Adi Kailash Yatra is a spiritual voyage to the abode of Lord Shiva, which is highly elevated in the harsh mountainous region of Kumaon, Uttarakhand. It is regarded as the second most revered pilgrimage among the Panch Kailash Mountains, all of them dedicated to Bholenath.
The Yatra route goes through several sacred sites, including the Jolingkong Lake, Parvati Sarovar, and Om Parvat. Despite the dense forests and challenging terrains, the shrine is visited by a huge number of devotees every year who bring utter faith and devotion towards the deity.
Adi Kailash is steeped amidst the picturesque Himalayan landscapes and surrounded by the snow-clad lofty peaks. Its religious significance is deeply rooted in the Hindu mythologies. The scriptures and texts praise its glory and divinity, calling it a resting place for Shiva and Maa Parvati after their marriage.
Besides Hinduism, this Kailash Yatra holds immense importance in Buddhism as well. They perform circumambulation of the mountain in the quest for an opportunity to meet with the divine, prioritizing the Spiritual awakening over material life.
Significance of Adi Kailash in Hindus
According to Hindu Mythology, Adi Kailash has profound relevance. It is strongly believed that Lord Shiva is still present in the form of divine energy. The Adi Kailash comes under the circuit of Panch Kailash, and that’s the primary reason for its great significance among Hindus.
This Yatra serves as the path to cleanse your sins, purify your soul, and undo evil deeds. Being said that it is the replica of Mount Kailash, its religious importance is multiplied and offers a way to seek blessings and fulfillment of wishes. The cosmic energy present in the vicinity of the shrine attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world who come here to experience the tranquility and harmony with nature.
Moreover, Ved Vyas Ji, a notable Hindu sage, is also supposed to have meditated here for a long time, adding a sense of sacredness to its significance.
Why Should you Visit in 2025
The official Yatra to the summit generally commences in May and ends in September, when the weather remains favorable and safe for the visit.
In 2025, it is reopening on the 2nd of May with its special Pooja, marking the start of the Yatra. In addition to that, this year has got you well-structured packages that include almost everything you need, and the conditions of the roads are much better and you’ll also witness improved infrastructures that you come across along the way.
It would be an excellent opportunity to travel to the Adi Kailash as the newly motorable road, the Gunji-Lampiya Dhura pass has now made the journey easier.
On seeing the large involvement of the pilgrims, the government has gone more specific with the safety and security guidelines, providing the best-ever facilities throughout the Yatra.
Attractions on this Pilgrimage
This holy trip takes you to the summit of Adi Kailash through several other key attractions on the way which adds to its visuals and enriches the overall spiritual experience.
There are multiple routes that lead you to the top of the mountain, each coming from a different direction. However, here we are listing a few sites:
- Jolingkong Lake: This blessed lake, also known as Gaurikund, serves as the base camp of the Yatra.
- Parvati Sarovar: On trekking 3-4 km further, Parvati Sarovar or Kund comes into view. In the crystal clear water of the lake, one can observe the breathtaking reflection of Adi Kailash.
- Shiv Parvati Temple: Next to the Sarovar, there is a temple devoted to Lord Shiva and Parvati. Devotees bow down here before walking towards their destination.
- Parvati Mukut: On the opposite side of the Adi Kailash, Parvati Mukut is another mountain that seems like the crown of Maa Parvati. It’s such a beautiful sight to watch.
- Om Parvat: As the name suggests, Om Parvat is a majestic mountain located near the Nabhi Dhang. It features a natural snow formation of OM, a sacred symbol linked with Lord Shiva.
- Mount Adi Kailash: The major attraction of the journey is the Adi Kailash Parvat which is also called the Chota Kailash.
Best Time to Visit
Due to being situated in a highly mountainous region, it becomes essential to understand the weather patterns and the best time to visit to avoid unwanted risks.
If you’re planning to visit the Adi Kailash, make sure you choose between either May to June or September to October. However, we advise you to travel between the official days.
