Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra FAQs

Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra FAQs – Travel Shrine
Here are the most asked questions about Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra. This FAQ will help you understand the route, timing, facilities, registration process, and other important details of the pilgrimage with Travel Shrine.
Adi Kailash Route
How many routes are available for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Earlier, the yatra was conducted by trekking from Dharchula. After road construction, the yatra is now covered by vehicles. Currently, there is only one motorable route:
Kathgodam – Pithoragarh – Dharchula – Gunji – Jolingkong – Adi Kailash – Gunji – Om Parvat – Nabi/Gunji – Dharchula – Kathgodam.
How to go to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
Due to limited 4×4 vehicles and poor network connectivity, it is not easy to visit on your own. The best way is to travel with Travel Shrine, which provides complete arrangements including transport, stay, permits, and support.
How much time does it take to complete Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Earlier, the trek used to take around 18 days. Now with road access, the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra takes 7 nights and 8 days from Kathgodam with Travel Shrine.
What is the route map of Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
Travel Shrine provides a detailed route map from Kathgodam covering Kathgodam – Pithoragarh – Dharchula – Gunji – Jolingkong – Adi Kailash – Om Parvat – Dharchula – Kathgodam.
How much distance is covered in Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
The total distance is about 825 km (round trip from Kathgodam). The main stretches are:
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Kathgodam → Pithoragarh: 196 km / 7 hrs
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Pithoragarh → Dharchula: 100 km / 3 hrs
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Dharchula → Gunji: 71 km / 4 hrs
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Gunji → Jolingkong → Adi Kailash → Gunji: 68 km / 3 hrs
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Gunji → Om Parvat → Gunji: 32 km / 1 hr
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Gunji → Dharchula → Chaukori: 166 km / 7 hrs
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Chaukori → Bhimtal: 189 km / 8 hrs
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Bhimtal → Kathgodam: 21 km / 45 mins
Where are Adi Kailash & Om Parvat situated?
Both Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are in Pithoragarh district, Kumaon region, Uttarakhand.
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Adi Kailash is located about 105 km (aerial distance) from Mount Kailash in Tibet.
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Om Parvat is visible from India, Nepal, and Tibet, but the snow formation of “OM” is only seen from the Indian side.
Can we go to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra by helicopter?
Yes, Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra by helicopter is available. Travel Shrine can arrange helicopter packages based on Uttarakhand Tourism guidelines.
Do we need to trek on the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
The yatra is mostly motorable, but there are short optional treks:
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2–3 km from Jolingkong to Parvati Sarovar and Chota Kailash Temple.
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3–4 km to Gauri Kund.
When to Go for Adi Kailash Yatra
When does Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra start?
The yatra generally starts in May or June (depending on weather conditions) and continues till October every year. Travel Shrine begins departures once the route is declared safe and open by the authorities.
What is the best time to visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
The best months are June, September, and early October. During this time, the weather is clearer, road conditions are better, and views of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are more visible.
Can we do Adi Kailash Yatra in monsoon?
It is not advisable to plan the yatra in July and August due to heavy rainfall, frequent landslides, and road blockages. Travel Shrine schedules yatras mainly before and after the monsoon season.
What is the weather like in Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
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May–June: Pleasant days, cold nights.
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July–August: Heavy rainfall, road blockages.
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September–October: Clear skies, best views, colder nights.
Can we visit Adi Kailash in winter?
No. The yatra is closed in winter because the entire region receives heavy snowfall and the roads remain blocked.
Registration & Criteria for Adi Kailash Yatra
How to register for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
Registration is mandatory as the yatra route goes close to the India–China border. Travel Shrine handles the complete permit process for its yatris. You need to submit scanned copies of documents in advance for approval.
What documents are required for Adi Kailash Yatra registration?
You will need:
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Aadhaar Card (mandatory for Indian citizens)
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Voter ID / Passport (any valid ID proof)
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Passport-size photographs
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Medical fitness certificate
Travel Shrine will guide you step by step during the registration process.
What is the age limit for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra?
