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Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas
A memoir of a road less traveled and a true story of self-discovery at 18,000 feet.
After being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, retired Indian businessman Mohan Ranga Rao makes a vow: if he somehow gets out of the situation, he will thank the gods by going on Kailash Mansarovar—a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet. What starts out as merely a challenging high-altitude trek soon becomes a life-changing adventure. With a blend of humor, honesty, and keen insight, Mohan journeys toward a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.
Awards and Accolades
- Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2022 HEARTEN Awards
- 2023 Best Indie Book Award Non-Fiction: Travel/Pilgrimage Winner
- 2024 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite
- Blue Ink "Starred" Review
- 5-Star Chanticleer Book Review
After being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, retired Indian businessman Mohan Ranga Rao makes a vow: if he somehow gets out of the situation, he will thank the gods by going on Kailash Mansarovar—a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet. What starts out as merely a challenging high-altitude trek soon becomes a life-changing adventure. With a blend of humor, honesty, and keen insight, Mohan journeys toward a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.
Awards and Accolades
- Grand Prize Winner for the CIBA 2022 HEARTEN Awards
- 2023 Best Indie Book Award Non-Fiction: Travel/Pilgrimage Winner
- 2024 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite
- Blue Ink "Starred" Review
- 5-Star Chanticleer Book Review
- GenresNonfiction
216 pages, Paperback
Published November 7, 2024
4 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Mohan Ranga Rao
2 books8 followersMohan Ranga Rao is an entrepreneur, explorer, and storyteller who draws inspiration from his journeys through life’s triumphs and trials. A seasoned businessman and philanthropist, he has traveled to over thirty countries, seeking the beauty of nature and the growth found on challenging trails.
His award-winning debut, “Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas,” chronicles his transformative trek around Mount Kailash, a sacred Tibetan Mountain. His latest book, “Myopia,” is a deeply personal memoir inspired by his daughter Yogita, whose brief life—marked by blindness and then cancer—profoundly shaped his understanding of love, resilience, and the meaning of suffering.
In addition to writing, Mohan enjoys tennis, hiking, and exploring subjects ranging from quantum physics to Vedanta. Through his work, he inspires others to embrace life’s challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation.
His award-winning debut, “Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas,” chronicles his transformative trek around Mount Kailash, a sacred Tibetan Mountain. His latest book, “Myopia,” is a deeply personal memoir inspired by his daughter Yogita, whose brief life—marked by blindness and then cancer—profoundly shaped his understanding of love, resilience, and the meaning of suffering.
In addition to writing, Mohan enjoys tennis, hiking, and exploring subjects ranging from quantum physics to Vedanta. Through his work, he inspires others to embrace life’s challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 26, 2022
Reading this book was a beautiful experience. Mount Kailash and lake Mana sarovar seem like a dream to me. Something that I often think about but at the same time it sits on a distant horizon. This book however, took me on a beautiful journey with its vivid descriptions while sitting at home. I read this book in a single sitting and this was my first read of 2022 and my reading year couldn't have started better.
This is an easy to read and well written book.
Also the pictures from the journey undertaken by the author and his wife only added to the delightful experience that was reading this book. I recommend this book to everyone who wants to read a travel memoir that will hold their interest till the end.
This is an easy to read and well written book.
Also the pictures from the journey undertaken by the author and his wife only added to the delightful experience that was reading this book. I recommend this book to everyone who wants to read a travel memoir that will hold their interest till the end.
January 5, 2022
Reading Inner Trek felt like reading journal entries where the author's honesty touched my heart. I laugh at a few anecdotes; some made me think twice about spirituality, while at some points, I understand the significance of the Himalayan trek and the difficulties one has to endure.
The whole journey profoundly impacted the author, clearly seeing this change in his narration. If you're thinking about going on this trek, you should definitely read it. I highly recommend this book.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
The whole journey profoundly impacted the author, clearly seeing this change in his narration. If you're thinking about going on this trek, you should definitely read it. I highly recommend this book.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
January 20, 2022
Inner Trek by Mohan Rang Rao is travelogue about author's Kailash adventure from the very beginning. We accompany author and his wife on their Trek which isn't the smoothest.
What made book better than was author's pov. Author isn't a religious person and for him the Kailash trek is more about nature than anything else. It made it easier for me to connect with the narrative in better way. Author did a wonderful job at describing the surrounding which is the most essential part of the travelogue. Author provided some useful additional insights as well, for example how dangerous the whole trek is and how often people die trying to complete it.
So if you're someone who loves to travel & trek, then Inner Trek is something you'd enjoy. It's an honest account of challenging Kailash trek without religious pov.
What made book better than was author's pov. Author isn't a religious person and for him the Kailash trek is more about nature than anything else. It made it easier for me to connect with the narrative in better way. Author did a wonderful job at describing the surrounding which is the most essential part of the travelogue. Author provided some useful additional insights as well, for example how dangerous the whole trek is and how often people die trying to complete it.
So if you're someone who loves to travel & trek, then Inner Trek is something you'd enjoy. It's an honest account of challenging Kailash trek without religious pov.
December 26, 2021
" each time, i felt fulfilled and thanked the holy mountains that had brought me here. I wanted to hold the moment forever."
And that is what he did, in our hearts too.
A beautiful travel memoir. Yes, taht is what this book is about. Inner trek by @mohan_ranga_rao begins with how Mohan sir was threatened by a mobster for a his own land. After which Mamatha mam and a friend of hers suggested them to visit Mansa Sarovar and Mount Kailash as a vow to lord Shiva. And that is when his yatra begins and i loved how i was able to be a part of the journey.
I want to start with how beautiful it felt to see all the memories he made before and throughout his journey along with his wife. You might be thinking, "why she using ' see ' ?" well, because this book contains their photographs. Isnt that sn amazing experience to relive with them. And according to me it was really heart touching. Specially the beautiful snow formation of 'OM'.
Before this book I've never read a travel memoir and i thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. The things I got to know about how difficult this journey was yet worth all the hardships, was really satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend it to people who loves to travel or to people who loves to learn about new places. You'd definitely love the warmth of this book.
And that is what he did, in our hearts too.
A beautiful travel memoir. Yes, taht is what this book is about. Inner trek by @mohan_ranga_rao begins with how Mohan sir was threatened by a mobster for a his own land. After which Mamatha mam and a friend of hers suggested them to visit Mansa Sarovar and Mount Kailash as a vow to lord Shiva. And that is when his yatra begins and i loved how i was able to be a part of the journey.
I want to start with how beautiful it felt to see all the memories he made before and throughout his journey along with his wife. You might be thinking, "why she using ' see ' ?" well, because this book contains their photographs. Isnt that sn amazing experience to relive with them. And according to me it was really heart touching. Specially the beautiful snow formation of 'OM'.
Before this book I've never read a travel memoir and i thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. The things I got to know about how difficult this journey was yet worth all the hardships, was really satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend it to people who loves to travel or to people who loves to learn about new places. You'd definitely love the warmth of this book.
December 23, 2021
“This trip will be a new experience, unlike any of the trips in my life. No wonder it is called ‘Kailash Yatra.’ Yatra means journey and this is supposed to be a journey of self-discovery for both the mind and the body.”
