The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, encompassing four holy shrines—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. For those seeking a deeper spiritual experience, combining the Char Dham Yatra with a visit to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat offers a rare opportunity to explore the mystical and divine side of the Himalayas.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, nature lover, or cultural explorer, this combined yatra promises soul-stirring moments and majestic views, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What is Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham circuit, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, holds immense significance in Hinduism. The pilgrimage includes:
- Yamunotri – The source of the River Yamuna, home to Goddess Yamuna.
- Gangotri – The origin of the River Ganga, revered as Goddess Ganga.
- Kedarnath – A sacred Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva nestled in the snow-clad Himalayas.
- Badrinath – The abode of Lord Vishnu, located beside the Alaknanda River.
Pilgrims believe that completing the Char Dham Yatra washes away all sins and leads one to moksha (liberation).
Adi Kailash and Om Parvat: The Hidden Gems of the Himalayas
While the Char Dham is well-known, Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are less explored but deeply spiritual destinations situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Tibet border.
Adi Kailash (Chhota Kailash)
Often called the replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, Adi Kailash is believed to be the original abode of Lord Shiva. At an altitude of 6,191 meters, it is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, glacial streams, and ancient temples.
- Spiritual Significance: Mentioned in ancient scriptures as the “Old Kailash”
- Main Attractions: Parvati Sarovar, Gauri Kund, Shiva Temple
Om Parvat
Just a few kilometers from Adi Kailash lies Om Parvat, a mysterious peak where the natural snow formation clearly displays the sacred “ॐ” (Om) symbol.
- Symbolic Significance: Represents the essence of the universe in Hinduism
- Best Viewpoint: Nabhidhang, on the way to Lipulekh Pass
Why Combine Char Dham Yatra with Adi Kailash and Om Parvat?
Combining these sacred sites offers:
- Spiritual Fulfillment: Connect with both Shiva and Vishnu in one extensive pilgrimage.
- Cultural Richness: Explore ancient temples, Himalayan traditions, and sacred legends.
- Scenic Majesty: Journey through rivers, forests, snow-covered peaks, and serene lakes.
This extended route is perfect for those who want to deepen their spiritual practice while experiencing the untouched beauty of the Indian Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for the Char Dham Yatra with Adi Kailash and Om Parvat is May to October, when the routes are open and the weather is favorable for trekking and travel.
Travel Tips
- Fitness First: Be prepared for high altitudes and long journeys.
- Permits: Visiting Adi Kailash and Om Parvat requires a special Inner Line Permit (ILP).
- Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothes, trekking gear, medicines, and identity proofs.
- Book Early: Due to limited access and permits, early booking is recommended.
How to Plan Your Trip
Many travel operators now offer Char Dham Yatra with Adi Kailash and Om Parvat packages, which include transportation, accommodation, meals, guides, and permits. Choose a reputable agency with experience in high-altitude pilgrimages.
Embarking on the Char Dham Yatra with Adi Kailash and Om Parvat is more than just a pilgrimage—it’s a spiritual awakening wrapped in Himalayan grandeur. This journey will not only cleanse your soul but also leave you in awe of nature’s magnificence and India’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage.
Start your sacred journey today—and discover the divine in every step.
🕉️ Char Dham Yatra with Adi Kailash & Om Parvat – 20-Day Itinerary from Haridwar
🚩 Tour Highlights:
- Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath
- Adi Kailash, Parvati Sarovar, Gauri Kund
- Om Parvat – the natural ॐ wonder
- Scenic Himalayan drives, sacred rivers, and spiritual immersion
🗓️ Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Haridwar Arrival
- Arrival in Haridwar
- Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
- Overnight stay in Haridwar
Day 2: Haridwar – Barkot (220 km / 8 hrs)
- Drive to Barkot via Mussoorie
- En route visit Kempty Falls (optional)
- Overnight stay in Barkot
Day 3: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot (40 km drive + 6 km trek one-way)
- Drive to Janki Chatti
- Trek to Yamunotri Temple (6 km)
- Darshan of Goddess Yamuna
- Return to Barkot for overnight stay
Day 4: Barkot – Uttarkashi (100 km / 5 hrs)
- Drive to Uttarkashi
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Overnight stay in Uttarkashi
Day 5: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi (100 km each way)
- Early drive to Gangotri Temple
- Take a holy dip in the Bhagirathi River
- Return to Uttarkashi for overnight stay
Day 6: Uttarkashi – Guptkashi (230 km / 8–9 hrs)
- Scenic drive along the Mandakini River
- Overnight stay in Guptkashi
Day 7: Guptkashi – Kedarnath (Drive + Trek)
- Drive to Gaurikund
- Trek or helicopter ride to Kedarnath (16 km)
- Darshan at Kedarnath Temple
- Overnight stay in Kedarnath
Day 8: Kedarnath – Guptkashi (Return trek + drive)
- Return to Gaurikund and drive back to Guptkashi
- Overnight stay
Day 9: Guptkashi – Badrinath (190 km / 7 hrs)
- Drive via Joshimath to Badrinath
- Visit Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund
- Overnight stay in Badrinath
Day 10: Badrinath – Joshimath – Pipalkoti (80 km / 3 hrs)
- Morning darshan
- Drive to Pipalkoti
- Overnight stay in Pipalkoti
Day 11: Pipalkoti – Dharchula (300+ km / 10–12 hrs)
- Long scenic drive to Dharchula (Kumaon region)
- Entry formalities for Inner Line Permit (ILP)
- Overnight in Dharchula
Day 12: Dharchula – Gunji (via Tawaghat, approx. 100 km)
- Drive to Gunji, acclimatization begins
- Overnight in homestay/tent accommodation
Day 13: Gunji – Adi Kailash Base – Parvati Sarovar – Gunji
- Drive/trek to Adi Kailash base camp
- Visit Parvati Sarovar, Gauri Kund, and Shiva Temple
- Return to Gunji for overnight stay
Day 14: Gunji – Om Parvat Darshan – Kalapani – Return to Gunji
- Visit Om Parvat viewpoint at Nabhidhang
- Witness the natural Om symbol
- Explore Kalapani (origin of Kali River)
- Return to Gunji for overnight stay
Day 15: Gunji – Dharchula
- Return drive to Dharchula
- Rest and relax
- Overnight stay
Day 16: Dharchula – Almora or Pithoragarh
- Scenic drive through Kumaon valleys
- Overnight stay
Day 17: Almora – Rishikesh (via Ramnagar)
- Return journey towards Garhwal side
- Overnight stay in Rishikesh
Day 18: Rishikesh Sightseeing
- Visit Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, Parmarth Ashram
- Attend evening Ganga Aarti
- Overnight stay
Day 19: Rishikesh – Haridwar (30 km)
- Drive back to Haridwar
- Shopping & spiritual activities
- Final overnight stay
Day 20: Departure from Haridwar
- Yatra ends with blessings
- Drop at Haridwar railway station or onward travel
🚙 Inclusions (for Tour Packages)
- Accommodation in hotels/lodges/tents
- All ground transport (Innova/Tempo Traveller)
- Meals (Breakfast + Dinner)
- Inner Line Permit for Adi Kailash & Om Parvat
- Guides & support staff
- Helicopter (optional) for Kedarnath
🧳 Things to Carry
- Govt. ID proof (for permits)
- Woollens, trekking shoes, rain gear
- Medical kit & altitude medicines
- Personal essentials & snacks
🙏 Important Notes
- Adi Kailash & Om Parvat require permits and limited access—book early
- High-altitude acclimatization is essential
- Weather can be unpredictable—travel with flexibility