Narendra Modi’s Historic Visit to Adi Kailash
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a historic journey to Adi Kailash, a sacred Himalayan peak located in Uttarakhand. This pilgrimage marked a significant moment in India’s history, as he became the first Prime Minister to visit this hallowed site.
Prime Minister Modi commenced his spiritual journey by visiting the View Point in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. This vantage point, situated in the Jolingkong area, offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash, eliminating the need to travel to the Tibetan region currently occupied by China.
Pooja at Parwati Kund
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also paid his respects at Parvati Kund, a sacred site just 20 kilometers from the Chinese border. His presence marked a significant milestone as he became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Adi Kailash, a mountain nestled on the India-China border in Uttarakhand.
After the divine encounter at Kailash View Point, Prime Minister Modi journeyed to Gunji village, which sits at an impressive altitude of 14,000 feet and is located 70 kilometers away from Dharchula in Uttarakhand. During his visit to Gunji, he interacted with the local residents, setting the stage for the village’s transformation into a prominent religious hub called Shiv Dham over the next two years. This development plan includes the construction of passenger residences, hotels, and the establishment of Indian telecom networks, with an emphasis on expanding homestays.
Gunji: A Safe Haven for Pilgrims
Gunji is situated in the secure Vyas valley, free from the threats of landslides and floods. Presently, only 20 to 25 families call this village home, struggling to make ends meet. Pithoragarh District Magistrate Reena Joshi highlighted Gunji’s strategic location, serving as a convenient base for Kailash pilgrims seeking access to Nabhidhang, Om Parvat, Kailash View Point, and Jolingkong.
Visit to Jageshwar Dham
The Prime Minister’s spiritual journey continued as he arrived at Jageshwar Dham in Almora, where he offered flowers and water to the Shivalinga, followed by aarti. Jageshwar Dham, perched at an elevation of approximately 6,200 feet, boasts 224 stone temples, providing a serene and sacred atmosphere.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit also included the inauguration of development projects worth around Rs 4,200 crore in Pithoragarh. These projects span various sectors, including rural development, roads, electricity, irrigation, drinking water, horticulture, education, health, and disaster management.
New Darshan Route
Mount Kailash, known as the abode of Lord Shiva, can now be observed from India, eliminating the need to traverse to the Chinese-occupied Tibet. This divine sight can be enjoyed from the 18,000 feet high Lipulekh hills in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, with an aerial distance of 50 kilometers. This new route was discovered by local villagers, and a team of experts conducted surveys to plan for road infrastructure, accommodations, and access to the viewing point. This development promises a new and accessible path for Kailash pilgrims.
To witness the majestic Mount Kailash, devotees will need to undertake a 4-5 day journey, traveling to Nabhidhang via Dharchula and Budhi. From Nabhidhang, a two-kilometer trek leads to the Adi Kailash and Jolingkong region, an awe-inspiring pilgrimage experience.
Kailash Parikrama: A Spiritual Journey
This mountain range, extending from Kashmir to Bhutan, houses the sacred Mount Kailash. This peak, shaped like a colossal Shivalinga, holds immense significance in Hindu religion. The circumambulation, known as Kailash Parikrama, spans 52 kilometers. Tibetan tradition suggests circumambulating the mountain 3 or 13 times to purify one’s soul. It is believed that each parikrama eliminates the sins of one lifetime, with 108 parikramas promising freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
The Saga of Kailash: Part of India, Now Occupied by China
The story of Mount Kailash is intertwined with a historical conflict. In 1962, during the India-China war, China occupied Kailash and Manasarovar, formerly a part of India. Today, reaching these sacred sites requires obtaining a Chinese tourist visa and navigating numerous security checks. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a two to three-week pilgrimage, is a testament to the enduring significance of these holy sites.
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