Holy Mt. Kailash & Mansarovar

 

Holy Kailash and Mansarowar Lake, center of creation the Universe, are as old as the creation of the universe. Thousands of Sages, ordinary mortals, Philosophers and even the Gods had submerged in the blissful trance at the very sight of this divine grandeur. 

It is the MERU, SUMERU, SUSHUMNA, HEMADRI (Golden Mountain), RATNASANU (Jewel Peak), KARNIKACHALA (Lotus Mountain),  AMARADRI, DEVA PARVATHA (Summit of Gods), GANA PARVATHA, AJATADRI (Silver Mountain). It is SWAYAMBHU-the self-created one. Everything emanates from there and finally returns there. It is the abode of LORD SHIVA and his divine consort PARVATI. It expounds the philosophy of PURUSHA and PRAKRITI-SHIVA and SHAKTI.  

The radiant SILVERLY summit is the throne of TRUTH, WISDOM and BLISS-SACHIDANANDAM. The primordial sound AUM (NADABINDU) from the tinkling anklets of LALITA PRAKRITI created the visible patterns of the universe and the vibrations (DVANI) from the feet of Lord Shiva (NATARAJA) weaved the essence of ATMAN-the ultimate truth. Mind is the knot tying consciousness and matter-that is set free

here.

This is the center of Hindu Philosophy and civilization. Kalpa Viruksha tree is supposed to adorn the slopes. The South face is described as sapphire, East the crystal, west as Ruby and the North as Gold. The city of KUBERA is situated there. Ganga after originating from the toe of Mahavishnu enter the lunar circle and descends further from Kailash and after circuiting Kailash seven times divides herself as four rivers. The major rivers of Nepal and India originate from this area; Brahmaputra(Lohita), Indus(Sindhu), Sutlej(Shatadru) and Karnali.  

Every object in this area is sanctified and each one is related to gripping legends. As one ascends through PARIKRAMA one encounters holy peaks of RAVANA PARVAT, HANUMAN PARVAT, PADMASAMBHAVA, MANJUSRI, VAJRADHARA, ALOKITESWARA, JAMBEYANG, SHAVARI, NORSENG etc. The scriptures reiterate that one, who takes the holy dip at Mansarovar and carries out the Parikrama around Kailash is absolved of his sins through generations and is absorbed into the Supreme Finality.  

There is no re-birth, sorrows or joys for her or him/he or she will be with ultimate –the Lord Shiva. He/she becomes Shiva. This is one of the most important pilgrimage centers for the Buddhists. They worship DEMCHOK (BUDDHA in forceful form) seated on the summit of Kailash. It is also called Dharmapala-one version quotes the deity as a form of Shiva’s manifestation.  

The description of the deity is more or less like Shiva. Devi is also given a similar form like Parvati.They adore Kailash as KANG RINGPOCHE and Manasarovar as TSO MAPHAM. Guru Rinpoche (The great Indian Master PADMASAMBHAVA who introduced Buddhism) and Saint Milerapa are greatly revered here by pilgrims.  

Since TANTRISM runs through the main core of Buddhism here, their customs and practices would be found running close and parallel to Hindu traditions. Like Hindus, they also consider DOLMA (DEVI) and GURU KUND (Thuki Zingbu) as holiest spots. Buddhists strongly believe that pilgrimage to this place liberates them to NIRVANA. The Jain acknowledges Kailash as ASTAPADA and PADMAHRADA.  

It is believed that ADINATH VRISHABDEVA - the first Tirtankara attained Nirvana here. A few claim that GURU NANAK meditated here. Across the river CHU, there on the Nyanri range stands an impressive temple. Inside this monastery there is a marble statue radiating peace and compassion. This statue is claimed to be that of Guru Nanak.  

The entire area echoes with spiritual vibrations. Even the agnostics shall discover new balance amidst that fathomless serenity. One has to experience it. The common belief is that those who are ordained only could be there.

