Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 03

May 30, 2011 – Day 03

We went to Ministry of External Affairs for a meeting and met the Under Secretary in charge of the Yatra. We have briefed about how to conduct ourselves in a foreign country (Tibet and China). Then we proceed to convert our Indian rupees into US dollars. We went for shopping. We got a long list which we had to buy in Delhi. The shopping was quite tiring and reached Gujarat Samaj around 2000 hrs. Then we started packing our entire stuff. Did a lot of re jigging and finally got all the packs ready and set to go. By this time, it is already in the early morning. We slept for a while (may be 1 or 2 hours) and then got up and had our bath and got ready for the Yatra. Yes, Our yatra starts from Today.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 02

May 30, 2011 – Day 02

We went to ITBP Hospital for our medical test results. There we have been instructed on high altitude sickness and how to cope with them and the kind of medicines that need to be carried out. Some NGO groups gathered and gave us instructions and some books. We had nice interaction with these group members. The ITBP Doctors were toiling with our medical tests. All the yatris were called in and they have taken BP. For some of the yatris they have taken more tests to confirm they are fit enough to undertake the yatra. The situation is tense because no one is giving test results. At last, around 1600 hours they declared the results. 12 Yatris have been rejected.  

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 01

May 29, 2011 – Day 01 – Medical Test at the Hospital

We all got ready in the early morning and boarded the bus which will take us to the Hospital. There we met some more Yatris who were not staying at the Gujarat Samaj. Most of them are from New Delhi or surrounding areas or have their friends and relatives in New Delhi; therefore chose to stay with their relatives and friends houses rather than at Gujarati Samaj. The hospital team asked us to take the blood test and other tests which had to be taken before breakfast. After this, they divided us into 2 groups. The first group continued further medical test and the second group had breakfast and continue medical test. I was into the second group, so I had my breakfast and continued the medical tests. There is huge queue for Thread milling test. Other tests are okay. After completing all the tests, It was 1800 hours. During this day, Our Liasion Officer Mr. Nimbadiaji came and gave some instructions on and the Yatra details. The hospital doctors gave some lectures on high altitude sickness and how to cope with them. After completing the tests, we proceeded to Gujarati Samaj again.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 00

May 28, 2011 – Day 00 – Gujarat Samaj, New Delhi

Reached Gujarati Samaj in New Delhi. Reported there as Kailash Yatri and got the accommodation booked. It is dormitory in a big hall. There I have seen another 15 yatris waiting. Joined them and introduced myself to them and got to know them as well. Some of them are from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Lucknow, Rajasthan and other places. All of them are relatively new to the yatra and they are all first timers. But they have their friends and relatives who have either undertaken the yatra or heard of the yatra. So they were sharing their stories about the Yatra. Some NGO members came and requested us to take rest, because we have medical test the next day. Too much of talking will have its own bearing on the medical test. KMVN representative came and introduced himself and gave some instructions as to what are the things to carry for the medical test. The medical test fee, passport and other details. He advised us to take rest and not to worry too much about the yatra.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1

Jun 28 2011 – Day 31

Journey – Delhi to Chennai

Today my flight is around 1100 hrs from Delhi to Chennai. I started early after having breakfast, since the traffic in Delhi is unpredictable. I reached the airport well before time and completed the checking luggage. Reached Chennai around 1330 and came to home around 1430 hrs.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1

Jun 27 2011 – Day 30

Journey – Jaageshwar to Delhi – via Kathgodam

We started early morning and went to the temple again for morning darshan and started our journey to Delhi. Today is our last day in the yatra. We had a small prayer and started our journey. On the way we stopped at Golu Devtha temple and offered our prayers. Our LO was telling us some of the important places in that regions. Since we do not have the time, we could not visit those places or temples. Finally we reached Kathgodam where we were received by KMVN officials and we were given our certificates and some gift on behalf of KMVN. We had a great lunch there and proceeded our journey by Volvo Bus to Delhi.

