The second of the Panch Kailash peaks is Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash. It is located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon Himalayas. For followers of Lord Shiva, this location is a spiritual treasure, and it’s a fantastic place for hikers and nature lovers. Adi Kailash offers a potent spiritual substitute in India, whereas the original Mount Kailash is located in Tibet. Because of this, it is a well-liked destination for pilgrims who do not have to cross the border.
What is the location of Adi Kailash?
Adi Kailash is located in the Kumaon region, close to Om Parvat, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, close to the Indo-Tibet border. This region, which is a part of the sacred geography of Kailash on the Indian side, welcomes thousands of pilgrims each year.
Related: Panch Kailash Yatra: The Five Sacred Kailash Parvats in India You Must Know
Why Adi Kailash is Spiritually Significant :
– It is believed to be where Lord Shiva resides with Goddess Parvati.
– Adi Kailash Parvat looks a lot like Mount Kailash in Tibet.
– Nearby Gauri Kund and Parvati Sarovar add to its holiness.
– Legend says the Pandavas visited Adi Kailash during their exile.
Quick Facts: Adi Kailash Yatra
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Vyas Valley, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude | ~6,191 meters |
| Trek Difficulty | Moderate |
| Base Camp | Dharchula/Lipulekh |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
| Nearby Attraction | Om Parvat |
| Local Languages | Kumaoni, Hindi |
| Type of Yatra | Pilgrimage + Adventure + Spiritual |
Related: Mount Kailash Yatra: The Sacred Mountain of Mysticism and Spiritual Power
Adi Kailash vs Mount Kailash:
| Aspect | Adi Kailash | Mount Kailash |
| Location | India (Uttarakhand) | Tibet (China) |
| Altitude | ~6,191 m | ~6,638 m |
| Accessibility | Accessible from Dharchula via trek/jeep | Requires permits & international travel |
| Significance | Alternative sacred abode of Shiva | Primary abode of Shiva (Axis Mundi) |
| Permit Requirement | Inner Line Permit (Indian Nationals) | Chinese Visa & Permit |
How to Reach Adi Kailash:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (PGB), about 450 km away.
- By Rail: The closest train stations are Tanakpur or Kathgodam.
- By Road: You can drive or take a shared cab to Dharchula, the base camp.
- Trek/Jeep Route: From Dharchula to Gunji, then Kuti, and finally Jolingkong, which is the base for Adi Kailash.
Also read: Health & Safety Tips for Adi Kailash Trek
FAQs About Adi Kailash Yatra :
Is Adi Kailash part of Panch Kailash?
Yes, Adi Kailash is the second revered peak in the Panch Kailash, following Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Is Adi Kailash difficult to reach?
Not really. Thanks to better road infrastructure, jeep routes connect several parts of the yatra, shortening the trekking distance.
Can I visit Om Parvat and Adi Kailash together?
Yes, many Adi Kailash tour packages include visits to both Om Parvat and Adi Kailash parikrama. Travel sifar can help you to visit Om Parvt and Adi kailash together in very affordable pricing.
Do I need a permit to visit Adi Kailash?
Yes, Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Currently, foreigners can’t go beyond Dharchula.
Conclusion: A Journey of Inner Awakening:
Adi Kailash may be second in the Panch Kailash Yatra, but it is the easiest to access and spiritually close for Indian pilgrims. With its serene lake, legends of Shiva and Parvati, and the divine feel of the Himalayas, visiting Adi Kailash is more than just a physical trip—it offers a soulful experience in Shiva’s domain.
Whether you are a devout pilgrim or an adventurous seeker, Travel Sifar invites you to explore the Adi Kailash yatra– ancient path of the gods.