Adi Kailash, a revered peak often called “Chhota Kailash,” holds immense spiritual significance for pilgrims. Situated in the high Himalayas of Uttarakhand, embarking on this sacred journey from Dehradun, the state’s capital, involves a multi-stage expedition primarily by road, requiring careful planning and mandatory permits.
This guide will provide you with all the essential information on distances, travel modes, and key considerations for your profound journey to Adi Kailash.
Overall Journey Distance and Time from Dehradun
The pilgrimage to Adi Kailash is a significant and multi-day undertaking, broken down into distinct stages:
- Dehradun to Dharchula (Gateway Town): Approximately 470-580 kilometers. This is a very long road journey, typically requiring an overnight stop due to its duration.
- Dharchula to Inner Line Base Camp (e.g., Gunji/Nabi): Approximately 70-80 kilometers (by specialized 4×4 vehicle).
- From Base Camp to Adi Kailash Viewpoint (Jolingkong/Parvati Sarovar): Approximately 20-25 kilometers (by 4×4 vehicle, plus a short trek).
Important Note: Inner Line Permit (ILP) is Mandatory
A valid Inner Line Permit (ILP) is absolutely crucial for Indian citizens to travel beyond Dharchula into the restricted border areas where Adi Kailash is located. This permit is typically issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Dharchula. Foreign nationals generally face very strict restrictions or are not permitted.
- Application Process: You will need to submit an application form along with identity proofs (like Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport), passport-sized photographs, and a medical fitness certificate. Many tour operators assist with facilitating this permit.
- Checkpoints: Expect frequent permit checks by the Army and ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) at various points along the route, especially from Dharchula onwards.
- Monsoon Season Impact: It’s important to note that authorities might temporarily stop issuing permits during the monsoon season (July-August) due to the high risk of landslides, prioritizing pilgrim safety. Permits are generally reissued after the monsoon, around mid-September.
How to Reach Adi Kailash from Dehradun
The entire journey is usually completed over several days, often as part of a guided tour, to allow for comfortable travel, permit processing, and high-altitude acclimatization.
Stage 1: Dehradun to Dharchula (The Gateway Town)
Dharchula serves as the crucial entry point where you finalize your permits and transition to the specialized transport required for the Inner Line.
- Journey Time (Dehradun to Dharchula): This long road journey can take 12-16 hours of driving, depending on the specific route taken, road conditions, and traffic. It is highly recommended to plan an overnight stop.
a. By Road (Bus/Taxi)
This is the most common method for covering the initial significant distance from Dehradun.
- By Bus: You can take a state-run bus (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation – UTC) from Dehradun ISBT. While direct buses to Dharchula might be very long and infrequent, you can find buses to major hubs like Pithoragarh (approx. 470 km, 12-14 hours travel time from Dehradun) or Haldwani/Kathgodam. From Pithoragarh (approx. 90 km from Dharchula), you can then find local buses or shared taxis to Dharchula.
- Pros: Most economical way to travel.
- Cons: Very lengthy and tiring, potentially involves multiple transfers, and comfort levels are basic.
- By Private Taxi/Cab: Hiring a private taxi from Dehradun directly to Dharchula offers the highest level of comfort and flexibility. Common routes pass through Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Tanakpur, and Pithoragarh before reaching Dharchula.
- Pros: Most comfortable, convenient, and allows for customized stops. HillZet Taxi guarantees on-time pickups and drop-offs for the airport, and similar reliability can be expected from reputable long-distance taxi services.
- Cons: This is the most expensive option. Expect fares to range from ₹7,800 to ₹12,000 or more for a one-way trip, depending on the vehicle type and operator.
- Tip: For a more comfortable journey, consider breaking the drive. An overnight stay in Pithoragarh or Tanakpur is a popular choice.
b. By Train + Taxi
Combining train travel for the initial leg can make the journey more comfortable.
- Train to Nearest Railheads:
- Tanakpur (TPU): Located approximately 170 km from Dharchula, Tanakpur is the nearest railway station. You might find connecting trains from Dehradun.
- Kathgodam (KGM) / Haldwani (HDW): These are larger railheads, about 270-300 km from Dharchula, with more frequent train services from Dehradun.
