Why Mount Kailash is Unclimbable - Scientific Reasons.

Guru Travels 24 May 2025

Mount Kailash in Tibet's remote western region is one of the most respected and mysterious mountains in the world. Pyramid-like summits rise sharply in the surrounding areas and increase into the impressive presence of the Tibetan Plateau. Despite its relatively modest size compared to giants like Mount Everest, Kailash was never rubberized. This article delves into the multifaceted reasons—spiritual, cultural, environmental, and physical—that contribute to Mount Kailash's status as an unclimbed peak.

What are the Spiritual and Religious Significance of Mount Kailash? 

Mount Kailash is not just a geographical feature or a majestic peak—it is a symbol of profound spiritual and religious importance that resonates with billions of people across Asia and beyond. Unlike other high mountains that attract climbers for their physical challenge, Kailash is considered a sacred mountain that should not be touched by human feet beyond its base. Its significance spans multiple major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon religion of Tibet. Each of these spiritual traditions brings a unique perspective to why Mount Kailash is revered, making it arguably the most sacred mountain in the world.

1. Hinduism: Abode of Lord Shiva

In Hindu cosmology, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), along with Brahma and Vishnu.

Shiva’s Eternal Meditation

• According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva resides at the summit of Mount Kailash in a state of perpetual meditation, along with his consort Parvati.
• The mountain represents Shiva's cosmic center, where he contemplates and maintains the balance of the universe.

Axis Mundi – The Cosmic Axis

• Kailash is often equated with Mount Meru, the mythical axis of the world in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cosmology. It is believed to be the central point around which all creation revolves.
• The four faces of Mount Kailash (north, south, east, west) are said to be made of crystal, ruby, gold, and lapis lazuli, respectively, each representing different divine qualities and cosmic directions.

Spiritual Pilgrimage (Kailash Parikrama)

• Devotees undertake the Kailash Parikrama, a 52-kilometer circumambulation around the mountain, which is believed to erase the sins of a lifetime.
• Completing 108 rounds is said to lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth).

2. Buddhism: Mount Meru and Tantric Symbolism

In Tibetan Buddhism, Mount Kailash is revered as Kang Rinpoche, meaning "Precious Jewel of Snow."

Mount Meru – Center of the Universe

• As in Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhists identify Kailash with Mount Meru, the spiritual center of the universe, around which the sun, moon, and stars revolve.
• It is considered the earthly representation of the celestial Mount Meru described in Buddhist scriptures.

Association with Demchok (Chakrasamvara)

• In Vajrayana Buddhism, Mount Kailash is associated with the tantric deity Demchok (Chakrasamvara), who represents supreme bliss.
• The mountain symbolizes the body of the Buddha, and the act of walking around it is a physical expression of inner spiritual transformation.

Pilgrimage and Karma

• Like Hindus, Buddhists perform the Kora (circumambulation), which is believed to bring immense merit.
• One full kora is said to cleanse the sins of a lifetime; 108 koras are believed to guarantee enlightenment.

3. Jainism: Site of Liberation (Moksha)

In Jain tradition, Mount Kailash is known as Ashtapada, the sacred site where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva (Adinath), attained liberation.

Ashtapada and Rishabhadeva

• According to Jain scriptures, Rishabhadeva, after a life of asceticism and spiritual pursuit, achieved moksha at this holy mountain.
• This makes Mount Kailash one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Jains, though it is revered more symbolically since Jain pilgrimage infrastructure is minimal in the region.

Symbol of Renunciation and Liberation

• For Jains, the mountain represents the highest goal of human existence: liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) through renunciation and right knowledge.

4. Bon Religion: The Soul of Tibet

The Bon religion, which predates Buddhism in Tibet, also holds Mount Kailash in the highest reverence.

Abode of Sipaimen

• In Bon cosmology, Mount Kailash is regarded as the home of Sipaimen, the sky goddess and one of the principal deities of the Bon pantheon.
• The mountain is a sacred site of energy and power, representing the physical manifestation of divine order.

Counter-Clockwise Kora

• Unlike followers of Buddhism and Hinduism, Bon practitioners perform the Kora in a counter-clockwise direction, reflecting their distinct spiritual tradition.
• The Kora is considered an act of alignment with natural and cosmic energies.

5. Shared Themes Across Faiths

Despite doctrinal differences, certain spiritual motifs and beliefs unify the religious traditions that venerate Mount Kailash:

Sacred Geometry and Cosmic Symmetry

• The mountain’s unique shape—an almost perfectly symmetrical, black granite peak with horizontal striations—enhances its perceived sacredness.
• Many believe that it is not a natural formation, but rather a man-made or divine structure placed precisely to align with planetary energies.

Respect for Sanctity

• All traditions emphasize that climbing the mountain is forbidden, as it would desecrate the divine presence believed to reside at the summit.
• The only acceptable interaction is circumambulation, a symbolic gesture of humility, devotion, and reverence.

6. Mythology and Legends

Mount Kailash is the setting for many mythical tales that reinforce its divine status:

The Battle Between Milarepa and Naro Bon-Chung

• One famous Tibetan legend recounts a magical contest between the Buddhist saint Milarepa and the Bon priest Naro Bon-Chung, who both wanted to claim Kailash for their respective faiths.
• Milarepa won the contest by flying to the summit on a sunbeam, symbolizing that spiritual enlightenment, not physical conquest, is the path to the mountain's peak.

Inaccessible by Mortal Means

• Some myths say that anyone who attempts to climb the mountain will age rapidly, or mysteriously vanish. These tales emphasize that Kailash is not meant for human conquest but for divine contemplation.

7. Psychological and Spiritual Impact

For pilgrims and seekers, the journey to Mount Kailash is not just physical but a deeply transformative experience:

• Many report a shift in consciousness, feelings of spiritual euphoria, and visions during or after the Kora.
• The high altitude, combined with the mountain’s aura and cultural narratives, often creates a space for profound inner reflection, healing, and even spiritual awakening.

A Mountain Beyond Mountains

Mount Kailash’s religious and spiritual significance transcends its physicality. It is not merely a mountain but a spiritual axis, a divine residence, and a symbol of cosmic order and purity. The belief that Kailash should remain unclimbed is rooted not in fear or superstition but in a deep reverence for the sacred. For countless devotees, leaving the summit untouched is a gesture of humility, a recognition that some places are meant for worship, not conquest.

