Basecamp
Dharchula
Duration
8 Days
Max. Altitude
15,500 ft.
Distance
5 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Kathgodam
Adi Kailash Yatra Overview
Adi Kailash Yatra, also known as Chhota Kailash Yatra, is one of the most spiritually significant and scenic pilgrimages in India, located in the remote Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, close to the Indo-China border in Pithoragarh district. Considered the replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, Adi Kailash Parvat is believed to be the divine abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, ancient temples, and glacial lakes, this sacred yatra offers both spiritual fulfillment and adventurous exploration.
The Adi Kailash Yatra route takes you through picturesque villages like Dharchula, Gunji, Kuti, and Nabhi, each rich in local culture and mythology. A major highlight of this yatra is the visit to Om Parvat, where the sacred symbol ‘ॐ’ is naturally formed on the mountain—a rare and divine sight for pilgrims. Another key attraction is the serene Parvati Sarovar, situated near the base of Adi Kailash, where devotees perform rituals and prayers.
Accessible by road and requiring a valid Inner Line Permit (ILP) due to its sensitive border location, the Adi Kailash Yatra is ideal for those seeking an offbeat spiritual journey with scenic drives, high-altitude terrain, and deep Himalayan devotion. With increasing interest in domestic spiritual tourism, Adi Kailash Yatra 2025 is gaining popularity among pilgrims, trekkers, and photographers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a custom Adi Kailash tour package, a group fixed departure, or a heli-yatra, this sacred pilgrimage promises an unforgettable experience in the lap of the Indian Himalayas.
Basic Facts about Adi Kailash Yatra
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pithoragarh district, Kumaon, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude of Adi Kailash | Approx. 6,191 meters (20,312 ft) |
| Yatra Duration | 7 to 10 days (road trip) |
| Yatra Base Camp | Dharchula |
| Route Includes | Dharchula → Gunji → Kuti → Om Parvat → Adi Kailash |
| Inner Line Permit (ILP) | Mandatory for Indian citizens |
| Who Can Go? | Indian nationals, physically fit pilgrims aged 18–70 |
| Yatra Mode | By road (SUV/Tempo Traveller), Helicopter (limited) |
Adi Kailash is regarded as Chhota Kailash, a mirror of the original Mount Kailash in Tibet.
It is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva and Parvati, where they reside in meditation.
Pilgrims perform parikrama (circumambulation) around Parvati Sarovar, a sacred lake with immense spiritual power.
Om Parvat is a rare mountain where the natural ‘ॐ’ symbol appears due to snow and rock formations—seen as a direct sign from the divine.
Highlights of Adi Kailash Yatra
Darshan of Adi Kailash Parvat – the holy replica of Mount Kailash
Visit to Parvati Sarovar and Shiva-Parvati Temple
Om Parvat Darshan – naturally formed sacred ‘ॐ’ symbol
Drive through scenic Himalayan villages: Gunji, Kuti, Nabhi
Cultural interaction with remote Kumaoni and Tibetan-influenced communities
Adventure-filled road journey through rugged and high-altitude terrain
Suitable for devotees, solo travelers, trekking enthusiasts, and photographers
Option for helicopter yatra (seasonal, weather-permitting)
Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash Yatra
Ideal Months: May to mid-October
May–June: Clear skies, moderate temperatures, good for early pilgrims
September–October: Fewer tourists, post-monsoon beauty, ideal for peaceful darshan
Avoid: July–August due to monsoon and landslide risks
Adi Kailash Yatra Short Itinerary
Day 1: Haldwani → Dharchula
Distance: ~290 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Haldwani → Almora → Didihat → Dharchula
Highlights: Scenic Kumaon hills, Kali River Valley, border town
Stay: Hotel in Dharchula
Day 2: Dharchula (Permit & Acclimatization Day)
Distance: Local
Travel Time: —
Activities: ILP (Inner Line Permit) documentation & biometric process
