Adi Kailash Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
19 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13100 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
76 Km
BASECAMP
Adi Kailash, Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May to June and September to October
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Adi Kailash Trek Overview
Lord Shiva is believed to reside at Mount Kailash. The Adi Kailash Trek, located on the Indian Tibetan Border, is known as the starting point of the magnificent Kailash pilgrimage. “Adi” means “beginning, unequaled”. Adi Kailash is the place where your spirit encounters the essence of the “Adi Yogi – Shiva”. The radiance of energy and beauty of bountiful Mother Nature has attracted tourists from all over the world for decades. Talking in terms of Spirituality this trek will surely take you on an inward journey with its serenity and nurturing environs crossing through Dharma, Byans, and Chaudans Valley. The valleys promise breathtaking cascades of waterfalls, thick wooded forests, and innumerable variety of flora from the Himalayan ranges.
The base of Mount Adi Kailash also known as Chota Kailash, is home to two water bodies namely Gauri Kund and Parvati Sarovar. Gauri is another name of Lord Shiva’s wife- Parvati. It would be appropriate to designate Parvati Sarovar as “Chota Mansarovar” as it is smaller than the Mansarovar Lake. Pilgrims also built a Temple dedicated to Shiva-Parvati on the banks of Parvati Sarovar.
During Adi-Kailash trekking, the tourists will encounter the snowy peaks of Annapurna, the gurgling Kali River, the dense forest, Narayan Ashram, full of wildflowers and a rare variety of flora and fauna and several waterfalls. Further, the trek of Adi-Kailash will also take the trekkers to the famous Kali temple at Kalapani, which is a very auspicious place and is 14 km from Aum Parvat.
Basecamp
- Tawaghat/Dharchula serves as the gateway where permits like the Inner Line Permit (ILP) are obtained.
- Trekkers typically travel from Pithoragarh to Dharchula and enter the trail from Tawaghat or nearby.
Trekking Path (Short Route)
- The trail winds through villages such as Pangu, Gala, Budhi, before reaching Gunji, Kutti (Kuthi) and onwards via Sin La Pass (5,495 m) into the Kuthi Yankti Valley.
- From Kutti, trekkers proceed to Jolingkong (base camp) situated at Gauri Kund (Jolingkong Lake), approx 17 km from Kuti village, with a Shiva temple at the lakeshore.
Adi Kailash Visit
- From the base camp (Jolingkong), it’s a short 4 km trek to the Adi Kailash viewpoint and back.
Descent Route
- Travelers usually retrace their steps: Jolingkong → Kutti → Gunji. From Gunji, they may return either via the same route or incorporate a motorable segment, depending on logistics and road availability.
In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Adi Kailash trekking experience. Whether you're an avid mountaineer, solo traveller or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program.
This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek.
The trail for Adi Kailash passes through dense forests, small villages, alpine meadows, rivers and glaciers crossing and leads to spiritual destinations like Parvati Sarovar and Gaurikund.
Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.
Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.
Adi Kailash is deeply connected with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is also called Chhota Kailash for its religious and spiritual significance. As per Hindu mythology, Adi Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva just like Mount Kailash in Tibet. People who are unable to visit Mount Kailash, often visit here.
Adi Kailash is believed to be the second home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. People believe that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati once wished to stay close to their devotees and they chose Adi Kailash as their second abode. Sages like Vyasa rishi and Pulastya rishi meditated here in Adi Kailash. The nearby place Parvati Sarovar is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati took holy bath. Gauri Kund, a small pond, is also associated with her.
During medieval times, the Katyuri and Chand dynasties promoted trade between India and Tibet via old Himalayan caravan routes which passed near Adi Kailash. Villages like Gunji and Kuti were the important halts for traders who carried salt, wool and grains. The region was also a significant place for Nath yogis who spent time here in solitude.
After the Indo-Tibetan war in 1962, Adi Kailash became less accessible for visitors but in recent years tourism authorities have reopened the trek for sustainable tourism.
-
Sacred Parvati Sarovar:
In Adi Kailash, the sacred Parvati Sarovar and Gauri Kund hold high religious and spiritual significance. Parvati Sarovar is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati took holy bath and meditated. These lakes have crystal-clear water and surrounding snow-clad peaks reflect in water like a mirror. Trekkers and pilgrims take ritual dip in these lakes to purify their minds and souls.
-
Om Parvat Darshan:
The sacred Om Parvat which is known for making an om symbol (ॐ) by natural snow deposition, can be witnessed through this trek. Though it is visible during certain seasons, it's one of the major en-route attractions. Viewing it is considered a divine blessing and rare sightings.
