Parvati Sarovar: The Sacred Lake near Adi Kailash
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Nestled in the serene and spiritually charged region of the Indian Himalayas, Parvati Sarovar is one of the most sacred and mystical places associated with the Adi Kailash Yatra in Uttarakhand. Located near the base of Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, this high-altitude glacial lake is deeply revered in Hindu mythology. A visit to Parvati Sarovar is more than just a scenic experience — it is a journey into the heart of faith, devotion, and divine connection.
Parvati Sarovar lies at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) above sea level, in the Kumaon region of Pithoragarh district, close to the Indo-China border. It is located near the sacred Adi Kailash peak, which is considered the earthly replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet, the holy abode of Lord Shiva.
The lake is situated near Jyolingkong, the base camp for Adi Kailash Parikrama. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows, Parvati Sarovar mirrors the spiritual aura of the Himalayas. Devotees visit the lake during the Adi Kailash Yatra and perform rituals and prayers here, believing the waters of the lake to be spiritually purifying.
Parvati Sarovar holds a prominent place in Hindu belief. According to legend, Goddess Parvati meditated here to attain Lord Shiva. It is also said that Lord Shiva himself, along with Goddess Parvati and their son Ganesha, resides in this divine region. The lake is often referred to as Manasarovar of Adi Kailash, symbolizing its sacred stature akin to the more famous Mansarovar Lake near Mount Kailash in Tibet. Devotees consider bathing or even touching the water of Parvati Sarovar to be an act of immense spiritual merit, capable of washing away sins and granting inner peace.
A beautiful Shiva temple near the lake adds to the sanctity of the site. Pilgrims often offer water from the Sarovar at the shrine, chanting mantras and seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.
Beyond its religious aura, Parvati Sarovar is a pristine natural marvel. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding Adi Kailash peak and Mount Brammah Parvat, creating a surreal, mirror-like effect that is awe-inspiring. The lake remains frozen for most of the year, but during the summer months (June to September), it transforms into a tranquil water body surrounded by green valleys, wildflowers, and Himalayan silence.
The quietude and remoteness of the place make it a haven for spiritual seekers, photographers, and nature lovers. The journey to Parvati Sarovar itself is adventurous and soul-stirring, with trails that offer breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges and valleys.
Parvati Sarovar is accessible only through a multi-day trek or guided road-trip as part of the Adi Kailash Yatra. The usual route is as follows:
Route Highlights:
Kathgodam/Haldwani – Pithoragarh – Dharchula – Gunji – Nabi – Jyolingkong – Parvati Sarovar
From Gunji/Nabi Village, travelers head towards Jyolingkong, which serves as the base for the final leg of the Adi Kailash Yatra.
From Jyolingkong, a short walk leads to Parvati Sarovar, the sacred lake located at the base of Adi Kailash.
Transport Options:
By Road: Vehicles are used up to Gunji/Nabi with Inner Line Permit (ILP) required from SDM office in Dharchula.
By Trek: Earlier treks to Adi Kailash used to be more extensive; however, with improved roads, most pilgrims now use 4x4 vehicles to reach closer to the lake.
The ideal time to visit Parvati Sarovar is between May and October, when the snow melts and the lake becomes accessible. However, the monsoon months (late July to August) may pose risks due to landslides or weather disruptions. The months of June, September, and early October are generally considered the best for clear views and safe travel.
Permits: Indian citizens require Inner Line Permits (ILP) to enter restricted border areas. Foreign nationals are currently not allowed on this route.
Altitude: Parvati Sarovar is located at high altitude; travelers must be prepared for altitude sickness and acclimatize properly.
Clothing: Warm, layered clothing and rain gear are essential.
Guided Tours: It is highly advisable to join an organized Adi Kailash Yatra group, such as those offered by Nagarjuna Travels, for safety, logistics, and spiritual guidance.
Photography: While photography is permitted, visitors are encouraged to respect the sanctity of the lake.
Parvati Sarovar is not just a lake — it is a portal to divinity, peace, and the raw, unfiltered beauty of nature. For those undertaking the Adi Kailash Yatra, visiting this sacred lake offers a rare and powerful spiritual experience. With the towering Adi Kailash peak in the background and the shimmering waters at your feet, it’s easy to feel connected to something much greater — a divine presence that has drawn sages, seekers, and pilgrims for centuries. If you're seeking a unique blend of pilgrimage, adventure, and Himalayan mysticism, then a journey to Parvati Sarovar should be on your sacred travel bucket list.