When you think about traveling to a new place, questions pop up in your mind about what to expect and how to get ready. We understand these concerns! This complete guide answers all the questions pilgrims ask most often about journeying to Adi Kailash and exploring the region. Our travel experts provide trustworthy, helpful advice from people who know this area well. Find answers to your biggest questions right here on our travel help center.
Adi Kailash attracts adventure seekers, spiritual believers, mountain hikers, people on religious quests, and mountain lovers. More than 4 amazing places reward your visit when you explore this sacred destination. Getting to Adi Kailash means flying to Pantnagar Airport, which sits 315 kilometers away, or catching a train at Tanakpur Railway Station located 218 kilometers from your destination.
Adi Kailash Route
1. How many routes are available for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Before 2019, travelers hiked along several different paths to reach these holy mountains. When new roads opened up, everything changed! Today, only one road connects all the important places on this spiritual journey. This single route moves through Kathgodam, Pithoragarh, Dharchula, Gunji, Jolingkong, and finally reaches Adi Kailash. The trip then goes to Om Parvat before returning home through the same towns.
2. How to go to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
Finding your own way to these mountains becomes difficult because few local cars drive there. When your phone loses signal, travel becomes risky during emergencies. Shrine Yatra runs the best yatra programs and knows exactly how to help pilgrims reach these amazing places safely.
3. How much time does it take to complete Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Years ago, pilgrims walked for about 200 kilometers and needed 18 days to finish their journey. Thanks to newly built roads, modern pilgrims now complete the entire yatra in just 7 nights and 8 days when traveling from Kathgodam to Kathgodam.
4. What is the route map of Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
The route map shows the complete path pilgrims follow on this sacred journey.
5. How much distance is covered in Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Pilgrims travel approximately 825 kilometers during the complete yatra. Here’s how the journey breaks down:
- Kathgodam reaches Pithoragarh: 196 km taking 7 hours
- Pithoragarh arrives at Dharchula: 100 km requiring 3 hours
- Dharchula moves to Gunji: 71 km in 4 hours
- Gunji goes through Jyolingkong to Adi Kailash and returns: 68 km taking 3 hours
- Gunji travels to Om Parvat and comes back: 32 km in 1 hour
- Gunji returns to Dharchula then Chaukori: 166 km in 7 hours
- Chaukori reaches Bhimtal: 189 km requiring 8 hours
- Bhimtal comes back to Kathgodam: 21 km in 45 minutes
6. Where are Adi Kailash & Om Parvat situated? / What is the location of Adi Kailash & Om Parvat?
These two sacred mountains sit in the Pithoragarh district within Kumaon region in Uttarakhand state. Adi Kailash stands about 105 kilometers away from the famous Mount Kailash. Om Parvat rests at a unique spot where three countries can each see different sides of the mountain—India, Nepal, and Tibet all have views! The special OM shape appears only from the Indian side when snow falls on the peak.
7. Can we go to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra by helicopter?
Yes! In 2024, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and Shrine Yatra started helicopter services. Pilgrims now have the option to fly to these sacred mountains instead of driving on roads.
8. Do we need to trek on the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Before 2019, pilgrims had to walk 200 kilometers through mountains. New roads have made things much easier now! Roads reach all the way to Jolingkong and Nabidhang villages. You can see Adi Kailash from Jyolingkong without walking far. However, some optional hikes remain available—a 2 to 3 kilometer walk goes to Parvati Sarovar and Chota Kailash Temple, while a 3 to 4 kilometer trek reaches Gauri Kund for those who want more adventure.
When to go for Adi Kailash Yatra
1. When does Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra start?
Local residents can begin traveling in May, but official yatra programs start after the government gives permission. This permit comes around the third week of May or the first week of June.
2. What is the period of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Pilgrims can visit from May through the middle of October each year.
3. What is the best/ most favorable time to take Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Summer months bring the best conditions for visiting. June before the rainy season and September through October after the rainy season offer the most pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures for your journey.
4. What is the weather and climate of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
Summer Season: The summer provides the safest time to visit with no landslide risks. Daytime temperatures reach around 19°C while nights cool down to about 3°C.
Monsoon Season: July and August bring heavy rains with fewer tourists visiting. Temperatures stay between 20°C during the day and 6°C at night.