This spiritual sanctity ensures that Mount Kailash continues to be one of the world’s last unclimbed—and perhaps unclimbable—peaks, not because it is insurmountable in a physical sense, but because it is immeasurably sacred.

Reasons about Legal and Political Prohibitions on Climbing Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is not only a sacred and spiritual landmark but also a politically sensitive and legally protected site located in the remote western region of Tibet Autonomous Region, China. While many of the reasons why it remains unclimbed are rooted in religious beliefs and cultural reverence, a significant portion of its protection comes from governmental policy and international diplomacy. This section explores the legal and political prohibitions surrounding Mount Kailash in detail, including historical decisions, administrative controls, cultural preservation laws, and the complex geopolitical landscape of Tibet.

1. Chinese Government’s Sovereign Control

Mount Kailash is located within Tibet, a region under the sovereignty of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Since China assumed control over Tibet in the 1950s, it has governed all access to the region, including pilgrimage routes, trekking, and mountaineering activities.

Permit System and Access Restrictions for Mount Kailash

• Foreign visitors, especially climbers and religious pilgrims, must obtain special permits to travel in Tibet.
• These include:
• Tibet Travel Permit
• Alien Travel Permit
• Military Permit (for regions like Ngari, where Kailash is located)
• These permits are tightly regulated by the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) Tourism Bureau and Public Security Bureau (PSB).

Access to Mount Kailash is heavily restricted and closely monitored by Chinese authorities. Any mountaineering activity would require approval from multiple governmental departments, which is virtually impossible given the political sensitivity of the region.

2. Official Ban on Climbing Mount Kailash

Climbing Ban in 2001

• In 2001, the Chinese government officially prohibited all climbing activities on Mount Kailash.
• This decision was taken in response to global religious sentiments, particularly from Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities who voiced strong opposition to proposed climbing expeditions.

Reinhold Messner's Rejection

• In the 1980s and again in the 1990s, famous mountaineer Reinhold Messner was offered a permit by the Chinese government to climb Mount Kailash.
• Messner refused, stating that climbing such a sacred mountain would desecrate its spiritual essence.
• His refusal influenced global climbing ethics and public opinion, prompting the Chinese authorities to take a more culturally sensitive stance.

Response to Religious Pressure

• International religious and cultural organizations, especially from India and Nepal, have petitioned the Chinese government over the years to permanently ban all climbing attempts on Mount Kailash.
• In an effort to maintain diplomatic goodwill with these countries and uphold religious harmony, China has continued to enforce this climbing ban.

3. Cultural Heritage Preservation Laws

National Laws on Cultural and Religious Protection

• China has laws aimed at protecting ethnic minority cultures and religious traditions, particularly in regions like Tibet and Xinjiang.
• Mount Kailash is considered part of Tibet’s intangible cultural heritage. Any activities seen as violating the sanctity of sacred sites can be penalized under Chinese law.
• Religious freedom laws in China, while controlled, do emphasize the importance of respecting religious customs, especially in sensitive regions.

UNESCO and Environmental Considerations

• While Mount Kailash is not officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the surrounding area—Lake Manasarovar and Kailash Sacred Landscape—has been proposed for recognition under UNESCO's tentative list.
• UNESCO guidelines strongly discourage commercial or invasive activities near culturally sacred landscapes.
• The Chinese government has indicated its willingness to comply with international conservation standards in this context, making climbing permissions even more unlikely.

4. Geopolitical Considerations and Diplomacy

Mount Kailash is not only a spiritual symbol but also a geopolitical flashpoint, situated near the tri-junction of India, China, and Nepal. This area has complex political tensions, particularly between India and China.

Sino-Indian Border Sensitivities

• The region near Kailash, especially Lipu Lekh Pass and Nathula, has seen increased military deployment due to tensions between India and China.
• China is wary of allowing too much foreign activity in the region, particularly from Indian nationals, due to border security concerns.

Strategic Infrastructure Development

• China has invested heavily in infrastructure development around the Mount Kailash region, including roads, military posts, and observation facilities.
• The area is considered strategically sensitive, and unrestricted movement—especially by foreigners—is not tolerated.

India-China Religious Diplomacy

• India, home to the majority of Mount Kailash’s religious pilgrims (Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains), maintains religious diplomacy with China to ensure continued access for the Kailash-Manasarovar Yatra (pilgrimage).
• Any climbing activity on Kailash would trigger massive public outcry in India, potentially damaging bilateral relations.
• China thus enforces the climbing ban to avoid religious and diplomatic backlash.

5. Regional Governance and Local Sentiment

Tibetan Administration and Local Monasteries

• Local Tibetan Buddhists and the regional religious institutions (monasteries) fiercely oppose the idea of climbing Kailash.
• They consider any such act as profanity and a desecration of one of Tibet’s holiest mountains.
• The Chinese government, while often accused of suppressing religious expression, has worked with local religious leaders in this case to uphold the ban as a means of preserving cultural legitimacy.

Controlled Tourism Policy

• Tourism around Mount Kailash is encouraged in the form of pilgrimage and trekking, but only along defined paths such as the Kailash Kora.
• Activities beyond that, especially those involving climbing, are legally forbidden and actively prevented by border patrols and tourism authorities.

6. Legal Consequences of Violation

Penalties and Repercussions

• Any unauthorized climbing attempt can lead to:
• Arrest and deportation
• Heavy fines
• Blacklisting from re-entry into China
• Chinese law provides for strict penalties for foreign nationals violating religious or cultural site regulations, particularly in Tibet, where surveillance is intense.

Diplomatic Incidents

• If a foreign climber were to attempt Kailash without authorization, it could escalate into an international diplomatic incident, especially if they were from India or a Western country.
• This adds another layer of deterrence for climbers and adventurers considering the mountain.

The legal and political prohibitions on climbing Mount Kailash are not merely symbolic; they are backed by enforceable laws, international diplomacy, regional security concerns, and religious obligations. While spiritual reverence provides the ethical foundation, China's administrative and legal framework ensures compliance.

