Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, is a mountain located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is near Dharchula Tehsil in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand near the border. Adi Kailash is considered a sacred mountain and is associated with Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology.
Key points about Adi Kailash
Location: Adi Kailash is located in the eastern part of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
Altitude: The mountain is approximately 5,966 meters (19,567 feet) above sea level.
Religious Significance: Adi Kailash is considered an alternative abode of Lord Shiva. It is often called the “Chhota Kailash” (Little Kailash) compared to the famous Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Pilgrimage: The area around Adi Kailash is considered sacred, attracting pilgrims and devotees. The Parvati Sarovar, a high-altitude lake, is also regarded as sacred and is part of the pilgrimage route.
Accessibility: Access to Adi Kailash involves reaching the town of Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and proceeding towards the pilgrimage route.
Places to Visit in Adi Kailash
Adi Kailash and its surrounding areas offer breathtaking landscapes, religious significance, and opportunities for trekking. Here are some notable places to see in and around Adi Kailash:
Adi Kailash (Chhota Kailash): The main attraction is the Adi Kailash peak. The mountain is considered sacred, and its distinctive shape is reminiscent of the better-known Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Parvati Sarovar: This high-altitude lake is considered sacred by pilgrims and is part of the pilgrimage route to Adi Kailash. The lake is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is believed to have mythological significance.
Gauri Kund: Another sacred water body on the route, Gauri Kund is believed to be named after Goddess Parvati (Gauri), the consort of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims often take a dip in its holy waters.
Om Parvat
Om Parvat, also known as Adi Kailash Om Parvat, is a mountain located in the Nabhidhang area of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, India. It is known for a naturally occurring symbol resembling the sacred Hindu mantra “Om” on its surface. This feature adds to the religious and spiritual significance of the mountain.
Narayan Ashram: Situated on the banks of the Parvati River, Narayan Ashram is a spiritual retreat established by Narayan Swami. It serves as a base for trekkers heading towards Adi Kailash and provides a peaceful environment for meditation.
Kailash Man Sarovar Yatra Route: The trekking route to Adi Kailash takes you through scenic landscapes, dense forests, and high-altitude meadows. The entire journey is an experience in itself, offering.
Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash :
The best time to visit Adi Kailash is during the summer months, May to July, and pre-winter, from mid-September to November. During this period, the weather is relatively milder, and the snow in the region has melted, making the trekking routes more accessible. Avoid going during the Monsoon season. The monsoon season brings rainfall to the area, leading to slippery and muddy trails. Landslides and swollen rivers may pose challenges during this time.
How to Reach Adikailash
Reaching Adi Kailash involves traveling to the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, India, and then undertaking a trek to the sacred mountain. Here’s a general guide on how to reach Adi Kailash:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Adi Kailash is Pantnagar Airport (PGH) in Uttarakhand. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pithoragarh, the base town for Adi Kailash.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is Tanakpur Railway Station (around 275 kilometers from Pithoragarh). From Tanakpur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pithoragarh.
By Road:
Delhi to Pithoragarh:
The most common route is from Delhi to Pithoragarh, the district headquarters. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi to Pithoragarh. The journey by road can take approximately 12-15 hours.
Pithoragarh to Dharchula:
From Pithoragarh, you must travel to Dharchula, the last motorable point before the trek. Dharchula is about 90 kilometers from Pithoragarh, and you can hire a taxi or use shared transport.
Dharchula to Gunji:
From Dharchula, you can travel to Gunji, another significant point on the route. The journey from Dharchula to Gunji can be done by shared vehicles or hired taxis.
Gunji to Nabhidhang:
The trek to Adi Kailash usually starts from Gunji and passes through Nabhidhang. The trekking route involves challenging terrain and takes several days, with stops at Narayan Ashram, Gunji, Kalapani, and Nabhidhang.
Permits
Before undertaking the trip to Adi Kailash, you must obtain the necessary permits. Ensure you check the latest permit requirements and regulations from the local authorities.
Considerations
The trek to Adi Kailash is challenging and involves high altitudes. Adequate acclimatization, physical fitness, and proper gear are essential.
It’s advisable to check local weather conditions, as they can impact the accessibility of the trekking route.
Always check for the latest information and consider hiring a local guide for the trek.