🦄🦄🦄
After being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, retired Indian businessman in Mohan Ranga Rao makes a vow: if he somehow gets out of the situation, he will thank the gods by going on Kailash Mansarova, a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet. What starts out as merely a challenging high-altitude trek soon becomes a life-changing adventure. With a blend of humor, honesty and keen insight, Mohan journeys toward a deeper understanding of the world around him.
🦄🦄🦄
Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas is a travel memoir by Mohan Ranga Rao that not only details his adventures during the Kailash Yatra, but also how the journey has effected him personally. It's an in-depth look at one of the authors many travels and also comes with a lot of beautiful pictures taken during that journey. So, the author has made sure that we as readers feel like we are on this journey along with him in the most personal way possible. I loved how the author went into detail about everything around him and what they did on the trip so that we'd get a heightened experience, even if we've never visited the area. (I'm not kidding - it even mentions when they had customs checks done!)
The way the book is written makes it one of my favourite travel memoirs till date (and I've read quite a few) and if you are someone who loves to travel or to read about places you may not get to visit, this is a book you should definitely pick up. It's a book that you can finish in one sitting because it's not only informative, but entertaining.
Tibet is one of the places on my travel list so this book has left me even more eager to go visit.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 10/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
After being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, retired Indian businessman in Mohan Ranga Rao makes a vow: if he somehow gets out of the situation, he will thank the gods by going on Kailash Mansarova, a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet. What starts out as merely a challenging high-altitude trek soon becomes a life-changing adventure. With a blend of humor, honesty and keen insight, Mohan journeys toward a deeper understanding of the world around him.
🦄🦄🦄
Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas is a travel memoir by Mohan Ranga Rao that not only details his adventures during the Kailash Yatra, but also how the journey has effected him personally. It's an in-depth look at one of the authors many travels and also comes with a lot of beautiful pictures taken during that journey. So, the author has made sure that we as readers feel like we are on this journey along with him in the most personal way possible. I loved how the author went into detail about everything around him and what they did on the trip so that we'd get a heightened experience, even if we've never visited the area. (I'm not kidding - it even mentions when they had customs checks done!)
The way the book is written makes it one of my favourite travel memoirs till date (and I've read quite a few) and if you are someone who loves to travel or to read about places you may not get to visit, this is a book you should definitely pick up. It's a book that you can finish in one sitting because it's not only informative, but entertaining.
Tibet is one of the places on my travel list so this book has left me even more eager to go visit.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 10/10
Melina L.
December 31, 2021
A retired Indian businessman Mohan Rao finds himself on an adventurous journey to Kailash Mansarovar, a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet, after being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss. This book traces his and his wife’s journey to the sacred Himalayas, the land of Lord Shiva.
Rao shares vivid details of his experience that led him to change the way he thought about himself and the world. A journey that started off as a one to complete a vow, as a display of fitness, eventually led him to the pure bliss of spiritual awakening.
Inner Trek is as much about overcoming the roadblocks to reach somewhere physically as it is about purging oneself to become a better version of oneself. I was deeply moved by Rao’s description of his path that took me to hilly terrains, lakes, mountainous regions, and more.
I was happy to find some of the snapshots from Rao’s pilgrimage. They were breathtakingly beautiful. Each aspect of the travel, the minutest possible, is covered very well in this memoir. I believe this personal touch to the entire narrative that has an abundance of emotions and reflections make Inner Trek a fascinating read.
In the end, when the couple completed the revered Kailash Parikarma, it felt like a personal win. I was moved by their dedication towards the task at hand and very much inspired to undertake this journey myself. The writing is smooth and the flow of the narrative transports us to Rao’s personal journey. That is beautiful indeed!
If you are up for reading a travel memoir that might help you as well in grounding yourself and learning about life, give this one a read.
Rao shares vivid details of his experience that led him to change the way he thought about himself and the world. A journey that started off as a one to complete a vow, as a display of fitness, eventually led him to the pure bliss of spiritual awakening.
Inner Trek is as much about overcoming the roadblocks to reach somewhere physically as it is about purging oneself to become a better version of oneself. I was deeply moved by Rao’s description of his path that took me to hilly terrains, lakes, mountainous regions, and more.
I was happy to find some of the snapshots from Rao’s pilgrimage. They were breathtakingly beautiful. Each aspect of the travel, the minutest possible, is covered very well in this memoir. I believe this personal touch to the entire narrative that has an abundance of emotions and reflections make Inner Trek a fascinating read.
In the end, when the couple completed the revered Kailash Parikarma, it felt like a personal win. I was moved by their dedication towards the task at hand and very much inspired to undertake this journey myself. The writing is smooth and the flow of the narrative transports us to Rao’s personal journey. That is beautiful indeed!
If you are up for reading a travel memoir that might help you as well in grounding yourself and learning about life, give this one a read.
January 23, 2022
A beautiful travel memoir filled with spiritual dawnings, witty remarks, romantic settings and much more. Among the many things this book has taught me two of the most important things remain, significance of spirituality and the availability of alcohol. Forever grateful to the author for writing this book, his wife for making this journey possible and her friend who suggested it.
This book transported me to the mountains. It inspired me to have faith in myself to just try and hopefully someday I'll get go on a similar journey
This book transported me to the mountains. It inspired me to have faith in myself to just try and hopefully someday I'll get go on a similar journey
December 30, 2021
Inner Trek - A Reluctant pilgrim in the Himalayas.
By Mohan Ranga Rao
In this book the author tells us he has gone to many treks in the Himalayas but none was like the powerful place Kailash.
He shares why this trek was a changing point in his life for this adventure in a strange land of ancestral vedic hindu sages, great intellectuals, spiritual leaders where they performed rituals acted like a mirror into his soul, becoming an inner journey and a transformation.
First we get to know an event that torments the author for sometime when a land mafia almost takes control of his wellbeing. Slowly we get to know about his family and other members alongside his personality and others traits. Mamatha inspires him to visit Kailash and manasarover. Here we learn why he was first reluctant towards prayers and it's healing power. How will his journey through the spiritual lands dawn him with spiritual enlightenment? I liked reading about the various places, rituals and their particular significances in Indian mythology. I enjoyed the scenic beauty of the places shared in pictures in chapter.
Travels not only add enjoyment to our lives by escaping mundanity but change our perspective towards the world. This is one of those travelogues. Go check it out.
______________
By Mohan Ranga Rao
In this book the author tells us he has gone to many treks in the Himalayas but none was like the powerful place Kailash.
He shares why this trek was a changing point in his life for this adventure in a strange land of ancestral vedic hindu sages, great intellectuals, spiritual leaders where they performed rituals acted like a mirror into his soul, becoming an inner journey and a transformation.
First we get to know an event that torments the author for sometime when a land mafia almost takes control of his wellbeing. Slowly we get to know about his family and other members alongside his personality and others traits. Mamatha inspires him to visit Kailash and manasarover. Here we learn why he was first reluctant towards prayers and it's healing power. How will his journey through the spiritual lands dawn him with spiritual enlightenment? I liked reading about the various places, rituals and their particular significances in Indian mythology. I enjoyed the scenic beauty of the places shared in pictures in chapter.