We reached Delhi around 2030 hrs for a grand welcome by NGOs at Gujarat Samaj. Our luggage reached well before us. We picked up our luggage and started repacking for the journey to home. We met all the yatris and bid adieu.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1

Jun 26 2011 – Day 29

Journey – Didihat to Jaageshwar – via Pathal Bhubaneshwar Cave temple

Today we got up early and boarded the bus to go to Jaageshwar. On the way we had stopped at Pathal Bhubaneshwar cave temple. We spent 2 to 3 hours in the temple. The Pathal Bhubaneshwar temple is fantastic and marvelous. Inside the cave temple, you have the all the holy shrines carved in rock. These rock formations have taken place naturally. We could see the Ganga flowing from Lord Shiva Jatamuni and other remarkable incidents. It is a must visit for everyone. The feelings are so exhausting that we could not believe our own eyes.

We had our lunch in the Pathal Bhubaneshwar temple itself and continued our yatra to Jageshwar. The entire route is pot holed roads and very narrow. There are many places where landslides have occurred. The bus was going at normal speed. Around 1700 hrs, we reached Jageshwar. We were allotted rooms at the KMVN guest house and refreshed ourselves and proceeded straight to the temple.

We had very hearty darshan of evening aarthi and enjoyed a lot. We had a good darshan of the temple and went about taking photos.

I bought some gift memontoes for my wife, Gayathri here.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 28

Jun 25 2011 – Day 28

Journey – Dharchula to Didihat – 40 kms by bus – via Mirthi

Once our common luggage came we collected and had our bath and took necessary clothing for 2 days. After that we put it back to common luggage – this luggage will be available to us only in New Delhi. We started around 1700 hrs to go to Didihat.

Actually this is not our regular route. To have a evening aarthi at Jageshwar our LO has suggested this route. On the first day we will go upto Didihat and the next day we will go Jageshwar to have our evening aarthi.

We had to face some landslides on our way. Our LO contacted the concerned authorities and got it cleared. After the clearing of landslides we continued our journey along with ITBP jawans to Merthi. At Merthi we collected our group photos and a book “Kumaon aur Kailash” written by our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji. We had snacks and continued our yatra to Didihat. We reached Didihat at 2400 hrs.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 27

Jun 24 2011 – Day 27

Journey – Gala to Dharchula – a distance of 40 kms out which 10 by trek and 30 kms by Jeep – via Pangla

The team was discussing whether to take the Shirkha route or Pangla route. Our LO is constantly in touch with ITBP team to ascertain which route is good for trek. The Shirkha route was heavily impacted with landslide and rain. So we decided to go through Pangla route. We had to walk through some of the jungle to reach Pangla village. Our porters helped us a lot to navigate the path.

Even in the Pangla route also we had to cross some landslides. ITBP jawans helped us to cross them without any difficulty.

On reaching the Pangla village we took a jeep to go to Dharchula. The entire route is mired with landslides. Rescue teams were working on to clear the landslides debris. On reaching Dharchula we were allotted rooms for our stay. But our common luggage have not reached Dharchula. Therefore, we were waiting for them to reach.

We went to Nepal – just cross the River Kali you reach Nepal for shopping. The prices were highly inflated; therefore, we did not buy anything.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 26

Jun 23 2011 – Day 26

Journey – Budhi to Gala – 19 kms by trek – via Malpa, Lamari, Lakhanpur

We got up early and continued our yatra. Today is one of the toughest day for us, since we need to climb some 4444 steps. We were really tiring. We took rest for about 5 minutes after walking for about 15 to 20 minutes. By this way, we could pass all the distance. We saw beautiful rainbow from the top. The rainbow was on the hill opposite to us. It was one of the best experience of mine.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 25

Jun 22 2011 – Day 25

Journey – Kalapani to Budhi – a distance of 27 kms by trek – via Gunji

We got up early morning and continued our yatra. Though the distance is far, we could manage to cover. Our LO is motivating us to a great extend. We walked via Gunji. When we crossing Gunji we saw huge helicopter landing in Gunji and taking off. The trail is up and down. At Budhi we were given traditional welcome drink by KMVN people.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 24

Jun 21 2011 – Day 24

Journey – Taklakot to Kalapani – a distance of 53 kms out of which 30 kms by bus and 23 kms by trek – via Lipu lekh pass, Nabhidang

Today we got ready and boarded the bus. The distance between Taklakot and Lipu lekh pass is about 35 kms. But the bus service is available only for 30 kms. The rest of 5 kms we have to trek. The Chinese authorities arranged jeep, ponies for us. I took the jeep; but the jeep could not go beyond 2 kms due to heavy snow accumulation. Therefore, we had to trek the rest of the trail. It was nice experience walking on the snow. It is very chill and windy. The yatris in pony were worried a lot. Unlike in Indian side the ponyman is missing for each pony. One pony man will take care of 4 to 5 ponies. If the pony goes on its own way, the yatri has no option but to follow. Due to lack of visibility (could see only 3 to 5 meters ahead), some of the yatris fall down from the pony. Luckily nothing major injury reported. We had a very steep climb for about 300 meters, which we climbed up to reach Lipu Lekh pass with chanting of Om Namo Shivaya and Bharat Mata ki Jai.

