Adi Kailash and Om Parvat

• Services from Kathgodam to Kathgodam.
• Join as an Ambassador & Trek Free Explore Details
• Avail Special Casual Leave if you’re a Central Govt. employee.
• Base Camp Accommodation: Guest house stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
• Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
• Pickup & Drop Location (if transport opted from TTH): Kathgodam Railway Station.
  Pickup: 06:00 AM | Drop: 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent)
  Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.

 

 

Why Adi Kailash Yatra is a Must-Do Pilgrimage

Parvati Tal, the revered lake located close to Adi Kailash, is thought to be the place where Goddess Parvati engaged in meditation, contributing to the area’s spiritual atmosphere.
Om Parvat, a natural snow structure found on Om Parvat, resembles the holy 'Om' symbol, serving as a major draw for pilgrims.

Spiritual Importance

Adi Kailash is esteemed as the second holiest peak of the Panch Kailash, providing a profound spiritual experience for followers.
Referred to as Chota Kailash, this pilgrimage allows worshippers to connect with Lord Shiva's divine essence in a peaceful and sacred setting.

Aesthetic Splendor

Marvel at the stunning sight of the snow-clad Himalayan mountains, which create a breathtaking backdrop for your spiritual journey.
Venture through verdant valleys, thick woodlands, and charming meadows, offering a peaceful and refreshing experience.

Accessible for Everyone

The journey to Adi Kailash is moderately challenging, making it feasible for both experienced hikers and newcomers looking for a spiritual quest.
With its doable difficulty and beautiful scenery, it serves as a wonderful option for families wishing to undertake a spiritual expedition together.

Cultural Encounter

Engage with local communities, experiencing their genuine hospitality and gaining insights into their distinctive customs and traditions.

Reduced AMS Risk

Despite Adi Kailash's notable height, the trek is thoughtfully organized with sufficient time for acclimatization, minimizing the likelihood of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Adi Kailash Yatra: Journey to Divine Heights

From an early age, I dreamed of embarking on the Adi Kailash Yatra alongside my cherished grandfather. When I made the choice to travel to Adi Kailash Yatra with my grandfather, who is 67, I felt a bit uncertain about getting the right guidance. Despite doing some research, I still found myself needing the right support and details. Knowing that I would be traveling with an elderly man, I realized it wouldn’t be straightforward! With the assistance of the TTH Trek Coordinator, I received all the necessary information consolidated in one place. Everything from ideal timings and lodging to weather forecasts, health assessments, and permits was thoroughly organized.

The information was presented in an exceptionally detailed way, and the arrangements were truly impressive. The saying goes that the journey is often more rewarding than the destination. I would say that the trip itself was indeed beautiful, and naturally, the destination was as well.

Adi Kailash, known as Chota Kailash, is one of five sacred peaks referred to as the Panch Kailash. Among these, Adi Kailash holds the distinction of being the second most sacred and is located in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district, close to the Indo-Tibetan border. It is a highly venerated pilgrimage site in Hinduism, rich in spiritual significance due to its myths and divine connections. The holy mountain Adi Kailash stands at an elevation of 5,945 meters (19,505 feet). Devotees regard it as the home of Lord Shiva, and its tranquil beauty deeply encourages feelings of devotion and admiration.

The path to the Yatra is traveled by vehicle from Gunji or Nabi village to Jonglingkong. The Yatra guides pilgrims through stunning landscapes and places of spiritual importance. Local folklore suggests that many ancient sages and seers visited this sacred mountain, drawn by its peaceful and divine energy, to engage in deep meditation and rigorous penance.

Close to the trek lies the serene Parvati Tal, known for its breathtaking views of the surroundings. The peaceful ambiance, rich greenery, and lush flora make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. It is believed that Goddess Parvati bathed in Gauri Kund, establishing it as a sacred spot for worshippers. The lake's clear waters are thought to offer purifying benefits, and a dip in the lake is regarded as a way to cleanse the soul of negativity. Visitors can also explore Bheem Ki Kheti.

Bheem Ki Kheti, translating to Bheem’s Field, is an important location encountered throughout the Adi Kailash Yatra. This area possesses both historical and mythological significance. According to Hindu legend, Bheem Ki Kheti is linked to the epic tale of the Mahabharata. It is commonly believed that the Pandavas, particularly Bheem, spent time in this region during their time of exile. Bheem, celebrated for his tremendous strength and bravery, is said to have farmed this land.
Near Adi Kailash lies Om Parvat, a peak distinguished by natural snow formations that mimic the sacred 'Om' symbol. This occurrence is seen as a heavenly sign, enhancing the region's spiritual reverence. It is believed that the 'Om' symbol represents a universal sound and the original vibration of existence, linking followers directly to the divine essence. To embark on the Om Parvat pilgrimage, travelers begin their journey from the base locations of Gunji or Nabi to Navidhang, a distance that can be traversed by car.

