Witness the sacred OM symbol naturally formed on snow-clad Om Parvat (6,191m) and receive the blessings of Adi Kailash — the less-visited Shiva shrine of Kumaon.
?ॐ नमः शिवाय — ? ??????? ???????? ???? ???? ?????? ?
आदिकैलासे शिव स्वयं विराजते । — Kumaon Mahatmya — on the divine Om Parvat
Adi Kailash (5,945m) and Om Parvat (6,191m) are two of the most spiritually powerful and visually spectacular sites in the Kumaon Himalayas. Located near the Lipulekh Pass on the India-Tibet border, Adi Kailash is believed to be where Lord Shiva once rested — a lesser-visited but equally sacred alternative to Kailash in Tibet.
Om Parvat is famous for a breathtaking natural phenomenon — the OM symbol (ॐ) formed by snow on the mountain face, visible to the naked eye. Sighting this is considered extraordinarily auspicious and is a deeply moving spiritual experience.
Begin the journey to Kumaon
Overnight train or drive from Delhi/Haridwar to Kathgodam — the railhead for Kumaon. An early start for this beautiful Himalayan region known as the "Land of Goddesses".
Along the Kali river
Drive through stunning Kumaon scenery — through Almora, Pithoragarh, and along the sacred Kali river to Dharchula. This remote border town is the gateway to the Adi Kailash route. Overnight stay.
Deep into the sacred valley
Drive or trek through the Darma valley to the ancient village of Budi. Pass through pristine forests, hanging bridges, and dramatic river gorges. This is Kumaon at its most raw and divine.
The high-altitude sacred bowl
Trek through alpine meadows and moraines to Jolingkong (4,750m) — the sacred base from which Adi Kailash is visible in all its glory. Parikrama (circumambulation) of Adi Kailash on Day 5. Parvati Sarovar (sacred lake) rituals.
The cosmic symbol on the mountain
Carefully positioned viewpoint near Nabhidhang (3,600m) — from where the sacred OM symbol on Om Parvat (6,191m) is visible. The sight of this cosmic symbol formed by glacial snow on the high Himalayan face is one of the most spiritually overwhelming sights a devotee can witness. Meditation and prayers.
Descending with divine grace
Gradual descent back through the beautiful valley. Overnight stays at village homestays — experience the warm hospitality of Kumaon's indigenous communities. Visit the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave temple — a sacred underground Shiva shrine of immense antiquity.
Home with OM in your heart
Drive through Pithoragarh and Almora back to Kathgodam. Train or vehicle to Delhi/Haridwar. You return carrying the cosmic symbol of OM — and a heart forever changed by the sacred Himalayas.
A truly unique pilgrimage — lesser crowds, deeper blessings.