AGNIHOTRA KAILASH MANAS SAROVAR YATRA

 

from 3^rd August to – 19^th August, 2006 

TOUR ITINERARY 

03/Aug  Arrival at Tribhuban International airport, Kathmandu Meet & greet by our representative & transfer to hotel. Day free. Sunset Agnihotra, briefing dinner & night halt 

04/Aug  Sunrise Agnihotra. “Mahamrtunjaya Yagna & Puja at Lord Pashupatinath temple. Puja at Lord Narayan (Buddhanilakantha) temple.. Free time for preparation of the Yatra. Evening briefing about Kailash Yatra. Sunset Agnihotra  & Overnight stay at hotel. 

05/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra After breakfast leave Kathmandu to commence yatra to Nyalam (3800m). We reach Friendship Bridge (Nepal – China Border) by mini-coach. Walk along for 10 minutes to cross the bridge and get introduced with your Chinese guide and land cruiser drivers. They will give you brief information regarding your Yatra then proceed the journey to Zhangmu. Complete all the immigration and custom formalities and proceed to Nyalam . Arrive Nyalam, Sunset Agnihotra and overnight stay at guesthouse. 

06/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra, Full day acclimatization at Nylam with an excursion to Milarepa’s Cave. Religious discourses and Bhajan. Sunset Agnihotra Overnight stay at guesthouse. 

07/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. After breakfast we drive to Saga (4580 m.), 230 KM, via Lalung La Pass, Paiku Tso and cross the Bhramaputra river (known here as the Yarlung Tsangpo). (7-8 hour drive through Tibetan plateau). Packed lunch will be served on the way. Sunset Agnihotra Overnight stay at guesthouse. 

08/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Drive Saga to Paryang (4500m), 260 KM,  7-8 hrs drive. Packed lunch will be served on the way. Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at guesthouse. 

09/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Drive Paryang to Mansarovar (4560m), 235 KM, 6-7 Hrs drive. Packed lunch will be served on the way. Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at tented camp. 

10/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra, holy bath and Puja at the lake Mansarovar followed by Parikrama in Land cruiser. Visit Chiu gompa, Freshly cooked lunch will be served at the edge of lake Mansarowar. Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight at camp/guesthouse. 

11/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra Drive to Darchen (4560 m) 30 Km, 2 hours drive. Sunset Agnihotra.  Overnight at guesthouse. 

12/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Start Kailash Kora / Parikarma from Darchen pass the first prostration point, Tarboch Flag Pole, (Astapath) the auspicious gateway and the sky burial ground, to Dira-Puk (4765 m). Packed lunch will be served on the way. Sunset Agnihotra.Overnight stay at camp.  

13/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Continue parikrama over Dromala pass (5610m) to Zuthul-Puk (4700 m) (22 KMs, 7-8 hours trek). Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at camp. 

14/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Last and final day of Kailash Parikrama ends near Darchen (14 KMs 3-4 hrs trek). Then drive to Mansarowar. Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at camp/guesthouse. 

15/Aug Sunrise  Agnihotra. Drive Manasarowar to Paryang ( 235 Kms –6/7 hours). Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight at guesthouse. 

16/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Drive Paryang to Saga ( 260 Kms, 7-8 hours drive). Sunset

      Agnihotra. Overnight at guesthouse. 

17/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Drive Saga to Nyalam ( 230 Kms, 7-8 Hrs). Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at guesthouse. 

18/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra. Drive Nyalam to Kathmandu (165 Kms ,5-6 Hrs). Sunset Agnihotra. Overnight stay at hotel. 

19/Aug Sunrise Agnihotra Holly water offering at Pasupatinath and free time until your departure transfer to International airport for your onward flight.

Tour Ends ……. 
 