Highlights: Explore Nepal market, rest and acclimatization
Stay: Hotel in Dharchula
Day 3: Dharchula → Gunji
Distance: ~100 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours (off-road)
Route: Dharchula → Pangla → Budhi → Chialekh → Garbyang → Gunji
Highlights: Drive through deep Himalayan valleys and forested cliffs
Stay: Homestay in Gunji
Day 4: Gunji → Om Parvat → Gunji
Distance: ~50 km round trip
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Route: Gunji → Navidhang → Om Parvat → Kalapani → Return
Highlights: Rare sight of ‘ॐ’ symbol on Om Parvat, Kali Temple, Kalapani
Stay: Homestay in Gunji
Day 5: Gunji → Adi Kailash Base (Jolingkong Lake)
Distance: ~45 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Route: Gunji → Kuti → Nabi → Jolingkong
Highlights: Parvati Sarovar, Shiva-Parvati temple, darshan of Adi Kailash Parvat
Stay: Camp / Cottage at Jolingkong
Day 6: Jolingkong → Gunji
Distance: ~45 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Route: Jolingkong → Nabi → Kuti → Gunji
Highlights: Morning rituals at lake, peaceful return drive
Stay: Homestay in Gunji
Day 7: Gunji → Dharchula
Distance: ~100 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Route: Gunji → Garbyang → Budhi → Dharchula
Highlights: Last views of the Himalayan highlands
Stay: Hotel in Dharchula
Day 8: Dharchula → Haldwani
Distance: ~290 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Dharchula → Didihat → Lohaghat → Almora → Haldwani
Highlights: Scenic return through the Kumaon hills
Stay: Tour ends on arrival at Haldwani
Adi Kailash Yatra Detailed Itinerary
Distance: ~290 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Haldwani → Almora → Dhaulchhina → Berinag → Didihat → Askot → Dharchula
Altitude: ~940 m
Your sacred journey to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat begins early morning from Haldwani, a bustling town known as the gateway to Kumaon. After a brief orientation, you will set off in a convoy of SUVs or tempo travellers towards the Himalayas. The route winds through the heart of Kumaon, offering breathtaking views of pine forests, terraced fields, and distant snow peaks. You’ll pass the cultural town of Almora, known for its heritage temples and Himalayan vistas, followed by Berinag, a peaceful village offering glimpses of the Panchachuli range on clear days.
En route, you’ll stop at Didihat for lunch or refreshments before continuing along the Kali River valley. The landscape becomes more rugged and remote as you approach Askot, a region known for its wildlife sanctuary and musk deer conservation efforts. The roads here are narrow and winding, hugging cliffs and deep valleys — making for an exciting Himalayan drive. The changing terrain, crisp mountain air, and views of local villages make this drive a perfect introduction to the spiritual adventure ahead.
By evening, you’ll reach Dharchula, a unique border town where Indian and Nepalese cultures blend. Located on the banks of the Kali River, Dharchula shares a free border with Nepal — you can walk across a hanging bridge into the Nepal side without a passport (for Indians). After hotel check-in, you can explore the vibrant local market or relax by the riverside. Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by a short briefing on the Inner Line Permit (ILP) process and next day’s travel. This marks the threshold of the Inner Himalayan region, leading you closer to the sacred Adi Kailash.
Distance: Local travel within Dharchula
Travel Time: Minimal (walking/short drive)
Route: Dharchula town → SDM Office → Market/Nepal side (optional)
Altitude: ~940 m
Day 2 is dedicated to completing Inner Line Permit (ILP) formalities and giving your body time to acclimatize before entering higher altitudes. After breakfast, the group will proceed to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Office in Dharchula for the mandatory ILP process, which includes document verification, biometric registration, and medical check-up. This permit is essential to enter the restricted border zone of Gunji, Kuti, Om Parvat, and Adi Kailash, and is issued only to Indian nationals.