The 2001 Mount Kailash climbing ban remains firmly in place, reflecting a rare instance where government policy, religious values, and international diplomacy align. China, often criticized for religious restrictions, has in this case taken an approach that upholds religious traditions and environmental conservation, albeit under tightly controlled access. As a result, Mount Kailash continues to remain untouched, revered, and legally protected, ensuring its place as a sacred mountain beyond the reach of human conquest.

7 Strong Reasons that Environmental and Physical Challenges of Climbing Mount Kailash! 

Mount Kailash, standing at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), is not among the tallest peaks in the Himalayas. However, what it lacks in elevation, it more than compensates for in terms of environmental extremity and physical difficulty. Even if legal and spiritual barriers were removed, climbing Mount Kailash would still be a formidable, risky, and ethically questionable endeavor due to the unique environmental conditions, geological structure, climatic volatility, and logistical difficulties surrounding the mountain.

1. Geographical Isolation and Terrain

Mount Kailash is located in the Ngari Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region, one of the most remote and least accessible parts of the Tibetan Plateau.

Remote Location

• The mountain lies over 1,200 km (750 miles) from Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, and is reachable only by rugged mountain roads.
• Infrastructure is minimal, with the nearest town (Darchen) serving as a basic base camp for pilgrims.
• The lack of modern facilities—no rescue services, no high-altitude clinics, no consistent mobile connectivity—makes climbing logistics extremely difficult and hazardous.

Lack of Approach Routes

• Unlike Everest or other popular peaks, Mount Kailash has no established climbing routes, no base camps, and no mountaineering infrastructure.
• The slopes of the mountain are steep and heavily eroded, covered with loose rock and scree, increasing the risk of falls, landslides, and avalanches.

2. Geological Structure and Technical Difficulty

Mount Kailash’s unique shape and geological makeup present immense physical challenges to any potential climber.

Pyramid Shape and Smooth Slopes

• Kailash resembles a perfect pyramid, with sheer faces and sharp ridges.
• The sides of the mountain are unusually smooth and vertically inclined, making technical climbing almost impossible without artificial aids—which would be considered sacrilegious in such a holy area.

Unstable Rock and Permafrost

• The mountain consists largely of sedimentary rock, which is prone to weathering and erosion.
• Permafrost conditions and frequent freeze-thaw cycles lead to unstable terrain, where rocks may break loose under minimal pressure.
• This increases the likelihood of rockfalls, making climbing life-threatening.

Glacial and Ice Features

• Though not as glaciated as higher peaks, Mount Kailash features seasonal glaciers, especially on the northern face.
• These glaciers are uncharted and could conceal deep crevasses, making them treacherous to cross.

3. Harsh Climatic Conditions

Mount Kailash is located at high altitude in a dry, cold desert environment with extreme weather patterns.

Altitude and Hypoxia

• At 6,638 meters, the oxygen level is approximately 40% less than at sea level, putting climbers at risk of:
• Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
• High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
• High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

Climbers usually need weeks of acclimatization, yet this is not practical at Kailash due to the absence of support infrastructure.

Sudden Weather Changes

• The weather around Kailash is highly unpredictable. Snowstorms can arise with little warning, even in summer.
• Blizzards, whiteouts, and freezing winds are common and can disorient climbers or trap them on exposed ledges.

Extreme Temperatures

• Temperatures at night can plunge below -20°C (-4°F), even in warmer months.
• The intense cold combined with wind chill and oxygen deprivation creates a hostile environment for sustained activity at high elevations.

4. Environmental Sensitivity and Ecological Fragility

Mount Kailash is not only a sacred mountain but also part of a sensitive high-altitude ecosystem that provides vital water resources to Asia.

Source of Major Rivers

• Four of Asia’s great rivers originate near Mount Kailash:
• Indus River
• Sutlej River
• Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo)
• Karnali River (a tributary of the Ganges)

Climbing or large-scale expeditions could cause environmental degradation that may impact glacial health, thereby affecting downstream water supplies for millions of people.

Low Resilience to Human Impact

• The alpine desert ecosystem of western Tibet is fragile and slow to recover from human interference.
• The introduction of foreign materials (e.g., climbing gear, plastic waste, fuel canisters) or even temporary shelters would disturb this pristine environment.
• Once damaged, the ecosystem may take decades to regenerate, if at all.

Cultural-Ecological Harmony

• Pilgrims walking the 52-kilometer Kora around the mountain follow strict ecological ethics—carrying their waste, avoiding disturbance to flora and fauna, and respecting the sacredness of the land.
• Mountaineering activity, by contrast, tends to be resource-intensive and potentially disruptive to this balance.

Absence of Rescue and Emergency Infrastructure

In most major mountaineering regions, there are rescue helicopters, mountain clinics, and tracking mechanisms. At Mount Kailash, none of these exist.

No Helicopter Evacuation

• The high altitude and thin air make helicopter evacuation extremely difficult or impossible.
• If a climber were injured or struck with altitude sickness, reaching them in time would be nearly impossible.

Long Evacuation Routes

• The nearest full-service hospital is in Lhasa, requiring several days of overland travel on poor roads.
• Even Darchen, the closest town, lacks a proper hospital or emergency care for mountaineers.

6. Lack of Support Ecosystem for Climbers

High-altitude climbing relies on a network of support services—guides, Sherpas, porters, base camps, and gear supply points. Kailash offers none of these.

No Sherpa or Porter Culture

• The local Tibetan community around Mount Kailash is oriented toward pilgrimage support, not technical climbing.
• There is no local industry that supports climbing (unlike Nepal, where Sherpas are integral to Himalayan expeditions).

Prohibitions on Setting Base Camps

• Due to religious restrictions, no base camps or high camps are allowed to be established on the mountain or its lower slopes.
• Without these camps, sustained climbing efforts over multiple days become impossible.

7. Myths, Superstitions, and Psychological Barriers

Though not "physical" in a scientific sense, cultural myths and psychological fears associated with Mount Kailash contribute to its unclimbable status.

Rapid Aging and Disappearance Stories

• Legends persist that past climbers aged decades within hours or mysteriously vanished.
• While unproven, these stories discourage climbers and add a psychological layer of fear.