Cost Includes:

• 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu hotel with all meals
• 13 nights accommodation in Tibet using guesthouse/ camping with all meals.
• Tibet Visa & Permit Fee (normal).
• Yaks and Yak men for luggage during Kailash Parikrama.
• Ground transfers in Tibet using Toyota Land cruisers or bus as applicable.
• Services of English speaking guide in Tibet.
• Services of our fully trained Sherpa team with required trekking & kitchen equipments.
• Gamow bag and oxygen cylinders.
• Sleeping bags.
• Guesthouse Charge during 3 days of Parikrama and 2 nights at Mansarowar.
• Additional 2 nights guesthouse charges at Darchen( in case being unable to go for Parikrama-holy trek).
• Daily Sunrise & Sunset Agnihotra with Kit and necessary provisions 
• “ Mahamrtunjaya Yagna at Pashupatinath Temple”
• Yagna at Manas Sarovar
• Water proof Thermal Jacket with cap
• Waterproof Backpack and waist pouch.
• Warm Clothes Including – Woolen Inners ( T-shirt & Pyjama), Woolen Socks -2 pairs, Woolen Gloves – 1 pair, Monkey Cap.
• Personal Utility Kit

 
 
 

Cost Excludes:

• Yaks and yak men for personal use.
• Personal items, clothing and down jackets.
• Entrance fee at sightseeing spots.
• Extra costs that may arise due to prolonged delays or postponement of flights due to technical reasons/ acts of nature/ riots/ curfew/ government regulations or any other conditions whatsoever, which are beyond the control of Fish Tail Tours & Travels and its associated agents.
• Personal expenses, tips and donations                       

      Insurance against loss of baggage, damage, theft of personal items/ belongings, medical

      expenses due to accident or emergency evacuation.

Yatra Information

Planning & Preparations

As you are registering for the Holy AGNIHOTRA KAILASH MANAS SAROVAR YATRA you require to practice walking up and down and climbing little mountain, start doing little exercise with the consultation of your Doctor. Reduce drinking alcohol and alcoholic beverage & smoking. Consult your DOCTOR to assess the state of your health to function safely within your own limitations. You shall be in an environment which is around 20,000 feet above the mean sea level. In addition to the personal prescriptions by your Physician, a First Aid Kit is essential for the travel as per your health condition. Request your Doctor to prescribe effective medicines to cover the followings;

• Fever    Chest Congestions    Loose motion Body
• Sore throat  Indigestion     Stiffness
• Headache  Constipation    Cold   
• Diarrhea  Cough      Stomach cramps
• Swellings  Sneezing    Vomiting
• Muscle pulls   Nose Block    Dysentery
• Store eyes  Acidity      Joint pains
• Altitude sickness and related problems appears in the high altitude

 

In addition to the Medicine, your first Aid kit must contain the followings;

      Vaseline   Facial tissues  Dark Sunglasses    Toilet papers  Glare protection  BandAid

      Cotton    Rubber bands   Cough drop  

      Bandage roll  Small plastic bag  Chopstick

Dettol/Listerine   Ear muffs   Amritanjan/ Vicks   

Mouth Fresheners  Candles/lighter   Cologne   

Antiseptic  Eye masks   Body lotion   

Nose inhaler   Dust cover   Mustard oil 

In addition to above one should carry glucose-based items (mints, toffees, mini chocolate bars for periodical consumption at high altitudes for energy.) Multi vitamins and Vitamin-C tablets are required for daily consumption as a routine. Make a separate pouch for the First Aid kit with a list of medicine and their appropriate usage. Shaving is not advisable since any cut or bruise may not heal quickly and may irritate with nagging discomfort. 

Preliminaries/ Documents:

For Holy AGNIHOTRA KAILASH MANAS SAROVAR YATRA must have valid passport. The copy of your passport should reach us alongwith your registration form. Your Passport should be valid till Janurary 2007. It is advisable to carry extra money (in addition to the tour cost) for your personal needs or expenses. Travel cheques, Indian currencies (except INR500 and INR1000 currency notes), credit card are transacted in Nepal. You can exchange your currency into Chinese currencies in Katmandu. The unspent Chinese currency can be reconverted in return. 

You are advised to own a small waist pouch or document bag to manage the following documents properly;

• Passport with Photostat copies, Photographs, Identity card, Diary for addresses,  small notes etc.
• Ball pens with spare refills note book, Maps/Charts/Books etc.
• Travel Cheques, credit cards & currency.
• Airline/Railway tickets/Vouchers.
• Any other document for your personal purpose.

 
 
 

Clothing & Equipments: 

The following clothing and equipments are suggested for your own protection and safety. 

