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Kinner Kailash Yatra 2023 registration/ dates announced
The Kinnaur authorities have released the date for Kinnair Kailash Yatra 2023. This year the yatra will begin on 1st of August and will end on 30th of August. Kinnaur administration will provide only 200 passes per day either online or offline. To apply for the official yatra online click here. A medical fitness ceretificate has been made mandatory, withour which no one will be allowed to climb to Kinner Kailash.
Let’s know more about Kinner Kailash
Kinnaur Kailash, also known as “Kinner Kailash” holds a special place among devotees and trekkers in India. Situated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, this majestic mountain is revered as a holy site. The peak of Kinnaur Kailash stands tall at an impressive height of 6050 meters and is held sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist communities in the region. At an altitude of approximately 4800 meters, a monolithic pillar in the form of a Shivling (the symbolic representation of Lord Shiva) is prominently located. Kinnaur Kailash is one of the five Kailash mountains found on Earth. This Yatra is renowned as one of the most challenging pilgrimages in India.
History of Mount Kinner Kailash
Kinner Kailash is believed to be the divine abode where Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati reside. This mountain derives its name from the Kinner tribe, who are the native inhabitants of the Kinnaur region. Term “Kinner” holds mythical significance and finds mention in various ancient texts such as the Shiv Purana, Vishnu Purana, Matsya Purana and Ramayan.
These scriptures depict the Kinners as a special clan of demi-gods who hold a unique position between mortals and gods. Poet Kalidasa in his Sanskrit masterpiece, Meghdoot, portrays the Kinners as beautiful beings with enchanting voices who sing and dance in the royal court of Lord Kuber, the god of wealth.
The legends and literary works surrounding the Kinners and Kinner Kailash add to the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region, making it a captivating destination for devotees, scholars, and enthusiasts alike.
Significance of Kinner Kailash
Kinner Kailash holds immense religious significance for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees, who consider it a highly sacred mountain. Every year, during the auspicious month of Savan, people undertake a pilgrimage to worship Lord Shiva at this divine site. One of the notable features of Kinner Kailash is the presence of a natural Shivling, standing at an impressive height of 75 feet. This remarkable rock formation is astonishingly balanced on a stone slab and resembles a trident, symbolizing Lord Shiva.
What makes the Shivling even more fascinating is its ability to change color as the day progresses. This natural phenomenon adds to the mystique and reverence associated with the holy site. Along the path leading to the Shivling, pilgrims encounter the Parvati Kund, situated at an elevation of approximately 15,000 feet. It is believed that Goddess Parvati herself created this sacred water body. Devotees offer coins into the Kund, hoping for their wishes to be fulfilled.
For those seeking a more extensive spiritual experience, undertaking the parikrama of this holy mountain is an option. Parikrama involves a challenging trek spanning approximately 6 to 7 days, allowing pilgrims to complete a sacred circumambulation of the Kinner Kailash. This arduous journey further deepens the spiritual connection and devotion of the pilgrims.
How to reach Kinner Kailash
To reach Kinner Kailash one need to reach Reckong Peo which is district headquarter of Kinnaur District. From there on there are two main routes to reach Kinnaur Kailash, one via Pawari village and the other via Tangling village. During our journey, we opted for the route through Pawari village. This particular path offered the advantage of walking approximately two kilometers without much elevation compared to the route through Tangling village, where the ascent begins right from the start. Eventually, both paths converge at a common point along the way.
Route One
ReckongPeo – Pawari Village – Ganesh Park – Gufa – Parvati Kund – Kinner Kailash
Route Two
ReckongPeo – Tangling Village – Ganesh Park – Gufa – Parvati Kund – Kinner Kailash
How to reach Reckong peo
You can reach Peo on bus or Taxi from Shimla and Mandi. Distance from Shimla is 240 Kms and distance from mandi is 265 kms.
Shimla – Theog – Narkanda – Rampur – Jhakri -Tapri – Reckong Peo
Mandi – Sundernagar – Rohanda – Karsog – Sainj – Rampur – Jhakri -Tapri – Reckong Peo
Nearest Airport and Railway Station
The nearest airport providing air connectivity to Kinner Kailash is located in Chandigarh. For those traveling by train, Kalka railway station serves as the nearest rail station. Alternatively, one can also opt for a scenic journey by boarding the toy train from Kalka to Shimla, which typically takes around six hours to reach Shimla.
