Situated at a fairly impressive altitude of 6,310 metres, Adi Kailash also referred to as Chota Kailash or Little Kailash is in one or the other way a replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet. Adi Kailash is a popular pilgrimage of the Hindu devotees. One can catch a glimpse of the emerald Parvati lake and the Gauri Kund adorned on the very foot of Chota Kailash.
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Adi Kailash, a trekking spree and a popular pilgrim place for the Hindu devotees
The love for hiking and spirituality often attracts the tourists to enjoy the splendor of Mount Adi Kailash which features wildflowers, fruits, cascading waterfalls and the thick woodlands that can engulf the wanderers in its gloom. The trek passes through the awe-inspiring Darma, Bryans and Chaundans Valley. One can admire the grandeur of the snowy Annapurna peak, the bubbling Kali River and the Narayan ashram. Many devotees like to head to Adi Kailash as in this trek one can explore the tiny Kuti village named after ‘Kunti’, the mother of Pandavas.
At the very foot of Chotta Kailash is Gauri kund reflecting its entire expanse. Yet another water body close by is called Parvati Sarovar. Also known as "Mansarovar" it is much smaller than the original one. A temple dedicated to Shiva and Parvati is there at the shoreline. Following the Chinese occupation of Tibet, Chotta Kailash served as the most revered substitute of Mount Kailash.
For experiencing spirituality in the lap of the Himalayas, the pilgrims can pay obeisance at the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati, adorned on the shoreline of the Adi Kailash. During the Chinese invasion of Tibet, the Chota Kailash was revered next to Mount Kailash by the locals.
From Gunji the Kailash Mansarovar route branches off to Kalapani from where the Kali river originates. Onwards from here is Navidhang (3987m) Lipupass is only 9 kms from here. From Navidhang "Om Parvat" , the miracle of nature is clearly perceptible. Snow lies on this mountain in the shape of a perpetual "OM", the primordial sound. All other slopes may be bare but this inscription in the snow is everlasting and as one observes it, one gets the feeling that the mountain itself is Lord Shiva incarnate.
Helicopter services are available for a more convenient journey to Adi Kailash, with several Adi Kailash tour packages offering this option. Travelers depart from the Pithoragarh Helipad, flying to Gunji, and from there, continue by helicopter to Jolingkong. At Jolingkong, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Adi Kailash from the designated viewpoint, making it a quick and hassle-free way to experience the sacred mountain.
Devotees planning to undertake the Adi Kailash Yatra can start applying for the Inner Line Permit on the official website from April 28. The Inner Line Passes will be issued starting April 30, ahead of the Yatra's commencement on May 2.
Road construction between Dharchula and Gunji is currently in progress. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been directed to complete the filling and smoothing of all dug-up sections by May 5 to ensure that pilgrims do not face any inconvenience during their journey.
BRO officials have also been instructed to install signboards at various key points along the route to guide travelers and ensure their safety throughout the journey.
The Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra, organized by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), is set to commence on May 14. The corporation has officially released the schedule for this year's pilgrimage.
In the first phase, the journey from Kathgodam to Kathgodam will be conducted in eight batches and will continue until June 18. Meanwhile, the Dharchula to Dharchula route will operate until June 16.
Ved Vyas Gufa, situated near Kali Mandir in Kalapani, is a revered sacred cave believed to be the meditation site of Sage Ved Vyas, the esteemed author of the Mahabharata. Local mythology holds that it was within this cave that Ved Vyas received divine knowledge and insights during his profound meditation. Pilgrims visiting Kali Mandir often take the opportunity to view Ved Vyas Gufa, where it is said that Kali Maa appeared before him and instructed him to construct a temple in her honor. In response to her divine request, Ved Vyas built the temple, which is believed to preserve the lush greenery and joy of the surrounding areas, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the region. While tourists visiting Kali Mandir cannot trek to the cave itself, they can still admire it from a distance, as it is located within a rocky formation that is inaccessible for trekking.
Ved Vyas Gufa in Adi Kailash
If you're visiting Adi Kailash, exploring Ved Vyas Gufa can be a unique and enriching experience. You can view the gufa from the Kali Mandir, which you can visit on your way to Adi Kailash. This sacred site not only offers a glimpse into the spiritual legacy of Sage Ved Vyas but also provides a serene atmosphere surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The opportunity to connect with the region's rich mythology and history makes this visit a memorable part of your pilgrimage.
