The author undertook the journey to Mount Kailash primarily to perform the sacred kora, that is, the ritual of going around the holy mountain, which holds deep religious significance in Buddhist and Hindu traditions. At the same time, as a geographer and adventurer, he wished to experience and study the harsh yet fascinating landscape and culture along the ancient Silk Road.
\[ \text{Purpose of Journey} = \text{Religious pilgrimage (kora)} + \text{Adventure and geographical exploration} \] \[ \text{Religious aspect}: \text{Complete the kora around Mount Kailash} \] \[ \text{Exploratory aspect}: \text{Study the terrain, climate, and culture of the Silk Road region} \]
Thus, the journey combined spiritual devotion with the spirit of exploration and scholarly curiosity.