Darchen, a small town located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, holds immense importance as the starting point of the sacred Mount Kailash Parikrama (Kora) and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Kailash, Darchen is often referred to as the “base camp” for pilgrims and trekkers embarking on one of the world’s most spiritual and physically challenging journeys. At an altitude of about 4,670 meters (15,322 feet), Darchen serves as a hub where spiritual seekers, adventurers, and travelers from across the globe converge to begin their once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.
For Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the ancient Bon religion, Darchen is much more than a simple settlement. It is revered as the sacred gateway to Mount Kailash, considered the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, the axis mundi or spiritual center of the world in Buddhism, Mount Ashtapada in Jainism, and a holy mountain in Bon tradition. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating Mount Kailash, starting from Darchen, washes away sins and leads to spiritual liberation. Each year, thousands of devotees begin their 52-kilometer Kailash Kora from Darchen, making it a site of deep devotion and faith.
The main reason travelers come to Darchen is to begin the Kailash Parikrama, a three-day trek around Mount Kailash that is both spiritually rewarding and physically demanding. The first leg of the journey from Darchen leads pilgrims to Dirapuk Monastery, offering spectacular views of the north face of Mount Kailash. The second day is the most challenging, crossing the high-altitude Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters) before descending toward Zuthulpuk Monastery. The final stretch circles back to Darchen, completing the sacred circumambulation.
Without Darchen as the base, the Kora would be nearly impossible to organize, as this is where permits are checked, yaks and porters are arranged, and pilgrims acclimatize before setting off.
Due to its high altitude, Darchen poses challenges for visitors unaccustomed to thin mountain air. Many pilgrims spend at least a day here to acclimatize before starting the Kora. Simple guesthouses and lodges in Darchen provide basic accommodation, while small shops offer supplies like food, water, and trekking gear. Travelers are advised to carry warm clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion to prepare for the strenuous trek ahead.
Although remote and modest, Darchen provides essential facilities for pilgrims and trekkers. Visitors can find:
Guesthouses and lodges with basic amenities.
Restaurants and tea houses serving simple Tibetan and Chinese meals.
Medical assistance at local clinics (though limited).
Porter and yak services to carry luggage during the Kora.
Transport links connecting Darchen with nearby towns like Saga, Paryang, and the Mansarovar Lake region.
Apart from serving as the gateway to Mount Kailash, Darchen is surrounded by stunning landscapes and sacred sites:
Lake Mansarovar (35 km away): One of the holiest lakes in Asia, where pilgrims take ritual baths believed to purify the soul.
Rakshas Tal (Lake of the Demon): A mystical lake associated with Ravana, offering scenic yet stark beauty.
Dirapuk & Zuthulpuk Monasteries: Important stops along the Kailash Kora.
Yam Dwar: A symbolic spiritual gateway where pilgrims pray before beginning the circumambulation.
The best time to visit Darchen is between May and September, when the weather is relatively mild and the routes are accessible. Winters are harsh, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures making travel difficult. During summer, thousands of pilgrims from India, Nepal, Tibet, and across the world gather here for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Staying in Darchen before embarking on the sacred Kora allows pilgrims to connect with fellow travelers, prepare mentally and physically, and soak in the spiritual energy of Mount Kailash. The sight of the snow-capped peak towering over the settlement inspires devotion and awe. Whether you are here as a devotee seeking liberation or as a traveler drawn by adventure and cultural exploration, Darchen marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
Darchen may appear to be a small, remote settlement in Tibet, but its spiritual significance and role as the gateway to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar make it one of the most important pilgrimage centers in the world. From providing essential facilities for travelers to serving as the sacred starting point of the Kailash Parikrama, Darchen holds a unique place in the hearts of devotees and adventurers alike. Visiting Darchen is not just about beginning a trek—it is about embarking on a path of faith, endurance, and inner transformation.