Location of Ved Vyas Gufa
Ved Vyas Gufa is located near Kali Mandir in Kalapani, within the Vyas Valley of the Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in a rocky formation that is not easily accessible for trekking.
How to Reach Ved Vyas Gufa
To reach Ved Vyas Gufa, travelers can journey to Dharchula from major cities in Uttarakhand, such as Haldwani, Almora, or Pithoragarh, using buses or taxis. From Dharchula, take a local taxi for approximately 80 km to reach Kali Mandir in Kalapani. Once at Kali Mandir, you can admire Ved Vyas Gufa from a distance, as it is situated in a rocky formation that is not accessible for trekking.
What is Ved Vyas Gufa Famous for?
Ved Vyas Gufa is famous for being the meditation site of Sage Ved Vyas, the revered author of the Mahabharata, where he is believed to have received divine knowledge.
Brahma Parvat is a stunning mountain named after the God of Creation, who is believed to have created all creatures on Earth. This majestic peak is found en route to Adi Kailash and lies about 14 kilometers from Jolingkong. Covered in snow and often adorned with clouds, Brahma Parvat offers breathtaking views that captivate visitors and inspire a desire to linger in its serene atmosphere. As you travel from Kuti village to Jolingkong, the sight of Brahma Parvat will enhance your journey, making it a truly unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of the Himalayas.
Brammah Parvat in Adi Kailash
Brahma Parvat, located approximately 5.1 kilometers from Adi Kailash, is a stunning peak revered in Hindu mythology. As you embark on your pilgrimage to Adi Kailash, the sight of Brahma Parvat captivates travelers with its majestic snow-covered slopes and serene atmosphere. The mountain is often visible during the trek from Jolingkong to Adi Kailash, offering breathtaking views that enhance the spiritual journey. Travelers on an Adi Kailash travel package have the unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of Brahma Parvat, making it an unforgettable highlight of their journey.
Location of Brammah Parvat
Brahma Parvat is located approximately 5.1 kilometers from Adi Kailash in Uttarakhand, India. It is situated along the route to Adi Kailash, about 14 kilometers from Jolingkong.
How to Reach Brammah Parvat
From Dharchula, take a road journey of about 80 km to reach the Jolinkong Base Camp. From Jolingkong, you can embark on a trek to Brahma Parvat, which is approximately 14 kilometers away and offers stunning views along the way.
What is Brammah Parvat Famous for?
Brahma Parvat is famous for its majestic beauty and spiritual significance, being named after the God of Creation in Hindu mythology. Its stunning views and proximity to Adi Kailash make it a popular destination for pilgrims and trekkers seeking a deeper connection with the divine.
Earlier pilgrims had to do the trekking of 198 kms for preforming Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra. Now Government has developed a new road in the area with BRO which bought down the optional trekking part to 2-7 kms only. Beyond Dhrchula roads are rough so you must go in local Bolero/ Bolero Camper etc.
Due to its ease of accessibility, now Adi Kailash Yatra getting popular day by day.
The distinguished Adi Kailash is one of the most revered mountains of India, known for its spiritual munificence and hiking bliss. According to the Hindu mythology, Adi Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, his consort Parvati and their offspring Ganpati and Kartikey. Therefore, the spectacular Adi Kailash mountain range is considered as the most sacred mountain range in the world and is worshiped by many Hindus for its religious importance.
Day 1: Kathgodam - Jageshwar – Pithoragarh (1627 mts.)
(196 kms - 9 to 10 hours of journey) -
Start your tour at 6:30 am from Kathgodam. Proceed to Pithoragarh via Jageshwar.
Enroute visiting Places: Kainchi Dham, Golu Devta temple at Chitayi, Jageshwar Dham via Bhimtal and Almora.
Day 2: Pithoragarh to Dharchula (910 mts.)
(96 kms. 4 to 5 hours of journey)
Morning tea, Breakfast at Pithoragarh. Proceed to Dharchula (at 7:00am) by bus/Tempo traveler.
Visiting Places: Gori and Kaali River at Jauljibi and Jwaleshwar temple at Joljibi on the way.
Day 3: Dharchula to Gunji (3200 mts.)
(71 kms. 5 to 6 hours of journey)
Morning tea, Breakfast at Dharchula. Proceed to Gunji (at 7:00am) by Bolero/ Bolero Camper.
