The Mystical Milarepa Cave: A Must-Visit for Spiritual Seekers in Manaslu Trek
19 Sep 2024 Chandra Gurung
Trekking through the Manaslu circuit might be more of a religious and spiritual journey than just an adventure. Somewhere in the isolated land on the way to Manaslu, there lies a mystical cave which is known by the name Milarepa Cave.
Located near Manang, this ancient religious cave is steeped in spiritual significance. It offers a peaceful environment for reflection and meditation during this hectic trek. This Buddhist pilgrimage has become a talk of the town for trekkers and many of them visit Milarepa Cave on route to Manaslu Trek.
Reaching Milarepa is a challenging yet fulfilling experience through the Annapurna Circuit which will sweep you in with its unspoiled beauty and spiritual magnificence. Walking along ancient trails with views of soaring peaks and deep green valleys, the journey to this enchanting cave is a mystery on its own. A visit to the Milarepa Cave will give you a deep spiritual connection with the divine and yourself.
What is the History of Milarepa Cave?
Milarepa Cave is not much documented but it is believed that this isolated cave was the place of meditation for Milarepa and his disciples. Now who is Milarepa you might ask. Milarepa was a Tibetan spiritualist and meditation master.
Ancient scriptures suggest that he spent a huge part of his life meditating in numerous caves in the Himalayas, including this cave in the Manaslu region which thus became known by his name. Legends say that the saint came to this cave nearly a thousand years ago and spent 6 years meditating in there and received enlightenment. For centuries, this cave has been a holy pilgrimage for Buddhists and even trekkers in recent times.
This cave and its surroundings give a serene ambience where you can meditate in deep silence and reflect allowing you to connect with the spiritual energy. This place has great significance in Tibetan Buddhism and has a long history of teaching the life lessons of Milarepa. Many believe that the cave is still blessed with Milarepa’s presence.
Where is Milarepa Cave Situated?
En route to Manaslu, trekkers usually come across this tiny cave high up in the rocky hills near the village of Manang, on the Annapurna Circuit trail. The Milarepa cave at a height of nearly 3,540 meters is merely a few kilometres away from the ancient Braga village which sits at an altitude of 3,473 meters. This is a tiny settlement in Manang which is famous for having Braga monastery.
To reach this village, you can either hike from Manang or take a jeep ride. To reach the cave, one must climb steep uphill which sits in an isolated location. Despite a strenuous journey, the views of the stunning mountains, valleys, and the Marsyangdi River just get more beautiful. The trails will need you to ascend many
Once reached, you will find this simple structure carved naturally into the mountainside. Inside the cave, visitors will find a small shrine, meditation area, and offerings left by devotees. Like most Buddhist pilgrimages, this tiny cave is decorated with colorful prayer flags, religious symbols, and images of Milarepa.
The routes will include trails from Chhokang Paro to Nile village and numerous other villages and might take days, depending on the pace and acclimatization schedule of a traveller. It is necessary to make time to visit this cave while planning a trek to Manalsu and prepare things accordingly.
What is the Best Time to Visit Milarepa Cave?
Milarepa Cave visit is mostly recommended during spring and autumn as these seasons are the best for trekking and exploring the beauty of Manang including its apple farms, 100 Lama Cave, and the tour of villages around. Normally dry and brown, these villages look their best in these seasons and the weather too is perfect for travelling.
The otherwise gloomy trails look fascinating due to various flowers that have just begun blooming in spring. Moreover, the Himalayan views are crystal clear at this time. Autumn brings a mixture of natural and cultural beauty since it is the season of festivals in Nepal. This season brings out a mild temperature, clear blue sky and unbelievable Himalayan views and all these make your trip worth it as you explore the enchanting vision of the Milarepa Cave.
Food and Accommodation Near Milarepa Cave
Milarepa Cave stands alone in a mountain and there is no facility for food or lodging. That said, just a few kilometres away, in Manang, you can get nice hotels that have attached bathrooms. Despite being a secluded place, the accommodation facilities in Manang are nice and cosy and travellers can also enjoy food in a bakery and restaurants.