- Taxi from Railhead to Dharchula: From any of these railheads, you will need to hire a private taxi or use shared jeeps/local buses to complete the journey to Dharchula.
- Pros: Can be more comfortable than an entire bus journey, especially for the initial long stretch if you opt for AC train coaches.
- Cons: Requires changing modes of transport, which adds to overall travel time and logistical complexity.
c. By Air + Taxi
While it gets you closer faster, this option still involves a significant road segment.
- Flight to Pantnagar (PGH): You can take a flight from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH). Direct flights are often limited; many services may involve a stopover, typically in Delhi, extending the overall flight duration to 4-5 hours or more.
- Taxi from Pantnagar to Dharchula: From Pantnagar Airport, you will need to hire a taxi to Dharchula. This road journey is approximately 300-320 km and takes about 8-10 hours.
- Pros: Significantly reduces the total travel time compared to entirely road or train-road options.
- Cons: This is generally the most expensive travel option. Flight schedules to Pantnagar can be infrequent.
Stage 2: Dharchula to Inner Line Base Camp (Gunji/Nabi)
Once you reach Dharchula and your ILP is secured, you’ll embark on the journey into the restricted Inner Line area.
- Mode of Transport: Only specialized 4×4 vehicles (like Boleros, Innovas, or similar SUVs) with local, experienced drivers are permitted to operate beyond Dharchula. These vehicles are typically arranged through organized tour operators. The roads are mountainous and can be rugged.
- Journey Details:
- Distance: Approximately 70-80 kilometers from Dharchula to common base villages like Gunji or Nabi.
- Time: This segment typically takes about 3-4 hours by 4×4, factoring in challenging road conditions and necessary permit checks. Gunji and Nabi serve as crucial overnight halt points for pilgrims.
Stage 3: Exploring Adi Kailash from Gunji/Nabi (Your Base)
From your base camp in Gunji or Nabi, you will undertake a day excursion to visit the revered Adi Kailash.
From Base Camp (Gunji/Nabi) to Adi Kailash Viewpoint (Jolingkong & Parvati Sarovar)
- Mode of Transport: Predominantly by 4×4 vehicle up to Jolingkong, followed by a short trek.
- Journey Details:
- Distance: Approximately 20-25 kilometers (one way) from Gunji/Nabi to Jolingkong, the motorable point.
- Time: The drive itself takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the challenging mountain road conditions.
- Final Approach: From Jolingkong, there’s typically a gentle trek of about 1-3 kilometers to reach the sacred Parvati Sarovar (Gauri Kund) and the most prominent viewpoint of Adi Kailash mountain and its nearby temple.
Important Travel Tips for Your Journey:
- Organized Tours: Due to the complex permit requirements, need for specialized transport, and limited infrastructure, undertaking the Adi Kailash Yatra with a reputable tour operator is highly recommended. They handle most of the logistics.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal yatra season is typically from May to June and September to October/early November. Travel during the monsoon season (July-August) is generally discouraged due to increased risks of landslides and road closures.
- Physical Fitness: The high altitude and variable terrain (including some short treks) demand a good level of physical fitness. A medical fitness certificate is usually required for the ILP.
- Acclimatization: Plan for proper acclimatization, especially once you cross Dharchula and ascend to higher altitudes.
- Essentials to Carry: Pack warm, layered clothing, rain gear, sturdy trekking shoes, basic personal medicines, toiletries, power banks, a camera, all original ID proofs (for ILP checks), and sufficient cash (ATMs are extremely rare beyond Dharchula).
- Accommodation: In the remote villages beyond Dharchula, accommodation will be basic, typically in guesthouses, homestays, or tents provided by tour operators.
- Communication: Mobile network coverage is very limited or often non-existent in many parts of the Inner Line. Be prepared for periods without connectivity.
- Respect Local Culture: The region is culturally rich and ecologically sensitive. Please be respectful of local customs and the pristine Himalayan environment.
The journey to Adi Kailash from Dehradun is an unparalleled adventure that promises profound spiritual insights and an unforgettable experience amidst the untouched grandeur of the Himalayas.