Milarepa's Warning

• Tibetan lore recounts how the Buddhist yogi Milarepa ascended the mountain not physically, but spiritually, and warned that no mortal should attempt the same feat.
• These stories reinforce the cultural taboo and even suggest divine punishment for those who try.

The environmental and physical challenges of climbing Mount Kailash are extraordinary and multilayered. While not the highest or most technically complex mountain in the Himalayas, its geographical isolation, inaccessible terrain, extreme climate, and environmental sensitivity create a setting that is both hazardous to life and unfit for modern expedition support.

Combined with its sacred status and strict legal protections, the environmental and physical obstacles around Mount Kailash create a powerful natural deterrent. The mountain seems to guard itself, standing as a natural fortress, untouched by human conquest—an enduring symbol that some places are meant to be honored, not conquered.

Why Mount Kailash is Unclaimable? Cultural and Ethical Considerations! 

Mount Kailash is not just a geographical or spiritual landmark—it is a cultural cornerstone for billions of people across Asia. For adherents of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, Kailash is more than a mountain—it is a sacred symbol of the divine, a place of pilgrimage and reverence. Because of this deeply embedded significance, any attempt to climb the mountain is not merely seen as a physical act but as a profound ethical violation and cultural desecration.

This section examines why Mount Kailash is considered ethically “unclimbable”, focusing on the cultural taboos, moral responsibilities, and spiritual values that define global sentiment regarding its sanctity. 

1. Reverence Beyond Religion: A Shared Sacred Ethos

Mount Kailash is one of the rare natural landmarks that holds simultaneous significance across multiple world religions. Despite theological differences, they all emphasize one common principle: the mountain is sacred and should not be climbed.

Hinduism

• Seen as the abode of Lord Shiva, Mount Kailash is considered so holy that to physically step on it is to insult the divine.
• Devotees perform parikrama (circumambulation), not ascent, as a form of worship and humility.

Buddhism

• For Tibetan Buddhists, Kailash is the earthly representation of Mount Meru, the cosmic axis around which the universe revolves.
• The act of climbing is considered spiritually arrogant, as enlightenment cannot be attained by conquering nature but by surrendering to it.

Jainism

• The mountain is known as Ashtapada, the site where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, attained moksha.
• Climbing would be considered an act of ego and disrespect to a site of divine liberation.

Bon Religion

• In the indigenous Bon tradition, Kailash is the seat of Sipaimen, the goddess of nature.
• Any disruption to the mountain, including climbing, is seen as disharmony with nature and the spiritual world.

2. Cultural Taboos and Social Harmony

In the cultures surrounding Mount Kailash, especially Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian communities, there are strong cultural prohibitions that are passed down through generations.

Oral Traditions and Folklore

• Local stories emphasize that no one should ever set foot on the summit. Doing so is believed to bring misfortune, natural calamity, or divine retribution.
• Elders teach that even dreaming of climbing Kailash should be avoided.

Respect for Ancestral Wisdom

• These taboos are not based solely on superstition but are social ethics codified over centuries to preserve spiritual values.
• Outsiders violating these norms would be seen as disrespecting not only religion but also cultural identity and memory.

Preservation of Sacred Geography

• Just as some communities prohibit entry into certain temples or sanctuaries without ritual purification, climbing Kailash is viewed as trespassing into divine territory.

3. Ethical Stance in the Mountaineering Community

Even among professional climbers and explorers—who often take pride in summiting the most difficult peaks—there exists a broad ethical consensus that Mount Kailash should remain unclimbed.

Reinhold Messner’s Moral Refusal

• The legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner turned down a Chinese government offer in the 1980s to climb Mount Kailash.
• He said, "If we conquer this mountain, then we conquer something in people's souls. I would suggest they go and climb something a little harder. Kailash is not so high and not so hard, but it is holy."

Climbing vs. Conquering

• Ethical climbers distinguish between conquering a mountain and honoring it. The former is seen as an act of ego; the latter is about humility.
• Climbing Mount Kailash would be an act of spiritual conquest, which is widely rejected by modern alpinism ethics, especially when sacred spaces are involved.

The Sacred-Unclimbed Code

• In mountaineering ethics, there is an unspoken understanding that some peaks should never be touched—not because they are unclimbable physically, but because they are unclimbable ethically.

4. Colonial Legacy and Cultural Sensitivity

Mountaineering has historically been tied to imperialism and colonial attitudes, especially during the 19th and 20th centuries when Western explorers often disregarded local cultures and sacred traditions in their quest for "first ascents."

Post-Colonial Reckoning

• Today, there is a growing recognition that cultural sensitivity must guide exploration.
• Attempting to climb Kailash would revive painful memories of cultural domination and religious disrespect.

Decolonizing Exploration

• Many modern climbers and adventurers now advocate for a decolonized approach to travel, where the emphasis is on listening to local voices and preserving sacred landscapes.

5. Indigenous Spiritual Ecology and Nature Ethics

Tibetan and Bon traditions emphasize living in harmony with nature. The mountain is not a challenge to be overcome but a divine entity to be venerated.

Animistic Beliefs

• In Tibetan animism and Bon spirituality, natural entities like mountains, rivers, and trees are believed to have souls or spiritual energies.
• Climbing a mountain like Kailash would be the equivalent of violating a living god or goddess.

Harmony Over Domination

• The goal of spiritual practice is not to dominate nature but to become one with it. This worldview clashes directly with the conquest-oriented mentality often seen in high-altitude mountaineering.

6. Pilgrimage as Ethical Interaction

The only acceptable form of engagement with Mount Kailash is through circumambulation (Kora or Parikrama), which is a spiritual and ethical practice.

Sacred Journey, Not a Summit Push

• Pilgrims spend days performing the Kora, often prostrating themselves after every few steps.
• This act symbolizes surrender, devotion, and purification, in stark contrast to the ego-driven ambition associated with climbing to a summit.

Earning Merit, Not Glory

• Pilgrimage to Kailash is about gaining spiritual merit, not personal glory or achievement.
• The process is marked by humility, not human triumph over nature.

7. Global Religious Sentiment and Ethical Responsibility

Given the mountain’s spiritual value to over a billion people worldwide, climbing Mount Kailash would cause widespread moral outrage.

