Kinnar Kailash Yatra – A Sacred Himalayan Trek to the Shiva Lingam
Where the Himalayas Touch the Sky and Lord Shiva’s Presence is Felt — That’s Kinner Kailash
The Kinnar Kailash Yatra is not just a trek; it is a spiritual journey — a pilgrimage that connects body, mind, and soul. Situated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, this sacred journey is undertaken to seek the divine darshan of Lord Shiva in his Lingam form. Located at an altitude of approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level, the massive Shivling of Kinnar Kailash attracts thousands of devotees and trekkers every year.
The Legend of Kinnar Kailash
A powerful legend adds spiritual significance to the Kinnar Kailash mountain. According to ancient scriptures, when demonic forces became dominant on Earth, Lord Shiva chose the Kinnar Kailash peak as his place of meditation. It is believed that both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati meditated here for years.
There is also a tale of a demon who tried to conquer the Kinnaur region. In response, Lord Shiva is said to have spun his trident from the summit, causing a thunderous lightning strike that turned the demon into ashes. Since then, the people of Kinnaur have worshipped this mountain as the “Living Shiva.”
The Shivling, which is nearly 80 feet high, stands tall as a massive rock. What makes it even more divine is that its shape and color are said to change with the weather — a phenomenon that devotees consider as a sign from the divine. It is said that those who complete this journey with devotion, discipline, and faith are spiritually transformed for life.
More Than a Climb — A Journey Within
Kinnar Kailash Yatra is not just a mountain ascent; it’s a test of your physical, mental, and spiritual strength. At every step, you feel the raw power and peaceful beauty of nature. The strong winds, endless silence, and the occasional chant of “Har Har Mahadev” echoing through the valleys create an environment charged with divine energy.
Trek Highlights
Trek Level: Difficult (Advanced level)
Total Distance: Approx. 24–28 km
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Permits Required: Mandatory for Indian citizens (with valid ID). Foreigners need special permission.
Essential Items
Woolen clothes, trekking shoes, waterproof jacket
Water bottle, glucose, dry snacks
Torch, sunscreen, sunglasses
Essential medicines, camera
How to Do This Trek?
If you have prior high-altitude trekking experience, you can attempt this journey independently. Otherwise, do not try it solo. For a safer and well-organized experience, you can book a guided package by contacting +91-8923-888-618 via WhatsApp or phone.
Day 1: Delhi / Chandigarh to Tangling Village
An early morning start leads to the remote village of Tangling in Kinnaur — a 12–15 hour scenic drive alongside the Sutlej River and the breathtaking Himalayan terrain.
Stay: Homestay
Day 2: Tangling Village to Base Camp
The trek begins! A 6–7 hour steep climb leads to the base camp, nestled amidst deodar and birch trees. The silence and serenity of this place make it a perfect spiritual retreat.
Altitude: Around 3,600 meters / 11,811 feet
Stay: Campsite
Day 3: Base Camp to Shivling and Back
This is the toughest and most rewarding day of the trek. Trekking through rocky and snowy paths, when you finally reach the Shivling — it’s a moment that stays with you forever.
Shivling Altitude: Around 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet
After darshan, descend back to base camp.
Day 4: Base Camp to Tangling Village
The descent is easier, but you still need to be careful. It’s a day to relax, reflect, and absorb the experience.
Stay: Homestay in Tangling
Day 5: Return to Delhi / Chandigarh
Start early in the morning and begin your journey back home.
My Experience
Kinnar Kailash Yatra was truly unforgettable. The thrill of reaching Tangling itself was exciting. By evening, we settled in a homestay and enjoyed the cool breeze and the valley views. What stood out the most were the apple orchards, which start from the village and accompany you for a good half of the trail toward the base camp.
The next morning, the trek started through apple-covered forests and gradually opened up to higher valleys. Fortunately, we got one of the best campsites, with spectacular views — open meadows below, the vast Himalayan range above, and right in the middle sat Baba Kailash.
The exhaustion of reaching the base camp disappeared the moment we saw the views. Though the plan was to begin our summit push at 2–3 AM, the weather forecast forced a delay. We eventually started the climb around 12–1 PM, trusting the weather.
Just a short distance into the final climb, we encountered a glacier, followed by Ganesh Cave, where a few army and forest personnel manage the area. After a short rest, we tackled huge boulders, steep rocky terrain, and even sections that required ropes for support.
Many people give up before or halfway through this final stretch. Only those truly blessed by Baba and determined in spirit make it to the top. And when you finally see the Shivling, the joy and energy you feel are beyond words.
Due to the late start, night had already set in by the time we returned to base camp. It was midnight when we arrived — descending took time and extra caution.
In Summary
This was one of the most thrilling and memorable experiences of my life. From the apple orchards and high-altitude valleys to the divine darshan of Baba Kailash — and the incredible bike journey from Dehradun to Tangling — everything has left a deep mark on my memory.
If you’re planning to do this sacred trek and want a safe, well-managed experience, you can contact us via WhatsApp or call at +91-8923-888-618.