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Minimum age: 9 years
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Maximum age: 70 years (for packages arranged via Travel Shrine)
Note: Travelers should be physically fit as the yatra involves high altitude.
How much does the Adi Kailash Yatra permit cost?
Permit charges are included in the package offered by Travel Shrine. These charges go to the local administration and border authorities.
Can foreign nationals go for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Currently, the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra is allowed only for Indian nationals.
Is a medical certificate required for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Yes, a medical fitness certificate from an authorized doctor is required before starting the yatra. Travel Shrine can also help in arranging medical check-ups if needed.
Facilities During Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra
What type of accommodation is available during Adi Kailash Yatra?
Accommodation along the route is mostly basic but comfortable. In Dharchula, Pithoragarh, and Chaukori, yatris stay in hotels or guesthouses. At higher locations like Gunji, Nabi, and Jolingkong, accommodation is provided in government rest houses, homestays, or tented camps. Travel Shrine ensures clean bedding, blankets, and hygienic stay facilities at every stop, even in remote areas.
What kind of food is provided during the yatra?
Since the yatra route passes through remote villages, food is simple and vegetarian. Travel Shrine provides freshly cooked meals including dal, rice, chapati, vegetables, and tea/coffee. At higher altitudes, options are limited, but efforts are made to provide warm and nutritious food to keep yatris healthy during the journey.
Is mobile network available during Adi Kailash Yatra?
Mobile connectivity is very limited. You will get signal in Pithoragarh and Dharchula, but in high-altitude areas like Gunji, Nabi, and Jolingkong, networks are weak or unavailable. Only BSNL works in some pockets. Travel Shrine team members carry satellite communication options for emergency use.
Are washroom facilities available during the yatra?
Yes, washroom facilities are available at most halts. In hotels and guesthouses, attached or common bathrooms are provided. In higher camps, temporary eco-toilets or dry toilets are arranged to maintain hygiene. Travel Shrine ensures that yatris have safe and clean toilet facilities wherever possible.
Is medical help available on the route?
Basic medical facilities are available in Dharchula and Gunji. However, advanced hospitals are far away. Travel Shrine carries first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and trained staff to handle minor health issues during the yatra. Yatris are advised to carry their personal medicines as well.
Do yatris get transportation during the entire journey?
Yes. After reaching Kathgodam, the entire journey is covered in comfortable vehicles arranged by Travel Shrine. Due to rough terrain, mostly 4×4 jeeps or sturdy vehicles are used. Transfers, sightseeing, and local visits are all included in the package.
Medical & Health Guidelines for Adi Kailash Yatra
What is the minimum fitness required for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Yatris should be in good physical health with the ability to walk on uneven terrain and adjust to high-altitude conditions. Regular walking, light jogging, or yoga practice for at least 4–6 weeks before the yatra is highly recommended. Those with chronic health conditions should consult their doctor before planning.
What is the maximum altitude during Adi Kailash Yatra?
The highest point of the yatra is Jolingkong near Adi Kailash, which lies at an altitude of approx. 15,500 feet (4724 meters). Due to this elevation, oxygen levels are lower, and yatris must be prepared for thinner air.
What are the common health issues faced during the yatra?
The most common issues include:
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Altitude sickness (AMS): Headache, dizziness, nausea.
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Cold & cough: Due to sudden weather changes.
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Fatigue: Because of long drives and high altitude.
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Stomach upset: Sometimes due to change in water or food.
Travel Shrine staff carries first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and emergency medicines to help yatris in such situations.
How can I prevent altitude sickness during Adi Kailash Yatra?
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Take proper rest during the journey and do not overexert.
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Eat light, warm meals.
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Carry prescribed medicines for AMS if suggested by your doctor.
Is a medical certificate compulsory for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Yes, every yatri must submit a medical fitness certificate before starting the journey. This ensures that only physically capable travelers undertake the yatra. Travel Shrine assists yatris in understanding the medical requirements.
Are oxygen cylinders available during the yatra?
Yes. Travel Shrine provides portable oxygen cylinders at higher camps for emergency use. However, yatris are encouraged to maintain fitness to avoid dependency on oxygen support.