Religious Diplomacy and International Relations

• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and many Buddhist-majority countries have all expressed that Mount Kailash must remain sacred and untouched.
• Any climbing attempt would likely lead to international condemnation, damaging diplomatic ties and sparking protests.

Moral Responsibility of Foreigners

• Ethical responsibility dictates that outsiders respect sacred traditions, especially when the communities involved have preserved those traditions for centuries.

8. Symbolism of the Unclimbed Peak

Mount Kailash serves as a universal symbol of humility, restraint, and sacredness. It represents a higher ethical ideal that some things are not meant for human conquest.

The “Untouched” Ideal

• In a world where every natural barrier is being conquered, Kailash remains a rare example of reverent restraint.
• It reminds humanity that moral boundaries matter more than physical ones.

Respect Over Ambition

• The decision not to climb Kailash is not a failure but a triumph of ethical and cultural awareness—a refusal to violate the sacred in the pursuit of personal achievement.

A Moral Boundary We Must Not Cross!

The cultural and ethical considerations surrounding Mount Kailash form a compelling case for why it must never be climbed. Unlike Everest or K2, Kailash is not a trophy for human pride but a spiritual monument to be honored from afar. In the face of ambition, the world has chosen respect. In the presence of the sacred, humanity has chosen restraint. This choice reflects not weakness, but wisdom—an acknowledgment that true greatness lies not in conquering nature, but in recognizing where not to tread.

Legends and Mystical Beliefs Surrounding: Also the reasons that Mount Kailash is Unclaimable! 

Mount Kailash, rising majestically in the remote Ngari region of Tibet, is more than just a mountain—it is an epicenter of myths, legends, and mystical beliefs that stretch back thousands of years. It holds a unique position in world spirituality and mythology, revered across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon religion. What sets Mount Kailash apart is not its height or physical dominance, but its reputation as a divine, mystical, and metaphysical entity.

Many of the beliefs surrounding Mount Kailash fall into the category of the supernatural, involving legends of divine beings, time anomalies, hidden dimensions, and cosmic balance. In this section, we delve deep into the legends and mystical beliefs that have contributed to the mountain's sacred and unclimbable status.

1. The Mountain as a Divine Residence

At the heart of the mystical lore is the belief that Mount Kailash is not just a mountain but the physical manifestation of a spiritual realm—the home of gods and divine entities.

Abode of Lord Shiva (Hinduism)

• Mount Kailash is believed to be the celestial home of Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer among the Hindu trinity (Trimurti).
• Shiva is said to reside at the summit in eternal meditation with his consort Parvati, embodying balance between asceticism and fertility.
• The peak is often described as radiating cosmic energy, with Shiva acting as the source of universal consciousness (Chaitanya).

Seat of Demchok (Buddhism)

• In Tibetan Buddhism, the mountain is associated with Chakrasamvara (Demchok), a wrathful deity symbolizing supreme bliss.
• According to tantric texts, Demchok resides in a palace on the summit, engaged in an eternal embrace with his consort, representing the union of wisdom and compassion.

Liberation Site of Rishabhadeva (Jainism)

• Jain legends identify the mountain as Ashtapada, where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, attained moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
• Thus, it is considered the gateway to enlightenment.

Center of the World in Bon

• In Bon cosmology, Kailash is the spiritual heart of the world and home to Sipaimen, the goddess of nature.
• Bon practitioners believe the mountain anchors the balance of the universe and is protected by guardian spirits.

2. The Axis Mundi – Cosmic Center of the Universe

Many myths describe Mount Kailash as the Axis Mundi, or the "world axis," linking heaven and earth.

Mount Meru Connection

• Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmologies describe Mount Meru, a mythical mountain at the center of the universe. Mount Kailash is widely believed to be its earthly embodiment.
• In this view, Kailash is surrounded by concentric continents and oceans, and the sun, moon, and stars revolve around it.

Spiritual Compass

• From Kailash emerge four rivers—Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo), and Karnali (a Ganges tributary)—each flowing in the four cardinal directions.
• This geographical anomaly is used to support the myth of Kailash as the world's navel or central energetic point.

3. The Milarepa and Naro Bon-Chung Legend

One of Tibet’s most famous mystical stories is the magical duel between Milarepa, the great Buddhist yogi, and Naro Bon-Chung, a powerful Bon sorcerer.

The Supernatural Contest

• Both Milarepa and Naro Bon-Chung wished to claim Kailash as sacred to their respective religions.
• They agreed on a contest: whoever could reach the summit first would earn the right to establish their faith there.

Victory on a Sunbeam

• Naro Bon-Chung summoned magical beasts to help him ascend, but Milarepa flew to the summit on a sunbeam, winning the challenge effortlessly.
• Upon victory, he forbade anyone from ever setting foot on the peak again, declaring it too sacred for mortal ambition.

Moral Message

• The legend emphasizes spiritual ascent over physical conquest, teaching that divine realms are earned through enlightenment, not exertion.

4. Temporal Distortion and Time Travel Myths

One of the most enduring mystical beliefs is that Mount Kailash is a gateway to other dimensions or even a time machine.

Aging Rapidly Near the Summit

• Local legends say that those who attempt to climb Mount Kailash age rapidly—some say by decades within hours.
• One tale tells of a group of climbers who disappeared near the summit and were found dead, aged beyond recognition, reinforcing beliefs in time distortion.

Shambhala and Hidden Realms

• Some esoteric Buddhist and Hindu traditions suggest that Mount Kailash hides a portal to Shambhala, a legendary hidden kingdom of immortals and enlightened beings.
• This “inner world” is believed to operate in a different dimension of time and space, accessible only to the spiritually awakened.

5. Geometrical and Energy Mysticism

Mount Kailash is often the subject of studies and speculation in sacred geometry, Vastu Shastra, and energy vortex theories.

Pyramidal Structure

• The mountain’s unusual symmetrical, pyramid-like shape has led some to speculate that it may be a man-made or extraterrestrial construct.
• Russian and Indian scientists have claimed that Mount Kailash aligns perfectly with ancient monuments like the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, suggesting a global energy grid.