While the team handles formalities, you can relax and explore Dharchula, a charming Himalayan border town located on the banks of the Kali River. You may also take a short walk across the hanging bridge into Darchula, Nepal — a unique experience where the market is vibrant, and the culture is a blend of India and Nepal. It’s a great opportunity to buy essentials, interact with locals, and witness the unity of cross-border communities.
After completing the ILP procedures, return to your hotel and rest. The evening will include a briefing session by your trek leader or guide about the next day’s off-road journey to Gunji. Proper hydration and minimal physical exertion are recommended, as the following days will involve significant altitude gain. Overnight stay in Dharchula with dinner served at the hotel.
Distance: ~100 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours (mostly off-road)
Route: Dharchula → Pangla → Malpa → Budhi → Chialekh → Garbyang → Gunji
Altitude: ~3,200 meters
After completing permit formalities, you begin the thrilling journey into the Inner Line region today. Post breakfast, set off in a convoy of 4×4 SUVs or tempo travellers toward Gunji, a remote high-altitude village and the central base for Om Parvat and Adi Kailash Yatra. The route follows the roaring Kali River, and the terrain quickly shifts from green valleys to stark mountain cliffs, making the drive both scenic and adventurous.
Your drive will pass through quaint Himalayan settlements like Pangla, Budhi, and Chialekh — with steep ascents, hanging valleys, and pine-dotted ridges. You’ll also pass Malpa, the site of the tragic 1998 landslide, and Garbyang, a historic tilted village once part of the Indo-Tibetan trade route. Keep an eye out for glaciers, waterfalls, and landslide-prone zones that add thrill to this rugged route. The landscape now begins to resemble the Tibetan plateau — vast, dry, and surreal.
Arrive in Gunji by afternoon, where accommodation is arranged in basic but comfortable homestays or guesthouses. Located at ~3,200 meters, Gunji serves as the acclimatization point for high-altitude excursions ahead. Spend the evening resting, hydrating, and preparing for the next day’s Om Parvat Darshan. Mobile connectivity is extremely limited here, and the silence of the Himalayas begins to deepen your spiritual connection to the land.
Distance: ~50 km (round trip)
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Route: Gunji → Kalapani → Navidhang → Om Parvat Viewpoint → Return
Altitude: ~3,800 m (Om Parvat viewpoint)
Today is one of the most spiritually significant highlights of your journey — the darshan of Om Parvat, where the sacred Hindu symbol ‘ॐ’ is naturally formed on the snow-covered face of the mountain. After an early breakfast at Gunji, you’ll drive in a convoy toward Navidhang, the official Om Parvat viewpoint, located close to the Indo-Nepal-China tri-junction. This stretch of the route is strictly within the Inner Line Zone and offers a surreal blend of rugged terrain, glacier-fed streams, and Tibetan-like landscapes.
On the way, you will visit Kalapani, the origin point of the Kali River, revered in Hindu mythology and geopolitically significant as well. Here, you can also pay your respects at the ancient Kali Mata Temple, situated near the river’s sacred source. From Kalapani, continue to Navidhang, where you’ll get the first glimpse of Om Parvat (6,191 m) — a divine mountain that naturally bears the ‘ॐ’ symbol, believed to be a miraculous formation by nature and snow.
Spend peaceful moments absorbing the spiritual energy of the place, offering prayers, and capturing photographs. The silence and grandeur of this Himalayan site are awe-inspiring. After darshan, return to Gunji by late afternoon. The rest of the day is free to rest and acclimatize. Dinner will be served in your homestay, followed by a short briefing for the upcoming journey to Adi Kailash base (Jolingkong).
