Adi Kailash Om Parvat Trek

Note: Pickup from the Bus station of Haldwani, drive to Dhar Chula by tempo travelers and Boleros.

Day 1: Pick up from Kathgodam Haldwani & drive to Dharchula

Pickup: 7:00 am Drive: 230 km (Approx: 7-8 hrs) | Altitude: 3,080 ft

Day 2: Passengers will be sent for a medical report to the government hospital for an inner line permit.

Day 3: Drive From Dharchula to Napalchu / Naavi Gaon

Drive: 80 km (Approx: 02-03 hrs) | Altitude: 12,300 ft

Day 4: Drive From Napalchu / Naavi Gaon to Nabhidhang

Drive: 20-25 km (Approx: 1-2 hrs) | Altitude: 14764 ft

Day 5: Drive From Nabhidhang to Jolingkong

Drive: 20-22 km (Approx: 2:30-3 hrs) | Altitude: 15200 ft

Day 6: Drive From Jolingkong to Dharchula

Drive: 110-120 km (Approx: 8-10 hrs) | Altitude: 3,080 ft

Day 7: Dharchula to Kathgodam, Haldwani

Drive: 230 km (Approx: 7-8 hrs) | Altitude: 1,699 ft

Difficulty level of the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Trek

Not a simple walk, this trek involves high altitude travel, rough terrain, and long journeys. Suitable for fit beginners with preparation, but easier for experienced trekkers.

1. High Altitude Challenge

• The trek reaches elevations of around 4,500–5,000 meters (14,700–16,400 ft).
• Risk of altitude sickness (AMS) is real, so acclimatisation is very important.
• In high-altitude or technical sections, staying together is important for safety and quick assistance if needed.
• At higher altitudes, the body loses water faster through breathing, even if you don’t feel sweaty.

2. Mixed Terrain

• Includes rocky paths, steep climbs, river crossings, and rough mountain roads.
• Some sections are done by vehicle, but walking parts can still be demanding.

3. Weather Conditions

• Weather can change quickly, with cold winds, rain, and even snow in some seasons.
• Temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

4. Minimal Trekking Effort

• Short walks at places like Om Parvat viewpoint and Adi Kailash.
• No technical climbing, rope work, or glacier crossings.
• Suitable even for older travellers if medically fit.

5. Remote Location

• The region lies close to the Indo-Tibet border in Pithoragarh district.
• Limited medical facilities and network connectivity.
• Requires permits and medical fitness clearance.

6. Group Pace Issues

• Not everyone in the group has the same stamina or trekking experience, which naturally creates gaps in pace.
• Some trekkers need frequent rest stops, while others prefer fewer breaks, leading to a mismatched rhythm.
• Slower members may feel rushed or stressed trying to keep up, which can reduce enjoyment and increase fatigue.
• Faster trekkers might feel held back, especially on long trekking days.
• The group may unintentionally split into smaller sub-groups, which can be unsafe in remote areas.
• If the group spreads out too much, communication becomes difficult, especially in areas with no network.

7. Dehydration & Low Energy Issues During Trek

• Cold weather often suppresses thirst, so trekkers may not drink enough water.
• Continuous walking, climbing, and long trekking hours drain energy quickly if hydration isn’t maintained.
• Dehydration directly affects stamina, making you feel tired earlier than usual.
• Dehydration can reduce hunger, which further lowers energy levels.
• Cold winds combined with dehydration can cause cracked lips and dry skin.
• Lack of hydration can affect focus, decision-making, and overall mood.

Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Trek

The ideal time to visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat is May to June and September to October, when the weather is relatively stable, mountain roads are open, and views of the Himalayas are clear. This region is a high-altitude border area, so accessibility is highly dependent on seasonal conditions.

April to June (Summer Season)

• Ideal Weather: Spring and early summer bring relatively stable weather with clear skies, making travel from Dharchula to Gunji and onward routes comfortable and scenic.
• Accessible Routes: Most road sections and high-altitude routes such as Tawaghat, Nabhi, and Jyolingkong become accessible after winter snow clears. This is the most popular time for pilgrimage and sightseeing.
• Scenic Beauty: Valleys along the Kali River, snow-capped peaks, and green patches at lower elevations create a striking contrast with the barren high-altitude terrain near Adi Kailash.
• Convenient Timing: This is the safest window for combined visits to both Adi Kailash viewpoint and Om Parvat viewpoint, as weather conditions are comparatively predictable and stable.

