Kailash means "snow moun­tain of the gods." The name originates from the year-round snow on its peak and its historical religious con­nections. The mountain is sometimes called "Mother of Iceberg," since it appears to be gazing at another moun­tain, Namcha Barwa, or "Father of Iceberg," in the far distance.

Mount Kailash, with an alti­tude over 21,655 feet, is the highest peak in the massive Gangdise mountain range. The peak looks like a pyra­mid piercing the sky. Seen from the south, the vertical ice trough and horizontal rock formation combine as the Buddhist symbol Swas­tika , which represents the eternal power of Buddha. More often than not, clouds gather above the peak, so clear, days are thought to be a blessing because local residents can get an unim­peded view.

Legend has it that a pres­tigious lama named Mi-larepa competed with Naro Bonchung, the leader of Bon, for supernatural power. Milarepa was triumphant, and thus the mountain came under the authority of Bud­dhism. However, the moun­tain is also said to be the gathering place of masses of gods, among which are the highest gods of Hinduism. It is no surprise that many pilgrims of different faiths visit here.

Walking around the moun­tain is a popular ritual, de­spite the length and rough terrain. According to the sayings of Buddhism, one circle around the mountain can atone for all the sins committed throughout a lifetime. Completing ten circles around the mountain will prevent eternal damna­tion in one's reincarnations for 500 years. In a Year of the Horse (when Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, is said to have been born), worshippers get credit for 13 circles for every one com­pleted. Naturally, these years draw the largest number of tourists.