Kailash Parvat (also known as Adi Kailash or Chhota Kailash) and Om Parvat are two sacred peaks located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. These mountains are revered in Hinduism for their religious significance and spiritual symbolism. Pilgrims often visit both sites as part of the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra. Understanding how to reach these peaks and the distance between them helps in planning a smooth and fulfilling spiritual journey.
Kailash Parvat and Om Parvat Distance
The road distance between Kailash Parvat (Adi Kailash) and Om Parvat is approximately 50 kilometers. Both peaks are located in the same upper Himalayan region near the Indo-Tibetan border in the Pithoragarh district. Road connectivity has improved over the years, allowing pilgrims to travel between these two sacred sites by vehicle, although some trekking is involved for closer access.
How to Reach Kailash Parvat (Adi Kailash)
Starting Point: Dharchula
Dharchula is the main gateway town to Kailash Parvat and Om Parvat. It lies near the India-Nepal border and serves as the base for acquiring Inner Line Permits for the yatra.
Route from Dharchula to Kailash Parvat
From Dharchula, travelers take a mountain road approximately 90 kilometers to reach Gunji, a base camp for the Kailash Parvat trek. From Gunji, one continues by vehicle or trek around 40 kilometers to reach Jolingkong, near Kailash Parvat base. Trekking paths from Jolingkong lead up to the sacred shrine and the peak area.
How to Reach Om Parvat
Route from Dharchula to Om Parvat
To reach Om Parvat, travelers again start from Dharchula and proceed by road about 80 to 90 kilometers to Gunji, passing through picturesque Himalayan villages. From Gunji, a 20 to 25-kilometer drive leads to Nabidhang, the last motorable camp before the Om Parvat viewpoint.
A short trek of 5 to 7 kilometers from Nabidhang provides panoramic views of Om Parvat, famously marked by the natural snow formation of the Om symbol.
Additional Travel Information
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport, roughly 306 kilometers from Dharchula, serves as the closest airport for access.
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam, about 272 kilometers from Dharchula, connects to major cities by rail.
- Permits: Inner Line Permits are mandatory for border and restricted areas and can be obtained at Dharchula.
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October offer favorable weather conditions and road accessibility.
- Transportation: Use high-clearance 4×4 vehicles for rugged roads beyond Dharchula.
Summary
Kailash Parvat and Om Parvat, though distinct peaks, lie relatively close to each other within approximately 50 kilometers by road. Both are accessed primarily through Dharchula in Uttarakhand. Travelers follow mountain roads to reach base camps such as Gunji, from where treks lead to these sacred sites. Proper permits, vehicle arrangements, and acclimatization are essential for a safe and rewarding pilgrimage within the scenic Kumaon Himalayas.