A Journey of Faith and Discovery: Sridhar and Jwalander’s Kailash Yatra

3rd Sep, 2024

A Journey of Faith and Discovery: Sridhar and Jwalander’s Kailash Yatra

In August 2024, Sridhar and Jwalander, two friends from the USA, embarked on a journey that had been on their minds and hearts for years – a spiritual pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, the sacred mountain revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. As lifelong friends with a shared passion for spiritual exploration, this trip was more than just a trek; it was a quest for inner peace, connection, and self-discovery.

The Decision to Take the Yatra

Sridhar, an IT professional based in New York, and Jwalander, an entrepreneur from San Francisco, had always been fascinated by the mystique of Mount Kailash. The decision to undertake the Kailash Yatra in August 2024 was driven by their shared desire to experience the profound spiritual energy associated with this sacred peak. Despite their busy schedules, they felt a strong inner calling to visit this remote and revered destination.

“Both of us felt that it was the right time,” says Sridhar. “We had been talking about this journey for years, and finally, everything seemed to align perfectly – the timing, the season, and our readiness to experience something truly extraordinary.”

Preparing for the Pilgrimage

The preparation for the Yatra was no small task. With the help of Actual Adventure, Sridhar and Jwalander carefully planned every detail, from obtaining the necessary permits and preparing physically for the trek, to understanding the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage. They researched the rituals, studied the history, and immersed themselves in the spiritual practices that would deepen their understanding and experience of Mount Kailash.

“We knew that this wasn’t just an ordinary trek. It was a pilgrimage that required both physical and spiritual readiness,” says Jwalander. “Actual Adventure provided us with a comprehensive guide on what to expect, how to prepare, and what essentials to pack. The support and guidance we received from them were invaluable.”

The Journey to Mount Kailash

Their journey began in Kathmandu, Nepal, where they met with Kedar from Actual Adventure, who gave them a detailed briefing about the yatra ahead. From there, they traveled to the Tibetan border, crossing into the mystical lands of Tibet. The drive through the Tibetan Plateau was awe-inspiring, with vast stretches of barren land, dotted with turquoise lakes and snow-capped peaks, offering a surreal and humbling experience.

“The landscapes of Tibet are unlike anything we had ever seen,” Sridhar recalls. “There is a sense of stillness and peace that envelopes you, almost like the land itself is encouraging you to look inward and reflect.”

After several days of acclimatization and preparation, Sridhar and Jwalander finally reached the base of Mount Kailash. The first sight of the sacred mountain filled them with awe. “Seeing Mount Kailash for the first time was an overwhelming experience,” says Jwalander. “We felt a deep sense of humility and gratitude just being in its presence.”

The Parikrama: A Spiritual Test of Endurance

The highlight of their journey was the 3-day parikrama (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash, a challenging trek covering a distance of 52 kilometers (32 miles). Starting from Darchen, the parikrama took them through rugged terrain, high-altitude passes, and sacred sites, each step bringing them closer to the spiritual core of the pilgrimage.

On the second day, they crossed the Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,645 meters (18,533 feet). Battling altitude sickness, fatigue, and unpredictable weather, this part of the journey tested their endurance, resilience, and determination. “It was physically demanding, and at times, we thought we wouldn’t make it,” Sridhar admits. “But the energy of the mountain and the support of fellow pilgrims kept us going. We felt like we were part of something much bigger than ourselves.”

During the trek, they encountered pilgrims from all over the world – some walking barefoot, others chanting prayers, each with their own story, faith, and reasons for undertaking the Yatra. “The sense of community was incredible,” Jwalander reflects. “Everyone was here for a purpose, and there was an unspoken bond that connected us all.”

Moments of Reflection and Revelation

At every turn of the parikrama, Sridhar and Jwalander found themselves immersed in moments of profound reflection. The sight of Lake Mansarovar, with its tranquil waters reflecting the peaks of Mount Kailash, left them in awe. They spent hours meditating by the lakeside, feeling a deep sense of inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

“The serenity of Lake Mansarovar was unlike anything we had ever felt