Ancient Hindu texts also contain mentions of Adi Kailash. These mentions underline the mountain's significance, its divine ties, and its role in Hindu mythology and history.

Adi Kailash is seen not just as a holy site but also as intertwined with a cosmic love narrative within Hindu tales, focusing on the sacred union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. While their grand celebration is commonly linked to Mount Kailash, Adi Kailash is regarded as an important landmark within their divine story. The nearby mountains and landscape are thought to have experienced the divine aura and the moments leading to their heavenly union.

It is said that at this revered location, the deities and sages bestowed blessings upon the couple, enriching their union with celestial favor. During their wedding ceremony, the surrounding peaks are believed to have reverberated with divine melodies and chants that echoed across the lofty elevations of Adi Kailash. Their heavenly union represents the ideal equilibrium between masculine and feminine energies, known as Ardhanarishvara.

Moreover, Kailash Mansarovar stands out as one of the most esteemed pilgrimage sites worldwide, situated in the Tibet region. The sacred Mount Kailash, recognized as the dwelling place of Lord Shiva, along with the pristine Lake Mansarovar, is thought to embody spiritual energy and purity. The Lipu Lekh Pass, a high mountain pass in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region of India, has historically served as a trade and pilgrimage pathway linking India with Tibet, playing a crucial role in the historic Silk Route. This passage facilitated cultural, trade, and religious exchanges between the Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan plateau.

Trekking in the Himalayas is considered a remarkable journey. Pilgrims come from not just India but globally to engage with the divine energies present. The trek to the sacred mountain is perceived as a path of devotion, where worshippers attune themselves to profound spiritual energies. Devotees engage in rituals and prayers at Parvati Tal, Om Parvat, and other noteworthy sites, seeking blessings for marital happiness, peace, and spiritual advancement.

 

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Itinerary

Day 1

Kathgodam to Pithoragarh

Altitude: 1,585 m / 5,200 ft

Driving Distance: 200 km

Driving Time: 7-8 hrs

Route: Via Jageshwar Dham

Day 2

Pithoragarh to Gunji/Nabi via Dharchula

Altitude (Dharchula): 915 m / 3,000 ft

Altitude (Gunji/Nabi): 3,200 m / 10,500 ft

Driving Distance: 170 km | 7-8 hrs

Note: Break at Dharchula to collect permits

Day 3

Gunji/Nabi to Nabidhang and back to Gunji/Nabi

Altitude (Nabidhang): 4,300 m / 14,100 ft

Driving Distance(One way): 25 km | 2-3 hrs

Note: Bad road conditions can be considered

Day 4

Gunji/Nabi to Jolingkong and back to Gunji/ Nabi

Altitude (Jolingkong): 4,420 m / 14,500 ft

Driving Distance(One way): 20-25 km | 2-3 hrs

Gunji - Kuti: 1 hr

Kuti - Jolingkong: 15 km | 1 hr

Jolingkong - Parvati Kund: 1 km trek

You can visit Bheem ki Kheti

Parvati Kund - Gauri Kund(One way): 2km | 1 hr trek

Day 5

Gunji/Nabi to Chaukori

Driving Distance: 180km | 7-8 hrs.

Day 6

Chaukori to Kathgodam via Patal Bhuvaneshwar

Driving Distance: 230 km | 8-9 hrs.

Via route Patal Bhuvaneshwar (8hrs Drive).

Note :-

· Keep a buffer day in your travel plan

· Distance, altitude, and trekking hours are approximate and rounded off

· Keep the original and a copy of ID proof handy

How to reach

Pick-Up Information

It is important for everyone to be at Kathgodam Railway Station by 6:00 am. Once you arrive at the station, TTH will handle all further travel logistics. If you wish to take advantage of TTH's pickup service, you may choose this option when booking by adding it as an additional service.

Options to Reach Kathgodam Railway Station (Haldwani)

You can take an overnight train to Kathgodam railway station, which is located 290 kilometers away and takes around 6 to 7 hours, with good connections from Delhi, Kolkata, Dehradun, and Lucknow.

