Adi Kailash and Om Parvat – Yatra, Distance, Height, Weather & Permit Guide

Nestled deep in the mystical Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are two sacred Himalayan summits that hold immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush valleys, remote villages, glacial rivers, and snow-covered peaks, these destinations offer a rare blend of divine energy, raw nature, and adventure.

Often described as the “Abode of Gods”, Uttarakhand invites seekers of spirituality and natural beauty—and the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra is one of its most profound pilgrimages.

Adi Kailash: The Chota Kailash of Uttarakhand

Adi Kailash Height

• Approximate height: 6,310 meters (20,702 ft)

Adi Kailash, also known as Chota Kailash, Little Kailash, or Jyolinkong Peak, is believed to be a terrestrial replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet. Located in the Pithoragarh district, this sacred mountain is considered one of the five earthly abodes of Lord Shiva.

Apart from its religious significance, Adi Kailash is also a revered trekking destination, offering dramatic Himalayan views and deep spiritual calm.

Where Is Adi Kailash Located?

Adi Kailash is located near the Indo-Tibetan border in the remote Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, close to the villages of Gunji, Kuti, and Nabi. The nearest town is Dharchula, which acts as the main gateway for the yatra.

Om Parvat: Where Nature Forms the Sacred ॐ

Om Parvat, situated near the Indo-Nepal border, is globally famous for a natural snow formation that distinctly resembles the sacred ॐ (Om) symbol on the mountain face. This rare phenomenon makes Om Parvat one of the most spiritually powerful sites in the Himalayas.

The first clear view of Om Parvat appears from Nabhidang village, around 20 km from Gunji, leaving pilgrims awe-struck.

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra (Route Overview)

The Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra follows a common route until Gunji village, about 90 km from Dharchula. From Gunji:

• One route leads to Adi Kailash (Jyolinkong & Parvati Sarovar)

• The other route leads to Om Parvat (Nabhidang)

Both journeys pass through breathtaking valleys like Chaundans, Darma, and Bryans, ancient villages, and sacred landscapes.

Adi Kailash to Om Parvat Distance

• Adi Kailash to Om Parvat distance: ~20–25 km (by road/track)

• Both sites can be comfortably covered in a single yatra itinerary

Is Adi Kailash and Kailash Parvat the Same?

No.

• Adi Kailash is located in Uttarakhand, India

• Mount Kailash (Kailash Parvat) is located in Tibet (China)

Adi Kailash is considered a spiritual replica of Mount Kailash and is especially significant for Indian devotees who cannot undertake the Tibet journey.

Adi Kailash Weather

• Summer (May–June): 10°C to 20°C

• Monsoon (July–Aug): Landslide-prone, limited access

• Autumn (Sept–Oct): Clear skies, best views

• Winter: Heavy snowfall, yatra closed

👉 Best time to visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat: May–June & September–October

Delhi to Adi Kailash Om Parvat Distance

• Delhi → Dharchula: ~520 km

• Dharchula → Gunji: ~90 km

• Total distance: ~610–630 km (road journey)

Haldwani to Adi Kailash Om Parvat

• Haldwani → Dharchula: ~330 km

• Haldwani is a major transit hub with good road connectivity to Kumaon

Accommodation Before You Go

• Gunji Village: Local homestays (basic facilities)

• Village Nabi & Kuti: Limited homestays

• Dharchula: Best place for hotels, food & supplies

Popular options include:

• Adi Kailash Homestay (Gunji)

• Amrita Home Stay (Village Nabi)

How to Get Permit for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat

Obtaining a permit is mandatory.

Permit Process

1. Apply online via Uttarakhand Tourism or District Administration portals

2. Upload ID proof & medical certificate

3. Foreign nationals require additional clearance

4. Physical verification at Dharchula / Pithoragarh

⚠️ Entry is regulated due to proximity to the international border and monitored by ITBP & SSB.

A Hiker’s & Pilgrim’s Paradise

While earlier the journey involved long treks, roads now reach close to both Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, making the yatra accessible even to senior pilgrims. Still, short walks are required near the final viewpoints.

Highlights include:

• Parvati Sarovar (reflection of Adi Kailash)

• Kalapani (source of River Kali)

• Kuti Village (linked to Kunti, mother of Pandavas)

• Views of Annapurna Peak, lakes, and glacial rivers

Conclusion

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat in Uttarakhand are not merely destinations—they are living spiritual landscapes. From the sacred reflection of Adi Kailash in Parvati Sarovar to the divine ॐ etched naturally on Om Parvat, this yatra offers a journey of faith, humility, and awe.

For those seeking a powerful alternative to Mount Kailash, the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra is truly unmatched—combining devotion, adventure, and the untouched beauty of the Himalayas.