Kailash — trekking on the Path of the Enlightened

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step — a wonderful expression that holds a special relevance to this trek. On this adventure, you'll trek around Mount Kailash, and even though you won't cover one thousand miles, it's still considered to be one of the hardest pilgrimages in the world. Consistently hiking at an elevation of around 16,000 feet (5,000 meters), you'll need true endurance and sense of self to push through. And whether or not you consider yourself a spiritual person, this one's going to take a little faith. The three-day circuit around the holy mountain, whose peak may not be climbed, is called a 'Kora'. As part of the religious tradition, not only Tibetans, Hindus and Buddhists circle the mountain, but also intrepid travelers who want to visit the Kailash and the nearby holy lake Manasarovar.

The Kailash Kora starts in the village of Darchen. Once you leave civilization behind, an endless landscape of green valleys, snowy peaks and deep blue lakes opens up, all centered around the beautiful Kailash peak. As you go, simple tea houses, monasteries and campsites will provide you shelter — so you can concentrate on the walk.