The temperature during these periods remains mostly around 10°-20° C, making it an ideal time with minimal risks involved.
Weather Patterns
- Summer (May-June): The mild climate gives proper access to splendid views of the mountains and the alpine meadows.
- Monsoon (July-August): Monsoon involves greater risk due to landslides and slippery and muddy trails caused by heavy rainfall.
- Autumn (September-October): The post-rain season serves as the perfect time for the yatra, as the meadows regain their charm and the surroundings are rejuvenated with greenery.
- Winter (November-March): The region receives harsh snowfall during the winter, blocking the roads under the thick sheet of snow and making the journey inaccessible.
Transportation Options Available
There are several transportation options available to reach the base camp of the Yatra:
By Air: If you prefer to travel via air, you must book your flights to Pantnagar Airport. On reaching there, you can hire a cab or taxi to Dharchula, which is almost 300 km away.
By Train: The closest railway stations to Dharchula, the base town of the Yatra, are in Tanakpur, Kathgodam, and Haldwani. You can come to any of these stations and then travel by hiring a local vehicle.
By Road: If you wish to cover your journey via road, you can use your personal vehicle or local transport to reach Gunji and further to Jolingkong Lake.
Procedure for Registration and Permits in 2025
For the registration of Adi Kailash Yatra 2025, read carefully.
- The registration for the Yatra requires documents, such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN card, and passport for NRIs.
- Start by contacting a tour operator, select a suitable package, and pack your deal after making payments.
- For registration, you will need to fill out the registration form by providing some personal details and attaching photos and proofs.
- Online or offline, get yourself the Inner Line Permit (ILP) with the help of your travel agency.
Note: Make sure that you make all of these arrangements in advance to escape the last-minute troubles.
How to be Prepared for this High-Altitude Trip
We are sharing some tips for you to be prepared for this yatra:
- You must try to engage yourself in regular exercise at least one month before to strengthen your muscles and balance your body.
- Do not rush while ascending to the steep altitudes.
- Pack sufficient warm clothes such as gloves, inner warmers, and other winter essentials.
- Carry comfortable hiking boots with good gripping quality.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, toiletries, and other hygienic items.
- Stay hydrated throughout the trek as it requires great energy and exertion.
- Bring some protein bars and other light snacks.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Carry all the necessary documents, including your passport-size photographs.
- Try to acclimatize by spending some time at higher elevations.
- Carry your personal first aid kit and other prescribed medicines.
- Take proper rest in between your treks to avoid soreness in your joints and muscles.
- You must get help from the local guides or travel in groups.
- Bring your physical permits and registration copies.
Don’ts:
- Don’t litter your trash and damage the wildlife along the way.
- Respect the local culture and behave accordingly.
- Don’t go far from the designated routes.
- Don’t pack heavy, expensive, and valuable objects.
- Don’t make loud noises and maintain dignity.
- Don’t consume alcohol, cigarettes, or any type of intoxicants as they’re totally banned.
Conclusion
Summing up, Adi Kailash is a center of spiritualism, belief, and profound devotion that unites not only the two religions but also the devotees to their God.
The journey may demand great physical fitness, but it’s all worth it in the end. When you finally arrive at the summit and look at it, you feel the unmatched peace that is nowhere else.
FAQs
Q1. Is Kailash Mansarovar and Adi Kailash same?
Ans: No, they’re two distinct religious mountains located in different regions with both relating to God Shiva.
Q2. Is Adi Kailash Yatra a difficult trek?
Ans: This Yatra involves a moderate to difficult level of trek but can be done with ease if you’re prepared well.
Q3. How much time does it take to complete this Yatra?
Ans: It typically takes about 5-6 days to complete the Yatra, the rest depends on the modes and the routes taken.
Q4. What is the actual height of Mount Adi Kailash?
Ans: The height of the Adi Kailash is approximately 5,945 m above sea level.