Who should avoid traveling to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
The following people are advised not to attempt the yatra:
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Those with serious heart or lung conditions
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Pregnant women
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People with uncontrolled blood pressure or diabetes
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Anyone recently recovering from surgery or severe illness
What medicines should I carry for the yatra?
Yatris should carry their personal prescribed medicines along with common items like:
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Tablets for headache, fever, cold, and stomach upset
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Motion sickness tablets
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Pain relievers and muscle relaxants
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Glucose packets and energy bars
Travel Shrine recommends packing medicines in a waterproof pouch for safety.
General Information for Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra
Is Adi Kailash Yatra safe?
Yes, the yatra is safe as it is organized with proper permissions from the Indian authorities and ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police). The route is regularly monitored by security forces, and Travel Shrine ensures yatris travel only in approved convoys with required permits.
Are there any security checks during the yatra?
Yes. Since the route goes close to the India–China border, there are multiple security and permit checks at Dharchula, Gunji, and Nabi. Yatris must carry a copy of their ID and permit at all times. Travel Shrine arranges these permits in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Are there restrictions on photography?
Yes. Photography is strictly prohibited in certain areas, especially near military bases, ITBP check posts, and border-sensitive zones. Yatris can freely take photos of natural landscapes, temples, and mountains, but must follow the instructions of local authorities and guides.
What should I pack for Adi Kailash Yatra?
Essentials to carry:
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Warm clothes (thermal wear, jackets, gloves, socks, caps)
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Comfortable trekking shoes and slippers
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Torch/flashlight with extra batteries
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Personal medicines & first aid kit
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Water bottles and energy bars
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Raincoat or poncho (weather changes suddenly)
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Valid ID proof and multiple photocopies of permits
Travel Shrine provides a detailed packing checklist before departure to ensure yatris are fully prepared.
Is there ATM or banking facility available on the route?
ATMs are available in Pithoragarh and Dharchula, but not in higher villages. Yatris should carry enough cash as digital payments may not work due to poor network connectivity.
Can yatris travel individually or only with a group?
Since it is a restricted border zone, individual travel is not allowed. Yatris must travel in registered groups with approved permits. Travel Shrine organizes group departures with experienced guides for safety.
Are non-vegetarian food and alcohol allowed during the yatra?
No. Only vegetarian food is provided during the yatra. Consumption of alcohol, smoking, or any intoxicant is strictly prohibited as it affects health at high altitude and violates local cultural sentiments.
What kind of clothing is recommended?
Layered clothing is best. Days may be mild, but nights are extremely cold. Yatris should wear thermals, fleece jackets, windproof jackets, woolen caps, and gloves. Comfortable shoes with good grip are essential for rough terrain.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Adi Kailash Yatra?
It is not mandatory but highly recommended. Travel Shrine advises yatris to opt for insurance that covers medical emergencies, roadblocks, and trip cancellations.
Travel Shrine Support & Contact Information
How can I book the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra with Travel Shrine?
You can book directly through Travel Shrine by contacting us via phone or email. Our team will guide you through the booking process, required documents, permits, and payment details. Advance booking is recommended due to limited seats and government restrictions.
What is the official contact number for Travel Shrine?
You can reach Travel Shrine at +91 9625035551 for all yatra-related inquiries, bookings, and support.
What is the official email ID of Travel Shrine?
For detailed information, bookings, and customer support, write to us at info@travelshrine.com.
Does Travel Shrine provide assistance during the yatra?
Yes. A dedicated Travel Shrine team travels with the yatris, offering:
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24×7 guidance and support
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Medical help and first aid
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Coordination with local authorities and ITBP
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On-ground travel assistance for smooth arrangements
Why choose Travel Shrine for Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Yatra?
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Government-approved permits and documentation support
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Experienced guides familiar with the border route
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Comfortable transportation and hygienic accommodation
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Fresh vegetarian meals throughout the journey
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Emergency medical support with oxygen facility
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Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
Travel Shrine ensures a safe, comfortable, and spiritually enriching experience for every yatri.