At Lipu Lekh pass ITBP jawans were ready with all kind of rescue equipments for us. Some of yatris who felt breathlessness were provided oxygen mask. Our porters and pony men were ready to pick us up. It was really very nice moment to meet them again after 12 days gap.

At Lipu Lekh pass we met the 3^rd batch of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and wished them the very best. We exchanged greetings to each other.

After all the greetings and some photos taken, we continued our trek towards Kalapani. The trail was very bad and with snow covered in most of the places. We had to navigate very carefully. Luckily the porters were helpful in crossing the bad patch. ITBP jawans were also helping yatris to cross the bad patch of trail.

Once the snow covered trail is over (about 5 kms) the route was little flat and going downwards. We started moving really fast. At BPM hut, we were served Hot tea and coffee and chips by our ITBP jawans. It was very delicious. We continued our trek and reached Kalapani base camp.

In the night, we were served Barakhana – grand Dinner by ITBP team. We could not forget their sense of belonging and hospitality given to us. Jai ho ITBP jawans and their service towards KM Yatris.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 23

Jun 20 2011 – Day 23

Journey – Taklakot to Taklakot

We spend today taking rest and shopping. Simultaneously our Chinese guide helped us to complete our immigration formalities, so that we can leave the next day early morning. Chinese authorities gave us a grand party where in we complained them about the lack of basic facilities. We sent all our common luggage to the custom department for their checking / verification.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 22

Jun 19 2011 – Day 22

Journey – Taklakot to Taklakot

Today we went to Kali matha temple in the outskirt of the Taklakot. It is temple is situated on a mud rock in very Tibetan style. It was really nice to have visited the temple. Only 20 people can visit at a time in the cave. We went first and had a very good darshan and came back. Today it drizzled little in Taklalot.

After returning, we spent some time again shopping at Taklakot.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 21

Jun 18 2011 – Day 21

Journey – Qugu to Taklakot

Today we have to go to Taklakot – The plan is to go to a place from where we can witness 4 things in 4 different directions – on one side we can witness Mount Kailash, on second we can witness Lake Manasarover, on third we can witness Ravana lake and on the fourth side we can witness the Mount Gurla Maan Dhaata – Tibetan consider this mountain holy.

We went to this place and spent quite a lot time taking photos and offered our prayer to the Tibetan temple there by building stone monuments.

From here we proceeded again to Taklakot. On our way to taklakot, we visited General Zorawar Singh Samadhi. It is quite nearby Taklakot Puran Guest House. We spent some time and offered our salute to the General  Zorawar Singh.

After reaching Taklakot we had our lunch.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 20

Jun 17 2011 – Day 20

Journey – Qugu to Qugu

Today we decided to clean Lake Manasarovar around Qugu area as per our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji. We picked up the clearing materials from monastery and proceeded our work. We cleaned about 3 to 4 hours – picked up all kinds of unwanted items, plastics etc.,

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1- Day 19

Jun 16 2011 – Day 19

Journey – Qugu to Qugu

Today we decided to have some puja and homam / Yagna. Therefore we took bath after 1200 hrs (it is advisable to have bath after 1200 hrs; because the lake water will be little warm due to sun; before that will be ice cold) and got ready with all our puja things. There was a small platform with homa gunda behind the monastery. We assembled there and mixed all our puja things. Some learned yatris lit the homam and we offered our prayers. We continued with 108 times of Gayatri mantra, Chamundeswari mantra and Mrityunjaya Mantra each respectively.

It was a very good feeling. On completion of our homam, the weather changed and it started drizzling slowly but with heavy winds. We completed our homam and proceeded to our camp site.

Today we had heavy lunch.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 18

Jun 15 2011 – Day 18

Journey – Zongzerbu to Qugu – via Darchen, Parakha, Hore – 6 kms by trek and rest by bus

Today our Kailash Parikrama (circumbulation) ends and Manasarovar Lake Parikrama (circumbulation) starts.

