Kinner Kailash Trek | High-Altitude Sacred Trek in Himachal Pradesh

Journeys are innumerable in the mighty Himalayas, and there is no doubt that Kinner Kailash Trek stands out as a truly unique experience. This challenging and rewarding circuit around Mount Kinner Kailash, situated in Himachal Pradesh, enables trekkers to have a thrilling adventure at 16,000 ft, which many people believe to be lord shiva’s abode. Such a magnificent place attracts people who want to see picturesque views and diverse cultures and have a deep connection with the spiritual heart of the Kinnaur region. We will go in-depth about why you should embark on the Kinner Kailash Trek, the ideal period to make this divine journey, how to get to the trailhead, and all you need to know to get the most out of this transformative experience.

Why Choose the Kinner Kailash Trek

Here’s why you must take on the Kinner Kailash Trek as part of your lifetime adventure spirit tour experience.

1. Spectacular Scenery: See a tapestry of landscapes ranging from lush green valleys and mountain meadows to pristine glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic rock faces. The Kinnaur region’s varying beauty will take your breath away, with ever-changing vistas captivating trekkers at every turn and leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and minds.
2. Spiritual Significance: Immerse yourself in the aura of the spiritual place. Hindus and Buddhists worldwide consider Kinner Kailash extremely religious, as it is the abode of Lord Shiva, making it a highly respected place of worship. Climbing up the sacred peak gives you a fantastic spiritual feeling and an opportunity to see traditional practices that are as old as time.
3. Mythology: In Hindu Mythology, it is an essential location in the Indian Himalayas because it is associated with Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. Near the Kinnar Kailash Peak is a natural lake known as Parvati Kund. Legend has it that Parvati, the wife of Shiva, made the lake. She spent a long time praying at this spot. It is also where Lord Shiva used to meet with his consort, Parvati, also known as Mata Parvati. Hence, it was given the name Ganesh Park or even Kailash Darshan Park, earlier called Ashiqui Park.
4. Cultural Encounter: Hike past beautiful villages and dozens of ancient monasteries and see the rich cultural traditions around Mt. Kinner Kailash. Experience the friendly and warm people of the Kinnaur Valley and learn about their distinct customs, beliefs, rich cultural heritage, and traditional way of life.
5. Off-Beat Trek Experience: Avoid the crowds by exploring a little-known gem of the Himalayas. There is a sense of remoteness and tranquillity that remains beyond possibility when journeying through Kinner Kailash Trek. The pilgrimage trek in Kinner Kailash is both an enjoyable sporty activity and a spiritual journey at the same time. It provides nature and hiking lovers a chance to explore new places full of fresh air, unusual flora and fauna, and mountain detours amid harsh landscapes.

Best Time to Trek Kinner Kailash

The best time to do the Kinner Kailash Trek is:

• Mid-May to Mid-June: In the case of spring, it may seem like the weather would be pleasant with so many birds chirping happily, and yet some areas would still be covered in snow. Just be ready for sudden changes in the weather.
• Mid-September to Mid-October: Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and stunning views are some of the things that make the fall season unique. Nonetheless, higher altitudes can be icy during night times.

Detailed Itinerary of Kinner Kailash Trek

Day 1: Tangling to Ashique Park by Trek

• Distance – By Trek (8-9 km)
• Time Taken – By Trek (approx. 7 hrs)
• Trek Grade – Moderate

The Kinner Kailash trek begins in Tangling village, located on the left bank of the Sutlej River at an altitude of 7050 ft. The town has around 100 homes and a beautiful temple dedicated to the local deity Nag Devta. The trek follows a metalled pathway to a small stream, which provides fresh water from the Kinner Kailash Mountain range. The next day, we crossed the same stream and rested to admire the mountains, valley, and Sutlej River. We reached Ashiqui Park,  the next destination after a 6-7 km vertical climb. There are two famous halts on the way to Ashiqui Park: Bara Pathar (Big Stone or Rock) and Bara ped (Big Tree). After crossing the Bugyals, we reached Ashiqui Park, where we feasted on jungle strawberries and enjoyed a 270° view of the Himalayas and surrounding towns. The night view was fascinating, with the Kailash peak visible in the moonlight.

Day 2: Ashique Park to Kinner Kailash

• Distance – By Trek (8-10 km)
• Time Taken – By Trek (approx. 9 hrs)
• Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

The trek to Kinner Kailash peak from Ashiqui Park involves two necessary halts: Bheem Dwar and Parvati Kund. The distance between the two is 8-10 km and takes 7-9 hours, depending on the pilgrim’s or trekker’s fitness level. Bheem Dwar is a small cave under big stones suitable for camping and water storage. Parvati Kund, a glacial lake at the base of the peak, is the next halt. The trek from Bheem Dwar to Parvati Kund is a steep climb of 2.5-3 hours, with a vertical cliff of 1.5 km and covered with rocks, boulders, and snow. The last part of the trek, from Parvati Kund to Kinner Kailash peak, is a vertical climb of 2.5 km and takes 3-4 hours. Stone pillars mark the route from Parvati Kund to Kinner Kailash, and the sacred rock pillar, Kinner Kailash Shivling, is worshipped as the Lingam of Lord Shiva. The pillar faces Reckong-peo and Kala, and the hike offers views of the high peaks of the Great Himalayan Mountain Range.

How to Reach Kinner Kailash Trek

Tangling Village, nestled in the Kinnaur Valley, serves as the base camp for the Kinner Kailash Trek. Here’s a breakdown of how to reach Tangling from various starting points:

By Road: 

This choice guarantees flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. The most frequently taken path is through Shimla. Turn to Hindustan-Tibet Road after Narkanda on National Highway 5 and proceed to Recong Peo. A minor road from Recong Peo leads to Tangling village (around 6-7 hours’ drive from Shimla).

By Bus:

Budget-friendly travellers can opt for public buses. However, consider limited frequencies and potential delays, especially during peak season. Himachal Pradesh Transport Corporation (HPTC) operates buses from Shimla to Recong Peo. From Recong Peo, you might need to hire a local taxi or jeep to reach Tangling village.

By Train:

Shimla is the nearest station to Tangling; however, Shimla’s narrow gauge railway line is connected via Kalka, which is well-connected to all major Indian cities. You can board a scenic “Toy Train” journey to Shimla from Kalka. Coming to Tangling village from Shimla would require road transport, like by taxi or local bus.

By Flight:

Undoubtedly, this is the fastest, but it is also the most expensive. The nearby airport is Shimla Airport (SLI), although it operates limited chartered helicopter services. A more practical choice would be Chandigarh Airport (IXC). Your flight will land at Chandigarh Airport. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Recong Peo from Chandigarh. Finally, use a local cab or jeep for Tangling village.