Adi Kailash and OM Parvat: A Spiritual Adventure in the Himalayas

Over View

• Adi Kailash, often referred to as "Chota Kailash" (meaning "smaller Kailash"), is a revered pilgrimage destination located in the beautiful Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. This holy site, associated with Lord Shiva and Parvati, attracts both devout Hindus seeking spiritual blessings and adventure enthusiasts keen to explore its challenging treks and stunning natural scenery.
• This spiritual yatra provides a detailed look at the spiritual importance of Aadi Kailash, highlights its natural wonders and nearby attractions, compares it with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and offers a suggested travel itinerary from Delhi.

The Spiritual Significance of Aadi Kailash

• Aadi Kailash is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is considered a replica of the holy Mount Kailash in Tibet. Key spiritual sites include:
• Aadi Kailash Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is the main focus for pilgrims who come to offer prayers and seek blessings.
• Parvati Sarovar: A serene lake linked to Goddess Parvati, where devotees often perform rituals.
• Gauri Kund: Another holy pond associated with Goddess Parvati, enhancing the spiritual journey of pilgrims.
• Natural Wonders and Nearby Attractions
• The region around Aadi Kailash offers more than just spiritual experiences. It is rich with natural beauty and other attractions:
• Om Parvat: A unique rock formation resembling the sacred symbol "Om" (ॐ), significant for pilgrims.

Neem Karoli Baba Ashram: A peaceful retreat for meditation associated with the saint Neem Karoli Baba.

The connection between Facebook, Apple, and Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is about inspiration and guidance rather than a direct link.

• Steve Jobs and Neem Karoli Baba: In the 1970s, Steve Jobs visited Kainchi Dham, Neem Karoli Baba's ashram. It's believed this influenced Jobs' minimalist design philosophy and business approach.
• Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs: During a challenging period for Facebook, Steve Jobs suggested Zuckerberg visit the same ashram. Zuckerberg did visit, though its impact on Facebook is uncertain.
• Key Takeaway: Steve Jobs' experience at the ashram influenced him, prompting him to recommend it to Zuckerberg during a tough period for Facebook. However, the direct impact of the ashram on Facebook remains unconfirmed.

• Golu Devata Temple: Known for the tradition of tying bells as offerings.
• Jageshwar Temple: An ancient complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing beautiful Indian architecture.
• Brahma Parvat and Pandava Parvat: Majestic peaks linked to Hindu mythology.
• Pandava Fort and Parvati Mukut: Sites of historical and mythological importance.
• Additional sacred sites in the region include the Kali Mandir, Kala Pani, Shesh Nag Parvat, and Ved Vyas Gufa, each enhancing the spiritual journey.

Comparing Aadi Kailash and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Both pilgrimages offer profound spiritual experiences, but there are some differences:

• Accessibility: Aadi Kailash is more accessible than Mount Kailash in Tibet, which requires t ravel permits and entry into another country. The new route via Lipulekh Pass has made Aadi Kailash more accessible for Indian pilgrims.
• Scenery and Spiritual Experience: Aadi Kailash offers similar religious significance and beautiful landscapes without the logistical challenges of traveling to Tibet.
• Cost and Time: Pilgrimage to Aadi Kailash is generally less expensive and less time-consuming, making it a practical alternative.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Aadi Kailash is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is pleasant and the trekking routes are clear. The monsoon season from July to September offers lush green landscapes but may pose trekking challenges. Always check weather updates and pack accordingly.

Day wise Trip Itinerary

Day 1 :

• Delhi to Kathgodam/Haldwani,
• overnight stay : 300 kms, 6 hours travel

Day 2:

• Kathgodam – Pithoragarh (96 KMs/7-8 hrs) 1627m
• Morning:
• Arrive at Kathgodam/Haldwani, freshen up and have breakfast at Bhimtal.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Drive to Pithoragarh with en-route visits (Bhimtal, Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, Golu Devata Temple, Jageshwar Temple), lunch en-route, reach Pithoragarh, dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 3:

• Pithoragarh – Dharchula (93 KMs/3 hrs) 940m
• Morning:
• Breakfast and drive to Dharchula.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Complete paperwork for Inner Line Permit and Medical, leisure time and exploring Dharchula and Nepal, dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 4:

• Dharchula – Gunji (71 KMs/2.5 hrs) 200m
• Morning:
• Breakfast and drive to Gunji.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Visit Chialekh, Garbyang, and Nepalchu villages en-route, lunch en-route, reach Gunji/Napalchu, dinner and overnight stay at Homestay.

Day 5:

Gunji – Adi Kailash – Gunji (68 KMs) 497m

Morning:

• Early start to Adi Kailash, visit Jolingkong and Adi Kailash Temple, perform Pooja.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Lunch, drive back to Gunji, see Brahma Parvat, Pandava Parvat, Pandava Fort, Parvati Mukut, dinner and overnight stay at Homestay.

Day 6:

Gunji – OM Parvat – Gunji/Nabhi (22 KMs) 4246m

Morning:

Breakfast and drive to Om Parvat.

Daytime/Evening:

Meditate near Om Parvat, see Kali Mandir, Kala Pani, Shesh Nag Parvat, Ved Vyas Gufa en-route, return to Gunji/Nabhi, dinner and overnight stay at Homestay.

Day 7: Gunji/Nabhi – Dharchula – Didihat (158 KMs) 3200m

• Morning:
• Breakfast and drive to Dharchula.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Lunch en-route, continue to Didihat/Chaukori, reach Didihat/Chaukori, dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 8: Didihat – Bhimtal (189 KMs/6.5 hrs)

• Morning:
• Breakfast and proceed to Bhimtal.
• Daytime/Evening:
• Visit Patal Bhuvaneshwar en-route, lunch en-route, reach Bhimtal, dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 9: Bhimtal – Delhi

• Morning:
• Breakfast.
• Daytime:
• Drive to Delhi airport for drop-off.

Package Inclusions

Transportation:

• Yatra transportation by 4-wheeler (Bolero) from Dharchula. 4-5 persons/ per Jeep
• Luxury Tempo Traveller for Delhi-Dharchula-Delhi travel.

Permits:

Inner Line Permit for the Yatra.

Accommodation:

• 7 nights in rest houses/hotels.
• 1 night in a homestay.

Meals:

Pure vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

Guide : Professional guide facilities

Tour : Route Map : Adi Kailash & Om Parvet Yatra (India)