A Glimpse into the Pilgrim Life at Zuthulpuk Monastery

The Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage is a very spiritual and life transforming experience which we have. From all over the world pilgrims come to walk around Mount Kailash which is of great peace, blessing, and divine connection to them. 

On the third and final day of the parikrama (holy walk) pilgrims arrive at Zuthulpuk Monastery which is a small but very meaningful site often left out of the mainstream coverage.

Let us see how it is for the pilgrims which arrive at Zuthulpuk, and which despite is a quiet monastery it is a very special stop on the journey. 

Where Is Zuthulpuk Monastery?

Zuthulpuk Monastery is on the east side of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and is the third in line of stops for the parikrama. 

After we pass the tough Dolma La Pass and spend the night at Dirapuk pilgrims walk for what seems like hours along the rocky path which finally brings us to Zuthulpuk.

It is a small simple monastery which sits in a beautiful valley, among hills and beside flowing rivers. The peaceful setting is a place of rest for tired pilgrims and renewal of the soul.

The Meaning Behind Zuthulpuk

Zuthulpuk name is of a sacred cave which is a site of Milarepa’s, the great Tibetan saint and poet, meditation.

According to tale Milarepa lived here and worked miracles which in turn he used to put forward the path of truth to the local people.

There is the story of how he left the impression of his head and hand on a rock within the cave a site which still today is a place of pilgrimage for many.

The cave is a part of the monastery which still is a great spot for the spiritual seekers.

What Do Pilgrims Experience at Zuthulpuk?

By the time travelers get to Zuthulpuk they have put in long days which have seen them out for two days at a time, dealt with cold temps, and crossed the highest point of the trek at Dolma La. 

The body may be spent but the spirit is strong. This is what a usual pilgrim goes through:

1. Repose and Reflection

Zuthulpuk is a place which goes beyond just sleep. It is a setting for reflection. Many pilgrims spend time in quiet prayer and sitting in silence. The peaceful atmosphere allows them to connect with the self and the divine.

2. Monk sayings and Spiritual talk

Some pilgrims have that privilege of meeting the resident monks. While there may be a language barrier which affects talk, the blessings and warm smiles they receive from there speak volumes.

3. Easy Recipes and Told Tales

Food is basic, soup which is warm, bread, tea but what it lacks in variety it makes up in taste which is divine after a long walk.

Pilgrims also share their stories, put forth their reasons for the journey, and form strong connections which may be with people they met that very morning on the trail.

4. Evening Strolls and Quiet Prayers

At dusk many are out walking around the monastery or sitting by the flowing river. Here the silence is of a different quality it is healing.

You will hear the soft chants or the sound of bells from the monastery which creates a perfect moment of peace.

Why Zuthulpuk Matters in the Yatra?

While most people speak of the views at Dirapuk or the challenge at Dolma La, at Zuthulpuk it is the inner journey which is deepened. It’s the last spiritual point in the parikarma before returning to Darchen.

Here what is noted by many is that Kailash Yatra is more than the trek itself it is a journey within for understanding, peace and gratitude. 

Final Words 

Zuthulpuk Monastery is a small place, but it leaves an impact on each of the pilgrims which passes by. We also see in it that which is very simple may in fact provide the greatest experience.

So, when you plan your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra don’t skip this quiet stop. Take a pause, a breath, and in Zuthulpuk find peace. It’s not for a night’s rest what it is it is a spiritual gift.