Alternatively, you can opt for an overnight bus to Haldwani Bus Stand. Buses are available from Delhi Anand Vihar ISBT to Haldwani (avoid going to Delhi Kashmere Gate ISBT), and from there, you can take a taxi to the pickup location, which is 6 kilometers away and takes about 15 minutes.

(We highly advise choosing government-operated buses instead of private options outside the bus station, as our experience indicates that private buses often face significant delays. In addition, government buses tend to be more dependable. Regardless of the bus you select, please ensure your arrival in Kathgodam is no later than 5:30 am.)

For those traveling by air, Pantnagar Airport is approximately 27 kilometers away and offers direct flights from Delhi. If you are flying, it is advisable to arrive one day in advance.

(If you’d like to travel independently from Kathgodam to our base camp, you can either take a government bus or hire a private cab. Your trek coordinator will assist you with the arrangements for booking the bus or cab.)

Drop-Off Information

Plan to be in Kathgodam between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm.

The specified drop-off location is Kathgodam railway station.

Please make sure to coordinate your further travel plans for after 8:00 pm.

The distance from Kathgodam to Haldwani is 6 kilometers, which will take around 20 minutes.

TTH provides comfortable transport options using Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or similar vehicles. If you are interested in enhancing your transportation experience, please reach out to your trek coordinator for additional help.

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Cost Terms – Inclusions & Exclusions

 

Inclusion

1. Accommodations (as outlined in the itinerary):
Guest house or homestay for Day 1 through Day 5. (Quad or penta sharing)
2. Meals (Vegetarian):
Lunch provided from Day 1 to Day 6 according to the itinerary.
3. Assistance:
A trek leader with qualifications in mountaineering and first aid.
Local guides with experience (the number of guides will vary depending on group size).
4. First aid supplies:
Includes medical kit, stretcher, oxygen cylinder, blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and stethoscope.
5. A cloakroom is available at the base camp for storing extra luggage.
6. All required permits and entry fees will be included, up to the rate charged for Indian nationals.
7. Transportation from Kathgodam to Kathgodam.

Exclusions

1. Coverage (For individuals who are not Indian citizens, NRI or OCI cardholders).
2. Meals while in transit.
3. Any personal expenditure.
4. Mule or porter services for personal baggage handling.
5. Charges for emergency evacuation, hospital stays, and similar services.
6. Additional expenses arising from modifications or extensions of the travel plan due to natural disasters, road obstructions, vehicle failures, etc., situations beyond our influence.
7. Items not explicitly listed in the Inclusion section.

 

 

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Adi Kailash Yatra?

Adi Kailash Yatra is a pilgrimage to the sacred Adi Kailash, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, it is renowned for its deep spiritual significance and rich mythology.

What is the best time to visit Adi Kailash?

The best time to visit Adi Kailash Yatra is April, May, June, September, October, and November. The weather is relatively stable.

Do I need any permits for the Adi Kailash Yatra?

Yes, permits are required for the Adi Kailash Yatra as it is located near the Indo-Tibetan border. From Dharchula, one can issue the permit and it is compulsory for the further process.

How many days are needed for the Adi Kailash Yatra?

Minimum 6 days. You can keep 1-2 buffer days for any unforeseen requirements.

How much luggage can we carry on the Adi Kailash Yatra? Is there any weight limitation?

There is no official weight limitation for luggage, but it is advisable to carry according to your comfort during the Adi Kailash Yatra, as you will need to manage your own luggage.

Is there any age limit for the Adi Kailash Yatra? If so, what is it?

Participants should be at least below 70 years old to ensure they can handle the physical demands of the journey.

Is there a bodyweight limit for the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra? If so, what is it?

No, there is no particular weight restriction for the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra. Nevertheless, it is advised that those taking part maintain good fitness levels to cope with the challenges of the journey.

Is Adi Kailash Yatra a trek or a drive journey?            

It is a combination of both trekking and driving. The journey is almost covered by drive and in certain points trekking is involved.

Is the weather too cold during the Adi Kailash Yatra?

Yes, the weather can be quite cold, especially at higher altitudes. It is important to be prepared for cold conditions by packing appropriate warm clothing and gear to ensure comfort and safety during the journey.

Is there any network issue on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?

Yes, network connectivity can be unreliable in certain areas of the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra due to the remote and mountainous terrain.

Trek The Himalayas (TTH) ensures your comfort by providing well-arranged accommodations and healthy meals throughout the Adi Kailash Yatra.

What are food facilities?

TTH offers all three meals that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each meal is prepared with care, served hot, and designed to meet your nutritional needs, ensuring you stay energised and healthy during your journey.