How to register for Kinner Kailash Yatra :
Registration for the Kinner Kailash yatra can be done either online or offline. To register online, visit the official website www.hpkinnaur.nic.in, where you will find all the essential information about the trek. The website provides details about the trek approximately one month before the scheduled time of the yatra. Official yatra opens for a limited number of days, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Due to high demand, slots for the Kinner Kailash trek may get booked quickly online. In such cases, individuals are required to visit the DC office in person. Each day, a total of 75 permits are issued, with 50 permits available for online registration and the remaining permits for offline registration.
Budget for Kinner Kailash Yatra
In the areas of Reckong Peo, Pawari village, and Tangling, there are several budget hotels and homestays available for accommodation. For instance, Giri Homestay in Pawari village offered us a twin-sharing room at a rate of 1000 Rs. If you plan to stay at Ganesh Park, where tents are provided, the cost is typically around 600-800 Rs per person, inclusive of meals. Porter services are also available for approximately 1000 Rs per day.
Generally, the trek involves a two-night stay at Ganesh Park, and for the third night, options are available in Pawari, Tangling, or Peo. Considering a three-day trek, the estimated cost would be around 4-5k Rs per person. However, the total cost can vary based on individual preferences. For example, if you choose to hire a single porter for a day until Ganesh Park, the cost will be lower. On the other hand, if you hire a porter cum guide for the entire trek, the cost will increase accordingly.
Difficulty of Kinner Kailash Yatra
The Kinner Kailash Yatra is renowned as one of the most challenging pilgrimages dedicated to Lord Shiva. This trek undoubtedly puts your stamina and mental fortitude to the test. Spanning a distance of 17 kilometers one way, the trek is predominantly steep, demanding a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and strong determination.
To embark on this arduous journey, it is crucial to start preparing at least one month in advance. Building up your stamina, improving your fitness levels, and cultivating the willpower necessary for such a challenging trek are essential. It is important to note that due to the high altitude and low oxygen levels in the region, individuals with asthma or heart-related conditions are advised against undertaking this trek for their own safety.
No. of days required for Kinner Kailash Yatra
For those who are not locals of Kinnaur and experienced trekkers, the minimum duration required to complete the Kinner Kailash trek is typically three days.
Day 1
Pawari to Ganesh park
Tangling to Ganesh park
Day 2
Ganesh park – Parvati Kund – Kailash- Ganesh Park
Day 3
Ganesh Park – Pawari
Ganesh Park – Tangling
Essential Things to carry
Registration certificate
Photo Id Proof
Warm clothes
Gloves
Sunscreen
Hats
Water Bottle
Sunglasses
Rain Covers
Jacket
Woolen Cap
Toilet Papers
Hand Sanitizers
Trekking Shoes
Medical Kit First Aid/paracetamol etc.
Torch lights
Trekking stick
Extra pair of socks
Important points to remember
When embarking on the Kinner Kailash trek, it is important to keep your load minimal and carry only essential items. Focus on necessities such as a raincoat, water bottle, and a few energy-boosting items like chocolates and glucose. However, beyond Ganesh Park, these items are sufficient.
It is crucial to start early from Ganesh Park to Kailash to ensure a timely return. The sooner you commence your journey, the earlier you will reach back to Ganesh Park. Aim to reach the Kailash summit before 12 noon, as weather conditions tend to worsen thereafter.
Maintain a safe distance while walking uphill and avoid following anyone too closely, particularly from Parvati Kund to the Kailash summit. This will ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.
My Kinner Kailash Yatra 2022
Having shared all the essential information for the yatra, let me now share my personal experience of this incredible journey. The desire to undertake the Kinner Kailash yatra was ignited within me back in 2009 when I embarked on the yatra to Shrikhand Mahadev. Until then, I was unaware of this challenging pilgrimage. During the Shrikhand yatra, fellow yatris enlightened me about the existence of an even more demanding yatra known as Kinner Kailash. From that day onward, I nurtured the aspiration to undertake this yatra myself someday.
Little did I know that this “someday” would arrive in my life 11 years later. In July 2022, my cousin invited me to join him on the Kinner Kailash yatra, and I immediately agreed. However, there were uncertainties surrounding the yatra as it had not taken place for the past few years due to the COVID-19 outbreak. To gather the latest information, we reached out to our friends in Kinnaur, who informed us that the registration for the yatra would soon open. This news brought a sense of relief and excitement.
