Overview
One of the significant spiritual mountaineering spots of the Kumaon Himalayas is Adi Kailash. It is situated in the Vyas Valley of Uttarakhand, and traditionally it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and hence is referred to as Chhota Kailash due to its likeness to Kailash Mountain of Tibet. Adi Kailash can be seen from Jolingkong region, where Parvati Sarovar is located.
Om Parvat is amongst the most easily recognizable natural landmarks of Kumaon Himalayas. The importance of this place lies in the formation of the snow pattern on the mountainside that forms a shape similar to the sacred Hindu mark known as “ॐ”. The formation of this pattern occurs naturally because of the rock formations and snowfall in the area.
The route usually travels via Dharchula and Gunji, making stopovers at several villages and valleys during the travel. Travelers will be able to enjoy the rough terrain of the mountains, river valleys, and highland settlements as well as the scenery of the border regions of the Himalayas. The travel is mostly done via roads and not via trekking.
Adi Kailash is done together with Om Parvat on the same trail. Due to its elevation and proximity to the border region, one needs to adhere to existing permit rules and guidelines. Travel arrangements, lodging facilities and the trail route may vary depending on the season and existing infrastructure facilities. A proper itinerary needs to factor in acclimatisation days because the trek is not just a regular tourist trip.
Highlights
- Adi Kailash
- Lipulekh pass
- Jolingkong area
- Parvati Sarovar
- Kumaon Himalayan peaks
- Vyas Valley
- Om Parvat
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Kathgodam / Haldwani to Pithoragarh
Meet the tour group and travel into the Kumaon region. Depending on the package, the first overnight stop may be Pithoragarh or another designated town. Road journey · Overnight at a designated hotel
- 2
Pithoragarh to Dharchula
Continue towards Dharchula, an important gateway to the Vyas Valley. Complete the required administrative and permit formalities through the authorised arrangements. Road journey · Permit and access checks
- 3
Dharchula to Gunji
Travel through the mountain valleys and designated settlements towards Gunji. The schedule should allow for road conditions, altitude adjustment and any local access restrictions. Mountain road journey · Overnight at a designated stay
- 4
Adi Kailash and Parvati Sarovar
Visit the designated darshan area at Jolingkong, subject to permissions and current conditions. Spend time viewing Adi Kailash and Parvati Sarovar before returning to the approved overnight location. Darshan visit · Access subject to local conditions
- 5
Om Parvat Viewpoint
Travel to the authorised viewing area near Nabhidhang if access is permitted. Visibility depends on clouds, snowfall and weather. Follow all instructions for this sensitive border region. Viewpoint visit · Overnight according to operator plan
- 6
Return towards Dharchula
Begin the return journey through the designated route. Stops at local temples or viewpoints may be possible if the schedule, access rules and conditions permit. Return road journey · Overnight en route
- 7
Return to Pithoragarh / Kathgodam
Continue towards the package’s departure point. Arrival time depends on road conditions and the final transport arrangement. Journey concludes
Things to Carry
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