In earlier days, the Manasarovar Lake Parikrama is also undertaken by trek; but now the Chinese authorities have laid roads, the Parikrama is undertaken by bus.

Today we got up little late and started our trek. The reason is twofold – one is we had a very tough trek the day before and today we have to trek only 6 kms which will take about 1 to 2 hours only. After that our bus will pick us and take us to Qugu Buddhist Monastery.

Without any difficulty we reached the place where our bus is waiting for us to pick up. On reaching the bus, we took several photos and paid the porters and pony men in Tibet. Once all yatris reached us, we proceeded our rest of the yatra by bus. With 20 minutes drive we reached Darchen. With this our Kailash Parikrama comes to an end.

Our bus proceeded further to go the Qugu Buddhist monastery. On its way we had stop at Hore village to buy some rations for our stay at Qugu. The village is very calm and only few Tibetans were living. After spending some time, we continued our yatra to Qugu. It took roughly 4 hours to reach Qugu. On our way we stopped in another Buddhist monastery as well. We spent some time in the temple and proceeded our yatra.

On reaching Qugu we settled own in our rooms. Here in a room 7 to 8 persons have to stay. It is little crowd. But we love to have more people.

After settling down, we proceeded to Manasarovar Lake to have bath. With Ashok Radiaji guiding us, we had 5 dips in the holy manasarovar lake. We enjoyed our bath so much that we decided to have bath daily. We were shivering due to ice cold water and cold wind.

The facilities at Qugu are very basic and we have only the open toilet system.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 17

Jun 14 2011 – Day 17

Journey – Dehrapuk to ZongZerbu – 24 kms by trek – via Dolma pass and Gauri kund

We got up early in the morning got ready – there was some kind of uneasiness since today is the first day of our open toilet system. But sooner we realized that you can nothing about it and went on as usual business.

We continued our yatra towards Dolma pass. It was steep upward ascent; testing all our faiths and fitness. Only with the help of God we can cross this Dolma pass. We chanted the mantra frequently and continued our yatra. We had good number of Tibetan yatris who were travelling with us; and some of the foreign tourists also. The Tibetans were visiting the shrine because of the Shiv rathri function. According to the Tibetan calendar once in 16 years this type of Shiv rathri comes. We considered very lucky since on the Shiv rathri we are in abode of Mount Kailash – Om Namo Shivaya.

At Dolma Pass we spent only a few minutes and started our downward journey. You need to climb down. From Dolma Pass you can witness Gauri Kund where Ma Parvati believed to take bath. We witnessed Gauri kund and proceeded to climb down. We asked our porters to pick up holy water from Gauri kund and continued our yatra.

From this we had to climb down for about half an hour. After that the terrain becomes flat and we had trek. This is one of the longest trail that we had to negotiate.

By around 1700 hrs we reached our camp at Zongzerbu and stayed there. The facilities at the Zongzerbu is also very basic and open toilet system.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1- Day 16

Jun 13 2011 – Day 16

Journey – Darchen to Dehrapuk – a distance of 19 kms out of which 9 kms by bus and 10 kms by trek – via Yamadwar

Today is our Kailash Parikrama (circumbulation) starts.

We got ready for our trek. The bus will take us to Yamadwar, about 9 kms and from there we have to trek about 10 kms to reach our destination Dehrapuk.

At Yamadwar, we spent some time taking photos and watched Lord Kailashpathi in the Mount Kailash. He was taking various forms due to the weather. Sometime we could see him clearly and some other time we could not see him at all due to heavy cloud.

At Yamadwar, we offered our prayers to the small and symbolic structure built by Tibetan in name of Yamaraj. After this, we started our journey. Those yatris who have booked porter and pony, got their porter and pony man. Due to language barrier we could not talk much. They do not know our language we do not know their language – Tibetan. Hence most of the communications were by sign only.

I have not booked any porter and pony. We as a team Myself, Selvam and Ganapathy Sir decided to go together as one team by trek. We decided to follow either Ram awatar or Omprakash Sharma as they go at a slower pace. The reason for following them are they are repeaters and they shared lot of information with us. I was doubling as an interpreter to Selvam and Ganapathy Sir, since they do not know the Hindi.

