Adi Kailash Yatra is a Hindu pilgrimage to the sacred peak of Adi Kailash in Uttarakhand. Since it is located in a restricted area near the border with Tibet, special permits are required for the Yatra. We have created this comprehensive Adi Kailash Yatra guide to help you plan your pilgrimage without any hassles and create unforgettable memories.
Adi Kailash is a sacred peak in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand, India, and is believed to be the earthly abode of lord Shiva. Since it resembles the main Mount Kailash in Tibet, China, it is also known as “Chhota Kailash, Baba Kailash, and Shiva Kailash”. It is also considered the second peak in the Panch Kailash (The Five Sacred peaks associated with Lord Shiva). Located at an elevation of 5945 metres above sea level, it is a holy, tranquil, and snow-clad peak that reflects the purity of the untouched divinity.
Devotees believe that “You don’t visit Mount Kailash by force, but Kailasha calls you when it's your time”. However, most people, due to health or age-related issues, cannot undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Thus, for its alternative, they undertake the Adi Kailash Yatra, which is less arduous but equally spiritually significant.
This sacred pilgrimage to Adi Kailash takes devotees through scenic valleys and villages. Adi Kailash is located in the Kuti village, the last town of the Kumaon region, which is surrounded by the Himalayan ranges. Not only is this a sacred pilgrimage with spiritual significance, but it also captivates pilgrims with its divine natural beauty.
One of the top reasons people visit this sacred site is because of its spiritual and religious significance. From the divine connection of eternal love to the penance of a devoted follower of lord Shiva, Adi Kailash holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus.
According to many Hindu legends, the Adi Kailash peak is the earthly abode of Lord Shiva, where he is believed to live with his wife Parvati. It is also the main halt of Lord Shiva on their way from Kailash Mansarovar to Triyuginarayan for marriage with Goddess Parvati.
Some mythological stories are associated with the testing point of Mata Parvati’s devotion. She wanted to marry Lord Shiva, while he was not interested because he was too focused on his spiritual pursuits. But to test Parvati’s devotion and true feelings for him, he asked her to complete some difficult tasks. Even the Gauri Kund and Parvati Sarovar near the peak are associated with Mata Parvati only.
Adi Kailash is also known as “Chhota Kailash” because it is a replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, China, which is a sacred peak in many religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Bon. It is considered one of the most sacred peaks in the world. Devotees from all around the world and mountaineers or trekkers alike undertake this arduous journey for spiritual enlightenment, as well as inner peace and a unique cultural experience. Adi Kailash Yatra is a great substitute for the devotees of lord Shiva who cannot undertake the physically demanding Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Tibet. It offers a similar spiritual experience to Mount Kailash and allows devotees to connect with the divine.
According to Hindu mythology, the demon king Ravana, who was also a devotee of Lord Shiva, carried out a rigorous penance to gain tremendous power and become unbeatable.
While Adi Kailash is known as the abode of Lord Shiva, there is another sacred peak near Adi Kailash that is renowned for its natural rock formation resembling the Hindu symbol “Om” on its snow-covered surface. This makes the site even more sacred and a spiritual essence of God’s existence.
Adi Kailash is a high-altitude pilgrimage and is accessible seasonally from mid-May to October. The best time to visit Adi Kailash is from May to June and September to October, avoiding the monsoon season from July to August. The weather conditions during this time are not appropriate for high-altitude trekking.
The trek remains closed during the winter season due to the extreme weather conditions with heavy snowfall. The season may also cause landslides and road blockages. Thus, it remains closed during the winter season.
The Chhota Kailash pilgrimage in Uttarakhand is not as arduous as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Tibet, but pilgrims and devotees still clear the eligibility criteria to undertake this spiritual journey. Only Indian citizens are allowed to get the Inner Line Permit for the Adi Kailash Yatra. And, they must meet the following criteria:
When planning your pilgrimage, it is important to understand the Adi Kailash Yatra registration process and the permits required. For the Adi Kailash Yatra, you need an Inner Line Permit, which is issued by the local administration of Pithoragarh. And to get this permit, you will have to apply by submitting the important documents.
Here is the list of the important documents required for the Adi Kailash Yatra Inner Line Permit:
Apart from offline, you can go for an online process. Register and apply on the official website of the Pithoragarh ILP Portal.
Many tour operators in India offer exclusive Adi Kailash Yatra tour packages. So, you can book a licensed and authorized travel agent, who can facilitate the process for you. Just provide them with all your documents. They will help you get the Inner Line Permit easily.
Adi Kailash is located in the Pithoragarh District in Uttarakhand, India. To reach here, one should travel from Delhi/Dehradun/Nainital/Haldwani → Almora → Didihat → Dharchula → Adi Kailash (Base Camp).
