Some journeys aren’t just about reaching a destination — they’re about finding yourself. The Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra is one such soulful experience that takes you to the sacred lap of the Himalayas, where every mountain feels alive with the presence of Lord Shiva.
Nestled in the remote Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Adi Kailash — also known as Chhota Kailash — mirrors the mighty Mount Kailash in Tibet, believed to be the celestial abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The journey begins from Dharchula, a serene border town on the banks of the Kali River. From here, travellers drive through the scenic Darma Valley, passing traditional villages and pine-covered ridges, to reach Gunji, the base for both holy peaks.
The next morning brings one of the most powerful sights in the Himalayas — the mystical ‘Om’ symbol naturally formed on Om Parvat, clearly visible from the Nabhidang road viewpoint. Watching the sacred “ॐ” shimmer on the snow feels like receiving a direct blessing from the divine.
From Nabhidang, the trail leads to Jolingkong, where the majestic Adi Kailash Parvat stands tall beside the serene Parvati Sarovar (Parvati Lake). Devotees often walk around the lake, offer prayers, and sit quietly by its edge — where the reflection of Adi Kailash in the still waters feels like a meeting of heaven and earth.
On clear days, with permission from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), travellers may even catch a distant glimpse of Mount Kailash from Lipulekh Pass — a rare blessing few are fortunate to witness.
Organized by Danu Adventure, this 3-day road journey from Dharchula to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat is short yet profoundly moving. It’s a blend of devotion, adventure, and the timeless call of the Himalayas. Whether you seek divine connection, peace of mind, or simply the experience of standing before mountains that hold centuries of faith — the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra promises to touch your soul forever.
Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra
Introduction: The Sacred Journey to the Abode of Lord Shiva
Hidden deep within the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand lies one of India’s most spiritually charged and awe-inspiring regions — the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra. Known as the Chhota Kailash or Second Kailash, Adi Kailash is believed to be the earthly replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, the ultimate abode of Lord Shiva. This pilgrimage offers devotees the rare blessing of witnessing Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and even a glimpse of Mount Kailash from the sacred frontier of Lipulekh Pass.
Unlike the arduous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Tibet, the Adi Kailash Yatra can be undertaken entirely within India — a journey that blends spiritual fulfillment with Himalayan adventure. Every curve of this route, from Dharchula to Jolingkong and onward to Nabhidang, resonates with devotion, faith, and the pure serenity of the mountains.
The Sacred Peaks and Viewing Points
Adi Kailash: The Mesmerizing View from Jolingkong and Parvati Lake
At an altitude of about 19,500 feet (5,944 meters), Adi Kailash Parvat stands tall in the Dharchula region of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand. The divine mountain mirrors the form of Mount Kailash and is often called its Indian counterpart. The Darshan of Adi Kailash is best experienced from Jolingkong, where the holy Parvati Sarovar (Parvati Lake) rests peacefully at its base.
Pilgrims often perform a Parikrama around Parvati Lake, offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The reflection of Adi Kailash Peak on the lake’s crystal-clear waters is said to symbolize the union of the divine couple. Nearby stands a small but sacred Parvati Temple, where pilgrims bow in silence, surrounded by the hum of Himalayan winds.
- Adi Kailash Height: ~19,500 ft (5,944 m)
- Adi Kailash Trek Distance: Approx. 14–18 km from the nearest motorable point (Gunji or Kuti)
- Best Viewpoint: Jolingkong & Parvati Lake (Parvati Sarovar)
- Location: By road via Dharchula → Gunji → Kuti → Jolingkong
The route to Adi Kailash takes travelers through the Darma Valley and Kuti Valley, dotted with ancient villages and lush meadows. The path is motorable till Kuti, after which a short trek or jeep trail leads to Jolingkong. Throughout the journey, pilgrims witness mesmerizing landscapes, snow peaks, and the sheer silence of nature’s sanctuary.
Om Parvat: Witnessing the Divine ‘Om’ from the Nabhidang Road
If Adi Kailash represents divine power, Om Parvat represents divine sound — the sacred vibration of the universe. Located near Nabhidang, about 22 km from Gunji, this peak uniquely displays the natural formation of the sacred Hindu symbol ‘ॐ’ (Om) on its snow-clad face.
What makes Om Parvat extraordinary is that the ‘Om’ symbol is clearly visible right from the road at Nabhidang, without any trekking required. The white snow patterns forming the Om shape on the dark rocky surface appear miraculous to devotees — an eternal reminder that the Himalayas themselves chant the name of Lord Shiva.
- Om Parvat Height: ~18,400 ft (5,590 m)
- Viewing Point: Nabhidang (roadside viewpoint, no trek required)
- Location: Near Gunji, on the way to Lipulekh Pass
- Can we see Om Parvat from road? Yes, Om Parvat is visible directly from Nabhidang road viewpoint.
Many pilgrims describe their first glimpse of Om Parvat as a life-changing moment. The sight instills a deep sense of peace and awe — as if nature itself is revealing the sound of creation. The area around Nabhidang often experiences chilly winds and occasional snow, so carrying warm layers is essential.
