How to Reach Lipulekh Pass Kailash Viewpoint, and Om Parvat Nabidhang

Lipulekh Pass, the Kailash Viewpoint, and Om Parvat Nabidhang are spiritually significant destinations along the Adi Kailash route in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. The journey to these sites takes travelers through remote mountainous terrain, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a spiritual experience deeply embedded in Hindu mythology. Here is a detailed guide on how to reach each of these destinations, as well as essential travel tips and preparation requirements.

Overview of Key Destinations to Lipulekh Pass

• Lipulekh Pass: At an altitude of 5,334 meters (17,500 feet), Lipulekh Pass serves as a trade route between India and Tibet and provides a view of Mount Kailash, which is considered sacred by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains.
• Kailash Viewpoint: Located near Lipulekh Pass, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Mount Kailash.
• Om Parvat (Nabidhang): This sacred mountain, standing at an altitude of 6,191 meters (20,308 feet), is known for its natural snow formation resembling the sacred "ॐ" symbol, making it a revered spot for pilgrims.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit these high-altitude pilgrimage sites is during the summer months of May to June and the autumn months of September to October. During these periods, the weather is more stable, the roads are passable, and the skies are clearer, offering better views of Om Parvat and Mount Kailash.

Route Options and Starting Points for Lipulekh pass

The most common starting points for this yatra are Kathgodam, Haldwani, Tanakpur, or Delhi. From these cities, you can proceed to Dharchula, which is the main base for trips to Lipulekh Pass, Om Parvat, and other sacred sites. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Reach Kathgodam or Tanakpur

Kathgodam and Tanakpur are well-connected by train and road:

• By Train: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam (282 km from Dharchula) or Tanakpur (256 km from Dharchula). Both stations connect to Delhi and other major cities in northern India.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (268 km from Dharchula). From here, a road journey will take you to Dharchula.

Step 2: Travel from Kathgodam/Tanakpur to Dharchula

You can travel from Kathgodam or Tanakpur to Dharchula by bus or taxi:

• Distance from Kathgodam to Dharchula: Approximately 282 km (about 9-10 hours by road).
• Distance from Tanakpur to Dharchula: Approximately 256 km (about 8-9 hours by road).

Dharchula is a border town along the Kali River and serves as the main base for acclimatization, permits, and rest before ascending further.

Step 3: Dharchula to Om Parvat (Nabidhang) and Lipulekh Pass

From Dharchula, the journey typically progresses as follows:

1. Dharchula to Nabi Village or Gunji: You will first travel from Dharchula to either Nabi Village or Gunji by a rough but scenic road (distance: approximately 70 km). This segment often requires a 4x4 vehicle.

   • Permits: At Gunji, you’ll need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), issued to Indian nationals for restricted-area travel.
   • Altitude Acclimatization: Spend a night in Gunji to adjust to the high altitude.

2. Gunji to Nabidhang (Om Parvat Viewpoint): Nabidhang, the closest accessible point to Om Parvat, is situated about 15 km from Gunji. From Nabidhang, you can witness the unique “Om” snow formation on Om Parvat. The best viewing times are often in the early morning, as fog can obscure the view later in the day.

3. Nabidhang to Lipulekh Pass and Kailash Viewpoint: From Nabidhang, continue towards Lipulekh Pass (another 7-8 km), which sits right on the India-Tibet border. This route requires good physical fitness as the trail can be challenging and is often affected by weather conditions. The viewpoint offers clear views of Mount Kailash, revered by many as the abode of Lord Shiva.

A journey to Lipulekh Pass, Kailash Viewpoint, and Om Parvat Nabidhang is a unique spiritual adventure that requires planning and preparation. Starting from accessible points like Kathgodam or Tanakpur, the route takes you to Dharchula, where you can proceed to high-altitude areas offering serene landscapes and a glimpse of sacred sites. Whether you choose a guided tour or go independently, this pilgrimage offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas and connect with revered symbols of faith.