Distance: ~45 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours (off-road)
Route: Gunji → Nabi → Rongkong → Kuti → Jolingkong
Altitude: ~4,700 meters (Adi Kailash Base – Jolingkong)
Today marks the most awaited leg of the journey — the sacred Adi Kailash Darshan. After an early breakfast, the convoy departs from Gunji and heads deeper into the trans-Himalayan region. The route is both dramatic and spiritual, passing through remote villages and valleys where myth and nature merge beautifully. You’ll first cross Nabi and Rongkong, tiny high-altitude hamlets inhabited by Bhotiya communities, before reaching Kuti village — believed to be named after Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas. According to legend, the Pandavas once meditated in this region during their exile.
As you climb higher, the landscape changes completely — wide, barren valleys and glacial streams begin to dominate. By early afternoon, you’ll reach Jolingkong Lake, located at the base of Adi Kailash Parvat (5,945 m). Here lies the sacred Parvati Sarovar, a glacial lake where pilgrims take a holy dip. Nearby stands a serene Shiva-Parvati Temple, set against the magnificent backdrop of the snow-draped Adi Kailash — also called Chhota Kailash, regarded as a replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Spend time in prayer, meditation, and reflection at this powerful Himalayan shrine. The silence of the valley, the stillness of the lake, and the mighty presence of Adi Kailash create a deeply moving spiritual atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay will be arranged at Jolingkong in tented accommodation or eco huts (weather-dependent). Rest well, as you’ve reached the highest point of the yatra — both in altitude and spiritual significance.
Distance: ~45 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours (off-road)
Route: Jolingkong → Kuti → Rongkong → Nabi → Gunji
Altitude: From ~4,700 m (Jolingkong) to ~3,200 m (Gunji)
On Day 6, after witnessing the spiritual energy of Adi Kailash, you begin your return from Jolingkong to Gunji. Wake up early to experience the sunrise over Adi Kailash Parvat, a truly divine sight as golden light bathes the white snow-covered peak. This is a peaceful moment for reflection, morning meditation, or quiet darshan at the Shiva-Parvati temple near Parvati Kund (Sarovar).
After breakfast, you’ll depart from the base camp and retrace the scenic off-road journey via Kuti, Rongkong, and Nabi. The descent feels easier, and the return gives you a chance to fully absorb the surreal Himalayan landscape you passed earlier. Take photos, speak with locals if possible, and enjoy the changing vegetation and terrain as you return to lower altitudes.
Arrive at Gunji by afternoon and check into the same homestay or guesthouse. After resting, your evening is free to relax, write in your journal, or share experiences with fellow yatris. Dinner will be served hot, and you’ll feel the comfort of acclimatization now that you’ve come down from 4,700 meters to 3,200 meters.
Distance: ~100 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Route: Gunji → Garbyang → Chialekh → Budhi → Malpa → Pangla → Dharchula
Altitude: From ~3,200 m (Gunji) to ~940 m (Dharchula)
After a spiritually enriching stay in the higher Himalayas, today you begin your descent from Gunji back to Dharchula. Post breakfast, the convoy sets out through the same rugged and dramatic Himalayan route, offering final glimpses of the Kali River gorge, hanging valleys, and villages that carry stories of pilgrimage, trade, and tradition.
The drive retraces the off-road journey through Garbyang, the famous “tilted village” due to a past landslide, and continues through Chialekh, Budhi, and Malpa — locations steeped in history and mythology. With steep hairpin bends and deep gorges beside you, this descent is both thrilling and scenic. Short halts are made at safe spots for rest and refreshments.
By afternoon or early evening, you’ll reach Dharchula, where you return to the comforts of a hotel stay. With mobile networks restored, this is a good time to reconnect with family and share your experiences. The evening is free for relaxation or local market exploration. Dinner will be served at the hotel. This marks the end of your Inner Line region journey, as you exit the restricted border zone.
Distance: ~290 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Dharchula → Didihat → Berinag → Almora → Haldwani
Altitude: From ~940 m (Dharchula) to ~424 m (Haldwani)
On the final day of your sacred Adi Kailash Yatra, bid farewell to the border town of Dharchula and begin your scenic return drive to Haldwani. After an early breakfast, the journey starts through the same beautiful Kumaoni route — descending from the rugged Himalayan interior back to the rolling hills and forested valleys of Uttarakhand.
