Adi Kailash Yatra

Adi Kailash, also known as Chota Kailash, Shiva Kailash, or Baba Kailash, is a revered pilgrimage site located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. Standing at an altitude of around 6,000 m (19,700 ft), this holy peak is part of the Panch Kailash—the five sacred mountains in Hinduism. Among them, Mount Kailash in Tibet is the most important, followed by Adi Kailash as the second. The other three are Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash, Kinnaur Kailash, and Manimahesh Kailash in Himachal Pradesh.

Spiritual Significance

According to legends, Lord Shiva and Parvati rested at Adi Kailash while on their way to Triyuginarayan for their marriage. The mountain resembles the sacred Mount Kailash in Tibet, making it a special destination for devotees. At the base of Adi Kailash lies the sacred Jolingkong Lake (Gauri Kund) and Parvati Tal, where pilgrims offer prayers. Bathing is not allowed in Gauri Kund, but many devotees take a dip in Parvati Sarovar to cleanse their sins and carry holy water back home.

Om Parvat Darshan

Alongside Adi Kailash, the journey also includes Om Parvat Darshan. This unique mountain displays the natural formation of the ॐ (Om) symbol created by snow against its dark rock surface. According to legends, there are eight such mountains in the world, but Om Parvat is the only one discovered so far. It is considered a divine creation of Lord Shiva himself.

Yatra Routes to Adi Kailash

There are two main routes to Adi Kailash:

• Route 1 (via Gunji): Accessible through the Pithoragarh–Lipulekh Pass Highway and Gunji–Lampiya Dhura Pass Road. Permits are issued at Dharchula, and accommodation is available in villages like Gunji, Nabhi, Napalachchu, and Kuti.
• Route 2 (via Darma Valley): This route crosses the Sin La Pass and joins the Kuthi Yankti Valley, eventually reaching the Jolingkong Lake Base Camp.

Many pilgrims combine both routes to also visit Om Parvat and connect with the traditional Kailash–Manasarovar Yatra route. With new motorable roads constructed in 2020, the travel time to Adi Kailash has been reduced, making the journey more accessible.

To enjoy the spiritual journey to its fullest, it is recommended to go for the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra with a reputed tour operator such as Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT).

Historical and Mythological Connections

Adi Kailash has been mentioned in scriptures and is associated with great legends. It is said that Ravana, the king of Lanka and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, visited this sacred site. Pilgrims also come across a miraculous stream called Sumchuma, which flows for three days and stops for the next three—considered a divine wonder of the region.

A Journey of Faith

The Adi Kailash Yatra is not just about trekking through high passes and valleys—it is a path of devotion and inner awakening. With temples, sacred lakes, and panoramic views of the Himalayas, the journey takes you closer to Lord Shiva himself.