Darchen

Darchen is a small village located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It serves as the traditional starting and ending point for the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one of the most important pilgrimage routes in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Darchen is situated near the sacred Mount Kailash, which is considered a holy site in several religions. The village is at an altitude of approximately 4,575 meters (15,010 feet) above sea level. Pilgrims embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra typically start their journey from Darchen. The pilgrimage involves circumambulating Mount Kailash, and Darchen is the gateway to this sacred trek. The Kailash Kora, a circumambulation around Mount Kailash, is an essential part of the pilgrimage. Pilgrims walk around the base of the mountain, and the entire trek usually takes several days to complete. Darchen is home to the Darchen Monastery, which holds religious significance for the local community and pilgrims. The monastery is a place of worship and provides accommodation for pilgrims.  Darchen is located at a high altitude, and travelers need to be aware of the potential risks associated with altitude sickness. Adequate acclimatization is recommended before undertaking the pilgrimage. Darchen is accessible by road, and travelers often reach there after a journey from the town of Purang or other nearby areas. Mount Kailash is considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a significant spiritual journey for adherents of these religions.