Nandi Parvat

Nandi is a sacred bull, who is the Vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva. He is also the greatest devotee of lord Shiva. It is said that wherever Lord Shiva is, Nandi will be present there. And the best testimony of this popular saying is the Nandi Parvat located near the holy Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva. Nandi Parvat is a mountain. And the symmetrical pyramid-style shape of the mountain resembles the appearance of Nandi, the carrier of Lord Shiva. Therefore, it is one of the top attractions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Nandi is considered the symbol of courage, faith, and devotion. He is believed to be the protector of Dharma and is always present as a guard or gatekeeper of Lord Shiva. In every temple and shrine, one can see the Nandi Bull sitting in front of the Shivalinga or Lord Shiva’s idol. And, the Nandi Parvat near the Kailash is a matter of great surprise. It is a natural creation that shows the ultimate devotion and love of Nandi Bull for Lord Shiva. Such a creation at this height cannot be manmade. This is a natural creation and a magical creation that everyone must witness.

Where is Nandi Parvat Located

Nandi Parvat is a sacred and top attraction of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is located on the South face of Mount Kailash and is famous for its distinctive pyramid-like shape. To its east lies two small lakes, a Buddha statue, and a Shivalinga Temple. The sacred Nandi Parvat, also known as Nandi Parbat, is clearly visible from Yam Dwar, the starting point of the Kailash Mansarovar Kora, and is located in the proximity of the Saptarishi Caves.

Mythology Significance of Nandi Parvat

According to the Hindu mythology, the son of Kashyapa and Surabhi, Nandi, was destined to live for 8 years only. Hearing this, Nandi started worshipping Lord Shiva to reverse his fate. Lord Shiva, with his devotion, was impressed and gave him a garland with a bell, which transformed Nandi into half-human and half-bull. Then Lord Shiva also honoured Nandi as his Vahana. Ever since then, Nandi became the provider of boons, faith, justice, and the protector of Dharma.

The Nandi Parvat near Mount Kailash got its name from the sacred carrier bull, Nandi. The mountain resembles the shape of the Nandi bull. It is said that lord Shiva is in deep meditation in Kailash and cannot directly listen to his worshippers. Nandi acts as a messenger for devotees to convey their wishes and desires to the Almighty. Nandi passes all the messages to lord Shiva as well as guards his abode. The Nandi Parvat near the sacred Mount Kailash is regarded as the “Gatekeeper”. Devotees of Lord Shiva complete a Nandi Parvat Parikrama on their way to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

Places to Visit Near Nandi Parvat

While the main attraction of Nandi Parvat is to do the Kailash Parikrama, there are several other attractions that you must visit or explore near Nandi Parvat:

• Yam Dwar: It is the holy gate of the abode of Lord Shiva located at Tarboche. It is the starting point of the Kailash Mansarovar Parikrama. The holy Nandi Parvat is clearly visible from the gate.
• Lake Mansarovar: An integral part of Kailash Parikrama, and a major attraction, is Lake Mansarovar. It is located near Nandi Parvat, where devotees take a holy dip to wash away all their sins and purify their souls.
• Rakshas Tal: In contrast to Lake Mansarovar, the lake of purity and devotion, Rakshas Tal is the lake of negativity, located near Mount Kailash.
• Saptarishi Caves: Nandi Parvat is located near Saptarishi Caves, consisting of 13 Chortens. Located at a high altitude of 6000 meters. These are believed to be the residences of 7 Rishis who were ardent devotees of Lord Shiva.

Safety Measures While Visiting Nandi Parvat

The Nandi Parvat trip is advised only to people who are medically fit and can trek to a high elevation. Well, even if you have prior trekking experience, you must do some preparation and keep some safety measures in mind to avoid any accidents or injuries. Here are a few safety tips for you:

• Keep water bottles with you, and keep yourself hydrated.
• Make sure to take breaks at regular intervals while trekking to Nandi Parvat.
• Avoid talking while trekking
• Keep snacks, a first-aid kit, and general medicine with you.
• Wear comfortable trekking shoes.