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India
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Kailash & the Guge Kingdom during Saga Dawa May 13-June 10, 2007 click here for detailed itinerary You may also decide to choose your own dates & go privately, Magnificent temples, mountain passes, snow-capped peaks, nomad camps, pilgrims - this is truly a journey to stir the senses and nourish the soul. Explore the holy city of Lhasa - a city of marvels where history and art, commerce and religion meld into an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the great monastic complexes of Gyantse, Shigatse and Sakya. The Mt. Kailash tour has the character of an expedition with long rides on dirt tracks and other possible hardships and difficulties. These experiences demand lots of patience, tolerance and no expectations. In return you'll experience a remarkable personal journey and the opportunity to interact with the wisdom of ancient culture and dramatic natural beauty. The 3-day circumambulation of the world's most sacred mountain is tough, but clenses you of the sins of a lifetime - relax afterwards beside Lake Manasarovar, lengendary source of the four great rivers of South Asia. The Kailash Circuit is 32.5 miles of strenuous trail, which crosses the Dolma La. This Pass at the route's highest point of 18, 525 ft, is a stunning spectacle. At a large boulder is a collection of offerings, where pilgrims traditionally deposit one item and take another. The circumambulation of this sacred peak is an important pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhist, Jains and Bon Po. Buddhists believe one complete kora cleanses the sins of one lifetime. On the trek, we may encounter Bon pilgrims circling the route counterclockwise or perhaps the very devout who continually prostrate themselves along the whole 32.5-mile loop. The walk usually involves about 7-8 hrs per day including stops for lunch and rests. The road to Tholing, once the most important monastic complex in western Tibet, is one of the most awesome sights in a region of awesome sites. Below - perched above the Sutlej River - stands the first capital of Guge whilst the skyline comprises a vast sweep of the Ladakh Himalaya. Of all the destinations in Asia, this is the most sacred and sublime. Saga Dawa is one of the most important of all Tibetan Festivals - commemorating both the englightenment and the earthly death of the Shakyamuni Buddha - and Mount Kailash is the most important place to celebrate as the 13meter flag pole at Tarboche is replaced.
all text & photos © 1997-08, Barbara Sansone |
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