Center of a Giant Mandala

• From above, Mount Kailash and the surrounding landscape form patterns resembling a mandala, a spiritual diagram used in Buddhist and Hindu meditation.
• Some say the mountain emits spiritual frequencies that can affect consciousness, leading to altered states of awareness during pilgrimages.

6. The Indestructible Ice of Mount Kailash

Another mystical feature is the belief that no one has ever reached the summit not only due to spiritual laws but also due to natural phenomena guarding it.

Supernatural Weather

• Legends suggest that storms erupt spontaneously when anyone gets too close to the summit.
• Climbers who attempted the ascent reportedly encountered blinding snowstorms, impenetrable clouds, and magnetic interference with compasses and satellites.

The Indestructible Ice

• The glaciers around Kailash are said to never melt, even in summer. This perpetual snow cover is viewed as a divine veil, protecting the mountain from human defilement.

7. Pilgrimage and Supernatural Phenomena

Thousands of pilgrims from India, Nepal, Tibet, and beyond undertake the Kora (circumambulation) around Kailash, and many report experiencing unexplained mystical phenomena.

Spiritual Visions and Enlightenment

• Some pilgrims have reported visions of deities, past life memories, or states of bliss and trance during the Kora.
• Completing the 52-km trek around the mountain is said to erase the sins of a lifetime. Doing it 108 times is believed to lead to liberation (moksha).

Miraculous Physical Endurance

• Elderly pilgrims, or even physically handicapped devotees, are said to complete the trek under impossible odds—many attributing this to divine intervention.

8. Forbidden Ascent and Divine Protection

The belief that Mount Kailash cannot and should not be climbed is not only religious but mythologically enforced.

Divine Guardians

• Local myths say that celestial beings guard the summit and repel anyone who tries to ascend it.
• Snow leopards, birds, or strange weather phenomena are seen as manifestations of these protectors.

Invisible Walls

• Some stories claim that climbers who attempt to reach higher slopes feel as if they’re walking against an invisible wall, unable to progress.

9. Cross-Cultural and Modern Mysticism

Even in the modern age, Kailash continues to attract spiritual seekers, New Age practitioners, and mystics who believe in its energetic and metaphysical powers.

Chakra Theory and Energy Vortexes

• Some New Age theories claim that Mount Kailash represents the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) of the Earth, corresponding to cosmic consciousness.
• The mountain is believed to be a portal for astral travel, meditation, and karmic cleansing.

UFO and Alien Theories

• A fringe but popular belief is that Mount Kailash is an ancient alien base, and that its geometric perfection is proof of extraterrestrial design.
• Some speculate that the mountain may house ancient technology or civilizations, hidden beneath its icy cover.

A Mountain of Myth and Mystery

Mount Kailash is wrapped in a fabric of legends, divine stories, mystical science, and spiritual symbolism. These myths are not mere stories—they form the living consciousness of the mountain. They guide pilgrimages, shape moral

9 of Pilgrimage and Circumambulation, Which Explain more about Mount Kailash is Unclaimable! 

Mount Kailash is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the world, not for being climbed, but for being circumambulated. This sacred journey—known as Kora in Tibetan and Parikrama in Sanskrit—is undertaken by thousands of pilgrims each year who believe that walking around the holy mountain cleanses sins, brings good fortune, and paves the way to spiritual liberation.

Unlike other pilgrimage sites that are often characterized by shrines or temples, the focus of devotion at Kailash is the mountain itself. Circumambulating it is an act of profound humility, devotion, and spiritual transformation.

This section provides a detailed account of the history, significance, practices, routes, challenges, and mystical aspects of the pilgrimage and circumambulation of Mount Kailash.

1. The Spiritual Purpose of Circumambulation

The act of walking around Mount Kailash is not just a physical endeavor but a sacred ritual that holds deep religious meaning in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

Hinduism

• Circumambulating Mount Kailash is believed to cleanse all sins of a lifetime.
• It is seen as an act of reverence to Lord Shiva, who resides on the peak in meditation.
• Pilgrims chant mantras such as "Om Namah Shivaya" as they walk, seeking spiritual merit and inner peace.

Buddhism

• For Tibetan Buddhists, circumambulation (Kora) represents a ritual journey toward enlightenment.
• It symbolizes overcoming ego, ignorance, and desire, and accumulating positive karma.
• The direction is clockwise, in accordance with Buddhist ritual tradition.

Jainism

• Jains consider Kailash as Ashtapada, where Rishabhadeva attained moksha.
• The pilgrimage represents detachment from worldly bonds and a path to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Bon Religion

• Practitioners of Bon, the pre-Buddhist spiritual tradition of Tibet, walk the Kora counter-clockwise, unlike the others.
• This reflects Bon cosmology and their distinct metaphysical beliefs.

2. The Kailash Kora Route: Geography and Structure

The Mount Kailash Kora is a 52-kilometer (32-mile) path that circles the sacred peak. It usually takes 3 days to complete, though some pilgrims complete it in a single day, while others take up to a week depending on their physical condition and spiritual intent.

Route Overview

• Starting Point: Darchen (the small town near Kailash base)
• Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (~20 km)
• Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk Monastery (~18 km), crossing the Drolma La Pass
• Day 3: Zutulpuk back to Darchen (~14 km)

Notable Landmarks Along the Route

• Yam Dwar (Gate of the God of Death): The ceremonial starting point of the Kora for Hindus.
• Dirapuk Monastery: Offers the best views of the northern face of Kailash.
• Drolma La Pass (5,630 meters): The highest point of the trek, symbolizing the death of the ego and rebirth.
• Gauri Kund: A sacred lake associated with Goddess Parvati, believed to purify the soul.
• Zutulpuk Monastery: Associated with the mystic Milarepa, said to have meditated here.

3. Ritual Practices and Devotional Acts

The Kora is not a race or sightseeing trek—it is a deeply devotional act, carried out with ritual care and spiritual mindfulness.

Walking in Prayer

• Pilgrims chant mantras such as:
• "Om Mani Padme Hum" (Buddhists)
• "Om Namah Shivaya" (Hindus)
• Many carry mala beads, prayer wheels, or small images of deities.