You’ll retrace your route through Askot, Didihat, and Berinag, passing through pine forests, apple orchards, and hillside villages. Along the way, enjoy breaks for tea and meals as you soak in the last moments of your Himalayan experience. This drive is peaceful, reflective, and perfect for recalling the spiritual energy of Om Parvat, Adi Kailash, and the remote beauty of Gunji and Jolingkong.
By evening, you’ll reach Haldwani, where the tour officially concludes. You can either rest in Haldwani, board an overnight train or bus, or proceed to your onward destination. With your heart full of blessings and memories from the divine Himalayas, this marks the completion of your life-changing Adi Kailash Yatra.
Adi Kailash Yatra Package Cost Includes
Travel & Transport
All road transportation from Haldwani to Haldwani by SUV/Tempo Traveller (based on group size)
Inner route travel (Gunji–Om Parvat–Jolingkong) by 4×4 vehicles with experienced mountain drivers
Toll taxes, parking fees, driver allowances, and fuel charges included
Accommodation
Hotel stay in Dharchula on twin/triple sharing basis (attached washroom where possible)
Basic homestays/guesthouses in Gunji with clean bedding and warm blankets
Tented accommodation or eco huts at Jolingkong (Adi Kailash Base) depending on weather conditions
Meals
All meals included from Day 1 Dinner to Day 8 Breakfast
Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner daily
Evening tea/snacks during halts when possible
Permits & Documentation
Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat (only for Indian nationals)
Biometric registration and mandatory medical check-up at SDM Office, Dharchula
All local ITBP, forest, and administrative permissions required for the yatra
Support Team
Experienced Tour Leader / Yatra Guide accompanying the group from start to end
Local support staff at Gunji and Jolingkong for coordination and logistics
Emergency response coordination throughout the route
Other Inclusions
Basic first-aid kit and oxygen cylinder for high-altitude safety
Orientation and daily briefing sessions
Printed Yatra ID badge and registration kit
Spiritual session or puja at Adi Kailash/Parvati Sarovar (subject to weather and time)
Adi Kailash Yatra Package Cost Excludes
Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, room service, tips, or shopping
Any meals, snacks, beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
Travel insurance, evacuation charges, or medical expenses not covered in the first aid kit
Accommodation, food, or transport outside the fixed itinerary (before Day 1 or after Day 8)
Pony/porter charges (if required for individual baggage at higher altitudes)
Charges for additional sightseeing or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
Any kind of donation, dakshina, or puja cost during temple visits
Expenses arising from natural calamities, landslides, road blockages, or political unrest
GST and other applicable government taxes (if not already included in final quote)
Adi Kailash Yatra Package Cost
Dharchula To Dharchula
₹ 30,500/- PP
₹ 28,999/- PP
- 7 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Kathgodam To Kathgodam
₹ 36,500/- PP
₹ 34,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Kathgodam
- 7 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 45,500/- PP
₹ 40,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 9 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Adi Kailash Yatra Fix Departures
November
10 Nov - 14 Nov
15 Nov - 19 Nov
22 Nov - 27 Nov
25 Nov - 29 Nov
Available
