Best Time to Visit Mount Kailash
Best Time to Visit Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash in Tibet, revered as “the mountain of Gods,” holds a sacred place in Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Pilgrims from around the globe journey to this holy mountain, making it a significant destination in Tibet. However, determining the optimal time to visit Mount Kailash can be challenging. This article will guide you through the best times to plan your visit based on weather conditions, cultural events, and other important factors.
Basic Information about Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash is a spiritually significant peak in the Himalayas, worshiped by four major religions. Pilgrims from regions like Tibet, India, and Nepal have long traveled to this remote area to worship and seek blessings.
- Location: Mount Kailash is situated in Purang County, Ngari, in western Tibet. It is approximately 1,988 kilometers from Lhasa and 1,612 kilometers from Shigatse.
- Altitude: The mountain stands at 6,656 meters, with the surrounding area averaging about 5,000 meters high. It is famous for its 52-kilometer trekking route.
- Transportation: Travel agencies typically arrange tours starting from Lhasa or Shigatse, passing through various attractions such as Yamdrok Lake and Tashilhunpo Monastery. There is also the Kunsha Airport in Ngari, located 199 kilometers from Darchen, the nearest village to Mount Kailash.
- Nearby Attractions: Lake Manasarovar (68 kilometers southeast) and Lake Rakshastal (50 kilometers south).
Weather and Best Time to Visit Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash experiences some of the coldest conditions in Tibet, with an annual average temperature of around 0°C. The best time to visit is between May and October, with May, June, September, and October being particularly ideal.
November to March (Not Suitable):
- During these months, heavy snowfall covers the mountains and trekking paths. Daytime temperatures barely rise above freezing, and nighttime temperatures can drop to -20°C. The short daylight hours and severe cold make trekking extremely challenging.
April (Possible but Cold):
- April is still cold and snowy, but late April may be manageable for those who can only visit during this time. The dry weather makes it suitable for trekking, but travelers must be prepared for cold temperatures and altitude sickness.
May & June (Optimal Time):
- These months are considered the best for visiting Mount Kailash. The weather is warmer and dry, and the cultural and religious significance of the Saga Dawa Festival enhances the experience. This festival often starts in May and ends in June, providing a unique opportunity to engage with local traditions.
July & August (Warm but Rainy):
- These are the warmest months, but also the rainiest, with average precipitation of 27.5mm. The rain usually doesn’t cause significant problems, but it’s essential to check the weather forecast and pack appropriate rain gear.
September & October (Also Good):
- September remains warm, while October has temperatures similar to April. With the end of the rainy season and the onset of the windy season, these months offer favorable trekking conditions.
Historical Weather Data for the Mount Kailash Region
To help plan your trip, here is some historical weather data for the Mount Kailash region:
Months | Ave. High | Ave. Low | Precipitation | Humidity | Wind | Sunrise | Sunset | Length of Day |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jan. | -4℃ | -20℃ | 5.6mm | 33% | 8km/h | 9:41am | 7:44pm | 10h3m |
Feb. | -2℃ | -17℃ | 2.3mm | 34% | 9km/h | 9:34am | 8:12pm | 10h38m |
Mar. | 2℃ | -13℃ | 1.2mm | 27% | 10km/h | 9:07am | 8:36pm | 11h29m |
Apr. | 7℃ | -8℃ | 2mm | 24% | 11km/h | 8:27am | 8:59pm | 12h31m |
May | 12℃ | -4℃ | 5.4mm | 25% | 11km/h | 7:53am | 9:20pm | 13h27m |
June | 18℃ | 3℃ | 8.9mm | 26% | 12km/h | 7:33am | 9:41pm | 14h8m |
July | 21℃ | 7℃ | 24.2mm | 33% | 12km/h | 7:35am | 9:51pm | 14h15m |
Aug. | 20℃ | 7℃ | 31.2mm | 39% | 10km/h | 7:53am | 9:38pm | 13h44m |
Sep. | 16℃ | 1℃ | 5.2mm | 29% | 10km/h | 8:14am | 9:05pm | 12h50m |
Oct. | 8℃ | -9℃ | 0.9mm | 22% | 8km/h | 8:33am | 8:25pm | 11h51m |
Nov. | 2℃ | -15℃ | 0mm | 19% | 8km/h | 8:56am | 7:49pm | 10h53m |
Dec. | -2℃ | -19℃ | 0.1mm | 22% | 9km/h | 9:23am | 7:34pm | 10h11m |
Visiting During Tibetan Festivals
One of the best times to visit Mount Kailash is during the Saga Dawa Festival, a significant religious event for Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Bon believers. This month-long festival takes place in April according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, which falls in May or June in the Gregorian calendar. Thousands of pilgrims gather at Mount Kailash to celebrate the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Buddha, engaging in rituals such as erecting prayer flag poles, demonstrating dharmas, and chanting sutras.
Special Years for Visiting Mount Kailash
In Tibetan tradition, the Year of the Horse is considered particularly auspicious for visiting Mount Kailash. Occurring once every 12 years, the Horse Year is believed to multiply the spiritual benefits of the pilgrimage. Completing a kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash during this year is thought to be equivalent to completing 12 koras in a regular year.
While Mount Kailash can be visited year-round, the best times are from May to October. The winter months bring extreme cold and challenging conditions, making travel difficult and potentially dangerous. By planning your visit during the recommended months, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable pilgrimage. Whether you aim to experience the cultural richness of the Saga Dawa Festival or seek the spiritual benefits of the Horse Year, a well-timed journey to Mount Kailash promises to be a profound and unforgettable experience.