Travels not only add enjoyment to our lives by escaping mundanity but change our perspective towards the world. This is one of those travelogues. Go check it out.
______________
January 14, 2022
Mohan Ranga Rao takes us to the land of Gods, to Mount Kailash, a challenging high-altitude trek that becomes a life-changing experience.
The freshness, the honesty in the writing style of the author will excite you. Mohan's curiosity for the trek, the challenges he faced during the trek, the emotions he experienced when he saw Mount Kailash. One could relate to it well.
The author candidly shares his journey. To fulfil the vow he made to God, to fulfil his wife's wish, he decided to go on this trek. Mohan's excitement and Mamtha's constant support and her perspective made me fall in love with this book more.
I loved the honest approach of the author. The simplicity in his words, the couple's will to explore the mountains, it's a perfect blend of humor, love and happiness.
The crisp narrative and the fascinating writing style of the author keep the readers hooked throughout. Each chapter is like a surprise, that fills readers with excitement giving them a travel experience for life. The beautiful pictures added by the author is like the cherry on the cake.
The freshness, the honesty in the writing style of the author will excite you. Mohan's curiosity for the trek, the challenges he faced during the trek, the emotions he experienced when he saw Mount Kailash. One could relate to it well.
The author candidly shares his journey. To fulfil the vow he made to God, to fulfil his wife's wish, he decided to go on this trek. Mohan's excitement and Mamtha's constant support and her perspective made me fall in love with this book more.
I loved the honest approach of the author. The simplicity in his words, the couple's will to explore the mountains, it's a perfect blend of humor, love and happiness.
The crisp narrative and the fascinating writing style of the author keep the readers hooked throughout. Each chapter is like a surprise, that fills readers with excitement giving them a travel experience for life. The beautiful pictures added by the author is like the cherry on the cake.
December 5, 2021
“The very idea behind a pilgrimage is fundamentally to subdue the sense of who you are. It is to become nothing in the process of just walking and climbing and subjecting yourself to various arduous processes of nature. So, these places of pilgrimage in the ancient past were always located in such places where a person has to go through a certain amount of physical, mental, and every kind of hardship to get there; so that in the process he becomes less than who he thinks he is right now.” – Sadhguru
The Kailash Mansarover pilgrimage is considered to be one of the most revered pilgrimages in the world and “Inner Trek” is the author’s account of the same.
Among the non-fiction genre, memoirs and travelogues are something I enjoy reading the most because being a travel enthusiast myself, I relish becoming a part of someone else’s journey. Reading this book was one such memorable journey for me. When I first picked up this book, the author, in the beginning, makes it clear to the readers that the book was going to be raw and from the heart and I think that is the very aspect that helped me in connecting with the journey. This account was so personal - packed with emotions, realizations, personal discoveries, introspections, experiences – that I felt like I was a part of that entire endeavor. The breathtaking pictures added in the book are something I am going to cherish forever because they hold the author’s perspective.
Even though I was not the one taking the journey, reading the author’s account changed something in me as well. There was a shift in my perspective after I turned that last page over and I will forever be grateful to the author for this experience.
I would recommend everyone to read this book, even if for just experiencing the sheer pleasure of accompanying someone on their journey.
The Kailash Mansarover pilgrimage is considered to be one of the most revered pilgrimages in the world and “Inner Trek” is the author’s account of the same.
Among the non-fiction genre, memoirs and travelogues are something I enjoy reading the most because being a travel enthusiast myself, I relish becoming a part of someone else’s journey. Reading this book was one such memorable journey for me. When I first picked up this book, the author, in the beginning, makes it clear to the readers that the book was going to be raw and from the heart and I think that is the very aspect that helped me in connecting with the journey. This account was so personal - packed with emotions, realizations, personal discoveries, introspections, experiences – that I felt like I was a part of that entire endeavor. The breathtaking pictures added in the book are something I am going to cherish forever because they hold the author’s perspective.
Even though I was not the one taking the journey, reading the author’s account changed something in me as well. There was a shift in my perspective after I turned that last page over and I will forever be grateful to the author for this experience.
I would recommend everyone to read this book, even if for just experiencing the sheer pleasure of accompanying someone on their journey.
January 2, 2022
Inner Trek by Mohan Ranga Rao is a travelogue centered around the holy mountain of Kailash Mansarova. A journey where pilgrims seek better understanding of oneself through self discovery.
The author after being threatened by a mob boss pledges that if he got out of the situation he would take up this journey. To him this was just a trekking adventure but turned out to be a life altering experience.
Since this is a real account of the journey and not a fiction it does not have any additional drama but what happened in real time. This made the book easier and interesting to read. The book also had so many photographs that was an added bonus.
From this book you not only learn about the journey but also gain so much of wisdom that the author himself received. This book will be a special appeal to travel lovers I believe.
The author after being threatened by a mob boss pledges that if he got out of the situation he would take up this journey. To him this was just a trekking adventure but turned out to be a life altering experience.
Since this is a real account of the journey and not a fiction it does not have any additional drama but what happened in real time. This made the book easier and interesting to read. The book also had so many photographs that was an added bonus.
From this book you not only learn about the journey but also gain so much of wisdom that the author himself received. This book will be a special appeal to travel lovers I believe.
February 4, 2022
Travel expedition is something which has always fascinated me. And if someone talks about voyage on Kailash Mansarovar,it is something that can never be missed.
The book is such a delightful read with some of the most scenic pics one will ever find of the gigantic humoungous mountains . The trek is considered as one of the most challenging ones and author's vivid description help the readers to take the necessary precautions before starting with the trek.
This travelogue is a beautiful memoir which helps one to rediscover himself . It not only act as a meditative pill but also fills us with calm composed serenity. The journey which was undertaken by the author to measure his fitness levels will eventually lead him to spirituality is so heartening to see. The comprehensive way author has mentioned all the details even the minutest ones is quite appreciable. Also the writing style is pretty smooth.
Overall a must read if someone is planning to visit the land of Bholenath🙏
The book is such a delightful read with some of the most scenic pics one will ever find of the gigantic humoungous mountains . The trek is considered as one of the most challenging ones and author's vivid description help the readers to take the necessary precautions before starting with the trek.
This travelogue is a beautiful memoir which helps one to rediscover himself . It not only act as a meditative pill but also fills us with calm composed serenity. The journey which was undertaken by the author to measure his fitness levels will eventually lead him to spirituality is so heartening to see. The comprehensive way author has mentioned all the details even the minutest ones is quite appreciable. Also the writing style is pretty smooth.
Overall a must read if someone is planning to visit the land of Bholenath🙏
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January 1, 2022Mansarovar Yatra : Traveling from the comfort of your home? Possible?
Sometimes you come across a book that completely changes your entire Aura, your path of spirituality. That’s when you realize the repercussion of a good book, a joyous read, a wholesome slice of life that particular piece of writing imparts through its self, slowly, gradually with the turn of every single page.
For me, such a book happened to be Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim’s Journey through the Himalayas.
