Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Trek – A Sacred Journey to the Abode of Shiva
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About the Trek
The Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Trek is one of the most spiritually significant treks in India, often referred to as the “Chhota Kailash Yatra.” This sacred expedition takes you to Adi Kailash (also known as Little Kailash), which bears a striking resemblance to Mount Kailash in Tibet, and Om Parvat, where the natural snow formation creates a divine “ॐ” symbol. Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, this trek offers a blend of religious significance, cultural exploration, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Key Highlights
- Adi Kailash: A revered peak considered an earthly manifestation of Lord Shiva’s abode.
- Om Parvat: A mystical mountain where the natural formation of snow depicts the sacred “ॐ” symbol.
- Parvati Sarovar: A holy lake near Adi Kailash, known for its serene and spiritual ambiance.
- Kali Temple: Visit the ancient Kali Mata Temple at Gunji.
- Remote Villages: Experience the rich traditions and hospitality of villages like Gunji, Kuti, and Nabi.
Tour Description
The trek begins from Dharchula, a remote Himalayan town near the Indo-Nepal border. After a scenic drive through dense forests and riverside trails, the journey continues towards Gunji, Navidhang, and Jolingkong. The trek involves moderate ascents and mesmerizing views of the Kumaon Himalayas. Pilgrims visit the sacred Parvati Sarovar and offer prayers at Om Parvat, witnessing the miraculous “ॐ” symbol naturally formed by snow.
Challenges
- High Altitude: Reaching up to 5,945 meters, acclimatization is crucial.
- Remote Terrain: Limited access to medical facilities and connectivity.
- Weather Conditions: Unpredictable mountain weather with sudden snowfall.
Facilities
- Professional trek guides and support staff.
- Accommodation in tents, guesthouses, and homestays.
- Vegetarian meals throughout the trek.
- First aid and oxygen support for emergencies.
Tour Amenities
- Safe and comfortable accommodations.
- Medical assistance and emergency evacuation support.
- Spiritual sessions and guided rituals at holy sites.
Who Can Participate?
- Devotees and trekkers with moderate fitness levels.
- Individuals above 16 years of age.
- Perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure and spirituality.
How to Reach
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station.
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport, Uttarakhand.
- Road Connectivity: Well-connected by road from Delhi and other major cities.
Pick-up and Drop-off Info
The journey starts from Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport, followed by a drive to Dharchula. Drop-off is at Kathgodam after completing the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Is the Adi Kailash trek difficult?
A: It is a moderate trek, suitable for those with basic trekking experience. - Q: What is the best time for the trek?
A: The best months are May to October. - Q: Do I need a permit?
A: Yes, a permit is required as the region is close to the Indo-Tibet border.
Key Points
- Best Time to Travel: May to October
- Temperature: 0°C to 20°C (day), -5°C to 5°C (night)
- Altitude: 5,945 meters (19,505 feet) at Om Parvat
- Longitude: 80.6541°E
- Latitude: 30.1502°N
Included/Exclude
Inclusions in the Tour Package
- Accommodation: Camps (Sharing Camp for two people), Home Stay.
- Guides & Support Staff: Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to assist trekkers.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bags.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner – only vegetarian).
- Permits & Fees: Trekking Permits and Forest Fees.
- Trekking Equipment: Tent, Mattress, Sleeping Bag, Dining & Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Cooking Utensils, and Crampons (if required).
- Medical Assistance: First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
- Guide & Support Staff Expenses: Guide Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Potters: Potters will carry only trekking equipment.
- Potter's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Kitchen Staff: Included for cooking and meal preparation.
- Kitchen Staff Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Cook: Responsible for preparing meals.
- Cook's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Transportation: As per the trek itinerary.
Exclusions in the Tour Package
- Any other facilities that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Potters for carrying your personal luggage.
- Extra meals like lunch during the journey by cab and stay at hotels (lunch is only provided during the trek).
- Personal expenses such as Water Bottles, Laundry, Phone Calls, etc.
- Insurance.
- Gaiters.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under "Inclusions."
Tour Amenities
Certified Trek Leader
Hassle-Free Permits
Warm Meals, Always
Itinerary
Overview
Altitude: Pithoragarh: 1,585 meters / 5,200 feet
Drive Distance: 200 km
Drive Time: 7-8 hours
Detailed Plan
- Depart from Kathgodam early morning.
- En route, visit Kainchi Dham, Golu Devta Temple at Chitayi, and the ancient Jageshwar Dham temples.
- Continue to Pithoragarh, known as the "Little Kashmir" for its scenic beauty.
- Overnight stay in Pithoragarh.
Overview
Altitude: Dharchula: 940 meters / 3,084 feet
Drive Distance: 90 km
Drive Time: 4-5 hours
Detailed Plan
- Drive through picturesque landscapes alongside the Kali River.
- Arrive in Dharchula, a town bordering Nepal, rich in cultural heritage.
- Complete necessary permit formalities for the trek.
- Overnight stay in Dharchula.
Overview
Altitude: Gunji: 3,200 meters / 10,500 feet
Drive Distance: 170 km
Drive Time: 7-8 hours
Detailed Plan
- Drive to Gunji via Nabi, passing through dense forests and traditional villages.
- Witness the confluence of the Kali and Kuthi Yankti rivers.
- Overnight stay in Gunji.
Overview
Altitude: Nabidhang: 4,300 meters / 14,100 feet
Drive Distance (One Way): 25 km
Drive Time (One Way): 2-3 hours
Detailed Plan
- Early morning drive to Nabidhang.
- Witness the sacred Om Parvat, where the snow deposition forms the auspicious 'Om' symbol.
- Return to Gunji for overnight stay.
Overview
Altitude: Jolingkong: 4,420 meters / 14,500 feet
Drive Distance (One Way): 20-25 km
Drive Time (One Way): 2-3 hours
Detailed Plan
- Drive to Jolingkong via the village of Kuti.
- Visit Parvati Kund, a high-altitude lake with spiritual significance.
- Short trek to Gauri Kund (2 km one way) if time permits.
- Return to Gunji for overnight stay.
Overview
Drive Distance: 170 km
Drive Time: 7-8 hours
Detailed Plan
- Drive back to Dharchula, retracing the route through scenic landscapes.
- Overnight stay in Dharchula.
Overview
Drive Distance: 230 km
Drive Time: 8-9 hours
Detailed Plan
- Depart early from Dharchula.
- En route, visit Patal Bhuvaneshwar, a limestone cave temple complex with intricate formations and mythological significance.
- Continue the drive to Kathgodam.
- End of the trek.
Important Notes:
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal trekking season is May to October when the weather is clear, and road conditions are favorable.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate – Requires good physical fitness and high-altitude acclimatization.
- Weather Conditions: Day temperatures: 10°C to 20°C, while nights: can drop to -5°C at higher altitudes.
- Permits: Special inner line permits are required and can be obtained in Dharchula.
- Network Connectivity: Limited network availability after Dharchula.
- Essential Gear: Trekking boots, warm clothing, waterproof jackets, gloves, sunglasses, and high-energy snacks.
- Altitude Acclimatization: Spend at least a day in Dharchula or Gunji to adapt to high altitudes.
- Eco-Friendly Trek: Follow Leave No Trace principles – avoid littering and respect local customs.