Full-Body Prostration (Dandavat Pranam)

• Some highly devout pilgrims perform the Kora by prostrating fully on the ground every few steps.
• This can take three weeks to several months, depending on physical endurance and weather conditions.
• They carry wooden boards or aprons to protect their hands and knees.

Pilgrimage in Silence

• Many choose to remain silent throughout the journey to deepen inner focus and reverence.
• The silence is seen as a form of surrender and meditation.

4. Spiritual Beliefs and Merits

The spiritual benefits of completing the Kora are widely recognized across cultures and scriptures.

Erasure of Sin

• Completing one Kora is said to erase the sins of a lifetime.
• 10 Koras are believed to release one from the cycle of rebirth (samsara).
• 108 Koras are considered a path to nirvana or moksha.

Symbolism of the Path

• The ascent to Drolma La symbolizes death and the trials of life.
• The descent from the pass represents spiritual rebirth and renewal.

5. Physical and Environmental Challenges

Though spiritual in nature, the Kora is also a physically grueling pilgrimage, especially for elderly devotees and those not acclimated to high altitudes.

High Altitude

• The route ascends above 5,600 meters (18,370 feet), putting pilgrims at risk for altitude sickness, HAPE, and exhaustion.
• Acclimatization is critical, and some pilgrims require emergency evacuation.

Weather Extremes

• Even in summer, snowstorms can occur. Temperatures can drop below freezing.
• Rain, sleet, and strong winds add to the difficulty.

Basic Living Conditions

• Pilgrims often stay in simple guesthouses or monasteries with no electricity or heating.
• Food is basic—often tsampa (roasted barley flour), noodles, and butter tea.

6. Cultural and Communal Spirit

Despite its difficulties, the Kailash Kora is a joyous and spiritually unifying experience.

Pilgrims from Across the World

• Devotees from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, China, Russia, and Western countries walk side-by-side in peace.
• The pilgrimage transcends borders, languages, and denominations.

Local Support and Hospitality

• Tibetan nomads and local monks offer tea, guidance, and blessings.
• Acts of kindness among pilgrims—sharing water, helping the weak, or guiding the lost—add to the spirit of spiritual brotherhood.

7. Symbolic Acts and Sacred Objects

Along the Kora route are numerous places where pilgrims perform symbolic rituals.

Mani Stones and Prayer Flags

• Pilgrims place mani stones (engraved with mantras) and tie prayer flags at high points and sacred junctions.
• These are believed to carry blessings on the wind and purify the environment.

Stone Cairns and Offerings

• Small piles of stones or offerings of coins and incense are made at Drolma La and other sacred spots.
• Pilgrims leave pieces of clothing or hair to signify the shedding of ego and worldly identity.

8. Inner Kora (Secret Pilgrimage)

A more secretive and restricted pilgrimage is the Inner Kora, which is considered extremely sacred and perilous.

Restricted Access

• Requires special permission and spiritual preparation. Most pilgrims are not allowed to do it.
• Involves traversing inner cliffs and caves associated with saints like Milarepa.

Spiritual Risk and Reward

• Believed to bestow profound spiritual visions or transformations.
• However, the risks are immense—both physical and karmic—if done without proper intention and discipline.

9.Mystical Experiences and Testimonies

Many pilgrims report life-changing spiritual experiences on the Kora.

Visions and Dreams

• Some speak of dreams involving deities, ancestors, or vivid past-life recollections.
• Others describe hearing voices, seeing unusual light forms, or sensing an overwhelming peace.

Emotional and Psychological Renewal

• Tears, joy, surrender, catharsis—many describe the Kora as a form of emotional rebirth.
• For those grieving, lost, or seeking meaning, the journey often becomes a spiritual turning point.

A Sacred Journey Beyond Footsteps

The pilgrimage and circumambulation of Mount Kailash are acts of spiritual reverence, inner transformation, and universal connection. Unlike other mountains, Kailash is not to be conquered—but to be honored, walked around, and worshipped from afar.

Each step on the Kora is a prayer, each breath a meditation, and each challenge a lesson in humility and devotion. It is not the summit that matters at Mount Kailash—it is the circle, the sacred cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Strong Scientific Reasons: Why Mount Kailash Is Considered Unclimbable?

While the spiritual, religious, and cultural reasons for not climbing Mount Kailash are well established, there are also scientific and geological perspectives that support the notion of the mountain being "unclimbable." These scientific factors do not necessarily imply that climbing the mountain is physically impossible in the traditional mountaineering sense—but rather, they contribute to why no successful or permitted ascent has ever been recorded.

Below is a comprehensive examination of the scientific, geographical, geological, and natural factors that add to the Mount Kailash mystery and reinforce the belief that it should remain unclimbable.

1. Geographical Structure and Slope Complexity

Mount Kailash has a unique shape and structure, making it unusually difficult to approach and climb compared to other mountains of similar or even greater height.

Pyramid-Like Shape

• Mount Kailash has an almost perfect four-sided pyramidal structure with smooth, steep vertical faces.
• The sharp edges and symmetry of its ridges leave few natural ledges or climbing routes, especially on the southern and western faces.

Unstable Rock Faces

• Geologists suggest that the upper layers of Kailash are composed of metamorphic rocks like gneiss and schist, which are known to be highly fractured and unstable.
• These fragile rock formations are prone to landslides and rockfall, making them dangerous for technical climbing.

2. Glaciation and Perpetual Ice Cover

Mount Kailash is covered with perpetual snow and glacial ice, especially near the summit and north face, which adds to the technical difficulty and risks of ascent.

Steep Ice Slopes

• The steep angles combined with slippery ice make footing precarious.
• Unlike other major peaks like Everest or K2, Kailash does not have clear snowfields or safer ridges for ascent.

Crevasses and Ice Layers

• The surrounding glaciers, particularly the Kangjam Glacier, are unmapped and unstable, with deep crevasses that shift due to temperature fluctuations.

No Documented Base Routes

• Unlike Mount Everest, Kailash has no mapped or attempted base camp trails leading to a safe ascent route. Most of the known paths are for circumambulation, not climbing.

3. High Altitude and Thin Air

Though Mount Kailash is not among the world’s tallest peaks (standing at 6,638 meters / 21,778 feet), it still poses serious altitude-related physiological challenges.