Available
Available
Available
December
1Dec - 5 Dec
5 Dec - 9 Dec
8 Dec - 12 Dec
10 Dec - 14 Dec
15 Dec - 19 Dec
18 Dec - 22 Dec
22 Dec - 26 Dec
25 Dec - 29 Dec
26 Dec - 30 Dec
27 Dec - 31 Dec
28 Dec - 1 Jan
29 Dec - 2 Jan
30 Dec - 3 Jan
31Dec - 4 Jan
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
January
2 Jan - 7 Jan
5 Jan - 12 Jan
8 Jan - 13 Jan
10 Jan - 15 Jan
13 Jan - 18 Jan
15 Jan - 20 Jan
18 Jan - 23 Jan
20 Jan - 25 Jan
22 Jan - 27 Jan
24 Jan - 29 Jan
25 Jan - 30 Jan
28 Jan - 1 Feb
30 Jan - 4 Feb
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
February
2 Feb - 7 Feb
5 Feb - 9 Feb
9 Feb - 14 Feb
11 Feb - 18 Feb
15 Feb - 19 Feb
19 Feb - 24 Feb
21 Feb - 26 Feb
25 Feb - 1 Mar
28 Feb - 4 Mar
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
March
3 Mar - 8 Mar
5 Mar - 10 Mar
9 Mar - 14 Mar
11 Mar - 16 Mar
15 Mar - 20 Mar
18 Mar - 23 Mar
22 Mar - 27 Mar
26 Mar - 1 Apr
30 Mar - 3 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
April
1 Apr - 6 Apr
10 Apr - 15 Apr
12 Apr - 17 Apr
18 Apr - 23 Apr
25 Apr - 30 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
How To Reach Adi Kailash Yatra
Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Kedarkantha Trek
1. Reach Haldwani – The Base City for Adi Kailash Yatra
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) – 30 km from Haldwani
Flights Available From: Delhi (Direct, daily)
From Airport to Haldwani: Taxi (45 mins) or shared cabs available
Alternative: Fly to Delhi (IGI Airport) and continue by train or road
By Train:
Nearest Station: Haldwani Railway Station (HDW)
Well-Connected To: Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, Bareilly, Moradabad
Popular Trains: Ranikhet Express, Kathgodam Shatabdi, Sampark Kranti
Travel Time from Delhi: 6–7 hours
By Bus / Car:
Distance from Delhi: ~280 km
Travel Time: 7–9 hours by road
Bus Options:
Overnight Volvo/Deluxe buses from Delhi (Kashmere Gate ISBT)
Government and private buses available regularly
Self-Drive Option: Via NH-9 through Moradabad → Rampur → Rudrapur → Haldwani
2. Haldwani to Dharchula – Entry to the Inner Himalayan Region
Distance: ~290 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours by SUV / Tempo Traveller
Route: Haldwani → Almora → Berinag → Didihat → Askot → Dharchula
Options: Group departure in convoy vehicles arranged by the tour operator
3. Dharchula to Inner Line Zone (Gunji, Om Parvat, Adi Kailash Base)
Permit Process: Inner Line Permit (ILP), medical check-up, and biometric registration at SDM Office, Dharchula
Travel Mode: 4×4 SUVs under ITBP guidelines
Route: Dharchula → Gunji → Om Parvat → Adi Kailash (Jolingkong Lake)
Access Restricted to Indian Citizens Only
Summary – How to Reach Adi Kailash Yatra (Ex-Haldwani)
| Route | Mode | Distance & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Haldwani | Train / Flight / Bus | ~280 km – 6 to 8 hours |
| Haldwani to Dharchula | Road (SUV / Traveller) | ~290 km – 9 to 10 hours |
| Dharchula to Gunji | 4×4 SUV (permit zone) | ~100 km – 5 to 6 hours |
| Gunji to Om Parvat/Adi Kailash | 4×4 SUV | ~45–50 km each – 4 to 5 hours |
From Delhi to Adi Kailash:
Delhi → Haldwani (train/bus/flight) → Dharchula → Gunji → Adi Kailash
From Mumbai to Adi Kailash:
Mumbai → Delhi (flight) → Haldwani (train/road) → Dharchula → Gunji → Adi Kailash
From Bangalore to Adi Kailash:
Bangalore → Delhi (flight) → Haldwani → Dharchula → Inner Line Route
Adi Kailash Yatra Booking Policy
- Booking is confirmed only after receiving a minimum 30% advance payment
Balance amount to be paid at pickup time.