When I started reading this book I had an inclination that this was a story related to a trip to Kailash Mansarovar. As I proceeded, the complete land mafia angle came into vogue. I nevertheless delved further, waiting to see where the story leads me on to. That’s when I got amazed by the kind of writing that Mohan Ranga Rao has managed to execute. It is simply not a story of his journey to this destination, rather it is also a journey encapsulating his entire experience. The twist of fate depicted through the way in which the story changes vantage from Land mafia angle to Kailash Mansarovar was an absolute gobsmack!! The fact that Mohan, who to my knowledge is not a religious person still undertakes this yatra having been convinced by his wife for the same really gave a very personalized kind of touch to the story for me.
I also enjoyed his rapport with his wife, the way he understands her, his tete a tete with his wife, the witty conversations between both of them have been absolute high points for me throughout. The way his wife convinces him to go for the trek, their journey and its related facets, the pit stops they make, Mohan ji’s wry humor throughout kept me entertained as well as amused. What also caught my attention was the manner in which he dished out such life altering details as well as facts related to the yatra and the trek in a simple yet non overwhelming way. His rapport with his wife, the way he understands her, his tete a tete with his wife, the witty conversations between both of them have been absolute high points for me throughout. Also, the point where his wife tells him to undertake the yatra and he shows a vague indecisiveness was relatable.
What really took me off guard was once they start the yatra, I could totally experience the Aura shifting and it was simply not just a spiritual one but a complete holistic kind of experience. I felt that I was the part of it all along the journey be it Nepal or Mansarovar especially or even the other stops and their illustrative descriptiveness was an absolute bliss to read. All minute details incorporated were done with the most aesthetic atmosphere creation from the readers point of view.
The point where they started the Mansarovar trek, the jokes along the journey, the snippets of discussions they have with all those who are undertaking the trek , made me feel as if I was in complete tandem, traveling alongside them. I was equally intrigued to find out why Mohan ji and his fellow group members were undertaking this trek. At the Dolma La Pass point in the story, it was a turning point for me as being at the Parvati Kund , one has to offer a flag or any other offering and as our writer who did not have anything in particular to offer, started meditating. He chose to do away with his selfdom and pro offer that to the Goddess by way of a giveaway. This for me, was one of the strong highlights of this lovely narrative. Instead of being obnoxious or materialistic, he chose to part with something which in reality is one of the crucial stepping stones in the hierarchy of self actualisation.
There are multiple points throughout the narrative which are my personal favorites. However, i would not reveal more as i strongly feel that you guys should go ahead and read this one to experience what I intend to convey from the bottom of my heart.
Some books are simply not the Writers escapade to the world he believes to be a part of, rather they are windows to those realities which are omnipresent and which form a vital part of his eventual reality.
The complete story of why and how Mohan ji has undertaken this trek is not only inspiring but a musing of sorts as it surely compels one to question the rationalities of listening to the worldly talks or instead choosing to follow the voice of their inner soul.
I generally don’t get emotional that easily as I do so only when I truly am able to fathom and relate to the emotion Be it the death of a favorite character or a complete twist in the tale which is simply incomprehensible. However, here all I had was tears of happiness For me this was a first.. Especially , the last few pages were a homecoming of sorts for me. As for me, an ardent Shiva devotee, I realized at that instance that this is my Mansarovar yatra as I won’t be able to undertake a physical, actual one in future.
This book filled me with drops of Happiness to the last bit as the experience is as divine for me as it is rational for the writer.
But thanks to Mohan’s writing, I have traveled virtually, in flesh there. Because of this book, I have also made many friends. Through this book, I happened to meet Rachita Mohan, who is Mohan's daughter too and I must say she is one of those people I am glad to have met in my life. I also happened to e-meet his wife who is an equally loving and humble person.
Sometimes, the universe acts in a manner that is in sync with your Karmic cosmos. For me, reading and the complete experience called inner Trek has been absolutely spellbinding, enlightening, fulfilling and much much more.
So what are you guys waiting for then?
Inner Trek is a title which is Highly Recommended by us @Booxoul.
Go grab your copy of Inner trek and embark upon this wondrous journey of true self-actualization, a true response to the Inner Soul call…
Sometimes you come across a book that completely changes your entire Aura, your path of spirituality. That’s when you realize the repercussion of a good book, a joyous read, a wholesome slice of life that particular piece of writing imparts through its self, slowly, gradually with the turn of every single page.
For me, such a book happened to be Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim’s Journey through the Himalayas.
When I started reading this book I had an inclination that this was a story related to a trip to Kailash Mansarovar. As I proceeded, the complete land mafia angle came into vogue. I nevertheless delved further, waiting to see where the story leads me on to. That’s when I got amazed by the kind of writing that Mohan Ranga Rao has managed to execute. It is simply not a story of his journey to this destination, rather it is also a journey encapsulating his entire experience. The twist of fate depicted through the way in which the story changes vantage from Land mafia angle to Kailash Mansarovar was an absolute gobsmack!! The fact that Mohan, who to my knowledge is not a religious person still undertakes this yatra having been convinced by his wife for the same really gave a very personalized kind of touch to the story for me.
I also enjoyed his rapport with his wife, the way he understands her, his tete a tete with his wife, the witty conversations between both of them have been absolute high points for me throughout. The way his wife convinces him to go for the trek, their journey and its related facets, the pit stops they make, Mohan ji’s wry humor throughout kept me entertained as well as amused. What also caught my attention was the manner in which he dished out such life altering details as well as facts related to the yatra and the trek in a simple yet non overwhelming way. His rapport with his wife, the way he understands her, his tete a tete with his wife, the witty conversations between both of them have been absolute high points for me throughout. Also, the point where his wife tells him to undertake the yatra and he shows a vague indecisiveness was relatable.
What really took me off guard was once they start the yatra, I could totally experience the Aura shifting and it was simply not just a spiritual one but a complete holistic kind of experience. I felt that I was the part of it all along the journey be it Nepal or Mansarovar especially or even the other stops and their illustrative descriptiveness was an absolute bliss to read. All minute details incorporated were done with the most aesthetic atmosphere creation from the readers point of view.
The point where they started the Mansarovar trek, the jokes along the journey, the snippets of discussions they have with all those who are undertaking the trek , made me feel as if I was in complete tandem, traveling alongside them. I was equally intrigued to find out why Mohan ji and his fellow group members were undertaking this trek. At the Dolma La Pass point in the story, it was a turning point for me as being at the Parvati Kund , one has to offer a flag or any other offering and as our writer who did not have anything in particular to offer, started meditating. He chose to do away with his selfdom and pro offer that to the Goddess by way of a giveaway. This for me, was one of the strong highlights of this lovely narrative. Instead of being obnoxious or materialistic, he chose to part with something which in reality is one of the crucial stepping stones in the hierarchy of self actualisation.
There are multiple points throughout the narrative which are my personal favorites. However, i would not reveal more as i strongly feel that you guys should go ahead and read this one to experience what I intend to convey from the bottom of my heart.
Some books are simply not the Writers escapade to the world he believes to be a part of, rather they are windows to those realities which are omnipresent and which form a vital part of his eventual reality.
