What is kailash parvat?

Kailash Parvat: The Abode of Gods

Kailash Parvat, also known as Mount Kailash, is a mountain located in the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Tibetan%20Autonomous%20Region">Tibetan Autonomous Region</a> of China. It holds immense spiritual significance for several religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

Spiritual Significance:

  • Hinduism: Considered the abode of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lord%20Shiva">Lord Shiva</a> and his consort Parvati. It is believed that Shiva resides on the summit in perpetual meditation.
  • Buddhism: Recognized as Mount Meru, the central mountain in Buddhist cosmology. It is believed to be the home of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Chakrasamvara">Chakrasamvara</a>, a tantric deity.
  • Jainism: Revered as Mount Ashtapada, the place where the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha, attained enlightenment.
  • Bon: Considered the sacred nine-story Swastika Mountain, the spiritual center of the Bon religion, pre-dating Buddhism in Tibet.

Geographical Features:

Kailash Parvat is distinguished by its unique pyramid-like shape and four distinct faces aligning with the cardinal directions. Four major rivers originate near Kailash: the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali (a major tributary of the Ganges).

Unclimbed Peak:

Despite its height (6,714 meters or 22,028 feet), Kailash Parvat remains unclimbed out of respect for its sacredness. Several attempts to climb the mountain have been made, but they were ultimately abandoned due to strong opposition from religious communities and governments. The ban on climbing is still in effect.

Kora (Parikrama):

A significant pilgrimage ritual is performing the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Kora">Kora</a> (Parikrama), a circumambulation around the mountain. Pilgrims believe that completing the Kora cleanses sins and brings good fortune. The trek is around 52 kilometers (32 miles) long and typically takes 2-3 days.

Lake Manasarovar and Lake Rakshastal:

Adjacent to Kailash Parvat are two important lakes: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lake%20Manasarovar">Lake Manasarovar</a>, a freshwater lake considered sacred, and Lake Rakshastal, a saltwater lake associated with negativity.