Jammu & Kashmir
Amarnath Cave
In a cave at about 3,880 metres, a naturally formed ice stalagmite is worshipped as a Shiva linga each summer.
Sacred Mountains & Caves
Mount Kailash & Manasarovar
Kailash — the snow-crowned peak of about 6,638 metres — is revered in Hinduism as the abode of Shiva and Parvati.
LocationNgari prefecture, western Tibet
State / RegionTibet (China)
Worshipped asShiva as the Lord of Kailash
Best time to visitJune to September
Religious significance
Kailash is sacred to four religions: Hindus, Buddhists (as the home of Chakrasamvara), Jains (where Rishabhadeva attained liberation) and followers of Bon. Near it lies Lake Manasarovar, and the peak sits near the sources of the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra and Karnali rivers. The mountain has never been climbed, out of respect for its sanctity. Pilgrims walk the 52 km kora (parikrama) around it.
Traditional story
Shiva is described as seated in deep meditation on Kailash. Manasarovar is said to have been created first in the mind (manas) of Brahma. In one well-known story Ravana tried to lift Kailash, and Shiva pressed it down with his toe, pinning him beneath until he sang the Shiva Tandava Stotram in praise.
Legends are presented as they are told within the tradition; they hold spiritual meaning for devotees and are not offered as historical record.
Visitor guidance
- Check the current status of the Yatra and permits each year — availability depends on intergovernmental arrangements.
- The journey reaches over 5,600 m at Dolma La; a medical check-up and acclimatisation are essential.
Continue the journey