Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand near the Indo-Tibetan border. Reaching this sacred peak from Delhi requires well-planned travel combining road and trekking routes. This guide outlines the best way to undertake this spiritual journey starting from India’s capital.
Delhi to Adi Kailash Distance
The total distance from Delhi to Adi Kailash is approximately 780 to 850 kilometers, depending on the chosen route. The journey typically takes about 18 to 24 hours by road to reach the base town of Dharchula, followed by trekking to Adi Kailash itself. The long-distance road travel crosses through mountainous terrain, making the trip demanding but scenic.
Step-by-Step Travel Route from Delhi to Adi Kailash
By Road from Delhi to Dharchula
The most common way to start the journey is by road from Delhi to Dharchula, the gateway town for the Adi Kailash Yatra. Dharchula lies in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, near the India-Nepal border.
There are two main options for traveling from Delhi to Dharchula:
- By Private Vehicle or Taxi: Hiring a private cab or driving your own vehicle is a flexible option. The route commonly taken is via Rudrapur, Almora, and Pithoragarh. This allows stops at scenic points and control over the pace of travel.
- By Bus: Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators run buses from Delhi to Pithoragarh, from where local transport can be taken to Dharchula. This is a more economical choice but takes longer due to transfers.
From Dharchula to Gunji
From Dharchula, the journey continues by road or taxi to Gunji village, which is the last motorable point on the Indian side before the trek begins. The distance from Dharchula to Gunji is about 50 kilometers and takes approximately 2-3 hours by jeep or taxi through mountain roads.
Trekking from Gunji to Adi Kailash
The trekking portion commences from Gunji. Pilgrims trek through scenic valleys, crossing rivers and small villages, proceeding towards Adi Kailash. The trek typically takes 5 to 7 days depending on the route and pace. Along the way, pilgrims visit important sites such as Nabhi, Jolingkong, and Parvati Kund before reaching the sacred peak.
Additional Travel Tips
- Start the journey early to accommodate the long travel time and to reach higher altitudes during daylight.
- Consider acclimatization days en route to adjust to altitude changes safely.
- Book transportation and accommodation in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons from May to October.
- Carry sufficient warm clothing and trekking gear, as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes.
Alternative Routes
Some travelers prefer flying from Delhi to Pantnagar Airport (the nearest airport to Dharchula, about 220 km away) and then taking road transport from Pantnagar to Dharchula to save time. However, flight availability and weather conditions can affect this plan.
Summary
Reaching Adi Kailash from Delhi involves a combination of long road travel through Uttarakhand’s rugged terrain followed by an adventurous mountain trek. The total distance of around 800 km includes stops at Dharchula and Gunji before the ascent to the sacred peak. Proper planning, physical preparation, and acclimatization make this spiritual journey safe and fulfilling.