Winter Season: Snow blankets these mountains from November through April, making all roads closed by authorities. Temperatures drop to freezing levels between -6°C and -30°C with fierce, cold winds that make travel dangerous and unpleasant.
5. Does bad weather affect the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Heavy weather affects all mountainous areas, not just this yatra. Traveling during storms becomes risky everywhere in the mountains because dangerous events occur frequently. Some pilgrims still visit by bringing 2 to 3 extra days in case weather delays their journey.
6. Is it safe to go on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra during the Monsoon season?
Mountain travel becomes risky during the rainy season because dangerous conditions develop, including landslides. Pilgrims who insist on visiting should plan 2 to 3 extra days because rain might delay reaching the sacred mountains.
7. When is the Monsoon season in Adi Kailash & Om Parvat?
Rains come from July through the middle of August in this region.
8. What are the minimum and maximum temperatures at Adi Kailash and Om Parvat? / What is the average temperature at Adi Kailash?
From June through October during yatra season, days feel pleasant with temperatures between 12°C to 16°C. Nights turn quite cold, ranging from 2°C to 6°C.
How to Apply & Criteria of Adi Kailash Yatra
Only citizens of India holding valid identification documents like passports or Aadhaar cards qualify for this yatra.
1. How to register for Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Until 2019, only KMVN organized this yatra. The program stopped in 2020 due to COVID-19. Shrine Yatra took over in 2021 as the main operator. In 2026, Shrine Yatra to arrange the yatra. You can register by visiting https://www.shrineyatra.in/adi-kailash-yatra-packages or calling +919958647371.
2. Is there any procedure that needs to be followed to apply for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?/ What is the process followed in applying for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Follow these steps to register:
- Complete the Adi Kailash Yatra registration form and attach one colored photograph
- Pay your registration amount to a corporate bank account or online, then write down the transaction number on the form
- Include a self-attested copy of your identity proof—either a valid Indian passport, Aadhaar card, voter ID, or driver’s license—plus 2 photographs
- Email your completed form, ID copies, and transaction number to info@shrineyatra.in, then mail original documents to the office address
3. Do we require any documents for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra? What are they?
Bring these important papers:
- Valid ID proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Physical fitness certificate from an MBBS doctor
- A notarized affidavit on a Rs 30 stamp paper
- Police verification form (only if you don’t have a passport)
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate
- Inner-line permit (which Shrine Yatra gets for you)
4. Do we require a visa and Passport to go on Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
You don’t need a passport to go on this yatra. However, having one saves you from needing police verification paperwork.
5. Is there any permit required for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Since this journey goes through border areas between India and Nepal, you must get an inner line permit from the government official in Dharchula.
6. Is there any age limit for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra? If yes, What is it?
Anyone physically healthy between 9 and 70 years old can participate in this yatra.
7. Are infants and children allowed on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Children under 9 years old cannot go on this yatra because of the age requirement.
8. Is there any bodyweight limit for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra? If yes, What is it?
No weight limit exists for this yatra. All people who maintain good health can join the journey.
9. How much luggage can we carry in Adi Kailash Yatra? Is there any weight limitation?
No weight limit applies to luggage. However, carrying less baggage makes your journey more comfortable since you must carry your own belongings.
Facilities in Adi Kailash Yatra
1. What services/ facilities will be provided on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Shrine Yatra includes these things in their yatra package:
- Inner Line Permit paperwork
- Expert tour guide services
- Professional cook
- Vehicle transportation with 4-wheel drive cars
- All meals throughout the journey
- Sleeping arrangements at resthouses or homestays
- Religious ceremonies and cultural programs
2. How many meals per day do we get during Adi Kailash Yatra?
Shrine Yatra provides three meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all pilgrims.
3. What type of food is served in Adi Kailash yatra? Veg or Non-Veg?
Only pure vegetarian food prepared with excellent hygiene standards fills the buffet tables. Everyone eats healthy, delicious veg meals.
4. Which cuisine is served on the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Fresh North Indian dishes appear at every meal in a generous buffet style.
5. How do you provide food in the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat yatra? It’s from Hotel/ Restaurant or cooked by your team?
No restaurants operate in this remote mountain region. Shrine Yatra maintains permanent kitchens with professional cooks at each rest house who prepare fresh vegetarian meals without onion or garlic.