Thin Oxygen Levels

• The oxygen level at Kailash’s summit is roughly 40% of that at sea level, posing a significant risk of Altitude Sickness, HAPE (High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema), and HACE (High-Altitude Cerebral Edema).

Sudden Weather Shifts

• Mount Kailash lies in a climatic confluence zone near the Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas.
• Storms and rapid temperature changes are frequent and unpredictable, adding danger to any prolonged exposure during ascent.

4. Magnetic and Electromagnetic Anomalies (Theoretical)

Several travelers and researchers have reported unusual electromagnetic phenomena around Mount Kailash, though these are not widely accepted by mainstream science.

Compass Malfunctions

• Some pilgrims and explorers claim that compasses spin erratically or fail entirely near Kailash, especially near certain high points.
• This could suggest magnetic anomalies in the rock or underground mineral deposits, which can affect navigation.

Electromagnetic Radiation

• A few independent researchers have proposed that the mountain emits unusual levels of electromagnetic energy, though no peer-reviewed scientific study has confirmed this.
• These alleged energy fields are cited in New Age theories about Mount Kailash being a power vortex, but are considered speculative by geophysicists.

5. Seismic Sensitivity and Geological Fragility

The Kailash region lies in a tectonically active zone due to the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates.

Tectonic Uplift

• Kailash is part of the Gangdise Range, formed due to intense tectonic activity. The region still experiences micro-earthquakes, making the mountain geologically fragile.

Unstable Terrain

• The rocks and glaciers are subject to ongoing erosion and uplift, leading to frequent landslides, avalanches, and icefall risks.
• Geological studies suggest that the entire structure may be too brittle to support climbing gear or prolonged human contact.

6. Lack of Reconnaissance and Survey Data

Mount Kailash remains one of the least scientifically studied peaks in the world due to restricted access by the Chinese government, which prohibits climbing and detailed surveying.

No Scientific Expeditions

• There have been no modern geological or mountaineering expeditions to study potential climbing routes or summit features.
• Satellite imagery gives some information, but ground-level geological data is scarce.

Climbing Prohibition

• Since climbing is forbidden for religious and cultural reasons, there has been no initiative to conduct detailed mountaineering surveys that could identify potential routes or safe zones.

7. Surrounding Terrain Adds Isolation

Mount Kailash is located in one of the most remote and inhospitable regions on Earth—the western part of the Tibetan Plateau (Ngari Prefecture).

High-Altitude Desert

• The surrounding landscape is arid, cold, and barren, often referred to as the "Roof of the World".
• With minimal infrastructure, no medical facilities, and few supply lines, organizing a climbing expedition would be logistically perilous.

Long Approach Routes

• Reaching the mountain requires days of off-road travel through rough terrain and elevation gain of over 4,500 meters just to begin the circumambulation.
• These logistical hurdles alone deter scientific or exploratory climbing attempts.

8. Reports of Climbers Turning Back

While there is no confirmed attempt to climb Kailash, there are scattered reports of teams or individuals who have sought permission or attempted to approach the mountain and then abandoned their plans.

Reinhold Messner Refusal

• The world-famous mountaineer Reinhold Messner was invited by the Chinese government to climb Mount Kailash in the 1980s but refused, citing spiritual and ethical reasons. He also suggested that natural obstacles made the climb unfeasible.

Anecdotal Failures

• Tibetan oral traditions and some modern testimonies speak of climbers who either lost their way, fell ill, or turned back inexplicably, reinforcing the belief that the mountain "won’t allow itself to be climbed."

9. The Summit Is Inaccessible Even by Air

Due to environmental restrictions and possible airspace control by Chinese authorities, aerial surveys or drone explorations of the summit are also limited or prohibited.

Restricted Airspace

• The region is under strict control, with limited permits for aerial photography or scientific equipment.
• Drones are often banned in sacred zones due to religious respect and military regulation.

Mount Kailash remains one of the last unconquered and untouched mountains on Earth, and not merely because of its religious significance. Science—especially geography, geology, meteorology, and mountaineering logistics—offers compelling reasons why no one has ever climbed it, and perhaps never will:

• Unstable rock and ice
• Dangerous weather patterns
• Lack of mapped routes
• Seismic activity
• Remote isolation
• Government prohibition

These physical barriers, when combined with cultural and spiritual imperatives, make Mount Kailash scientifically, spiritually, and practically unclimbable. It stands not only as a natural wonder but also as a powerful reminder that not everything in nature is meant to be conquered—some things are meant to be revered.

Final Thought: Why Mount Kailash is Unclaimable - Detailed Explanation!  

Mount Kailash stands not only as a geographical marvel but as a timeless symbol of humanity’s spiritual humility and reverence for the divine. While many of the world’s highest peaks have been conquered, measured, and mapped, Kailash remains untrodden at its summit—a sacred silence amidst the noise of conquest and achievement.

From a religious standpoint, it is the cosmic center of the universe, the throne of Shiva, the mandala of Demchok, the site of Jain liberation, and the heart of Bon spirituality. To attempt to climb it would be considered not just a physical challenge, but a spiritual transgression—a disruption of cosmic order.

From a scientific and environmental perspective, the mountain presents extreme physical dangers: unstable rock faces, unscalable vertical slopes, unpredictable weather, and glaciated terrain that defies modern climbing techniques. Add to this the remoteness of the Tibetan plateau and governmental prohibitions, and it becomes clear why no climber has succeeded—or even seriously attempted—the ascent.

But perhaps the most profound reason why Mount Kailash remains unclimbed is cultural and ethical: it is one of the few places on Earth where human restraint has prevailed over ambition. It is a peak that teaches us a deeper truth—that not all mountains are meant to be climbed, and not all summits need to be reached to attain a higher perspective.

In a world driven by records, speed, and ownership, Mount Kailash reminds us that sanctity still matters. It is a rare confluence of nature, faith, and mystery, where reverence has held stronger than conquest. Whether one believes in gods, energy fields, or the raw power of untouched wilderness, Mount Kailash speaks to something universal: that awe itself is sacred.

It is not the height of Mount Kailash that makes it the most powerful mountain in the world—it is the decision, made across civilizations, to leave it alone.