-
Remote Himalayan Villages:
On this trek, you will not only cross natural phenomena but also Himalayan pristine villages like Gunji and Kuti. Here you will see wooden houses, ancient rituals and customs imbued in a rustic charm. The warm hospitality of villages is commendable. These small villages preserve authentic Himalayan lifestyle and pass down the stories of their faith and culture for generations.
-
High-Altitude Flora & Fauna:
The route of Adi Kailash is home to rare Himalayan flora and fauna. The rare Brahma Kamal can be spotted here in summer. Blue poppies and wild rhododendrons bloom in vivid colors. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Himalayan blue sheep, snow pigeons, marmots and many unique creatures.
-
Connection with Kailash Mansarovar:
Adi Kailash is considered the second home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. First home is believed to be Mount Kailash. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside here also and devotees who cannot visit Mount Kailash due to difficult terrain, can visit Adi Kailash which is more accessible and easier than Mount Kailash.
Adi Kailash trek is a moderate to challenging trek suitable for those who have prior trekking experience or a good fitness level. The elevation point of the trek is around 5,945 n at peak. However trekkers typically ascend to about 4,700 m near Parvati Sarovar and Gaurikund.
The trek is not ideal for families, kids and elderly people, especially those who have no prior high-altitude trekking experience. The trail demands physical and mental endurance as trekkers have to walk for 5-7 hrs in a day through uneven terrain, steep ascents, rocky and glacial sections along with river crossings and dense forest paths. Trek duration is around 10 to 12 days, depending on chosen itinerary. There are small villages where trekkers can take acclimatization halts.
However, no particular mountaineering skills are needed for trekking here but due to remote areas and limited access to emergency facilities, the path's difficulty increases further. Beginners can attempt this trek but they need to be physically fit and to be guided by professional trek leaders. Better practice on easy trails before attempting the Adi Kailash trek.
For navigation and safety concerns, solo trekking is not advisable. Taking help of a certified guide or joining a group is highly recommended. Since the route is close to the Indo-Tibetan border, special permits are mandatory and army check posts are present along the way.
Weather is also an important factor. Air feels strong at higher altitudes. Nights can be freezing. The best time is early summer and autumn. Outside of these windows, rain and snowfall make the trail slippery and unsafe.
Adi Kailash trek is best done during summer (May-June) and autumn (September-October). During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
-
May-June
During this time, the snow starts melting and opens up the trails into reviving alpine meadows. But at higher camp, snow can still be present. The landscapes are green and fresh. This is the right time for trekking and exploring more about the places. The daytime temperature is around 12°C to 20°C while the night time temperature can drop to 5°C to 0°C at higher camps. Sudden rainfall or hailstorm can happen; keep check on weather updates.
-
September-October
After the monsoon, the weather becomes dry and crisp but the sky is at its clearest which makes mountain visibility perfect. Forests start turning golden and brown which give warm and cozy vibes. Due to visibility, photography can be done at its best. The daytime temperature remains around 5°C to 16°C while at night time can drop below 0°C. The trails are dry and comfortable for walking.
-
Months to Avoid
July-August should be avoided due to the monsoon and heavy rainfall. Trails become slippery and prone to landslides. Leeches are common and chances of bacterial infection are high. Similarly, from October to April, heavy snowfall can block the trails and the weather is too cold to acclimatize.
Adi Kailash, also called Chhota Kailash, is in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, near the India–Tibet border. The nearest big town is Dharchula, which serves as the base for the yatra.
To reach there, you can first travel to Kathgodam or Tanakpur by train; both are well connected to Delhi and other major cities. From Kathgodam or Tanakpur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dharchula (8–10 hrs). The road passes through scenic towns like Pithoragarh and Almora. For air travel, the nearest airport is Pantnagar, around 330 km from Dharchula, from where you can continue by taxi or bus.
From Dharchula, you need an Inner Line Permit because the route is close to the international border. This permit can be obtained from the SDM office in Dharchula. The onward journey from Dharchula is done by jeep and on foot. Vehicles can take you up to villages like Gunji or Nabhi Dhang, depending on road conditions. From these points, you trek through high-altitude terrain to reach Adi Kailash.
The route also includes a visit to Om Parvat, where the natural snow pattern on the mountain resembles the sacred 'Om' symbol. The entire journey requires good physical fitness and preparation because of the high altitude and unpredictable mountain weather. Local tour operators and government-organized yatras often arrange transportation, guides and permits for making the trip smoother.
