borders. This monumental step comes as a boon for thousands of devotees who yearn to catch a glimpse of the holy mountain without undertaking the arduous journey to Tibet.
First Batch of Pilgrims Witness Mount Kailash from India
On October 2, 2024, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, the first batch of pilgrims embarked on this spiritual journey. Their journey culminated in a breathtaking darshan of Mount Kailash on October 3 from Old Lipulekh Peak in Pithoragarh district, where they also witnessed the sacred Om Parvat. For many, this opportunity was nothing short of a divine blessing, allowing them to experience the majestic sight of Mount Kailash from Indian territory for the first time in history.
A Game-Changing Discovery for Pilgrims
The breakthrough comes after Uttarakhand Tourism, in collaboration with the Border Roads Organization (BRO) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), recently discovered a point on Old Lipulekh Peak from where Mount Kailash is clearly visible. This discovery has paved the way for a unique pilgrimage experience, sparing devotees the need to undertake the challenging Kailash Mansarovar Yatra that involves travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region in China.
Neeraj Chowksey and his wife Mohini, part of the inaugural group from Bhopal, were moved beyond words at the sight of the sacred mountain. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Neeraj Chowksey, who expressed his deep gratitude to the Uttarakhand government for opening this route. Similarly, Chandigarh-based pilgrim Amandeep Kumar Jindal praised his good fortune for having experienced clear weather, making their darshan of Mount Kailash even more profound.
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Pilgrimage Package Details: Helicopter Rides and Homestays
The pilgrimage package, thoughtfully designed by Uttarakhand Tourism, includes a helicopter ride from Pithoragarh to Gunji and back, with accommodation options available at the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) guesthouses or local homestays. Gunji, located near the Indo-China border, serves as the base for this spiritual expedition. From here, pilgrims are transported to the Old Lipulekh Peak for the darshan of Mount Kailash and Om Parvat, followed by a visit to Adi Kailash, another sacred peak revered as a representation of Lord Shiva’s abode.
On October 4, after visiting Adi Kailash from Gunji, the first batch of pilgrims will return to Pithoragarh, completing the three-day journey. The package has been designed to offer convenience, safety, and a deep spiritual experience, opening new avenues for religious tourism in the state.
Significance of Mount Kailash and Om Parvat in Hindu Belief
Mount Kailash holds unparalleled significance in Hinduism, as it is considered the divine abode of Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati. The mountain is revered not only by Hindus but also by Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon religion. Traditionally, devotees undertake the arduous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a 52-kilometer trek to reach the mountain located in Tibet’s Autonomous Region.
Om Parvat, another revered site on this pilgrimage, is known for its unique snow formation that resembles the sacred symbol ‘Om.’ This natural marvel, visible from the Indian side, has been a spiritual magnet for Hindu devotees and adventure enthusiasts alike.
The new pilgrimage package to witness both Mount Kailash and Om Parvat from Indian soil is an incredible step forward in providing easier access to these sacred sites.
A Landmark Achievement by Uttarakhand Tourism
The discovery of the vantage point from Old Lipulekh Peak by Uttarakhand Tourism officials has been hailed as a landmark achievement. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami lauded the tourism department, the BRO, and the ITBP for their efforts in making this spiritual journey a reality. In a statement, he said, “The opening of Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian soil reflects our government’s commitment to serving the spiritual needs of devotees. This initiative will not only ease the journey for Shiva devotees but will also promote religious tourism in the state, creating new opportunities for local communities.”
A New Era of Religious Tourism
The launch of this pilgrimage also marks a new era of religious tourism in Uttarakhand, a state already known as ‘Devbhoomi’ or the Land of the Gods. With sacred sites such as Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri already drawing millions of pilgrims each year, the inclusion of Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian soil is expected to boost the state’s religious tourism to unprecedented levels.
The fact that devotees can now witness Mount Kailash without the long waiting periods or the rigorous trekking involved in the traditional Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will make this pilgrimage more accessible to devotees from around the world.
An Opportunity for Global Devotees
Uttarakhand Tourism’s initiative will undoubtedly resonate with the global community of Shiva devotees, many of whom have been waiting for an opportunity to visit Kailash. With its strategic location and carefully curated packages, the new pilgrimage is expected to attract not only domestic pilgrims but also international tourists looking for spiritual solace.
The timing of this initiative is also fortuitous, as the clear October skies provide ideal conditions for viewing Mount Kailash and Om Parvat. Pilgrims are already lauding the Uttarakhand government’s efforts, with many expressing their eagerness to embark on this newly opened route.
Conclusion: A Spiritual Boon for Devotees
The launch of the ‘Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil’ pilgrimage is a monumental achievement in the realm of religious tourism. For Shiva devotees, this new route offers a rare opportunity to pay their respects to Lord Shiva’s sacred abode from the safety and sanctity of Indian soil, marking a new chapter in India’s rich spiritual heritage. As more pilgrims take part in this journey, Uttarakhand’s reputation as a spiritual hub will continue to grow, further solidifying its place in the hearts of devotees worldwide.