Being the hub for Annapurna Circuit Trekking, the place is often packed with tourists and the hospitality is amazing. Trekkers can enjoy a variety of Nepali, Indian, and Chinese cuisine in restaurants in Manang.
Milarepa Tour from Kathmandu and Pokhara
The trek from Kathmandu to Milarepa is a tough one. Since the road condition is not that good, your ride is only possible and safe with a land cruiser jeep which is the most comfortable and reliable means of transportation in the mountainous region.
You can easily customize the itinerary of the spiritual tour to the Milarepa Cave, according to your budget and convenience. Those driving you around Manang will be very experienced and will have years of tour experience. Therefore do not hesitate to book your ride for one of your life’s most wonderful travel and spiritual experiences.
You will also be accompanied by a licensed guide who will support and assist you with your hotel booking and food facilities on the way. They will keep you entertained along the way, giving details and telling stories about different places.
Preparations Before visiting Milarepa Cave
Milarepa is far from enjoying the trekking and natural beauty of Manang; it is a spiritual journey in itself. It gives ample opportunity to immerse a person in their internal self while enjoying the beauty of the mountains.
That said, do not take the Milarepa Cave lightly as it requires physical stamina and good preparation. As interesting as it sounds, your hike to Milarepa, stirs at high altitude. Wearing warm clothes to shield against the cold, the right trekking gear, and emergency supplies, you can withstand the high altitude challenges. Before that, we acclimatize at a lower altitude in the village of Manang to prevent altitude sickness.
No doubt reaching the final part of the Milarepa Cave is the most demanding part of this hike as it requires you to ascend straight up a rugged path. Extreme caution is required. You might feel altitude sickness as you go higher. With every pause take a sip of water with your trekking water bottle.
Most importantly, listen to your gut feeling and remain nourished and hydrated. If it gets tougher and more health issues show up, descend to a lower altitude as it can get worse if you ascend.
Many trekkers do not bring enough drinking water with them which can cause a lot of trouble since the high altitude makes you catch your breath. Always be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting religious places like the Milarepa Cave.
Many tourists who have travelled there complained about having difficulty in finding the cave and was incorrectly marked on maps. That can waste so much time. We recommend you consult experienced guides and trekking agencies who will provide you with all the details on directions and guidance throughout the journey.
What to Expect Once You Reach Milarepa Cave?
Your strenuous walk to the cave will be rewarded with stunning scenic views of the mountains, clear blue sky and deep valleys below. You can meditate there for some time and reflect on the spiritual teachings of Saint Milarepa. Many people have shared their experiences of the level of peace and calmness they felt during their visit to this holy cave.
After spending some time at the cave and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, it is time to make your way back to Braga and continue to hike to your other trekking destinations in the Annapurna region; maybe Tilicho Lake or Thorong La Pass.
Conclusion
The trek to the spiritual Milarepa Cave is not overly technical or the hardest. However, it demands a good level of stamina and strength. Due to its high altitude, trekkers will experience a lot of ascents and descents, rocky trails, and medical issues. With the necessary precautions and materials, you are ensuring a safer and more pleasurable trip to the Milarepa Cave for a spiritual awakening. You can book the trip by contacting the Manaslu Guide which will provide you with a licensed guide who’ll help to make your life’s most wonderful travel and spiritual experiences at the Milarepa Cave.
FAQs
1. Is the Milarepa Cave hike the hardest?
Ans: No. Milarepa Cave is not the hardest hike in Nepal. However, some find it treacherous at times due to its high altitude conditions and unpredictable trails. Make sure you are physically fit and practising acclimatization. Pack some high-altitude medicines just to be on the safe side.
2. What should one do after reaching Milarepa Cave?
Ans: The first thing to do at the cave is relax and medidate as that will take away all your tiredness. Take pictures and watch the visual of the high mountains and deep valleys from the top.