We started our yatra witnessing many rocks and beauties of Mount Kailash and Lord Shivaji and Ma Parvati. We felt very tired due to high altitude and breathlessness. It seems very difficult to walk. But with our luggage on the back, we chanted the mantra Om Namo Shivaya and continued our yatra.

Unlike Indian side, where you will get refreshment, you will not get anything on the Chinese side. There are some make shift shops available which sells some food items. But we do not know the authenticity of these food items; therefore, we avoided to pick them up. We continued our yatra with the dry fruits and some biscuits which we picked up while we were in Taklakot.

We took rest wherever it is required and continued our yatra – this way we did not feel much tiredness.

At Dehrapuk camp site, there is no toilet facilities. It is open toilet system – therefore, you have to mentally prepared for this.

In the evening, our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji gave us instructions on passing the Dolma pass which is 18800 ft high.

Some of the yatris went to Charan Sparsh from Dehrapuk. Charan Sparsh is about 3 kms hike from dehrapuk. It is the place which is very close to the Mount Kailash you can get.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 15

Jun 12 2011 – Day 15

Journey – Taklakot to Darchen – a distance of 115 kms by bus

We got ready for the yatra and boarded the bus. The journey is going to by bus so we were relaxed a lot. We had a small prayer and continued our yatra. The road is very good – neatly lied; no potholes and there are some stretches where some repair work was going one. Apart from that there is no inconvenience to the bus ride.

On the way we saw Rakshash or Ravana Tal on the left hand side; we stopped by at a tourist spot where the Chinese authorities have made some observation post kind of stop and enjoy the lake scenery. We spent some time on that place. There was a Tibetan temple, where we prayed by building 21 stone monuments as per the Tibetan style. We took some photos and continued our yatra.

On our right hand side, we saw another magnificent lake called Manasarovar Lake. We stopped by there for some for taking photos. Some of yatris took a bath and continued our yatra.

After travelling some more time, we witnessed Lord Shivaji and Ma Parvathi in the magnificent style – yes; I am referring to the Mount Kailash where Lord Shivaji and Ma Parvathi are believed to be residing.  With Om Namo Shivaya chanting, all of us the yatris excited and thrilled to witness the beauty of the scene. We chanted the mantra throughout our journey.

After checking by the Chinese authorities at 2 to 3 times, they allowed us to enter the guest house at Darchen. The rooms at Darchen were constructed newly. In a single room, three persons can stay. There are some very basic facilities like toilet. No hot water is available.

We spent the entire day watching Lord Shivaji and Ma Parvathi taking as many photos as possible. The moments were truly engaging. We also met some private yatris who have come to Darchen through Nepal route. Most of the private yatris did not go to the parikrama. The tour operator has told them that there was huge snowfall and therefore, it is not advisable to go the parikrama. We were having mixed feelings about what to do.

We spent some time in shopping also. Darchen is the last place where you can shop around.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 14
 

Jun 11 2011 – Day 14

Journey – Taklakot to Taklakot

Today also we had to rest due to heavy snowfall in Darchen and other areas. We took complete rest and did shopping in Taklakot. It is a good place to shop sweaters and thermal wears. But the price the merchants quote is 4 to 5 times of the original price. Therefore, you have to bargain hard with them. Moreover, due to language problem, they will quote the price of the goods by entering into the calculator and you can enter your price. If they are okay with your offer, they will accept; otherwise they will quote revised price.

We went to Kojarnath Temple with our Chinese guide. This temple is where you find Rama, Sita and Laxmana in the Bhuddhist attire and nearby Buddha temple. This is classic example of two religion coming together Hindu and Buddha. We took photos and visited the temple. We bought some gift articles.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 13

Jun 10 2011 – Day 13

Journey – Taklakot to Taklakot

We went to the bank in the Taklakot for exchanging the US Dollar to yuan. We had to collect more than 16 passports for this and converted all our US dollars to Yuans. The entire process took about 3 hours. Chinese Guide helped us to interpret the language barriers. We had lunch and spent some time shopping.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 12

Jun 09 2011 – Day 12

Journey – Nabhidang to Takalakot – via Lipu lekh pass – a distance of 44 kms out of which 14 kms by trek and 30 kms by bus on the China side.

We started very early morning and continued our yatra by trek. It was raining and snowing all the way. We were shivering like anything. After some distance, we found very difficult to walk in the night. It is pitch dark and ITBP personnel were helping us to cross some important areas. I sat down on the pony for some time to get rid of the snow.

