What all needs to be done for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

It is said that only those who get the ‘’call’’, get to go on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This is a pilgrimage that is more than just a pilgrimage. People who have been lucky enough to have gone on the Yatra say that it is a life-changing experience to be so near Lord Shiva. Indeed, because Hindus believe that Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, and it is thus the ultimate Hindu pilgrimage. The site is so important that the Government of India has made provisions for pilgrims to reach it through a few routes including one that crosses Nathu-la pass and one that crosses Lipulekha pass. If you are planning to go on the Yatra, then it is a must that you prepare for it. This post covers everything you need to know about it.

Medical preparation

The first thing you need to do is book an appointment with your regular doctor and ask him what tests you need to get done for the Yatra. This is important because if you have any underlying health problem, you may be barred from going on the pilgrimage or worse, you may fall severely sick once you reach the place. You will be asked to do a few tests including those for blood sugar, blood pressure and others. If you are found to be within the permissible health parameters for the Kailash Yatra, it will bring you peace of mind knowing that you are fit.

Start taking multi-vitamins

It is important that you start taking a few multi-vitamins including calcium and Evion 400 tablets. It will help make the ascent easier.

Exercise is a must

You don’t have to go to the gym to work-out as preparation for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. All you have to do is break the sedentary lifestyle you may have had. If you go for walks regularly, then you are already fitter than many other people. If you don’t, then it is best to start as soon as you can. Start with brisk-walking, then go up to jogging and then finally run. You don’t have to do a lot, but make sure that you scale up your exercise regimen by including other aerobics and cardio activities. Climb stairs whenever you can and try to build your stamina. All this will come in very useful when you will be doing the ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash which is 52 kms long.

Don’t lose hope if you are not physically fit

It is important to not lose hope even if you are not physically fit or are infirm. There are helicopter routes available from Lucknow and Kathmandu that will involve very little trekking on your part. For the ‘parikrama’, you can choose not to do it all, something that many older pilgrims to Mount Kailash do.

Must-haves in your backpack

If you choose a private tour operator for the Kailash Yatra, you may be given a backpack in which to carry all your stuff. That is why you shouldn’t carry much at all; just carry the bare essentials you need. Here’s a list:

• Waterproof shoes meant for heavy trekking 
• Waterproof winter jacket with hood and waterproof warm trousers
• Lots of cotton and woolen socks
• All your medicines
• Extra Chinese currency
• Walking stick
• Sunglasses
• Torch
• Hot water bottle
• Sunscreen, Vaseline, antifungal powder
• Chocolate, glucose biscuits and dry fruits
• Raincoat
• Swimwear if you plan to take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar

Keep your mental state clean and open

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just about going for a pilgrimage, it is also about self-realization. As preparation for the journey, try to make a habit of thinking clean thoughts and being open to people. Stay away from negative emotions, thoughts and people. Don’t gossip or indulge in arguments with others. Overall, try to maintain a calm and peaceful mental state at all times. When you do this, it is more likely that you will be able to make full use of your Yatra experience.

Settle outstanding matters

Hindus believe that a Kailash Yatra pilgrim comes back as a new person altogether. So before you go, try to settle all outstanding matters including debts or problematic relationships. Say sorry, ask for forgiveness, forgive others and most importantly, clear your mind. This will enable you to go on the Yatra with a heart and mind that is ready to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Be culturally sensitive

As a Kailash Yatra pilgrim, you should understand that you are going to a different country with a group of people who are unknown to you. So try to be culturally sensitive so that you don’t impose your views or customs on anyone. Instead, behave amicably and be open to the whole experience.