July–August (Monsoon Season)

• Landslides & Roadblocks: Heavy monsoon rains make the Dharchula–Tawaghat–Gunji route vulnerable to frequent landslides, road damage, and temporary closures.
• Dangerous Travel Conditions: Slippery roads, falling rocks, and swollen streams increase travel risks significantly in this border region.
• Restricted Accessibility: Although the region may still be open under supervision, travel plans are often delayed or cancelled due to unpredictable weather.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Limited emergency services and difficult rescue access make travel during this period generally unsafe and not recommended.

September to October (Post-Monsoon Season)

• Clear Views & Best Photography: This is one of the best periods for crystal-clear views of Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
• Stable Accessibility: Roads and trekking routes gradually stabilise after monsoon damage, making travel smoother and more reliable.
• Pleasant Conditions: Cool temperatures, fresh mountain air, and clear skies make long drives and short hikes more enjoyable.
• Ideal Pilgrimage Season: Many travellers prefer this window due to lower crowding compared to peak summer months and improved visibility of sacred sites.

November to March (Winter Season)

• Heavy Snowfall: High-altitude regions near Jyolingkong and Nabhidhang experience heavy snowfall, often blocking routes completely.
• Extreme Cold Conditions: Temperatures drop significantly, often below freezing, making outdoor travel and night stays very difficult.
• Road Closures: The Dharchula–Gunji route and onward paths may become partially or fully inaccessible due to snow and ice.
• Limited Facilities: Most local stays and support services reduce operations, and only essential travel is possible with difficulty and proper permits.

How to Plan Your Travel for the Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Trek

We strongly suggest reaching Kathgodam, Haldwani a day before your official journey begins. For example, if your yatra starts on 22nd September, plan your arrival for 21st September.

This extra day helps you:

• Recover from long travel
• Adjust to mountain conditions
• Complete permits and briefing (if required)

Your journey begins by reaching Uttarakhand, usually via Delhi or nearby cities.

The trek route leads toward the remote Himalayan region of Pithoragarh district, close to the Indo-Tibet border, where you can witness the divine peaks of Adi Kailash and the sacred natural formation of Om Parvat.

By Train

If you prefer trains, travel to:

• Kathgodam Railway Station (most common railhead from Delhi
• Trains are available from New Delhi / Anand Vihar Terminal

By Air

Nearest airport options:

• Pant Nagar Airport (closest workable airport)

From the airport:

• Hire a taxi or take a bus to Kathgodam/Haldwani
• Then continue toward Dharchula

By Road (Most Popular Option)

Road travel is the main and most scenic route for this yatra:

First, reach the ISBT Anand Vihar, and then you have lots of options for buses.

• Overnight buses run from Delhi to Kathgodam / Haldwani
• Travel time: 5–6 hours.
• Both government (UTC) and private Volvo buses are available
• From Kathgodam / Haldwani, your mountain journey truly begins.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Mandatory Documents

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc,)

Passport and Visa important to foreigners

Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker)

Declaration Certificates

Note: – Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Basic Trekking Gears

The Clothes You Should Bring On Satopanth Expedition

Head Gears

Foot Gears

Personal Care Essentials

Carry a Personal Medical Kit

Are you Looking for Trekking Equipment on Rent?

If any trekker requires trekking equipment on rent, Himalayan Hikers offers the best-quality gear available for rental. Many individuals are in need of such equipment, and renting provides a cost-effective solution, allowing them to access high-quality gear at an affordable price without the need for a significant investment for short-term use.

Trek Equipment You can book directly on first day at the Base Camp.
Note:- Please take all medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Himalayan Hikers is a reputable trekking company that places a high priority on safety. Here are some of the safety measures they take to ensure the safety of their clients during the Trek:

Experienced Guides: Himalayan Hikers hires experienced and certified guides who are well-versed in the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. These guides have first-hand knowledge of the routes and are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise.

Proper Gear: The company provides all the necessary gear and equipment to their clients to ensure comfort and safety during the trek.

Hygiene and Sanitation: Himalayan Hikers places great emphasis on hygiene and sanitation during the Trek. They provide clean drinking water, hand sanitizers, and toilet tents to ensure that their clients are healthy and comfortable.

Emergency Services: The company has a well-defined protocol for handling emergency situations. They have a team of trained medical professionals who are available 24/7 and can be quickly mobilized in case of an emergency.

Acclimatization: Himalayan Hikers follows a gradual acclimatization process during treks to ensure that their clients adjust to the high altitude gradually. They also monitor the health of their clients regularly and provide necessary medical attention if required.

Overall, Himalayan Hikers places a great emphasis on safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients during treks.