As the days passed, we anxiously awaited the opening of registration slots on the official website. Unfortunately, by the time we checked, all the slots were already booked. Left with no alternative, we made the decision to visit the DC office in person. Two days later, we set off for Reckong Peo, obtained our permits, and checked into Giri Home Stay in Pawari village.
Situated amidst serene apple orchards, Giri Home Stay provided us with a breathtaking view of Reckong Peo. We requested the homestay owner to arrange a guide-cum-porter for our journey, and he promptly connected us with an experienced individual who would accompany us the following day.
With anticipation and excitement filling our hearts, we spent the night at Giri Home Stay, contemplating the challenges and adventures that awaited us on the trek ahead.
Day 1 Pawari to Ganesh Park
We began our day by waking up early and refreshing ourselves with showers. Our porter arrived at 8 a.m., and we packed our bags, ensuring we had the food prepared by our hospitable homestay owner for our journey. Chanting “Har Har Mahadev,” we commenced our expedition. Weather was clear, and after walking for about 30 minutes, we reached a spot where a small stream flowed.
Our guide, Prakash dai, informed us that this water originated directly from Kinner Kailash. Quenching our thirst, we proceeded along a straight path that followed the stream until we reached a breathtaking waterfall. The path leading to the waterfall was perilous, demanding cautious steps. We took a moment to rest near the waterfall, capturing memorable photographs.
From there onward, the path became a steep incline. We continued our ascent slowly, reciting the name of Lord Shiva. Along the way, we were mesmerized by the awe-inspiring views that unfolded before us. After approximately two hours of walking, we reached a point where the path from Tangling village merged with ours, and the number of fellow yatris increased as many were coming from the Tangling side.
The mountains echoed with the reverberating chants of “Bam Bam Bhole.” Another two hours of walking brought us to a spot where we took our lunch, realizing that our water supply had depleted. Prakash dai assured us that we were close to a water tank arranged for yatris. However, upon reaching the tank, we discovered it was empty, leaving us with no choice but to continue our journey.
After another hour of walking, we finally stumbled upon a tank with water. Thirsty and relieved, we filled our bottles and quenched our thirst. We took a well-deserved rest for approximately 30 minutes at this spot. As the day progressed and we ascended higher, the panoramic views became even more spectacular.
Walking for another four hours, we finally arrived at Ganesh Park. Exhausted and famished, we promptly ordered some delicious paranthas to replenish our energy. With satisfied appetites, we explored the surroundings of Ganesh Park, which presented an enchanting sight. This open meadow was adorned with colorful tents, each offering a unique charm. Prakash dai directed us to our designated tent, where we took some much-needed rest.
Later, we were heard the sounds of “Bam Bam Bhole” coming from outside. Stepping out, we were awe-struck by the view that greeted us. The sky, previously adorned with clouds, had cleared up, granting us our first glimpse of Kinner Kailash. Our hearts filled with joy as we witnessed our destination shining in the evening sun. The nearby peaks and ranges also became distinctly visible.
We savored the captivating vistas and engaged in conversations with fellow yatris, eagerly seeking their accounts of the yatra, experiences, and challenges. As the sun began to set, the nearby peaks were adorned with the hues of a mesmerizing sunset. We enjoyed our evening meal before retiring to sleep by 9 p.m., as we had an early start scheduled for the following morning.
Day 2 Ganesh Park – Kinner Kailash – Ganesh Park
The real challenge of the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra begins on day 2. We woke up at 4 am, packed our essential items, and embarked on our journey towards Kailash in the darkness of the night. Some trekkers had started their journey at midnight. The trek from Ganesh Park to Kailash top is extremely demanding, with a treacherous and dangerous path. The danger escalates as half of the journey is covered during the night. Crossing the glacial water stream in the dark poses a significant challenge.
The oxygen level drops drastically, causing breathlessness and headaches. It’s important to stay hydrated by sipping water regularly in such conditions. Around 8 am, we reached a place called Gufa, which some trekkers use as an overnight stay option on day 1. It took us another three hours to reach Parvati Kund.
The path from Gufa to Parvati Kund is arduous, comprising of large boulders. This stretch is perilous, with frequent fog that can easily lead to getting lost. We followed our fellow yatris and persevered. Upon reaching Parvati Kund, I felt a surge of new energy and satisfaction. I prayed there, rested for 30 minutes, and had my breakfast. Afterward, I embarked on the final leg of the trek, which proved to be the ultimate challenge, testing my willpower to the extreme.