Payment Options
Online payment via UPI / Bank Transfer / Net Banking / Debit & Credit Cards
Payment receipt will be shared via email or WhatsApp for confirmation
Adi Kailash Yatra Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 30+ days before trek date
- 70% refund if cancelled 15–29 days before trek
- 50% refund if cancelled 7–14 days before trek
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before trek or no-show
Adi Kailash Yatra Essentials
The Adi Kailash Yatra takes you through remote, high-altitude Himalayan terrain where weather can be unpredictable and facilities limited. Proper packing is essential for safety, comfort, and smooth travel. This list covers the must-have clothing, gear, medicines, and documents you’ll need for the journey. Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced trekker, packing smart will help you fully enjoy this sacred pilgrimage.
Base Layer (thermal innerwear – top and bottom)
2–3 Full sleeve quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2 Insulating Layers (fleece/wool sweaters or light down jacket)
1 Heavy Feather Jacket / Padded Jacket (for summit day)
2 Trek Pants (quick-dry; avoid jeans)
1 Windproof & Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
Thermal Track Pants (for nights)
Warm Innerwear & Undergarments (at least 2–3 pairs)
1 pair of high-ankle trekking shoes (snow/water-resistant)
1 pair of slippers / sandals for campsite use
Optional: Gaiters (for heavy snow)
Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
Daypack (10–15L) for summit day
Trekking pole (highly recommended)
Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank
Ziplock / dry bags for organizing
Optional: Camera or GoPro
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / face wash
Lip balm (essential for cold cracks)
Cold cream / moisturizer
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper / tissues
Hand sanitizer
Menstrual hygiene products (as required)
Wet wipes (optional but useful)
Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
Diamox (only after doctor’s advice)
Band-aids / blister patches
Antiseptic cream
Crepe bandage
Personal medication
ORS / Glucose / Electrolyte powder
Original Government ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
Medical fitness certificate (if required by trek operator)
Trek disclaimer form (provided by operator)
Trek booking confirmation / permit copy (if applicable)
Adi Kailash Yatra Fitness
The Adi Kailash Yatra involves high-altitude trekking, long hours of travel on rough roads, and walking in challenging mountainous terrain. Although the trek is considered moderate in difficulty, good physical fitness will enhance your experience and help prevent altitude sickness.
Recommended Fitness Levels:
Ability to walk 6–8 km daily on uneven terrain
Basic stamina for long vehicle rides on bumpy mountain roads
Good cardiovascular health and lung capacity for altitudes above 3,000 meters
Pre-Yatra Preparation:
Regular cardio exercises like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling for at least 4–6 weeks before the trek
Strengthening leg muscles through squats, lunges, and stair climbing
Practice walking with a loaded backpack to simulate trekking conditions
Hydrate well and maintain a balanced diet to boost endurance
Altitude Considerations:
The yatra reaches altitudes up to 4,700 meters at Adi Kailash base
Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to help your body adjust
Listen to your body and inform guides immediately if you feel symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness)
With proper fitness and preparation, you’ll enjoy the spiritual and natural beauty of Adi Kailash safely and comfortably.
Adi Kailash Yatra FAQ's
What is the best time to visit Adi Kailash Yatra?
The best time to visit Adi Kailash Yatra is from May to mid-October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and roads remain accessible.
May–June: Clear skies and snow views.
July–August: Monsoon risks; not recommended.
September–October: Ideal time with scenic landscapes and stable weather.
How to reach Adi Kailash from Delhi or Haldwani?
To reach Adi Kailash, travel from Delhi to Haldwani/Kathgodam by train or bus, then drive via Pithoragarh to Dharchula, the base point.
From Dharchula, you’ll need a special Inner Line Permit, and continue by shared 4×4 vehicles through Gunji, Nabi, and Jyolingkong. Tour operators usually arrange all travel logistics.
