Kora (pilgrimage)

In Tibetan Buddhism, "Kora" (Tibetan: སྐོར་ར, Wylie: skor ra, pronounced roughly "kor-ra") refers to a type of pilgrimage or circumambulation of a sacred site. This site can be a mountain, temple, monastery, stupa, or other significant religious location. The act of kora involves walking, chanting mantras, prostrating, or spinning prayer wheels around the site in a clockwise direction (in most Buddhist traditions; Bon practitioners circumambulate counter-clockwise).

Kora is considered a deeply meritorious practice, believed to purify negative karma, accumulate positive karma, and ultimately contribute to spiritual progress towards enlightenment. The motivations for undertaking a kora can range from seeking personal healing and blessings to dedicating the merit gained for the well-being of all sentient beings.

The length and difficulty of a kora can vary significantly, from a short walk around a local temple to multi-day treks around towering mountains like Mount Kailash, considered the most sacred mountain in Tibet. The more challenging the kora, the greater the perceived merit gained. Many pilgrims undertake kora multiple times, or even complete the circuit by prostrating fully with each step, a physically demanding practice believed to generate immense merit.

Beyond the physical aspect, kora involves a mental and spiritual discipline. Pilgrims often engage in prayer, meditation, and contemplation throughout the journey, deepening their connection to the sacred site and the Dharma. The experience can be transformative, fostering a sense of devotion, humility, and interconnectedness. Kora plays a vital role in Tibetan Buddhist culture and practice, preserving the sanctity of sacred places and strengthening the spiritual fabric of the community.