6. Can we cook food on our own on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Cooking becomes impossible because this is a sensitive border area where stopping to cook isn’t allowed. Kitchen facilities don’t exist at every stop, and outsiders cannot enter kitchens where they do exist. Gas cylinders without permission certificates aren’t permitted. Markets only reach Dharchula, so no grocery stores exist beyond that point.
7. Can I get fruits or any other special food items if I am fasting on Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Doctors don’t recommend fasting at high mountain altitudes because it harms your health. Markets don’t exist nearby, so getting special fasting foods depends entirely on what’s available. Tell Shrine Yatra ahead of time if you need special foods.
8. Can I get Jain Food during the Adi Kailash Yatra?
Shrine Yatra cooks meals without onion or garlic for everyone. If you have other special food requests, remind the cook each time meals get prepared.
9. Is clean drinking water available on the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Yes, Shrine Yatra provides clean drinking water throughout your entire journey.
10. Can we organize Havana during the Adi Kailash Om Parvat yatra?
Shrine Yatra arranges religious fire ceremonies called Havan Puja at a place called Kala Pani for pilgrims who want them.
11. Are markets available on the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra route?
Stores and shopping only happen in Dharchula. After that point, no markets appear along the route.
12. Which type of accommodation is available in Adi Kailash Yatra?
Shrine Yatra arranges sleeping places at hotels and rest houses for the entire journey.
13. Which category of accommodation is available in Adi Kailash Yatra?
Shrine Yatra chooses the best available hotels and homestays in the Kumaon region for pilgrims.
14. Do we get separate beds, blankets & cots in Adi Kailash yatra?
Each person receives their own mattress, blanket, and pillow at every hotel and homestay—the finest option available in these mountain areas.
15. Do we stay in camps or tents in Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Both camps and dormitory-style rooms get provided depending on what’s available at each location.
16. How many people share one room in the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra? Can I get an individual room by paying extra?
Rooms sleep between 4 to 15 or more people because of mixed accommodation types. Individual rooms don’t exist in these accommodations.
17. Is a laundry facility available at the accommodation provided on Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Laundry services aren’t available at the accommodations on this yatra.
18. Where do we get electricity during the Adi Kailash Om Parvat trip?
Power supply stays limited in this mountain region. However, Shrine Yatra provides electricity for several hours each morning and evening above Dharchula. Solar panels exist at homestays but work only when weather permits.
19. Do we get charging plug points in the rooms provided during the Adi Kailash Om Parvat yatra?
Rooms don’t have personal charging outlets. All homestays provide common charging areas in shared spaces. Since power becomes limited due to unpredictable weather, carry a quality power bank holding at least 5000mah capacity.
20. What type of transport is provided during the Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
A 13-seater Tempo Traveller vehicle handles the distance from Kathgodam to Dharchula and back. For the harder mountain roads between Dharchula and Dharchula, 4×4 Camper or Bolero vehicles carry just 4 to 5 people each.
21. How many people are seated in one transport on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Although vehicles have 8-seat capacity, Shrine Yatra keeps pilgrims comfortable by seating only 4 to 5 people in each vehicle.
22. What is the road condition of the Adi Kailash Yatra route?
Previously, no developed roads existed, so travelers hiked 200 kilometers. New road construction has made the journey far simpler. The roads feel rough and unpaved but vehicles can drive on them without serious problems.
23. What kind of toilet facility do we get in Adi Kailash Yatra? / What is the toilet condition at the Adi Kailash route?
Limited bathroom infrastructure means toilets appear only at certain places like checkpoints and villages. However, every homestay provides clean bathrooms with both traditional and modern toilet styles.
24. Which are the places where we do not get toilet facilities on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra route?
Limited infrastructure makes finding bathrooms difficult along the route. Some villages and checkpoints have toilets available. Every homestay offers bathroom facilities.
25. Do we have common or separate toilets for men & women on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Plenty of shared bathrooms for both men and women exist at every homestay.
26. Do we need to use tissue paper or water is available in toilets in Aadi Kailash & Ohm Parvath?
Water flows in all bathrooms at every homestay.
27. Will we get heaters, immersion rods, or geysers in the accommodation on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
No heating devices appear in rooms because power remains limited throughout the region.
28. Will we get hot water in the accommodation on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Since heaters and hot water devices don’t exist, every homestay maintains a shared fireplace where pilgrims heat their own water. The amount of available water stays limited.
