Om Parvat, located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred mountain famed for the unique natural snow formation resembling the sacred Hindu symbol “ॐ” (Om) on its peak. The mountain, part of the larger Adi Kailash pilgrimage circuit, offers an incredible spiritual and trekking experience nestled in the Himalayan ranges. Reaching Om Parvat involves a combination of road travel through picturesque mountain landscapes and a short trek to the viewpoint of this mystical peak.
Starting Point: Kathgodam
Kathgodam is the nearest major railway station and the primary gateway for travelers heading to Om Parvat. It is well connected by rail and road to important cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun. Kathgodam lies at an elevation of about 554 meters and serves as the entry point to the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
From here, travelers can arrange road transport or join organized tours for a smooth journey towards the higher Himalayan regions where Om Parvat is located.
Kathgodam to Om Parvat Distance and Route Overview
The total distance from Kathgodam to Om Parvat by road is approximately 520 kilometers. This includes a multi-day journey through several scenic towns and mountainous roads, requiring careful planning and acclimatization due to the steep altitude gain during parts of the route.
The journey can be divided into the following key segments for a clearer understanding:
- Kathgodam to Pithoragarh (Around 190 kilometers)
- Pithoragarh to Dharchula (About 100 kilometers)
- Dharchula to Gunji (Close to 50-60 kilometers)
- Gunji to Nabidhang (Approximately 20-25 kilometers)
- Final trek from Nabidhang to Om Parvat viewpoint (5 to 7 kilometers)
Detailed Travel Guide
Kathgodam to Pithoragarh
The first leg from Kathgodam to Pithoragarh covers roughly 190 kilometers and takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by road. The drive is scenic, passing through vibrant towns like Almora and heritage-rich places such as Jageshwar and Bhimtal.
Pithoragarh, known as “Little Kashmir,” offers a good place for travelers to rest and acclimatize before heading towards higher altitudes. There are several hotels and guesthouses where visitors can spend the night comfortably.
Pithoragarh to Dharchula
From Pithoragarh, the journey continues onward to Dharchula, which lies close to the Indo-Nepal border. This section covers around 100 kilometers and takes about 3 to 4 hours. Dharchula is the gateway town for the Inner Line Permit required to travel in the border zones leading toward Om Parvat.
In Dharchula, travelers should secure all necessary permits and medical checks. Dharchula also provides accommodations and local market amenities.
Dharchula to Gunji
From Dharchula, the road winds through mountain villages and river valleys toward Gunji, a base camp for trekkers heading to Om Parvat and Adi Kailash. This drive covers around 50 to 60 kilometers and can take from 3 to 5 hours, depending on weather and road conditions.
Gunji provides necessary rest before ascending to higher altitudes and some local accommodations and eateries catering to pilgrims.
Gunji to Nabidhang
To get closer to Om Parvat, travelers hire 4×4 vehicles to reach Nabidhang, the highest motorable point before the trek. Nabidhang sits at about 4,300 meters above sea level, and the drive is approximately 20 to 25 kilometers on challenging mountain roads. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nabidhang is a common camping site with tents and basic facilities. Staying overnight here helps with acclimatization before the final trek.
Final Trek: Nabidhang to Om Parvat
The last leg of the journey to Om Parvat is a trek of about 5 to 7 kilometers from Nabidhang to the viewpoint where the sacred snow-formed Om symbol is visible on the mountain face. The trek is moderately easy, taking 2 to 3 hours with ups and downs over rocky terrain.
The experience of reaching the Om Parvat viewpoint is spiritually profound, with stunning panoramic Himalayan views and the rare sight of the “Om” symbol that evokes a sense of divine connection.
Important Travel Tips
- Inner Line Permit: Must be obtained at Dharchula SDM office due to proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Seasonal Timing: Optimal months are May to June and September to October, offering safer weather and stable road conditions.
- Vehicle Choice: Strongly recommended to use 4×4 vehicles for mountain roads from Dharchula to Nabidhang.
- Acclimatization: Take rest and acclimatize appropriately at Pithoragarh, Dharchula, and Gunji to avoid altitude sickness.
- Guides and Group Travel: Hiring local guides or joining organized treks enhances safety, navigation, and cultural insight.
- Packing Essentials: Carry warm clothing, trekking shoes, sun protection, water, and basic medical supplies.
Conclusion
Reaching Om Parvat is a memorable journey combining scenic road travel and a mountain trek through pristine parts of the Himalayas. Beginning at Kathgodam, the route covers approximately 520 kilometers by vehicle to Nabidhang, followed by a 5-to-7-kilometer trek to the viewpoint. The pilgrimage offers spiritual solace and natural beauty, with the iconic Om symbol on the snowy peak serving as the unforgettable highlight.
With proper planning, acclimatization, and respect for local regulations, the trip to Om Parvat provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with one of nature’s most sacred wonders and the rich spiritual heritage of the Himalayas.