The Best Train & Bus Routes to Reach Adi Kailash from Various Indian Cities

February 24, 2025

Embarking on the Adi Kailash Yatra is an experience that blends devotion, adventure, and serenity. The journey to this sacred peak in the remote hills of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand promises pilgrims and tourists alike a life-changing adventure, not only through its spiritual significance but also its raw natural beauty. While it is undoubtedly a strenuous journey due to the difficult terrains and extreme weather conditions, reaching Adi Kailash can be made manageable with the right transportation options. Trains and buses are the most feasible ways to approach this divine destination, and understanding the best routes can ensure that your journey is as smooth as possible.

The Adi Kailash Yatra is a revered pilgrimage for many Hindus. Located at an elevation of about 16,000 feet, the peak is believed to be the original abode of Lord Shiva and predates the more well-known Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet. For thousands of years, the yatra has attracted pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment, adventure lovers looking to challenge themselves, and curious souls wanting to witness the glory of one of India’s most sacred destinations. However, the route to Adi Kailash is not easy, so preparation and knowledge of the best travel routes are essential.

The Journey to Adi Kailash: Setting the Stage

Before diving into the best train and bus routes to reach Adi Kailash, it’s crucial to understand the starting points for most travelers. The main entry points are through the town of Pithoragarh, a district headquarters in Uttarakhand. From Pithoragarh, travelers have to make their way through the towns of Dharchula and then to the base camp of Adi Kailash, which is generally reached via the town of Gunji.

The most common routes used by pilgrims and tourists are via Delhi, Bareilly, or Haldwani, as they are well-connected to Pithoragarh through train or bus services.

How to Reach Adi Kailash by Train: Key Routes

Taking the train for a part of the journey is not only economical but also offers a scenic introduction to the mountains as you make your way through the lush terrains of Uttarakhand. While there isn’t a direct train to Adi Kailash due to its remote location, several major cities in India are well-connected to nearby railway stations from where one can proceed to Pithoragarh.

Delhi to Kathgodam

For travelers from Delhi, the first major connection point is Kathgodam, a popular town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Delhi has direct rail connections to Kathgodam, and the journey can take anywhere from 6 to 7 hours. The train journey to Kathgodam offers breathtaking views as it passes through the verdant hills of the Kumaon region, gradually approaching the Himalayan foothills.

Once you arrive at Kathgodam, you can either hire a private vehicle or take a bus to reach Haldwani, which is roughly 10 km away from Kathgodam. Haldwani is the next major transit point for those heading toward Pithoragarh.

Bareilly to Haldwani

For those coming from the western regions, Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh is another common starting point. Bareilly is connected to Haldwani by train, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours. From Haldwani, buses and taxis are available to take passengers further to Pithoragarh. The journey from Bareilly to Haldwani passes through beautiful countryside landscapes, with the cool breeze of the mountains slowly seeping in as you approach Uttarakhand.

Lucknow to Kathgodam

Another popular rail route to reach Adi Kailash is from Lucknow. From Lucknow, the journey to Kathgodam takes around 8-9 hours by train. Similar to the Delhi route, Lucknow-bound travelers can then hire taxis or board buses from Kathgodam to Haldwani and eventually reach Pithoragarh.

While trains are a convenient and comfortable way to travel up to the foothills of the Kumaon region, they are not a direct means of reaching Adi Kailash. Hence, your journey continues by road after reaching Kathgodam or Haldwani.

Road Travel: The Bus Routes

After you’ve arrived in Haldwani or Kathgodam by train, the next stage of your journey involves road travel to the more remote areas of Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand’s hilly terrain can make road travel both challenging and thrilling, especially for pilgrims looking to witness the untouched beauty of the region.

From Haldwani or Kathgodam, you can take buses operated by the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) to major towns like Almora, Pithoragarh, or even Dharchula. The buses offer comfortable seating and are a popular choice for tourists. Depending on the type of bus you choose, the journey time can range from 6 to 12 hours.

Haldwani to Pithoragarh

The most important leg of the journey by road is from Haldwani to Pithoragarh. This road stretches through the scenic Kumaon hills and provides travelers with spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Buses run regularly from Haldwani to Pithoragarh, and the journey can take around 10 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions and weather. It is essential to note that during the monsoon season, the roads can sometimes become treacherous due to landslides, so it is advisable to check for road updates before planning your trip.

Pithoragarh to Dharchula

Once you arrive in Pithoragarh, your next destination is Dharchula, which is the gateway to the Adi Kailash trek. There are buses available from Pithoragarh to Dharchula that take around 3 to 4 hours to cover the distance. From Dharchula, the last leg of your journey will be a trek up to the base camp.

Dharchula to Gunji

From Dharchula, the journey continues to Gunji, the last town before the base camp. Gunji is the nearest village to Adi Kailash and is where pilgrims usually rest before embarking on the final trek. The road journey to Gunji is rugged and may require a jeep or 4×4 vehicle to navigate the hilly, narrow paths.

Trekking from Gunji to Adi Kailash

Once you reach Gunji, the road journey comes to an end. The real adventure begins as you start your trek towards Adi Kailash. The trek from Gunji to the base of Adi Kailash can be challenging, with altitudes that may lead to breathlessness and physical fatigue. The trek takes about 2-3 days, and pilgrims typically take breaks in the nearby villages to acclimatize to the altitude. The journey itself is a spiritual one, with beautiful views of snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and lush alpine forests accompanying you every step of the way.

Travel Tips for the Adi Kailash Yatra

Given the challenging nature of the journey, it is essential to prepare well for the Adi Kailash Yatra. Apart from choosing the right train and bus routes, make sure to carry enough warm clothing, medicines, and personal gear. The weather in this region can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures, rain, and snow at higher altitudes. Moreover, those planning the yatra should ensure that they are physically prepared for the trek, as the terrain can be physically demanding.

It is also advisable to travel in a group or with a tour operator who is well-acquainted with the route. Having a guide ensures that you are safe during the trek, particularly when traversing through unfamiliar or difficult sections of the route.

Conclusion

Reaching Adi Kailash requires significant effort and preparation, but the rewards are immense. Not only will you witness the breathtaking landscapes of Uttarakhand, but you’ll also experience the spiritual serenity that comes with visiting one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites. The train and bus routes mentioned above provide the most feasible ways to reach Adi Kailash, but they are only part of the journey. The trek itself is a test of endurance, patience, and devotion. Pilgrims and travelers should approach this journey with an open heart and a sense of adventure, knowing that the road to Adi Kailash is as much about the journey itself as it is about the destination.

As you make your way to this sacred mountain, it is also important to connect with reliable travel agencies like Adi Kailash Yatra that can guide you along the way, ensuring that your experience is not only safe but truly memorable.