Medical & Support Team
1. In case of an emergency, what medical facilities are available in Adi Kailash Yatra?
Shrine Yatra guides understand how to manage difficult situations. Every group carries a medical kit with basic supplies. An oximeter (a device measuring blood oxygen) comes with each group. When serious problems occur, guides contact doctors at military camps and move sick people to hospitals in Dharchula.
2. What happens in case of any health issue or casualty on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Tell your tour guide immediately if you feel unwell. Your guide checks your oxygen level using an oximeter. Experienced guides handle these situations well. For serious emergencies, guides call military camp doctors for help.
3. Is there any permanent doctor available with the Adi Kailash Yatra Group?
No permanent doctors travel with groups because they usually aren’t needed. Each group carries basic medical supplies and an oximeter. Well-trained guides manage emergencies. Military doctors provide help when situations become critical.
4. Are hospitals available on the Adi Kailash Om Parvat route? Are they expensive?
Military hospitals exist along the route. For serious cases, patients go to the district hospital in Dharchula. These basic hospitals charge affordable prices.
5. In case of hospitalization, who bears the charges for the same in Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Pilgrims pay their own hospital bills and any extra medical charges during the yatra.
6. Is an ambulance facility available in Adi Kailash & Om Parvat? What are the charges for the same?
No ambulance operates on this route. Shrine Yatra vehicles serve as emergency transports when needed. The cost ranges from 35,000 to 40,000 rupees.
7. Do you have an oxygen cylinder facility available during the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat yatra?
Normally, oxygen cylinders aren’t needed. However, oxygen tanks and oximeters sit available at homestays if necessary.
8. What precautions should one take before and during the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat yatra?
When pilgrims had to hike 200 kilometers, the journey felt very difficult. Today’s road routes make the trip much simpler. Still, some smart preparations help—stay physically fit by practicing breathing exercises and walking daily. Drink plenty of water and eat nourishing meals during your journey. Avoid fasting at high mountain elevations.
9. Who will support pilgrims for the medical or evacuation process during an emergency on the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra? / Are your supporting staff experienced enough to manage the Yatra?
Shrine Yatra’s skilled and trained guides support pilgrims for all medical needs and emergency evacuations on the yatra.
10. Will the support team of Shrine Yatra brief us at different points during the yatra?
Shrine Yatra’s expert team gives a complete briefing in Dharchula before the journey starts. As the yatra continues, they provide helpful information at various stops. They guide guests throughout the entire experience.
11. Can I borrow the phone from the support team for communicating?
Support team phones work only for genuine emergencies.
12. Do the supporting staff take responsibility in case of any mishap?
Shrine Yatra’s trained staff knows how to handle emergencies. If problems occur, they stay with you the entire time and never leave pilgrims alone.
General Questions on Adi Kailash
1. Is Adi Kailash and Chota Kailash same?
Adi Kailash mirrors the famous Mount Kailash, so people often call it Chota Kailash, meaning “small Kailash.”
2. What is the story behind Adi Kailash & Om Parvat?
Both mountains hold great importance in the Hindu religion as sacred pilgrimage destinations.
Adi Kailash, also known as Baba Kailash, serves as the Second sacred site among the Panch Kailash (five Kailashes). Hindu beliefs say Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati live here with their children Ganpati and Kartikeya. According to legend, visiting Adi Kailash enlightens your inner spirit. The powerful spiritual energy transforms people with negative thoughts into those with positive thinking.
Om Parvat or Mount Om represents the only discovered mountain among eight mountain ranges in India. This ancient holy peak brings miracle and wonder, holding powerful religious meaning. Incredibly, falling snow naturally forms the sacred Hindu symbol ॐ (OM) on the mountain’s peak.
3. What is the Height / Altitude/ Elevation of Adi Kailash & Om Parvat?
Adi Kailash reaches 5,945 meters above sea level on the India-Tibet border near Kuti, India’s last village in that direction.
Om Parvat stands at 5,543 meters above sea level on the India-Nepal border.
The highest point where pilgrims travel reaches Parvati Sarovar at 4,501 meters above sea level.
