About Gauri Kund
- Location: On the descent from Dolma La Pass (5,630 m) during the Kailash Kora trek, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet
- Altitude: ~5,560 metres (18,241 feet)
- Nearby Landmarks: Dolma La Pass, Mount Kailash, Nandi Parvat, Lake Mansarovar
Gauri Kund is a small emerald-green glacial lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and snowfields, offering a moment of spiritual reflection amid the physically demanding pilgrimage route.
Location & Geography
- Situated on the south-eastern side of Mount Kailash
- Fed by snowmelt from the surrounding glaciers
- Visible only after crossing Dolma La Pass, making it an emotional highlight of the journey
- Often frozen outside the summer pilgrimage season
Religious & Spiritual Significance
Hinduism
- Named after Gauri (Goddess Parvati), symbolising purity, compassion, and motherly love
- Believed to be the lake where Goddess Parvati bathed before her union with Lord Shiva
- Myth holds that Parvati created Lord Ganesha at this site and later used the lake’s water to bless his new elephant head
Buddhism
- Associated with compassion and the purifying nature of water in Buddhist rituals
- Considered part of the sacred landscape around Mount Kailash’s mandala
Legends & Mythology
- The Gauri Kund legend from the Shiva Purana describes how Parvati’s devotion transformed the lake into a place of divine energy
- Another tale says that the lake’s waters have healing properties, cleansing both body and soul
- Pilgrims often collect a small amount of its water as a sacred keepsake
Pilgrimage & Trekking Details
- Seen on the second day of the 3-day Kailash Kora
- The descent from Dolma La Pass to Gauri Kund is steep and rocky
- The lake is not easily accessible for close visits due to the challenging terrain and fragile ecosystem
- Best viewed from the marked trekking trail
Viewing & Photography Tips
- Early morning after crossing Dolma La Pass offers the clearest views
- Carry a zoom lens to capture the shimmering green waters from the trail
- Respect local customs — swimming or touching the lake is discouraged
Climate & Best Time to Visit
- Best Season: May to September
- Conditions: Thin air, cold winds, and rapidly changing weather
- The lake may be partially frozen even in summer mornings
Travel Tips & Practical Information
- Permits: Tibet Travel Permit and related travel documents are required
- Health: High-altitude trekking experience recommended
- Gear: Warm layers, trekking poles, and adequate hydration are essential
- Respect: Do not litter or disturb wildlife around the lake
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bathe in Gauri Kund?
No, bathing is not allowed to preserve its sanctity and ecological balance.
How far is Gauri Kund from Dolma La Pass?
Just a short descent — it comes into view soon after crossing the pass.
Is Gauri Kund part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Yes, it’s a significant spiritual highlight of the trek.
