TIRTHAPURI - place where the notorious Brahmasura was killed

The only other point of pilgrimage considered essential to the traveler in the Kailash region is Tirthapuri, located on the Sutlej River.  The traditional order of the pilgrimage is first to circumambulate Manasarovar, then Kailash, and then to go to Tirthapuri.  This is almost always the final stop.  Perhaps this has something to do with the soothing waters of the shallow hot springs, where weary travelers can relax, soak their feet and contemplate the adventures they have undergone. 

Tirthapuri is best known for being a sacred place of Padmasambhava and his consort Yeshe Tsogyel.  The monastery which was formerly connected with Hemis monastery in Ladakh was completely destroyed during the Cultural Revolution and rebuilt in 1980s.  Behind the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh is a cave where Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogye both meditated and a granite rock with their embedded footprints.  The hot springs are surrounded by pink and white limestone terraces, which make a favorite picnic spot for Tibetans.  Small pure opaque calcium balls are found among the terraces; search carefully for these small beads are considered to be powerful medicine.  Ravens and rainbows abound in this magical spot.  Tirthapuri can also be visited as part of a journey to or from the kingdom of Guge, or as part of a return journey to Shiqunhe.  To reach it turn southwest off the main road at Menjir (also called as Mensi) and continue for 13km (8miles).   From Tirthapuri to Toling is approximately one long day of driving, so consider spending an extra night here and enjoy.