We stayed in a ITBP conference room on the way. But we were constantly moving our legs and hands so that we stay warm. We had small prayer and bhajan. This helped us to keep our motivation level high. From this place, the trail is going to be steep ascent with quite lot of snows. Therefore, the common luggage ponies were let go first. They make way for us.

We started moving along with our porters. The porters are very helpful in handholding us to cross the entire route. With all these difficulties, we reached Lipu lekh pass. We got excited and thrilled and chanted Om Namo Shivaya. We had to spend some time there in high altitude due to the immigration formalities with the Chinese side.

Our Chinese guide Mr. Guru has come to meet us along with some Chinese porters to carry the common luggage. The horses and ponies could not come due to heavy snow fall. Chinese authorities met our LO and they have some diplomatic handshakes and introductions. After that every yatri is verified with the passport and he has allowed to enter the Chinese side for further continuation of the yatra. Due to heavy snowfall the Chinese authorities made a rope way for us to climb down the steep path. Chinese guides were very helpful in handholding us and guiding us to walk through the ice / snow. Some of our yatris had to fall on the ice due to melting of the ice. All in all, it is overall fun and nice experience for us.

After about 1.5 hours trek, we reached a place where there was a Bus waiting for us to pick up. We got into the bus and relaxed a while. The trek in the ice is very tiring. On top of it, it was very hot and sunny. We had to wear the UV protected goggle to protect our eyes. After a while, all the yatris were joined us. We took some photos with our Chinese friends and guide and boarded the bus for onward journey.

It was about 2 hours journey by bus to go the Taklakot. Before reaching Taklakot, we had to stop at the custom department for our baggage checking and completing immigration formalities at the Chinese side. There our baggage were sprayed with some spray to kill the viruses and we were scanned for viral fever. One after one, all the yatris completed the formalities. After that again we boarded our bus and continued our journey; within 10 minutes we reached Taklakot Puran guest house. There we took rest.

We have our tomato soup; though it is watery, it tasted very well.

In the afternoon we had a meeting with our Chinese guide Guru and he informed us how to conduct ourselves in the Chinese territory. In the evening they gave us a grand welcome party on behalf Chinese government.

We collected from all members US dollars to be paid to the Chinese authorities and additional dollars to convert to Chinese yuans.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 11

Jun 08 2011 – Day 11

Journey – Gunji to Nabhidang – 18 kms – via Kalapani

For a short distance we all went by ITBP truck and got down at Kalapani. The famous Kali Mandir is situated at Kalapani and it is considered to be the birth place of River Kali Ganga. We spent quite a lot time visiting the mandir and performed some bhajan. After that we reached ITBP camp for breakfast. After breakfast, we had beautiful darshan of Nag Parvat. We could not see the Vyas Gufa due to weather. The clouds and mists are everywhere in the mountain.

Our Deputy LO Shri Mattaji collected all our passports for verification by Indian Immigration and after their verification, he returned the passport. This is important step – though the individual stamping on our passport is not done, the original passport is verified by the custom department.

We continued our yatra by trek from kalapani to Nabhidang. The trek is very enjoyable. The trail is sloping upwards gradually. With fresh wind hitting on our face, we enjoyed our trek much. Somewhere down the trail we have to cross the river, which we did cross with the help of ITBP personnel. After crossing the river, the terrain is flat for some time and going upwards for some time. We enjoyed our trek throughout the way.

We were enjoying the mountains and natural beauties of Mother Nature. Suddenly we saw the OM Parvat from a distant. OM sign in Hindi is quite visible from a far distant. We chanted Om Namo Shivaya and continued our yatra. On reaching Nabhidang ITBP camp, we could see the Om Parvat and Nabhi Parvat quite clearly. We had fantastic darshan of OM parvat for more than one hour. After that due to weather, we could not see them properly. It is life time bliss that we could see the Om parvat for such a long time. We took quite lot of photos and performed some bhajan praising lord Kailashpathi.

After refreshment, Our LO gave lot of instructions. Because the next day we had to go to Taklakot passing the Lipu lekh pass. We had to get up very early morning around 0200 hrs and continue our yatra. For this He instructed all the pony men to tie their ponies in the camp itself. He also gave special instructions on how to walk on the ice.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 10

Jun 07 2011 – Day 10

Journey – Gunji to Gunji

Today we got up early but do not know what to do. Since we have been getting up early morning around 0400 hrs, our body is tuned to that. But today happens to be rest day, we kind of relax and continued our sleep. But I could not sleep more. Therefore we got ready and waiting for our call for the medical checkup.

