Annual 3-day Kailash Yatra, dedicated to the deity of Bhaderwah town, Vasuki Nag, concluded recently in Bhaderwah, Jammu. The yatra, which has been followed for thousands of years, brings pilgrims from far and wide to the holy Kailash Kund lake situated at an altitude of 12,887 ft.
The yatra, which usually takes place in the last week of August based on the Hindu calendar, saw thousands of devotees participate in the religious procession this year. The three-day journey begins from the Vasuki Nag temple at Gatha village in Bhaderwah and passes through a series of villages before reaching the picturesque Seoj Dhar meadows.
Kailash Kund yatra holds immense cultural and religious significance for the people of Bhaderwah. It is believed that taking a dip in the ice-cold waters of the holy lake and offering prayers at the Kailash Kund shrine brings blessings and prosperity.
The pilgrimage route is steeped in folklore, with each rest point and temple along the way having its own unique story and significanc. For those interested in experiencing the rich culture and traditions of the region, the Kailash Yatra provides an excellent opportunity.
While the yatra attracts thousands of devotees every year, the trek to Kailash Kund remains challenging due to the rugged terrain and high altitude. There is a need to develop the area into a proper tourist destination by providing better infrastructure and facilities for the pilgrims.
The Bhadarwah Development Authority (BDA) has been working towards improving connectivity and building tourism infrastructure in the region under the Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Plan. With proper development and promotion, the Kailash Kund trek has the potential to become a major attraction for adventure and spiritual tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.