Visiting Places: - Budhi village, Chiyalekh meadows and panoramic view of Mount Aapi and Namjing Parvat, Garbyang, Napalchu on the way to Gunji.
Day 4: Gunji to Nabhidhang (4266 mts.) back to Gunji
Morning tea, Breakfast at Gunji. Proceed to Nabhidhang (at 7:00am) by Bolero/Bolero Camper via Kalapani (22+22 kms. 6 to 7 hours of journey). Lunch at Nabhidhang (at 12:00 noon), Om parvat darshan at Nabhidhang and back to Gunji (at 4:00pm).
Visiting Places: - Ganesh Parwat and Mount Aapi darshan from Gunji, Nag Parwat, Vyash Gufa, Kaali Mandir dharshan at Kalapani, Nabhi parwat and Om parwat darshan at Nabhidhang.
Day 5: Gunji to Jyolingkong (4378 mts.) - Adi Kailash and back to Budhi
Morning tea, Breakfast at Gunji. Proceed to Jyolingkong (at 6:30am) via Nabi, Kutti, by Bolero/Camper. (86 kms. to and fro from Gunji to Adi Kailash and back to budhi and 9 to 10 hours of journey). Visit parwati sarovar and Adi Kailash darshan, Gauri Kund, Parwati mukut, Pandav parwat, lunch at Jyolingkong (at 1:pm), after lunch proceed to Budhi (at 5:00pm)
Visiting Places: - Kunti Kila, Kutti village, Nikarchu Parwat darshan, Parwati Sarovar visits, Aadi Kailash, Parwati mukut, Pandav Parwat, Gauri kund darshan.
Day 6: Budhi to Chaukori (2010 mts.) via Dharchula
(193 kms and 8 to 9 hours journey)
Morning tea, Breakfast at Budhi Proceed to Chaukori (at 7:00am) via Dharchula, Didihat by Bus/ tempo traveler. Lunch at Didihat, after lunch proceed to Chaukori
Day 7: Chaukori to Bhimtal (1370mts.) via Patal Bhuvneshwar, Sheraghat, Almora.
(209km and 9 to 10 hours journey)
Morning tea, Breakfast at Chaukori Proceed to Bhimtal (at 8:00am) via Patal Bhuvneshwar/Almora, by bus/ tempo traveler. Lunch at Patal Bhuvneshwar (at 12:00pm) after lunch proceed to Bhimtal (at 6:00pm)
Day 8: Bhimtal to Kathgodam
Morning tea, breakfast at Bhimtal after breakfast proceed to Kathagodam (at 8:30am). You can also visit Nainital, Sattal after the tour.
Check out the Adi Kailash weather report for April
The minimun and maximum temperature in April in Adi Kailash is -12°C and 13°C respectively. The weather is generally sunny and clear in April and you would feel cold throughout the day. Heavy Woolen clothes are recommended for Adi Kailash in April.
Adi Kailash is famous among tourist as Pilgrimage, High Altitude Trek, Expedition, Remote, Road Trip, Adventure.
Adi Kailash is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Adventure, Peaks and Mountains, Pilgrimage, Religious, Trekking.
In Aug-Sept, I joined a group of 20 travellers for a trip to Adi Kailash. Starting from Bhimtal we reach our destination via Dharchula over three days. Despite rain the day before, we were fortunate to have clear skies as we ascended. About 50% of the roads were good to go. we rode horses from Jyolingkong to visit the Shiv Parvati Temple and Parvati Sarovar, with stunning views of Chhota Kailash.The road to Gauri Kund was rocky and narrow, making it tricky with both horses and people passing through. Snow flurries began as we reached Gauri Kund, and the temperature dropped. After hydrating, we took an easier route back.The journey was a truly divine experience, and I felt Lord Shiva's grace guiding us every step of the way. Om Namah Shivaya.
Our family road trip to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat was amazing .. The drive through scenic mountain roads was thrilling, though the uneven and harsh roads made it a bit challenging. Despite that, we enjoyed stunning views and peaceful stops along the way. The beauty and serenity of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat made it all worthwhile. A perfect mix of adventure and spirituality, highly recommended ...
I planned to visit Adi Kailash in July 2024, but unfortunately, my trip got canceled due to heavy rain. I came back from Dharchula only .. The weather was unpredictable, and the roads became risky, making it unsafe to travel. I was really disappointed, as I had heard so much about the beauty of Adi Kailash. Hopefully, I will be able to visit next time ..