The path from here to the top is a steep incline, often damaged by melting glaciers each year. This section is characterized by steep climbs, rocky terrain, and strong winds. There are narrow openings between the stones that we had to navigate. Each step felt like a monumental task. Many fellow yatris gave up along this path, and I, too, contemplated quitting at a few points.
However, I persevered, chanting the name of Lord Shiva. After an hour, I finally reached the top of Kinnaur Kailash, and the sight before my eyes was beyond belief. The view I had been dreaming of for the past few days was right in front of me. A tear rolled down my cheek as I experienced an overwhelming connection with nature. The fatigue instantly vanished. I bowed down to Lord Shiva, offered my prayers, and thanked Him for ensuring my safe journey. Gratitude filled my heart.
The winds were gusting at a rapid pace, and the peak was enveloped in thick fog. My beloved Mahadev stood before me, and I couldn’t stop staring at Him. Honestly, I felt as though Lord Shiva had guided me, holding my hand throughout, or else I would have given up early on. I spent around 15 minutes at the top, making my final offerings, and then began my descent back to Parvati Kund. Within 45 minutes, I was back at Parvati Kund once again.
Slowly, we retraced our steps towards Ganesh Park. The path that was concealed in the darkness of the night was now visible to us. We reveled in the breathtaking views and marveled at the beauty of nature. By 7 pm, we returned to Ganesh Park, exhausted. After a satisfying meal, we promptly fell asleep, our minds filled with countless memories of the remarkable trek we had accomplished.
Day 3 Ganesh park to Pawari
Day three was filled with anticipation and a sense of accomplishment as we embarked on the challenging trek. With the blessings of Lord Shiva, we successfully completed the journey, forging a stronger connection with both God and nature. A profound joy filled our hearts as we began our descent towards Pawari village at 9 o’clock in the morning. The weather was delightful, with the sun shining brightly and illuminating the entire region’s beauty.
During our return journey, we encountered fellow pilgrims who were still making their way up. We shared our experiences with them, offering words of encouragement and motivation to keep them going. Along the way, we made several stops to capture the breathtaking views that were obscured by fog during our ascent. It was a pleasant and refreshing experience to relish the picturesque scenery.
After five hours of walking, we finally arrived at Pawari. We expressed our gratitude to the owner of our homestay for providing excellent accommodations at Ganesh Park. The night was spent in great merriment and contentment. The following morning, we bid farewell to our temporary abode and made our way back to our respective homes, carrying memories of this extraordinary journey in our hearts.
Prior to undertaking this trek, I had heard numerous daunting tales, creating a sense of apprehension within me. The reputation of this challenging yatra preceded it, and despite mentally preparing ourselves for the difficulties ahead, there lingered a lingering doubt about our abilities. We found ourselves questioning whether we were truly capable of accomplishing such a feat. However, as we commenced our journey, it became evident that Lord Shiva was with us every step of the way.
They say that you don’t conquer the mountain, but rather, the mountain allows you to climb it. This sentiment resonated deeply with us throughout our expedition. It felt as though Lord Shiva himself had extended a personal invitation for us to embark upon this yatra. The realization struck that one cannot undertake this pilgrimage without his divine will. My faith in Lord Shiva grew immensely during this transformative experience.
May the benevolent Lord Bhoe Nath forever bless the universe with his divine presence and guidance.
FAQ’s
How much does Kinner Kailash Yatra cost?
Kinner Kailash yatra cost depends upon personal choices and no. of days taken by an Individual. If one completes the yatra in 3 days the cost would be around 5K-10K per person. This cost is for 4 nights and 3 days. Two nights you spend in Ganesh Park and two nights in either Pawari, Tangling or Reckong Peo. The cost can increase or decrease based on individual preference.
How many days is the Kinner Kailash trek?
If you really want to do Kinner Kailash yatra with ease and fun you need at least three days to complete it. Day 1 : Pawari/Tangling – Ganesh Park, Day 2 : Ganesh Park – Kailash – Ganesh Park, Day 3 : Ganesh Park – Pawari/Tangling
Height of Kinner Kailash ?
Kinnaur Kailash peak has a height of 6050 meters.
How to reach Kinner Kailash from Delhi ?
Take a bus/taxi from delhi to Shimla. From Shimla take a bus/taxi to Reckong Peo.
Kinner Kialash Yatra 2023 registration ?
Registration for Kinner Kailash yatra 2023 can be done online at www.hpkinnaur.nic.in Offline registration can be done at DC office in ReckongPeo. Registration opens one month prior to the scheduled yatra date.
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