Adi Kailash Trek Starting Point
From Tawaghat in Darchula, the trek begins and proceeds through Pangu, Sirkha, Budhi, Nabhi, Nampha, Kutti, Jyollingkong, Nabidhang, Om Parvat, and Kala Paani. To traverse the Shin La pass and join the Darma valley.
During Adi-Kailash trekking, the tourists will encounter the snowy peaks of Annapurna, the gurgling Kali River, the dense forest, Narayan Ashram, full of wildflowers and a rare variety of flora and fauna, and several waterfalls.
Further, the trek of Adi-Kailash will also take the trekkers to the famous Kali temple at Kalapani, which is a very auspicious place and is 14 km from Aum Parvat.
Adi Kailash Trek Route
The route takes you on an enchanting journey through the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. Starting from Dharchula in Uttarakhand, the trail winds through lush forests, charming villages, and awe-inspiring landscapes. As you trek higher, you'll witness the majestic peaks of the Kumaon region, including Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash.
Adi Kailash Trek Distance
The trek covers a distance of approximately 95 kilometres (59 miles) round trip. This includes the trekking distance from Dharchula to Adi Kailash and back. The stunning vistas of the Himalayas will captivate you throughout the journey, making every step worthwhile.
Clothing
- 3 quick-dry T-shirts (full sleeves preferred)
- 2 trek pants (water-resistant if possible)
- 1 fleece jacket or woollen sweater
- 1 down jacket or heavy padded jacket
- 1 thermal inner set (top + bottom)
- Waterproof & windproof jacket
- Poncho or raincoat
- Woolen cap + Sun cap
- Neck gaiter or scarf
- 2–3 pairs of synthetic/woolen socks + 1 pair of woolen gloves
- Innerwear (quick-dry), towel
Footwear
- Trekking shoes (ankle-high, good grip)
- Floaters/sandals (for campsites)
- Gaiters (recommended due to snow/rock)
Bags
- 50–60 litre backpack (with rain cover)
- Daypack (10–20 litre) for summit day or acclimatization walks
- Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep items dry)
Personal Gear
- Trekking pole(s)
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2L total capacity) or hydration pack
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm (SPF)
Toiletries & Hygiene
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
- Wet wipes, hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper, sanitary pads/tampons (carry back used items)
- Small quick-dry towel
Personal Medical Kit
- Diamox (for altitude)
- Crocin/Dolo, Combiflam, Digene
- ORS sachets, antiseptic cream
- Band-aids, gauze, crepe bandage
- Personal meds (if any)
- Betadine/Savlon
Documents
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
- Medical certificate (fitness)
- Disclaimer form (from your trek operator)
Others
- Power bank
- Extra camera batteries (cold drains battery fast)
- Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose
- Notebook + pen (optional for journaling)
Day 1: Dehradun – Rudraprayag (181 kms ) 5-6 hours drive
We start our road journey from Dehradun early morning towards RudraPrayag which passes through breath-taking and stunningly beautiful winding roads which takes about 5-6 hours from Dehradun. An interesting Stop enroute is to witness the divine confluence of Alakhnanda and Bhagirathi rivers merging to become the Holy Ganga. The Pristine Crystal-like Aqua hues of the two rivers are quite distinct to identify. We stay in Guest house for the night.
- Drive Distance – 181 km
- Drive Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Day 2: Rudraprayag - Dharchula ( 294 kms ) 9-10 hours Drive
Dharchula is a town that is located in the Pithorgarh district of the state of Uttarakhand. Dharchula is a small and remote place and it is located along an ancient trade route through the Himalayan Mountains. We enjoy sumptuous dinner and rest here at the Guest house today before starting the trek next morning.
- Drive Distance – 294 km
- Drive Duration – 9 to 10 hours
Day 3: Dharchula – Pangu (2250 mtrs. ) 9 kms trek
This is our first day of the trek and starts after a short drive to Tawaghat. Pangu village is located in Dharchula Tehsil of Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand, India. After the day’s drive we rest at this village soaking in the culture.
- Trek Distance – 9 km
- Trek Duration – 6 to 7 hours
Day 4: Pangu- Sirkha (2440 mtrs. ) 8 kms
The trail entails some steep descend before the uphill trail starts. We reach Thilakot.We trek further to reach Sirkha. There is a beautiful camp ground site here. We camp at this location overnight.