The complete story of why and how Mohan ji has undertaken this trek is not only inspiring but a musing of sorts as it surely compels one to question the rationalities of listening to the worldly talks or instead choosing to follow the voice of their inner soul.
I generally don’t get emotional that easily as I do so only when I truly am able to fathom and relate to the emotion Be it the death of a favorite character or a complete twist in the tale which is simply incomprehensible. However, here all I had was tears of happiness For me this was a first.. Especially , the last few pages were a homecoming of sorts for me. As for me, an ardent Shiva devotee, I realized at that instance that this is my Mansarovar yatra as I won’t be able to undertake a physical, actual one in future.
This book filled me with drops of Happiness to the last bit as the experience is as divine for me as it is rational for the writer.
But thanks to Mohan’s writing, I have traveled virtually, in flesh there. Because of this book, I have also made many friends. Through this book, I happened to meet Rachita Mohan, who is Mohan's daughter too and I must say she is one of those people I am glad to have met in my life. I also happened to e-meet his wife who is an equally loving and humble person.
Sometimes, the universe acts in a manner that is in sync with your Karmic cosmos. For me, reading and the complete experience called inner Trek has been absolutely spellbinding, enlightening, fulfilling and much much more.
So what are you guys waiting for then?
Inner Trek is a title which is Highly Recommended by us @Booxoul.
Go grab your copy of Inner trek and embark upon this wondrous journey of true self-actualization, a true response to the Inner Soul call…
January 19, 2022
When times are hard and traveling seems like a dream, travelogues are one thing that I crave for deeply. They make me hopeful about the possibility of traveling fearlessly when situation of this pandemic gets under control.
In this book, the author shares his journey to Mount Kailash and everything that he experiences from inside and out. Kailash Mansarovar is a holy place and it's a difficult trip to make. Not many are fortunate enough to embark on this journey of self-discovery.
When due to a business conflict, the author finds himself in a troubled state, his wife, Mamatha who is very religious makes a vow. If the situation gets under control, they will trek to Mount Kailash. Mamatha and Mohan have done many treks in the past but this seemed to be a challenging one for obvious reasons. The author was quite reluctant initially, finally agreed.
The author has shared each and everything about his journey and the changes that took within him. I don't have plans to visit Kailash Mansarovar yet but this book gave me a great idea what can be expected on reaching there. The challenges, the danger, the facilities, the environment and everything that may hinder the pilgrim have been mentioned quite honestly. Many people fall sick due to less oxygen and some unfortunate people die.
Reading about real people and incidents made me quite nervous as much as it made me curious. The author highlights about the basic facilities like food, clean water, washroom and their condition during the pilgrimage. He also writes about all the interesting people who he meets there. After all, traveling is boring without meeting and knowing strangers.
The author believes in experiencing something himself rather than believing in what others say. This is his journey of the change that took within him. If you ever want to visit Kailash Mansarovar or you want to have an idea what happens there then this book is a must read. Every detail is covered in it and it will be helpful for everyone.
In this book, the author shares his journey to Mount Kailash and everything that he experiences from inside and out. Kailash Mansarovar is a holy place and it's a difficult trip to make. Not many are fortunate enough to embark on this journey of self-discovery.
When due to a business conflict, the author finds himself in a troubled state, his wife, Mamatha who is very religious makes a vow. If the situation gets under control, they will trek to Mount Kailash. Mamatha and Mohan have done many treks in the past but this seemed to be a challenging one for obvious reasons. The author was quite reluctant initially, finally agreed.
The author has shared each and everything about his journey and the changes that took within him. I don't have plans to visit Kailash Mansarovar yet but this book gave me a great idea what can be expected on reaching there. The challenges, the danger, the facilities, the environment and everything that may hinder the pilgrim have been mentioned quite honestly. Many people fall sick due to less oxygen and some unfortunate people die.
Reading about real people and incidents made me quite nervous as much as it made me curious. The author highlights about the basic facilities like food, clean water, washroom and their condition during the pilgrimage. He also writes about all the interesting people who he meets there. After all, traveling is boring without meeting and knowing strangers.
The author believes in experiencing something himself rather than believing in what others say. This is his journey of the change that took within him. If you ever want to visit Kailash Mansarovar or you want to have an idea what happens there then this book is a must read. Every detail is covered in it and it will be helpful for everyone.
December 15, 2021
The book " Inner Trek " is an engaging travel guide which will definitely leave you craving for more. It features the author's travel journey where he explored many new places which were as beautiful as heaven with none other than his wife, Mamatha. The book is divided into twenty-four intriguing chapters. Mamatha and Mohan shares a happy married life since past twenty-four years. It starts with a problem that arises regarding their Bangalore property. One of a mobster keeps threatening him for the property as he wanted it for peanuts. Mohan never gives up no matter how hard the situation gets. Land mafia's had eyes on many of the lands in Bangalore and they used unfair means to get them. But neither police could help. How will the couple deal with this problem? Will the Mafia's be successful in taking away the author's property? Mamatha almost daily mentioned about Mount Kailash and the Manasa Sarovar, this shows her faith in God and how badly she wanted to visit the place. In the past several years, they both have travelled to a lot of places but still the author wasn't familiar with the Mount Kailash. After much, they finally went on a trip to Mount Kailash but also during the trip, they encountered numerous beautiful locations. Turn the pages to explore everything in detailed manner. Thank you for sharing about such wonderful places in detail. This made me curious enough to visit them asap, can't wait to view them in real. The language used is simple to understand.The writing style along with the narration is absolutely well crafted and maintained. It took me around few sittings to complete these 248 pages. The cover of the book looks simple yet so catchy. Also, the tittle fits perfectly with the content. Would highly recommend this book to each and everyone reading this review. Overall, I had a great time reading it.
December 17, 2021
Retired businessman Mohan Ranga Rao was threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, and from the suggestions of his wife, he made a vow with Lord Shiva to visit Mount Kailash and Manasa Sarovar, a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet if he gets rid of this problem. Inner Trek is the memoir of his travel. So we can conclude that he got out of his problems, without that being called a spoiler!
The author is a lover of life. He is humorous and at times can be cocky and insensitive. But he is also extremely determined, self-assured, and confident. The story has been shared with a deep personal touch and is often enjoyable. He has shared all his experiences of the trek including helicopter rides, ban on alcohol and more.
The author has also shared real photographs from his journey. It also includes tips for issues like altitude sickness.
At times I feel that memoirs lose the momentum and seem monotonous, I felt that here as well but the book definitely has its peak points that make it worthy enough to be read. At a point he found alcohol at a shop on the trek and couldn't resist buying it in the middle of his pilgrimage. And he has been candid and honest with us, openly talking about his thoughts on religion, faith and adventure. The journey has it all- fun, adventure, struggles, even deaths and Mohan losing his phone that he exclusively brought to capture photos and videos.
It can be derived from the book, how this deal with Lord Shiva made him realise his own truths and grow as a person.
The author is a lover of life. He is humorous and at times can be cocky and insensitive. But he is also extremely determined, self-assured, and confident. The story has been shared with a deep personal touch and is often enjoyable. He has shared all his experiences of the trek including helicopter rides, ban on alcohol and more.