Do I need a permit for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for all Indian travelers to visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat.
The permit is issued by the SDM office in Dharchula and requires:
Valid ID (Aadhar/Voter ID/Passport)
Passport-sized photos
Fitness/medical certificate
Tour operators usually assist with permit arrangements.
Is Adi Kailash Yatra safe for senior citizens?
Yes, Adi Kailash Yatra is safe for senior citizens if they are physically fit and cleared by a doctor. The trip involves long drives, high altitude, and remote areas. Seniors with heart or respiratory issues should consult a physician before booking the yatra.
Are kids allowed on Adi Kailash Yatra?
Children above 10 years may be allowed depending on the tour operator’s policy, but only if they’re physically fit and can endure long travel.
It’s not recommended for infants or toddlers due to high altitude, basic infrastructure, and remote conditions.
How difficult is Adi Kailash Yatra?
Adi Kailash Yatra is considered moderate in difficulty. While there’s no trekking involved, the high altitude (~15,000 ft), long travel hours, and basic accommodation make it physically demanding. Travelers should prepare with light cardio and stay well-hydrated during the journey.
Is Adi Kailash and Om Parvat the same?
No, Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are two different sacred peaks located close to each other.
Adi Kailash resembles the original Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Om Parvat has a natural snow formation of the sacred “ॐ” symbol on its face.
Both are visited in the same itinerary but are not the same location.
Can I visit Adi Kailash without a group or travel agency?
Technically yes, but it is not advisable to travel without a group or agency due to permit formalities, difficult terrain, and lack of public transport.
Travel agencies arrange all logistics including permits, 4×4 vehicles, accommodation, and meals, making the journey safer and more convenient.
How much does Adi Kailash Yatra cost?
The average cost of Adi Kailash Yatra ranges from ₹35,000 to ₹60,000 per person, depending on the starting point, inclusions, and the operator.
This typically covers:
Permits
Transportation (4×4 vehicle)
Accommodation
All meals
Guide/escort services
Is Adi Kailash Yatra suitable for beginners?
Yes, Adi Kailash Yatra is suitable for beginners who are healthy and fit. It doesn’t involve heavy trekking, but due to the altitude and long road journey, basic fitness and stamina are necessary. First-time yatris should follow proper acclimatization and stay hydrated.
Mobile network availability during Adi Kailash Yatra?
Mobile network is limited to BSNL only, and even that is patchy or unavailable in remote areas like Gunji, Nabi, and Jyolingkong.
There is no Jio, Airtel, or Vi coverage beyond Dharchula. It’s advisable to inform family and friends in advance and remain with the group at all times.
Which is better – Adi Kailash or Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Adi Kailash is a great alternative to Kailash Mansarovar as it’s located within India, requires fewer permits, and is more accessible.
Adi Kailash: Easier, budget-friendly, no international visa required.
Kailash Mansarovar: Expensive, in Tibet/China, politically sensitive.
Both hold deep spiritual value for Hindus and can be visited based on preference and feasibility.
What are the health requirements for Adi Kailash Yatra?
You must be medically fit with no serious health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or respiratory issues.
A medical/fitness certificate is required for the permit.
It’s also recommended to carry:
Personal medications
Acetazolamide (for altitude sickness)
First aid kit
What should I pack for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Essential items to pack:
Warm clothing (jackets, thermals, gloves)
Raincoat/poncho
Trekking shoes or sports shoes
Power bank and torch
Water bottle, dry fruits/snacks
Personal medicine kit
Travel light but carry everything for sudden weather changes.
Can foreigners visit Adi Kailash Yatra?
No, foreign nationals are not allowed to undertake Adi Kailash Yatra due to its location near the India–China border.
The Inner Line Permit is issued only to Indian citizens, and valid ID proof (Aadhar/Voter ID/Indian Passport) is mandatory.
Which is best travel company for Adi Kailash Yatra?
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