To provide detailed information about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to pilgrims, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police released a new book titled “Kailash and Kumaon” at Tigri Camp here on Thursday.
The book, edited by ITBP Commandant A.P.S. Nimbadia and published by ITBP, covers an ancient route from Gala to Kathgodam discovered by Mr. Nimbadia who has conducted six trekking expeditions and collected historical maps, records, letters and photos. He has also included information about ancient monuments encountered during the trek.
Through the book the tradition and history of Kumaon region has been recreated, said ITBP Director-General R. K. Bhatia. He suggested that these ancient routes could be used for travelling but they require some mending.
The current yatra began on June 1 and will continue till September 24. A total of 16 batches will participate in the pilgrimage.
The route to Kailash Mansarovar is considered one of the most difficult and challenging. The journey involves trekking on inhospitable terrain at high altitudes up to almost 19,500 feet. During the circumambulation of Kailash Mansarovar, an English-speaking Tibetan guide will accompany each group.
Pilgrims might have to brave glaciers, landslides and unpredictable weather conditions. Because of the high altitude, travellers always have the fear of cerebral oedema, altitude pulmonary oedema and acute mountain sickness.