The author has also shared real photographs from his journey. It also includes tips for issues like altitude sickness.
At times I feel that memoirs lose the momentum and seem monotonous, I felt that here as well but the book definitely has its peak points that make it worthy enough to be read. At a point he found alcohol at a shop on the trek and couldn't resist buying it in the middle of his pilgrimage. And he has been candid and honest with us, openly talking about his thoughts on religion, faith and adventure. The journey has it all- fun, adventure, struggles, even deaths and Mohan losing his phone that he exclusively brought to capture photos and videos.
It can be derived from the book, how this deal with Lord Shiva made him realise his own truths and grow as a person.
January 4, 2022
Inner Trek by Mohan Ranga Rao is a beautifully written and well-captured travel memoir book. The book is non-fiction and based on true events. Right at the beginning, we see that the author is troubled by some land mafia for acquiring his land in Bangalore. Somehow he gets out of that trouble, credit goes to God.
His wife is kind and nudges him to take a pilgrimage tour of Mount Kailash to pay gratitude. The story lingers there for some time; the author never had taken such a high-altitude trekking expedition. In fact, he is reluctant to go there, he was thinking of doing some meritorious work towards the God at home instead of going there in the highest region of the Himalayas.
By reading the initial portion of the book, you will realize that taking a trek for Mount Kailash is not a child’s play or local tourism. It requires funds and good health and much more. Anyway, they get on the tour. And the context of the book begins changing thereon.
There have been many books on Mount Kailash pilgrimage journey but this one is special because it contains candid narration with beautiful and colorful pictures. The author brings forward his journey, bouts of experiences, difficulties, and suffering of others that he encountered on his route to the holy shrine.
The book reveals that whatever is the reason to visit Kailash Mansarover, a person comes changed.
The author puts it rightly at the end, “Mount Kailash is an inner journey as much as it is a pilgrimage and a physical trek in the Himalayas.”
The book is so vivid with travel experiences and images that for sure the readers will feel transported to that group of trekkers. In fact anyone planning to visit Mount Kailash can look forward to have this book for guidance.
The author went with his wife, their love bonding and chemistry is smooth, subtle and funny and it inspires others to rope in love to lead a peaceful and meaningful life.
While reading the book, the changes in the author’s behaviour was evident towards the end. Also the author didn’t shy away from putting insightful information on Mount Kailash, Nepal, Sherpa, local conditions and their struggle for a life above basic conditions…Hilsa and Nepalgunj experiences were unequivocally well-captured.
The book is well-written, properly edited, and has a sense of order. Nothing is rampant or abstract about this book. If the author would have shared more pictures of the trek, it could have been more fabulous experience.
His wife is kind and nudges him to take a pilgrimage tour of Mount Kailash to pay gratitude. The story lingers there for some time; the author never had taken such a high-altitude trekking expedition. In fact, he is reluctant to go there, he was thinking of doing some meritorious work towards the God at home instead of going there in the highest region of the Himalayas.
By reading the initial portion of the book, you will realize that taking a trek for Mount Kailash is not a child’s play or local tourism. It requires funds and good health and much more. Anyway, they get on the tour. And the context of the book begins changing thereon.
There have been many books on Mount Kailash pilgrimage journey but this one is special because it contains candid narration with beautiful and colorful pictures. The author brings forward his journey, bouts of experiences, difficulties, and suffering of others that he encountered on his route to the holy shrine.
The book reveals that whatever is the reason to visit Kailash Mansarover, a person comes changed.
The author puts it rightly at the end, “Mount Kailash is an inner journey as much as it is a pilgrimage and a physical trek in the Himalayas.”
The book is so vivid with travel experiences and images that for sure the readers will feel transported to that group of trekkers. In fact anyone planning to visit Mount Kailash can look forward to have this book for guidance.
The author went with his wife, their love bonding and chemistry is smooth, subtle and funny and it inspires others to rope in love to lead a peaceful and meaningful life.
While reading the book, the changes in the author’s behaviour was evident towards the end. Also the author didn’t shy away from putting insightful information on Mount Kailash, Nepal, Sherpa, local conditions and their struggle for a life above basic conditions…Hilsa and Nepalgunj experiences were unequivocally well-captured.
The book is well-written, properly edited, and has a sense of order. Nothing is rampant or abstract about this book. If the author would have shared more pictures of the trek, it could have been more fabulous experience.
March 5, 2026
achei divo carismático gostei de saber dos detalhes mais pessoais e gostei q ele descreveu mesmo os detalhes mais gore da jornada, pra já ir informado mesmo
December 11, 2021
This book is a pilgrim-travelogue of a business man's journey from the moment he is being threatened by a mob to how he takes up a spiritual journey and the very thing changed his life and perspective forever. He took the journey to Kailash Mansarova following challenges along the way and learning remarkable lessons about the world.
The warmest thing about this book was the author not only sharing his experience but has provided beautiful pictures with his family to show us how those captured moments would have felt like. It truly effused the emotions and added a great quality to my reading experience.
I love travelogues because everyone's journey differs even with the same destination, based on their inner monologues and the means by which they will see the world. By sharing a part of his personal journey, the author has opened a window to us to look at the lessons he has learned and thereby urging to take our own journey to find truths of life. The author ends the book by saying he will go again. I mean, after experiencing such marvels, who wouldn't?
The warmest thing about this book was the author not only sharing his experience but has provided beautiful pictures with his family to show us how those captured moments would have felt like. It truly effused the emotions and added a great quality to my reading experience.
I love travelogues because everyone's journey differs even with the same destination, based on their inner monologues and the means by which they will see the world. By sharing a part of his personal journey, the author has opened a window to us to look at the lessons he has learned and thereby urging to take our own journey to find truths of life. The author ends the book by saying he will go again. I mean, after experiencing such marvels, who wouldn't?
January 17, 2022
The title itself caught my attention “ A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas” and the book shows how the author was a reluctant pilgrim.
The entire book has good wit and humor with intrepid stories!
Good read:)
The entire book has good wit and humor with intrepid stories!
Good read:)
December 12, 2021
The first book written by Mr. Mohan caught my attention from the very title. Usually we see people starting mount kailash yatra with utmost bhakti. When I read the phrase, "reluctant pilgrim" , I said, "What?" , How can a man take such a tough pilgrimage with reluctance?. Once I started reading the book, it took my mind deep inside and a journey within. Definitely an interesting read. Many life lessons learnt. Thank you.
December 28, 2021
This is a book about a person who has been going through uncomfortable chaos created by the land mafia. A man who is at the age of 58 has so much to offer through his life experience. I don't want to reveal what made him go for Kailash Yatra because it is extremely joyful to read by his word.
It's not just a book about travel experience but it speaks more about the pilgrimage struggle and how they attain divinity. Being a mountain lover has captivated my attention to visit this place once in my lifetime. The physical endurance and mental toughness resilience cast a great way to make this happen. The author is indeed a great storyteller whose words felt me like I am experiencing this by myself just by reading this book. I would highly recommend this book to all trekkers, spiritual seekers, and also those who believe in the divine must read this one.