- Trek Distance – 8 km
- Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
Day 5: Sirkha - Galgad (2315v mtrs.) 14 kms
The trail between Sirkha to Galgad crosses through Samuri. It encounters rocky terrains and dense green forests crossing through Galla village and Jipti. Kali river view is visible from here. We camp here tonight.
<ul&gt;
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 8 to 9 hours
Day 6: Galgad - Malpa (3300mtrs.) 10 kms
This trail is a challenging one with Steep slopes. We halt on the way for Najang waterfall towering at a height of 100 ft. After this refreshing stop we continue towards Malpa, a remote Himalayan hamlet of seven huts, once a pit stop on the long, treacherous road to holy Mt Kailash and Mansarovar lake. We camp here overnight.
- Trek Distance – 10 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Day 7: Malpa- Budhi (2740 mtrs.) 8 kms
This part of the trek in refreshing due to the encounter of numerous waterfalls and streams running down the crevices of mountains of the trail. Lush green forests surely divert ones attention from the difficulty of the terrain in this stretch. We camp at Budhi overnight.
- Trek Distance – 8 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Day 8: Budhi – Gungi (3220 mtrs.) 17 kms
This trail a is a bit challenging, however offers magnificent views of Annapurna Peak and surrounding Himalayan Peaks. The trail exposes the Natures best mountain species of flowers and trees specific to this region. The landscape is refreshing and green an uplifts the spirit of trekkers encouraging them to keep moving forward. We camp at Gungi for the night.
- Trek Distance – 17 km
- Trek Duration – 10 to 11 hours
Day 9: Gungi - Kutti (3600 mtrs.) 18 kms
Kutti is a name of the Himalayan village named after “Kunti”, the mother of Pandavas. A beautiful river flows in this area crossing dense forest areas. One can enjoy the views of two Himalayan peaks on this trail namely Api and Nampha. We camp overnight in the last village of this trek before proceeding further.
- Trek Distance – 18 km
- Trek Duration – 10 to 12 hours
Day 10: Kutti - Jollingkong (4572 mtrs.) 14 kms
This trail takes us to Jollingkong that has the Indo- Tibet Border Police stationed. Jollingkong offers some hutments to rent for overnight stay or trekkers can also camp in their tents. We spend the night here.This also forms the basecamp for Mt. Adi Kailash.
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 7 to 8 hours
Day 11: Jollingkong- Mt. Adi Kailash -4 kms
The trek distance is only 4 kms and hence after visiting the Mt. Adi Kailash we return to the Jollingkong campsite and rest in the camps for the night after sumptuous dinner.
- Trek Distance – 4 km
- Trek Duration – 2 hour
Day 12: Jollingkong- Kutti 14 kms
In the morning after breakfast visit the temple located on the banks of Parvati Sarovar where you can perform Parikrama of Parvati lake. After which we can head to Gaurikund which is located around 4 km. We head back to Kutti and camp overnight.
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 7 to 8 hours
Day 13: Kutti - Gunji 18 kms
We head back to Gunji for overnight camping on the same trail back.
- Trek Distance – 18 km
- Trek Duration – 10 to 11 hours
Day 14: Budhi – Malpa 8 kms
We head back to Malpa for overnight camping on the same trail back.
- Trek Distance – 8 km
- Trek Duration – 6 to 7 hours
Day 15: Malpa - Galgad 10 kms
We head back to Galgad for overnight camping on the same trail back.
- Trek Duration – 10 km
- Trek Duration – 6 to 7 hours
Day 16: Galgad – Sirkha 14 kms
We head back to Sirkha for overnight camping on the same trail back.
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 7 to 8 hours
Day 17: Sirkha – Dharchula 17 kms
We head back after trekking for a few kms and then taking the road back to Dharchula for overnight camping on the same trail back.
- Trek Distance – 17 km
- Trek Duration – 9 to 10 hours
Day 18: Dharchula – Rudraprayag ( 294 kms ) 9-10 hours drive
We drive to Rudraprayag for the night stay .
- Drive Distance – 294 km
- Drive Duration – 9 to 10 kms
Day 19: Rudraprayag – Dehradun
rrive to Dehradun early evening and conclude the expedition.
- Drive Duration – 5 to 6 hours
- Drive Distance – 181 km
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Adi Kailash Trek Inclusions
- Transportation support.
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
- On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
- Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff.
- There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
- From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
- Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 350 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions.
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
Read More on Adi Kailash Trek
Photo Gallery
Treks by Categories
Treks By Month
Treks By Experience