Once we were called in we lined up for the medical checkup. The second round of medical checkup includes checking BP and other physical examinations. Finally ITBP medical team declared that everyone is fit for the yatra. We all thrilled and enjoyed ourselves, since all of us are fit to continue our yatra.

In the evening we had Bhajan in the Kali Mandir of the ITBP Camp in Gunji. ITBP Jawans sang some beautiful songs along with us. Paras, Manjula excelled in rendering bhajan songs. After this we had our dinner and went to sleep.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 09

Jun 06 2011 – Day 09

Journey – Budhi to Gunji – 18 kms – via Chhialekh, Garbhiang

We continued our Journey early morning. Though we are tired, we know that we are going to rest in Gunji for one day for the second medical checkup. So we continued our trek. We had to climb up all the way to reach Chhialekh. We had to negotiate some of the very tough steep ascent. With the help of porters we could manage that trail.

This is the time where porters and pony men came to help us. We realized the importance of these people. Thanks to their guidance, we could climb up. They handheld us so that we do not feel the tiredness and we could trek more easily. Breathing was a big problem in high altitude.

Those yatris who had pony sat on the pony and climbed easily. People like me want to check our fitness level continued to trek. We could climb up the steep ascent with the help of the porters and the will of the God. Without His willingness, nothing moves – right? I am true believer of this adage.

Once we reached the Chhilekh, we were served breakfast and tea. After that we had complete registration formalities with the ITBP team. They are very co-operative and friendly in completing our registration formalities. After that we continued our trek – After some distance we had to register again with the SSB team.

On the way we passed the Garbiang village. In this village, the houses have started to sub-merge. We saw those abandoned houses. The village people started living in new houses nearby areas. The village people are very friendly. They motivated us to trek.

On way to Gunji we had to walk flat terrain for some distance. This is where we saw the fury of the nature. Only for ten minutes it started raining with heavy winds swirling, along with it taking all the dust. Due to the heavy wind, we felt very cold; we could not walk. We had to literally stop. But thank God, the nature fury lasted only for ten minutes. After that the climate returned to normal. That was a good lesson for us that in the high altitude anything can happen.

On reaching Gunji we felt relieved and tense. Relieved because we have one day rest; tense we have medical checkup the next day. As usual our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji advised us not to worry about anything – Have your dinner and sleep. This alone will ensure that your body returns to normal. We did the same thing – had our dinner and a little chit chat and went to sleep.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 08

Jun 05 2011 – Day 08

Journey – Gala to Budhi – 19 kms – via Lakhanpur, Lamari , Malpa

We got up early and started our trek. This route is considered to be the dangerous route and very risky. On one side we have mountain and the other side we have River Kali Ganga flowing forcefully. If we miss our balance, then we will land in the Kali Ganga. The path is very narrow. We have been told many times this information in our briefings.

Our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji has again reminded us in the morning after the small prayer that we have to be very careful while negotiating with this route. Every morning we pray God and sing “Om Managalam” before we start our trek. He also told us that if we manage to cross this route without any incidents, then it is as good as we completed half of our yatra.

Therefore, we all very tense and formed groups. We started trekking with groups. We helped other yatris who had problems in negotiating the trail. The trail started going down upto Lakhanpur. Most of the yatris could not use the pony due to steep descent. The yatris had difficulty in navigating the trail. The wind is okay kind of. Somehow all yatris managed to come down to Lakhanpur. From Lakhanpur it is risky route due to Kali Ganga River flowing forcefully on the right side. We, chanting God’s name trekked peacefully. We reached Lamari and Malpa. At Malpa, we paid our tributes to the people who lost their lives in the landslide in 1998. We continued our trek from there and reached our destination Budhi. At Budhi we stayed that night.