The experiences which are shared in this book are truly candid. While reading I was feeling and I could imagine the raw and first-hand experience of the trek of Kailash Mansarovar lake. The author has shown the power of a natural mindset like resilience, determination, and love, and kindness. I truly found a gem couple as a mutual understanding and happiness shared by them.
A businessman who was almost an atheist turned out to be a theist and started believing in his existence for a greater purpose. The feeling of being reborn after the completion of Kailash Yatra is one of the most explicit factors. I truly admire the author with his wife who completed this trek. After reading this book I have decided to go for this trek or Kailash Yatra.
In one sentence - A great guide for a trek of life because we face inevitable incidents in our daily life too.
There's no adjective to describe the beauty of this book.
This book is like blessings for all those who want to visit or read about Kailash Yatra. I was truly moved by the author's perception and the endeavor to go on this holy trip.
It's not just a book about travel experience but it speaks more about the pilgrimage struggle and how they attain divinity. Being a mountain lover has captivated my attention to visit this place once in my lifetime. The physical endurance and mental toughness resilience cast a great way to make this happen. The author is indeed a great storyteller whose words felt me like I am experiencing this by myself just by reading this book. I would highly recommend this book to all trekkers, spiritual seekers, and also those who believe in the divine must read this one.
The experiences which are shared in this book are truly candid. While reading I was feeling and I could imagine the raw and first-hand experience of the trek of Kailash Mansarovar lake. The author has shown the power of a natural mindset like resilience, determination, and love, and kindness. I truly found a gem couple as a mutual understanding and happiness shared by them.
A businessman who was almost an atheist turned out to be a theist and started believing in his existence for a greater purpose. The feeling of being reborn after the completion of Kailash Yatra is one of the most explicit factors. I truly admire the author with his wife who completed this trek. After reading this book I have decided to go for this trek or Kailash Yatra.
In one sentence - A great guide for a trek of life because we face inevitable incidents in our daily life too.
There's no adjective to describe the beauty of this book.
This book is like blessings for all those who want to visit or read about Kailash Yatra. I was truly moved by the author's perception and the endeavor to go on this holy trip.
December 3, 2021
Inner Trek is a personal travelogue which tour around Mt Kailash, snow capped mountain which is known for its pilgrimage and mindboggling site. This gives mythical perspectives of Kailash yatra and uniqueness of it.
The book starts with the instances of the personal life and introduction the character. The experiences and memories are expressed in twenty four chapters and tried to present the information from historical, cultural perspective through a subtle narration.
The author pens down his experiences and anticipates the reader to take another chapter with the stories of local legends and puranas. Frankly speaking, this book connects the readers to enjoy the experiences through his writing. The photographs really add little charm which transcends through out the book. I recommend it.
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The book starts with the instances of the personal life and introduction the character. The experiences and memories are expressed in twenty four chapters and tried to present the information from historical, cultural perspective through a subtle narration.
The author pens down his experiences and anticipates the reader to take another chapter with the stories of local legends and puranas. Frankly speaking, this book connects the readers to enjoy the experiences through his writing. The photographs really add little charm which transcends through out the book. I recommend it.
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December 6, 2021
Inner Trek is an outstanding travel memoir that has captured all the shreds of the great Himalayas and Mount Kailash, not only externally but also what goes inside someone relishing in the beauty as well as the spiritual experiences inside. This is a record of the journey that begins with a reluctant pilgrim. This can be summed up as a journey of transformation – from a rational to a spiritual being who still uses rationale but with more maturity. A journey of hope, joy, natural landscapes and many more outstanding things.
December 28, 2021
This adventurous story starts with the author being stuck with mafias over a land issue. He had no solution to the life threatening problem he was facing. His religious wife, like any other stereotypical lady in Indian houses, forces her husband to vow for a Kailash yatra to solve the issue. Coincidentally their prayers are answered and hence the journey to the pious Kailash is confirmed.
The book is a must read for all travel-junkies. Right from discussing, planning, to the actual visit to Kailash and the ecstatic feeling after the completion of the journey is just so relatable that you would be reminded of your own such experiences for sure!
The book is very informative and descriptive. The language is easy and narration is gripping. In-depth details of the characters helps in visualising the context. Inclusion of pictures make the whole experience more lively. Many people would resonate with the condition that the author is stuck in. The author's attitude towards God and her wife's connection with the rituals seems like every household's story.
The story has been told in a manner that one can feel the varied emotions such as stress, anxiety, thrill and even peace. One would feel the greatness of the mighty mountains, the whistling winds and the overwhelming beauty of nature.The journey brought out the spiritual side of the author which he himself wasn't aware of. It is not only the author's inner trek but it forces the readers to introspect as well.
After reading the book you would want to have an inner trek for yourself and that in itself speaks volumes for the book. Isn't it?
The book is a must read for all travel-junkies. Right from discussing, planning, to the actual visit to Kailash and the ecstatic feeling after the completion of the journey is just so relatable that you would be reminded of your own such experiences for sure!
The book is very informative and descriptive. The language is easy and narration is gripping. In-depth details of the characters helps in visualising the context. Inclusion of pictures make the whole experience more lively. Many people would resonate with the condition that the author is stuck in. The author's attitude towards God and her wife's connection with the rituals seems like every household's story.
The story has been told in a manner that one can feel the varied emotions such as stress, anxiety, thrill and even peace. One would feel the greatness of the mighty mountains, the whistling winds and the overwhelming beauty of nature.The journey brought out the spiritual side of the author which he himself wasn't aware of. It is not only the author's inner trek but it forces the readers to introspect as well.
After reading the book you would want to have an inner trek for yourself and that in itself speaks volumes for the book. Isn't it?
December 2, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was part memoir, part adventure, and the perfect thing to read for someone who is craving adventure. The protagonist is likeable and compelling, and he doesn't veer away from admitting fallibility. I love to travel, and I had never considered the Himalayas before this, but Inner Trek has got me immensely curious about high-altitude treks, and thanks to the author, my "places to travel" list just got longer. I recommend this book!
December 24, 2021
I've always been fascinated by the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. I watch videos of it every chance I get on youtube. Inner trek is the author's personal account on this revered pilgrimage.
When the author found himself in a tricky situation regarding his property in Bangalore, he confided about it to his wife. She asked him to pray to lord Shiva promising him that he would go to the Kailash Mansarovar trek. Not a firm believer in spirituality, the author reluctantly did as she asked and miraculously got out of the problematic situation.
Two years later, he eventually agreed to go on the trip. In this book, he has provided the itinerary and every minute detail of their travels to the much sought-after spiritual destination. He has also included some photographs, which are quite breathtaking. He also talks about popular tourist spots they visited in Nepal including the once in a lifetime experience of watching Mt. Everest from a close distance.
While reading this book, I actually felt like I was traveling with them. I don't know if I'll ever get a chance to visit this beautiful place, but I've at least experienced the epitome of it in my mind. A must-read if you love traveling!
When the author found himself in a tricky situation regarding his property in Bangalore, he confided about it to his wife. She asked him to pray to lord Shiva promising him that he would go to the Kailash Mansarovar trek. Not a firm believer in spirituality, the author reluctantly did as she asked and miraculously got out of the problematic situation.