• Pure wool and thick cotton socks. ( 3-4 pairs)
• Long Johns (Inner-full fitting) wool or mixed combination.
• Down Jacket: Light, quilted, warm and well insulated.
• Wool pullovers-Polo neck, Flannel shirts.
• Warm light gloves, Snowcap (with ear covering)
• Balaclava (wool monkey cap), Scarf
• Cotton undergarments.
• Towels- including small hand towel.
• Hot water bottle.
• Kits/Boots: Very light, skid proof, water resistant, ankle protection & soft inteior-2 pairs.
• Light trek bag (for camera and very essential things).
• Raincoat with hood.
• Ladies can select other clothing materials as per their interest.
• Torch with spare cells
• Video Camera- as per the interest.
• Pocket Cassette recorder/walk man – with earphone to listen music, prayer etc. during travel.
• Binoculars
• Plastic mug/whistle.
• Conventional spectacle, sun glasses
• Cap - (Sun snow, rain protection).
• Swiss knife (multi purpose)
• Chewing gum and chocolates

 
 

Health Pre-caution

Oxygen is less at higher altitudes. The inclement weather and high altitude induces certain illness generally not encountered over the plains. Headache, nausea, lassitude, lethargy, breathlessness, general uneasiness (malaise), high irritability, light loss of balance, disorientation, incoherence and insomnia are a few. It is common to all irrespective of the age, sex and physical fitness. Gradual acclimatization is the best answer. Tranquilizers, sleeping dose and strong anti-biotic must be avoided. Some of the symptoms indicate that the body mechanism is readjusting to new environments. The best idea is deliberately slow down all the activities and follows the following rules: 

• Rest
• Relax-do not exert, be excited.
• Reduce talking
• Walk slowly – adopt one third of your normal speed and space.
• Keep your load light.
• Walk for 15 minutes and rest for five minutes
• Whenever you feel uncomfortable, just stop; rest and relax.
• Ignore the sudden outbursts of fellow pilgrims and avoid arguments.
• Observe silence with smile.
• Never go too high too fast.
• Prohibit smoking, alcohol, drugs and intoxicants.
• Consume plenty of liquids; never proceed with an empty stomach.
• Chant a prayer or visualize everything around to suit your pleasant thoughts or put on the earphones and listen to your favorite  music, Bhajans, chanting etc.
• Be careful not to catch a cold. It is better to be well –clothed than under protected. En-route avoids taking bath or drinking water from lakes streams or rivers, as your system is not conditioned for this.
• Keep your boots/ kit inside tent. Protect yourself against dust and direct sunshine during the long stretches of driving. Face, feet and hands must be well protected.
• The uneven ground, steep slope and slushy banks are full of potholes. Do not combine walking and sight seeing together.
• Always listen to your guide or the escort and manager. Never leave the group.

 

Route & Climatic Conditions

The route from Kathmandu to Tatopani (Nepal-China border) is narrow and scary but most of it is black topped. The high altitude Tibetan terrain is dry, cold, windy and dusty. Night is colder rather than day. Before you enter into Tibet torrential rains and strong icy winds are common feature. Flooding rivers and landslides are frequent. The Tibetan part is drier and windy the average altitude is above 3,500 meters and the route covers many high altitude passes. 

Following services and equipments are provided

Equipments

• Gyamo Bag  Sleeping Bag  Dining Equipments  
• Dining Tents  Guest House   Kitchen Equipments
• Mineral water Chinese Guide  Land Cruiser /Trucks
• Accommodation Tent Oxygen Bottle  Yak & Yak man (for carrying goods)
• Sherpa Team  Walking Stick

 
 

Entry formalities:

Travel permit is essential to enter Tibet, which can be obtained from Tibet Tourism Authority, and without permit Chinese Embassy stationed in Nepal or India will not accept visa application. As per the TTB the authorized travel agency submit visa application individual traveling is not allowed and application most proceeded through authorized agency only. 

Currency:

The Chinese currency is Yuan, which is USD 1 equivalent 8 Yuan. Foreign currencies and Traveler Cheque are accepted in the bank of China at Zhangmu –near Nepal/Tibet border. You may exchange your currency to Yuan in Nepal before entering into Tibet.