Our LO Shri APS Nimbadiaji congratulated all the yatris for the successful completion of the trail up to Budhi. That night we had some bhajan and proceeded to sleep well. As usual, we all the yatris helped each other in massaging.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 07

Jun 04 2011 – Day 07

Journey – Shirkha to Gala – 14 kms by trek

We started our journey early morning and continued to walk. In the mid there was a halt point where we were served breakfast – Puri and sabji. After breakfast we again walked. We reached Gala after 6 to 7 hrs roughly. The entire day we were walking. Some of yatris felt the tiredness and we helped each other by massaging with massage oil.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 06

Jun 03, 2011 – Day 06

Journey – Dharchula to Shirkha via Narayan Ashram (Dharchula to Narayan Ashram by Jeep and Narayan Ashram to Shirkha by walk / pony)

In the morning we got ready and started weighing our luggage. We also paid our registration amount for the pony and porter. We were informed to pay the registration amount and collect the token from the contractor. We hand over the token to the Porter and pony man at the Narayan Ashram.

After that we all get into the Jeep. We were sent off by KMVN officials and local people. The Inspector of the Dharchula and Collector of Dharchula were present in a small ceremony. We could see the River Kali Ganga flowing forcefully. We reached Narayan Ashram. We spent some time at Narayan Ashram and had a bhajan there. After taking photos and prasadham, we came out. The porters and pony men were waiting for us.

We were allotted the pony and porter there. Some of us could not get the pony and porter there. But they assured us that pony and porter will be provided in the next stop. From this point no vehicle can go. So all of us have to walk or sit on the pony. I started trekking. Shirkha is only 5 km from Narayan Ashram so we reached within 2 hrs.

At Shirkha, we stayed in the tent. This is our first night stay in the make-shift camp. The facilities were bare minimum but nothing to complain. Some of the repair and renovation works were going on. We stayed comfortably and spend some time introducing ourselves and had great bhajan. We had lot of time so shared our experiences with fellow yatris. In the night we saw Milky Way – stars full of sky. It was amazing sight.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 05


June 02, 2011 – Day 05

Journey – Almora to Dharchula – via Pithoragarh and Merthi

We started our journey in the early morning after having some tea. We went to the Golu Devtha temple, which is considered to be family gods of the local area people. The Golu Devtha temple is full of bells. Devotees tie the bells in the temple, once their wishes are fulfilled.

Photo

After visiting the temple, we continued our journey to pithoragarh for our breakfast. We were given a grand traditional welcome at pithoragarh. School girls and boys were present to welcome us. They sang some songs also. We took some photos with them.

After breakfast, we continued our journey again to Merthi ITBP camp. There we were surprised to be given such a wonderful and fabulous welcome by the traditional dancers. We spent some time with them. ITBP Commandant briefed us about the dos and don’ts of the high altitude and how to walk on a hill side etc., we took a group photo in the Merthi camp. Some of yatris purchased some items in the canteen. If you have time, you can do so. After having our lunch we continued our journey to reach Dharchula.

At Dharchula, we were received by KMVN and the officials briefed us about the porters and pony rates. Our LO urged all the Yatris to take the porters and pony. This will help during tough times. We took the porters and pony.

We received our luggage here. Our entire luggage will be weighed at Dharchula and the amount will be collected from the individual yatris. From this point, the yatris have to split their luggage into the common luggage and individual luggage. The common luggage will go with the common pony whereas the individual luggage the yatri has to carry himself or the porter will carry the luggage.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2011 - Batch 1 - Day 04

Jun 01, 2011 – Day 04

Journey – Delhi to Almora – a distance of 345 kms by bus – via Ghaziabad and Kathgodam

We got ready by 0530 hrs and picked up all our baggage and waiting for the bus. The bus reached and we are very thrilled to see the bus. Lot of members of NGOs gathered to send off us. They were greeting us and wishing us good luck and safe journey and darshan of Kailashpathi. Myself, Hari and lot of other members checked the baggage of each and every yatris and marked them as per our LO’s advice. So that we could identify our baggage easily. Once all the baggage was marked properly, we put them up in the truck and counted simultaneously. The list is prepared and one list is given to the truck driver for their reference.

Photo

The bus started moving towards Ghaziabad, another NGO has arranged welcome to us. We had a brief meeting and had our breakfast there. The bus started moving towards Kathgodam. At Kathgodam we had lunch at the KMVN building. From here KMVN has arrange 2 non-AC vans for carrying us. We got down in the van and started our journey. Needless to say that we were received very well by the KMVN. After lunch, we continued our journey in the van to reach Almora. We reached Almora KMVN Guest house around 2200 hrs. We were really tired of the journey because the route is on the hill side and they are typical Indian roads with full of potholes. We went to bed straight away.