KAILASH PILGRIMAGES: SACRED JOURNEYS IN THE HIMALAYAS
While tourists may shy away from visiting the Himalayan states during the monsoon due to heavy rains, a unique form of tourism thrives during this season: adventure religious tourism.
Additionally, on Bhado 20, fairs and festivals are celebrated across the Himalayas, with many challenging journeys and pilgrimages to Kailash taking place.
KAILASH KUND YATRA: A SACRED PILGRIMAGE
Among these revered journeys is the Kailash Kund Yatra, a pilgrimage leading to a remote site on the border of Udhampur and Doda districts in Jammu and Kashmir.
At an elevation of about 3,950 meters above sea level, Kailash Kund is accessible only by foot. The official pilgrimage lasts for three days on Bhado Beas but can be undertaken anytime in August and September.
THE SACRED KAILASH KUND
Kund, a lake measuring 400 meters in length and 250 meters in width, holds great religious significance for local residents. It is believed to be a site where Lord Shiva meditated, adding to its spiritual allure.
The trek to this sacred lake provides an opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the Himalayas and engage in a deeply spiritual journey. There are several routes to reach Kailash Kund:
1. Chattargala Pass Route:
• Starting Point: Chattargala Pass (Dari)
• Distance from Bhadarwah: 35 km
• Altitude: 3,000 meters above sea level
• Trek Distance: 6-7 km, manageable in a day
• Experience: This route offers stunning panoramic views and a relatively short trek to the lake.
2. Traditional Bhadarwah Path:
• Starting Point: Bhadarwah
• Trek Distance: 20 km
• Scenic Route: Through dense forests, high altitude plains of Soj Dhar, and a boulder zone near Kailash Kund
• Experience: This traditional route provides an immersive experience of the natural beauty and local flora and fauna of the region.
3. Dudu Route:
• Starting Point: Dudu (Udhampur district)
• Distance from Udhampur: 100 km
• Trek Distance: 25 km along the river
• Used By: Local residents of Jammu, Reasi, and Udhampur
• Experience: This longer route follows the river and is favoured by locals for its picturesque landscapes and natural beauty.
HOW TO REACH KAILASH KUND
The most convenient base for this pilgrimage is Bhadarwah, located 180 km from Jammu.
Buses and taxis are available to Bhadarwah, from where taxis can take you to Chattargala Pass. Alternatively, you can reach Chattargala Pass from Kathua or Pathankot, approximately 190 km away.
This route is challenging and lacks public transport, making it suitable for those traveling by their own vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
In Bhadarwah, you’ll find hotels of various budgets. For a more affordable option, you can return to Bhadarwah the same day if you start from Chattargala Pass. However, if you begin your trek from Dudu or directly from Bhadarwah, you will need to bring your own tent for camping.
There are also local guesthouses and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) available in and around Bhadarwah and Dudu.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time for the Kailash Kund Yatra is from July to September. During these months, the region sees many local pilgrims as well.
By October, the cold increases and snowfall may close the paths, which typically reopen in July of the following year. The monsoon season not only enhances the beauty of the landscapes but also adds a sense of spiritual renewal to the journey.
#MT KAILASH
The Kailash Kund Yatra offers a unique blend of spiritual and adventure tourism during the Himalayan monsoon. This sacred pilgrimage, with its challenging treks and spiritual significance, provides an enriching experience for those seeking both faith and adventure.
The journey to Kailash Kund is more than just a trek; it is an immersion into the spiritual heart of the Himalayas, where nature and devotion come together in a profound way.
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This blog got me so inspired! I’ve been wanting to do the Kailash Kund Yatra for a while now—especially during the sacred Sawan season. The idea of trekking to such a spiritual lake nestled in the Himalayas sounds like the perfect mix of adventure and devotion. Thanks for sharing such detailed info, it’s super helpful for planning my own Kailash pilgrimage!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad you found the post helpful and inspiring. Wishing you the best on your Kailash pilgrimage journey!
– Shwet Shikha
Always dreamed of doing the Kailash Kund trek, and reading this brought back all those feelings. The way you described the serenity, the spiritual pull, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas—it felt so real. Can’t wait to experience it myself someday.
“Thank you so much for your beautiful words. I truly believe that if the Himalayas are calling you, you’ll find your way there one day. The serenity, the spiritual pull, the raw beauty—they wait patiently for each soul ready to receive their magic. When you finally walk that path, may it be everything you dreamed of and more. Wishing you strength, peace, and a heart full of wonder on your journey ahead.”
Shwet Shikha
This article beautifully captures the spiritual and natural essence of the Kailash Kund trek, highlighting its sacred significance and stunning Himalayan landscapes. A great read for anyone interested in a meaningful pilgrimage adventure.
Thank you so much for your beautiful reflection. It means a lot coming from a community like yours that lives and breathes the Himalayas. The Kailash Kund trek is indeed a place where nature whispers ancient truths, and I’m glad the article could capture even a glimpse of that magic. Wishing you many more journeys that touch both earth and soul. Let’s continue celebrating the sacred spirit of our mountains together! 🏔✨
SHWET SHIKHA
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Beautifully written! Loved the spiritual and scenic insights about Kailash Kund. A great read for anyone interested in Himalayan pilgrimages.
Thank you for your kind words! I’m so glad you enjoyed the piece on Kailash Kund. It’s heartening to hear such appreciation from fellow mountain and pilgrimage enthusiasts. Your expeditions at Trek the Himalayas also sound incredibly inspiring wishing you many more memorable journeys ahead!
Shwet Shikha