A Special Darshan: Glimpse of Mount Kailash from Lipulekh Pass
Beyond Om Parvat lies the legendary Lipulekh Pass, located at an altitude of about 17,500 ft (5,200 m). This high-altitude mountain pass serves as India’s gateway to the Kailash Mansarovar region in Tibet. It connects Uttarakhand (India) with Tibet (China) and Nepal, forming an important tri-junction.
From Lipulekh Pass, on a clear day, there is a rare and sacred opportunity to glimpse Mount Kailash, the ultimate abode of Lord Shiva. However, this Darshan depends on weather clarity and real-time permission from the ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police), as the pass lies in a sensitive international zone. Only with official clearance can one approach the Lipulekh viewpoint.
- Lipulekh Pass Height: ~17,500 ft
- Lipulekh Pass connects: India, Tibet (China), and Nepal
- Lipulekh Pass to Kailash Mansarovar Distance: ~94 km (approx.)
- Permit: Compulsory from ITBP & local administration
This sacred frontier marks the final stretch of divinity — where the Indian Himalayas seem to bow before the great Mount Kailash itself.
Complete Route Map and Packages
Route Overview
The Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra begins from Delhi, moving through Haldwani, Dharchula, and then onward to the high Himalayan valleys of Gunji, Kuti, and Jolingkong.
- Delhi to Adi Kailash Distance: Approx. 850–900 km (via Haldwani, Pithoragarh, Dharchula)
- Dharchula to Adi Kailash Distance: Around 100 km (by road & short trek)
- Adi Kailash to Om Parvat Distance: Approx. 30 km (Gunji–Nabhidang stretch)
This entire circuit is connected by scenic motor roads, managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Travelers can also reach the region via Kathgodam, Haldwani, or Pithoragarh Airport.
Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra Packages and Cost
The Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra packages offered by Danu Adventure are customizable, covering transportation, accommodation, meals, and necessary permits.
Both road-based journeys and limited helicopter-assisted options are available depending on the season and operational permissions.
The pilgrimage generally lasts 9–12 days, covering Adi Kailash Darshan at Jolingkong, Om Parvat viewing at Nabhidang, and the sacred frontier of Lipulekh Pass.
Essential Trip Planning: Permits, Weather, and Best Time
Permits and Regulations
Travel to Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and Lipulekh Pass requires special inner line permits from the SDM office in Dharchula. Additionally, ITBP and local administration permissions are mandatory for areas near the international border.
Travelers must carry government-issued ID proofs (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.) and medical fitness certificates.
- Adi Kailash Permit: Issued at Dharchula
- Om Parvat Permit: Included in Adi Kailash circuit
- Lipulekh Pass Access: Subject to ITBP permission
Weather and Temperature
The region experiences cold alpine weather, even in summer.
- Temperature of Adi Kailash: 5°C to 15°C (day), -5°C to 5°C (night)
- Om Parvat Temperature: 3°C to 12°C (average)
- Lipulekh Pass Weather: Unpredictable, with sudden snowfall possible
Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat
The best time to visit Adi Kailash is from May-June & October, when the roads open and the valleys bloom with alpine flowers. June to September brings lush greenery, while post-monsoon (September–October) offers crystal-clear mountain views and mild weather.
Spiritual Significance and History
Adi Kailash: The Replica of Mount Kailash
According to ancient scriptures, Adi Kailash is considered the earthly embodiment of Mount Kailash. It is said that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside here in peaceful meditation, blessing all devotees who undertake this journey. Pilgrims perform puja at Parvati Lake (Parvati Sarovar) and seek divine energy that purifies mind and soul.
Om Parvat: The Symbol of the Cosmic Sound
The natural ‘Om’ formation on Om Parvat is believed to be the eternal vibration of the universe — the same cosmic sound that created existence itself. It is one of the eight naturally occurring Om symbols in the Himalayas, yet this one in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region is the most distinct and revered.
Mount Kailash and the Greater Connection
Adi Kailash and Mount Kailash are spiritually linked — one being the divine mirror of the other. While Mount Kailash represents the cosmic axis, Adi Kailash represents its reflection on earth. Pilgrims who complete the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra are believed to receive blessings equivalent to visiting Mount Kailash and Mansarovar.
Conclusion: Embark on the Journey of Faith and Discovery
The Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra is not merely a travel experience — it is a soulful dialogue between man and the mountain, between faith and eternity.
Standing before Adi Kailash, watching Om Parvat radiate the eternal symbol, and glimpsing Mount Kailash from Lipulekh is a divine privilege few experience in a lifetime.
With Danu Adventure, pilgrims can undertake this sacred road journey safely and comfortably, discovering not just the Himalayas, but their own inner peace.
This is where adventure meets devotion — where every road leads to Shiva’s abode.
Yatra Highlights:
- Om Parvat Darshan from Nabhidang Road – The only mountain naturally bearing the ‘ॐ’ symbol.
- Adi Kailash Darshan from Jolingkong & Parvati Sarovar – Experience the divine reflection of Kailash in the holy lake.
- Spiritual Serenity of Gunji & Darma Valley – Connect with the untouched purity of the Himalayas.
- Possibility of Mount Kailash Glimpse from Lipulekh Pass – With ITBP permission, pilgrims may get a rare view of the real Kailash.