Two years later, he eventually agreed to go on the trip. In this book, he has provided the itinerary and every minute detail of their travels to the much sought-after spiritual destination. He has also included some photographs, which are quite breathtaking. He also talks about popular tourist spots they visited in Nepal including the once in a lifetime experience of watching Mt. Everest from a close distance.
While reading this book, I actually felt like I was traveling with them. I don't know if I'll ever get a chance to visit this beautiful place, but I've at least experienced the epitome of it in my mind. A must-read if you love traveling!
November 27, 2021
An amazing journey narrated by the author on his transformation from a businessman to a spiritualist. It's contains a beautiful combination of wit, humour and perspectives on the reverence of Himalayan landscape. Highly recommend!
June 16, 2022
'Inner Trek' is more like a travelogue written by Mohan Ranga Rao about his experiences during the trek to Mount Kailash. The book is beautifully written and you would feel like you are trekking along with the author and his wife. if you are fond of traveling, you should read this book.
The author shares his intention behind the trip to Mount Kailash and how his intentions change as he gets closer to his destination. Initially, the author was reluctant to go on this difficult trek, but as life unfolds, small nudges from the universe pushed him to plan for this pilgrim. Quoting from the book, "The awakening will come in glimpses from within, and your life will never be the same." Indeed this pilgrimage had an impact on the author's mind, heart, and soul.
The book is written from the POV of the author, and he has vividly narrated the whole trip to the readers; right from how different the tea tastes to every experience that left him speechless. For a person who is planning a trip to Mount Kailash, this book would give travelers a reality check.
I really appreciate the author for writing such a beautiful book and also sharing pictures (even after losing the cellphone) to make us feel like we are on a journey with him. The glossy pages of the book added a different feel to it. This is one of the best travel memoirs that I have read to date.
On a personal note, deep down in my heart, I now wish to travel to Mount Kailash. I think I will be nudging my husband to take me on this holy trek just the way the author's wife did. ;)
The author shares his intention behind the trip to Mount Kailash and how his intentions change as he gets closer to his destination. Initially, the author was reluctant to go on this difficult trek, but as life unfolds, small nudges from the universe pushed him to plan for this pilgrim. Quoting from the book, "The awakening will come in glimpses from within, and your life will never be the same." Indeed this pilgrimage had an impact on the author's mind, heart, and soul.
The book is written from the POV of the author, and he has vividly narrated the whole trip to the readers; right from how different the tea tastes to every experience that left him speechless. For a person who is planning a trip to Mount Kailash, this book would give travelers a reality check.
I really appreciate the author for writing such a beautiful book and also sharing pictures (even after losing the cellphone) to make us feel like we are on a journey with him. The glossy pages of the book added a different feel to it. This is one of the best travel memoirs that I have read to date.
On a personal note, deep down in my heart, I now wish to travel to Mount Kailash. I think I will be nudging my husband to take me on this holy trek just the way the author's wife did. ;)
March 21, 2022
Inner Trek is a travel memoir of Mr. Mohan Ranga Rao, a businessman in Karnataka, India. The book is specifically about the Mt. Kailash Parikrama (Circumbulation) and the visit to Manasa Sarovar lake. This trip is considered holy and auspicious by many religions including Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
This trip is not only sacred as Lord Shiva's adobe, considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience but also very dangerous due to the unpredictable weather at high altitudes.
The author mentions in the prelude itself that he is not a religious, but a spiritual person and he is taking this trip seeking an adventure. Eventually, he experiences a spiritual inclination at the end of the trip. He feels insignificant and small leaving all his ego before the majestic mountains in the treacherous trip.
The trek around Mt.Kailash covering 52 km in 3 days through the highest pass Dolma La reaching an elevation of 18000 ft above sea level is an impossible task for a normal person without fitness. Even for a fit person, the high elevation, and less oxygen might become dangerous if they are not acclimatized to the altitude.
What do I like?
I usually don't read non-fiction and I don't quite enjoy that genre unless it feels honest. I liked this book as I felt the author's experience was genuine. Unlike some biographies/memoirs that gravitate towards boasting about their good qualities, the author of this book focused more on the Mt Kailash trip and his experience keeping the unnecessary details to a minimum.
Like many other Hindus, I also learned and read a lot about Mt.Kailash and this impossible trek. The mystery of the mountain attracts me to learn more. I am happy to have read this book and to know about the weather, sherpas helping the trekkers, treacherous conditions affecting the trip, the people visiting from places around the world, the beauty of nature and the experience of people who could complete circumambulation, etc.,
The photos printed in the book and the maps gave an idea of the trek and helped me to imagine the beauty of the place. By the end of the book, I was elated and had the great satisfaction of knowing about the myths, legends, and facts about Manasa Sarovar. The book is riveting throughout and I never felt bored reading it.
There is nothing that I didn't like about this book. It gave me immense satisfaction and I would recommend this book to many other readers who love to read about Mt Kailash and the experience of trekking the Manasa Sarovar. I would also recommend it to the readers who want to know about this life-changing adventure and the spiritual significance of this holy pilgrimage.
My Rating: 5/5
PS: I have received this print copy from Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for a review and this is my honest opinion on the book.
This trip is not only sacred as Lord Shiva's adobe, considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience but also very dangerous due to the unpredictable weather at high altitudes.
The author mentions in the prelude itself that he is not a religious, but a spiritual person and he is taking this trip seeking an adventure. Eventually, he experiences a spiritual inclination at the end of the trip. He feels insignificant and small leaving all his ego before the majestic mountains in the treacherous trip.
The trek around Mt.Kailash covering 52 km in 3 days through the highest pass Dolma La reaching an elevation of 18000 ft above sea level is an impossible task for a normal person without fitness. Even for a fit person, the high elevation, and less oxygen might become dangerous if they are not acclimatized to the altitude.
What do I like?
I usually don't read non-fiction and I don't quite enjoy that genre unless it feels honest. I liked this book as I felt the author's experience was genuine. Unlike some biographies/memoirs that gravitate towards boasting about their good qualities, the author of this book focused more on the Mt Kailash trip and his experience keeping the unnecessary details to a minimum.
Like many other Hindus, I also learned and read a lot about Mt.Kailash and this impossible trek. The mystery of the mountain attracts me to learn more. I am happy to have read this book and to know about the weather, sherpas helping the trekkers, treacherous conditions affecting the trip, the people visiting from places around the world, the beauty of nature and the experience of people who could complete circumambulation, etc.,
The photos printed in the book and the maps gave an idea of the trek and helped me to imagine the beauty of the place. By the end of the book, I was elated and had the great satisfaction of knowing about the myths, legends, and facts about Manasa Sarovar. The book is riveting throughout and I never felt bored reading it.
There is nothing that I didn't like about this book. It gave me immense satisfaction and I would recommend this book to many other readers who love to read about Mt Kailash and the experience of trekking the Manasa Sarovar. I would also recommend it to the readers who want to know about this life-changing adventure and the spiritual significance of this holy pilgrimage.
My Rating: 5/5
PS: I have received this print copy from Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for a review and this is my honest opinion on the book.
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