Introduction
Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, is a sacred mountain located in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, near the Indo-Tibetan border. Revered as the earthly replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, Adi Kailash holds immense religious significance for Hindus. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Unlike Mount Kailash, which lies in Chinese-controlled Tibet and requires international travel, Adi Kailash is within Indian territory, making it a more accessible yet equally powerful spiritual journey for pilgrims and trekkers. In recent years, the Government of India has made major infrastructural developments to improve road connectivity to Adi Kailash, opening up new travel possibilities.
This comprehensive blog will guide you through how to reach Adi Kailash from India, the available routes, transport modes, permissions required, and practical tips for a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey.
Where is Adi Kailash Located?
Adi Kailash is located in Pithoragard district, in the eastern Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the India-China-Nepal trijunction. It lies in the Vyas Valley at an altitude of approximately 6,191 meters, close to the village of Kuti and near the banks of the Kali River.
The area is surrounded by other significant pilgrimage sites, including Om Parvat, Panchachuli peaks, and the Kailash-Mansarovar route via Lipulekh Pass.
Major Highlights of Adi Kailash Yatra
Adi Kailash (Chhota Kailash): A sacred mountain resembling Mount Kailash.
Om Parvat: A naturally occurring ‘?’ symbol formed by snow deposition on a black cliff face.
Parvati Sarovar: A serene high-altitude lake believed to be created by Goddess Parvati.
Kuti and Gunji Villages: Mythologically connected with the Pandavas and Goddess Parvati.
Narayan Ashram: A spiritual center en route.
Panchachuli Base: Viewpoint of five Himalayan peaks.
How to Reach Adi Kailash from India
Starting Point: Delhi, India
From Delhi, one must reach Dharchula in Uttarakhand, which serves as the gateway to Adi Kailash. From Dharchula, the journey continues through rugged terrain via high-altitude roads to reach Gunji, the base village for the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan:
Step 1: Delhi to Kathgodam
By Train: Trains like Ranikhet Express and Shatabdi Express connect Delhi to Kathgodam.
By Road: Approximately 300 km via NH9. Takes 7–8 hours.
Step 2: Kathgodam to Dharchula
By Road: Distance of 290 km via Almora – Didihat – Jauljibi.
Travel Time: 10–12 hours by car or shared jeeps.
Night Halt: Dharchula has basic hotels and guest houses.
Step 3: Dharchula to Gunji (Via Tawaghat – Budhi – Chialekh – Garbyang – Napalchu)
Mode of Travel: Road journey via off-road SUVs coordinated by tour operators or government-authorized agencies.
Travel Type: Must travel in groups under security escort due to the sensitive border area.
Important Halt Points:
Tawaghat: Starting point of high-altitude terrain.
Budhi and Garbyang: Military checkpoints and old trade villages.
Gunji: Last major stop before Adi Kailash.
Note: This zone is controlled by ITBP and local administration. Civilian entry is only allowed with proper permits.
Step 4: Gunji to Adi Kailash Base Camp
Via Nabhidhang to Jolingkong (Adi Kailash Base)
Distance: Approx. 30 km from Gunji to Jolingkong
Mode: Special 4x4 vehicle convoys
Altitude: Jolingkong lies at 4,700 meters
Attractions:
Parvati Sarovar beside Adi Kailash
Shivlingam Temple near the lake
Stunning view of Adi Kailash peak during sunrise
Required Permits and Documents
1. Inner Line Permit (ILP)
Issued by: District Magistrate Office, Pithoragarh
Mode: Online through the e-pass portal of Uttarakhand
Documents Required:
Valid ID proof (Aadhar/Passport)
Medical certificate
Passport-size photographs
COVID-19 vaccination proof (if applicable)
2. Travel with Authorized Operators
Due to the location's proximity to the Indo-China border, most yatras are conducted in groups managed by:
Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN)
Private registered operators under state tourism
Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash
Note: The route remains closed during winter (November to April) due to heavy snowfall.
Modes of Travel
Private Tours: Organized with SUV convoys, guides, permits, meals, and accommodations.
KMVN Tours: Government-backed, fixed itineraries, subsidized cost for yatris.
Trekking: Minimal trekking involved in the new route. Earlier routes involved 3–4 days of intense trekking from Narayan Ashram to Gunji.
Accommodation Options
Dharchula: Basic hotels and homestays
Gunji & Kuti Villages: Government guest houses and tents
Jolingkong (Base Camp): Tented accommodation managed by army or travel groups
Travel Tips for Adi Kailash Yatra
Acclimatize Properly: Gunji (3,200 m) is the first point for altitude acclimatization. Spend at least a day here.
Carry Medication: Diamox (for AMS), painkillers, glucose, and basic first aid.
Physical Fitness: Moderate walking and high-altitude readiness is necessary.
Dress in Layers: Temperature varies widely. Use thermals, windproof jackets, gloves.
Respect Local Culture: Follow border protocols and respect tribal customs in Kuti and Gunji.
Why Choose Adi Kailash Yatra?
Indigenous Experience: Unlike Mount Kailash in Tibet, Adi Kailash is fully accessible to Indian citizens without foreign visa complications.
Powerful Spiritual Energy: Devotees feel similar vibrations as Mount Kailash.
Om Parvat and Adi Kailash in One Trip: Most itineraries cover both sacred peaks.
Less Bureaucratic Hassle: No Chinese visa or Tibet permit required.
Government Support: Boosted infrastructure, military escort, and better accessibility than ever before.
Conclusion
Adi Kailash offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with the divine, without crossing international borders. Whether you seek spiritual awakening, an offbeat Himalayan adventure, or a culturally rich journey, the Adi Kailash Yatra delivers all. With improved road access, well-managed tour options, and fewer permit complexities than Mount Kailash, it is becoming an increasingly preferred pilgrimage for Indian devotees.
Prepare well, choose the right season, and embark on a yatra that connects you with the sacred Himalayan spirit of Lord Shiva.