EXTRA COSTS

Round trip Airfares from your starting location and back, some city meals, passport and visa fees, tips for guides and trek staff, any medical check-ups, treatment, evacuation and immunization, insurance of any kind, excess baggage charges, airport tax's and any other items of a personal nature are not included in land costs.

YOUR FINAL AGREEMENT

By making reservations with National Tourist Bureau or its associates and depositing your advance payment with us, our agents or representatives, you agree to each of the foregoing terms and conditions and agree that you are thereby bound. You also acknowledge that you have carefully read and understood the foregoing terms and conditions. 

Terms & Conditions

• The above tour is a pilgrimage cum adventure trek tour. No modern facilities are available during the tour. The basic necessities shall be provided at all places of stay.
• Sharing accommodation shall be provided in Guest Houses and Tents during the tour with common facilities for toilet.
• Vegetarian meals shall be served during the tour. The food is prepared by local sherpa cooks and cannot be compared to hotel / restaurant standards.
• The tour manager holds all rights to alter the route of the tour or discontinue if the situation arises.
• It is mandatory for every one to follow the instructions of the guide / escort / tour manager at all times.
• The seating plan in the vehicle and accommodation plan is randomly done by the tour committee and no requests or complaints should be made on account for the changes in it during the tour. The tour manager reserves all rights in this context.
• The tour cost does not include to & fro tickets and entry formalities to Kathmandu / Nepal. Any assistance required in this context, you can contact our office.
• This tour is being operated by National Tourist Bureau and associates in Nepal and China.  When a booking is made, which is accepted by us, it constitutes a contract between you and the Operators.  All booking are taken on the basis that you accept these terms and condition.  We are travel organizers only.  We do not control or operate any Airline, neither do we own nor control any hotel, transport or any other facility or service mentioned in this brochure.  We take care in selecting all the ingredients in your holiday, but because we only select and inspect them and have no other control in the running of them, we cannot be held responsible for any injury, death, loss or damage, or deficiency in services which is caused by the act or default of management or employees of an independent contractor arising outside our normal selection and inspection process. 
• Anon-refundable and interest free deposit of Rs.11,000/- per person is required to be paid by the passenger at the time of booking/registration which should be done at least 65 days prior to the date of departure.  Full Payment should be made 60 days prior to the date of departure.  The registration amount is non-adjustable against any other tour or service.
• Itineraries, hotels, Guest houses, prices published in this brochure are subject to change any time without prior notice.
• The company shall not accept any liability or responsibility for any damages, loss, injury, accident death, delay, breakdown or irregularity which may occur in carrying the tour arrangement.  ( In the event of a passenger falling ill or suffering any accident during the journey all hospital expenses, doctor fees, repatriation expenses any other charges incurred as a direct or indirect result of his/her illness/accident are the responsibility of the passenger.  (Management reserves the right to claim any additional expenses due to any other cause whatsoever and all such loss or expenses must be borne by the passenger.
• In the event that a tour participant cancels his/her booking the following fees become payable. Note: the above will hold good only on presentation of  the original receipt.  (Note : All cancellations must be received in writing and signed by the tour participant, who made the booking.  In case you have to withdrew from a tour after it has begun for reasons such as illness, be sure to obtain a medical certificate in support on any insurance claim.  We regret that we are not able to make refunds for absences from a tour or for any missed sightseeing.  We in no circumstances, will be liable for any loss of baggage, goods, air  tickets, passport, cash travellers cheques, or any other travel document or item owned by the passenger while on tour, however caused. No refund is permissible on partially unutilized ground arrangements.)