Most pilgrims travel from Delhi to Adi Kailash, which is approximately 643 km. From major cities to Pithoragarh and Dharchula are well connected by road and can be reached easily with careful driving skills. After this, the remaining route can be navigated only by private 4X4 SUVs by the local tour guides or operators. Or, travelers can trek to reach the base camp for the darshan of the sacred peaks of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat.
The Adi Kailash Yatra route starts from Dharchula, passing through some serene villages to finally reach the base camp of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. With recent road developments, the route is now more accessible, but requires special permits for the restricted border area. The Adi Kailash Yatra route map goes through:
Delhi – Kathgodam – Pithoragarh – Dharchula – Gunji – Nabi – Jolingkong (Adi Kailash Base Camp).
On your way to Adi Kailash, you will travel through the beautiful and serene villages of the state, which make the journey itself unforgettable.
The journey of the Adi Kailash Yatra begins after reaching Dharchula, which is the last major town in Uttarakhand. Even the Inner Line Permit is issued here by the administration. Situated on the Kali River, Dharchula is a picturesque, remote town in Uttarakhand. It is famous for scenic vistas with the Himalayan ranges, lush valleys, and the unique Kumaoni-Rung culture.
Another picturesque village located near the tri-junction of India, Nepal, and Tibet, Gunji is a key stop during your Adi Kailash Yatra. It is situated on the east end of the Kuti village near the confluence of the Kalapani River and Kuthi Yankti River. Despite its remote location, the village offers scenic landscapes and a rich Shauka tribal culture.
Located in the Pithoragarh District in Uttarakhand, Nabi is a serene and beautiful high-altitude village in the Vyas Valley. It is a vital stop on the sacred Adi Kailash Yatra and is famous for its proximity to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat and the breathtaking Himalayan views.
Situated in the Pithoragarh District near the China Border, Jolingkong serves as the base camp of the sacred peak of Adi Kailash. It is a picturesque location that draws travelers and trekkers alike with its natural beauty and serene environment.
The Adi Kailash Trek offers a spiritual journey to the sacred peak of Adi Kailash, the earthly abode of lord Shiva, which resembles the heavenly abode of lord Shiva, Mount Kailash. The trek takes the devotees and pilgrims through the stunning Himalayan villages, ancient towns, and the top tourist destinations near the peak, such as Om Parvat, Gaur Kund, and Parvati Sarovar.
The total distance of the Adi Kailash Trek is approximately 80-90 km, which involves steep ascents and rocky paths. The trek duration ranges from 8-10 days with an approximate 6-9 hours trek per day. However, the duration varies, depending on the travelers’ pace. It is advisable to take a rest if you are not feeling well. Do not overlook the early symptoms, like headaches and nausea, while trekking. Take proper rest, as there are several rest points during the Adi Kailash trek that make your journey easier.
For a successful Adi Kailash Yatra, planning and budgeting are important. You should know what to carry and the safety measures to follow during the trek to have a safe and smooth experience.
Prioritize your health and safety before beginning the Adi Kailash trek. The pilgrimage takes place in the Himalayan range, where the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions make the journey physically challenging. Hence, it is important to be healthy and physically fit to undertake this sacred high-altitude expedition.
You will travel to a high-altitude restricted border region. Hence, you must carry everything essential for your journey. From clothes to food, here is a list of the essentials to pack for the Adi Kailash Yatra:
The trek to Adi Kailash is not only a spiritual journey but also a journey through natural splendor, making it a memorable experience for pilgrims and trekkers alike. Adi Kailash is the sacred peak considered to be the earthly abode of Lord Shiva. Beside the peak, you will see the miraculous Om Parvat, which is famous for its natural snow formation of the “Om” symbol.
Apart from this, several other religious and natural scenic sites are a must-visit during your Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra:
Adi Kailash Yatra is a unique blend of spirituality and adventure. Be well-prepared for this physically demanding journey, especially when going with your family, including elders and children. We recommend booking a customized Adi Kailash Yatra tour package from a trusted tour operator, like Pilgrim Packages India. We create a perfect Adi Kailash tour itinerary, offering the convenience of traveling to Adi Kailash by helicopter, which gives you an experience like no other. You feel closer to nature and the Almighty. Whether you are a naturalist, trekker, devotee of lord shiva, or a curious traveler who just wants to explore the divinity of the Himalayas, Adi Kailash is the destination that should be on your bucket list.
Plan your Adi Kailash Yatra with us by booking our Adi Kailash tour package, and have a hassle-free, divine experience.