4. What is the Adi Kailash History?
Ancient Hindu texts explain that Adi Kailash held great significance as the stopping point during Lord Shiva’s wedding journey from Mount Kailash. According to history, the demon king Ravana—known as an intense Lord Shiva worshipper—meditated here for many years until he received ten heads and amazing power. History also records that the Pandava brothers and the wise sage Vyas performed deep meditation at Adi Kailash for extended periods.
5. What is the Om Parvat secret? / What is the Om Parvat rahasya?
The wonderful mystery of Om Parvat connects people more closely to God while clearing away misunderstandings. The remarkable OM ॐ mark forming on the peak becomes the mountain’s most stunning feature. Snow naturally deposits against the peak’s dark background, creating this sacred symbol without human help.
6. Can we climb Adi Kailash & Om Parvat?
Climbing these peaks isn’t possible. However, pilgrims can hike to Gauri Kund at 5,245 meters elevation on Mount Adi Kailash’s slopes.
7. What is the importance/ benefit of Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Hindu mythology describes Adi Kailash as the home of Shiva and Parvati’s family. Believers consider it the place where Lord Shiva meditates constantly. It marks the wedding route of Shiva and Parvati’s journey. During this pilgrimage, visitors see three temples with special importance. First comes Chitai Golu Devta’s Temple, famous as the Justice God’s home—people with legal disputes make wishes here believing they’ll gain victory. Second sits the Jageshwar temple where Lord Shiva, the seven divine sages, and the great teacher Adi Shankaracharya all performed spiritual practices. Third, Patal Bhuvaneshwari Temple’s blessings equal the blessings of visiting four sacred mountains. Legend says this yatra washes away wrongdoings and resets your life’s balance. The strong spiritual force surrounding these mountains leaves people feeling changed and transformed.
8. How should I plan for Adi Kailash Yatra?
These mountains don’t allow easy solo visits because few local vehicles travel there. Without cell phone signal, emergencies become risky. Shrine Yatra offers the finest yatra planning because they provide accommodations at every location and understand the perfect way to organize your journey. Visit https://www.shrineyatra.in/adi-kailash-yatra-packages for more information.
9. What are the eligibility criteria for Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Three main requirements exist:
- Stay physically healthy and be between 9 and 70 years old
- Hold a valid government ID—such as Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, or driver’s license
- Bring a physical fitness certificate signed by an MBBS doctor
10. Is it safe for ladies, senior citizens, and people who are travelling alone on Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Shrine Yatra protects everyone’s safety and security. With excellent support systems and experienced guides, ladies, senior citizens, and solo travelers can join Shrine Yatra’s yatra journeys with complete confidence and peace of mind.
11. What all objects are allowed and not allowed on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Shrine Yatra provides a complete packing list one month before your journey begins, showing exactly what you can bring.
12. Where can we click pictures on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Throughout your yatra, beautiful photo spots appear everywhere. However, photography of military bases along the route isn’t permitted.
13. Do I get a certificate for Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Yes, Shrine Yatra gives each pilgrim a completion certificate.
14. What is the Adi Kailash Yatra 2022 date?
The yatra runs from June through October. Shrine Yatra schedules dates based on the Hindu lunar calendar throughout these months.
15. Is there any dress code for males and females on Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
No specific clothing rules apply. Wearing loose, comfortable clothes during your whole journey helps you feel better.
16. How many checkpoints are there on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat routes?
Ten checkpoint stations stand along the yatra route.
17. How much time is taken at each checkpoint on Adi Kailash and Om Parvat route?
Each checkpoint stop takes different amounts of time depending on your group’s size. Officers check your documents and keep records of your information at every stop.
18. How many people are there in one group on Adi Kailash Om Parvat Yatra?
Groups contain a maximum of 25 to 30 pilgrims. A Shrine Yatra leader and a local guide travel with each group.
Things to carry & Stuff given by Shrine Yatra
1. What kind of / How many clothes do I need to carry on Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra?
Pack these comfortable clothing items for your journey:
- 3 pairs of cotton or denim pants
- 6 shirts or long-sleeve t-shirts
- Cotton and woollen socks
- One lightweight raincoat
- One pullover sweater
- A scarf, muffler, or winter hat
- Face masks
- 2 sets of thermal underwear
- 1 tracksuit
- 1 pair of woollen and leather gloves
- 1 good-quality jacket
- 1 woollen sweater with a high neck
- 1 wind-cheater jacket