 

No. of days before the scheduled date   Cancellation charges deducted Commencement

of tour [03^rd August, 2006]    from Total Tour Cost

60 days prior       Rs 11,000/-

59-45 days       Rs.15,000/-

44-20 days       Rs.20,000/-

19-07 days       Rs.35,000/-

06-02 days       Rs.55,000/-

from 01 day or during the tour     NO REFUND 

• Registration closes before 60 working days. 
• Registration amount is Rs.11,000/- for the tour.  This amount is non refundable and interest free, the balance amount is payable 60 days prior to departure.
• National Tourist Bureau reserves the right to cancel the tour.  In both cases, the company shall not be liable for any damage/loss/additional expenses suffered by the passengers. 
• The company shall not be responsible for any visit or section of the tour missed by the passengers.  9] Accommodation mentioned in the itineraries is subject to change.  Although great care is taken to accommodate passengers Under such unavoidable circumstances, the passengers will be accommodated in other similar hotels.
• The company shall not be responsible for any damage/loss accrued due to acts, or negligence of any carrier, hotel ,coach, company, or yak or any other item or particular. 
• Please read all terms and conditions, before booking on the tour. 
• Passengers are requested to check all documents, visas, etc.
• Refunds, if any will be made by cheque only after completion of the tour as per scheduled dates. 
• The company exercised the right to alter / vary, or withdraw any facility it has advertised, or published in such a case, the company is not liable to pay any compensation. 

 

YOUR SIGNATURE ON THE REGISTRATION FORM SIGNIFIES THAT YOU HAVE READ ALL THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND UNDERSTAND THE RISK INVOLVED IN THE TOUR . AND HENCEFORTH AGREE TO ABIDE BY IT AND SIGN BY FREE WILL. 
 
 

MEDICAL CERTIFICATE

(To be issued by CMO / M.D. Chest / Equivalent ) 

This Certificate is being issued to Mr. / Mrs. /Miss / Smt ______________________ 

______________________ having passport no. ___________________ after complete examination.  

It is certified that the above mentioned person is physically and mentally fit to undertake the TREK at an altitude of  20,000 feet above the sea level and has not been ill from any of the following diseases for the past  3 months.

Typhoid Pneumonia Asthma Heart Aliment  Deficiency of Hemoglobin 

I have administered the person and have provided him with precautionary medication for the tour. 

The person is allergic to __________________________________________________ 

The necessary medicines have been given to the person. 
 

Signature of Doctor : 

Name of Doctor :      Stamp / Seal 

Registration Number : 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

UNDERTAKING 

I _____________________ s/o , d/o , w/o ______________________ aged ________

do hereby solemnly affirm, that I am in good physical and mental health. I shall be able to undertake the hardships of the tour in good spirits. I am willing to undertake the tour as per the terms and conditions laid by the company and organizing committee. I shall follow the instructions of Tour Guide, Escort, and Tour Manager at all times. 

I shall pay all the dues towards the tour expenses as scheduled and informed by the company before the scheduled departure of the tour. 

My passport no.________________________.  

Henceforth I hereby undertake and sign. 
 

Signature : 

Name : 

Date :  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

AGNIHOTRA KAILASH MANAS SAROVAR YATRA

from 3^rd August to – 19^th August, 2006

                                                        Registration Form                          Form: NTB/A/ 

To,          Date :________________

The Organizing Committee,

AGNIHOTRA KAILASH MANAS SAROVAR YATRA,    

C/o National Tourist Bureau, Nagpur. 

Dear Sir,  

I the undersigned, hereby wants to register myself for the “Agnihotra Kailash Manas Sarovar Yatra – 2006 starting at Kathmandu from 3^rd of August, 2006.I have read, understood and agreed to all the terms and conditions of the tour and shall abide by it. The necessary details are as follows :-

 

      As per Passport

      

                Date  Month   Year

Passport Details :- ( attach a photocopy of all printed / written pages)

Payment Details :- attached is demand draft in favor of National Tourist Bureau payable at Nagpur

Balance amount shall be paid as and when notified by the company. 

Do you need to book your journey ticket ________________ to Kathmandu & return by us         Yes /  No 

I am submitting the undertaking along with the form and shall send the next installment of Rs.20,000/- for tour on or before 05^th May, 2006 else my registration shall be deemed as cancelled and the advance sent shall be deemed to be cancellation charges and shall not be claimed. 
 
 

Signature :- 

Place :

Date : 

Note :- The Yatra Has Limited Capacity. Hence All Bookings are First Come First Serve Basis Only.