Kinner Kailash, for short, is otherwise recognized as Kinnaur Kailash. It is a breathtaking mountain found in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. As per Hindu mythology, this site is constructed, teaching that it belongs to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is essential because one of the five mountains known as the Panch Kailash or ‘Five Kailasha’ is considered sacred by Hindus. Buddhists of Kinnaur also worship this peak. The entire area symbolises the syncretism of religion. Kinnaur Kailash is a spiritual centre and a growing tourist destination in the shadow of the major part of the Himalayan range. Its religious significance and astonishing scenery make it an ideal place of worship and a source of relaxation and hope for everyone who wants to see portions of the Himalayas.
About Kinner Kailash
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Situated in the Indo-Tibetan Border in the Kailash region, Kinner Kailash is known to be 19,848 ft above sea level. It can be reached from the Tangling village, which is nearest to the Kinner Kailash mountain region. According to Hindu Mythology, Kinner Kailash is a sacred place associated with Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati, two crucial deities of the Hindu religion.
A natural pond/Kund near Kinner Kailash peak, known as Parvati Kund, is considered a creation of Goddess Parvati. Kinner Kailash is often referred to as the winter abode of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva resides here during the winter months. The Kinner Kailash Shivlingam, a natural rock formation that stands tall at an altitude of approximately 4,650 metres (15,256 feet), represents Shiva’s divine presence.
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Top Places To Explore Near Kinner Kailash
Some of the best things visitors can visit and explore near Kinner Kailash are given below:
1. Kalpa
Image Credit: Carlos Adampol Galindo for Wikipedia
Kalpa is a beautiful village about 12 Km away from Kinner Kailash, famous for its apples. This is an ideal place for such persons to tour because the place is quiet and is located between the Himalayas. Tourist places of interest include Narayan-Nagini Temple, where tourists can clearly see the majestic Kinner Kailash and enjoy the picturesque sight of the Sutlej River, which quietly flows through this part of India. Kalpa is particularly suitable for tourists who enjoy the natural environment and anyone who wants to enjoy the peace of the mountain. To make your stay comfortable, there is Hotel Apple Pie, The Monk Hotel Kinner Villa, and Rakpa Regency Hotel, which provide a welcoming feeling.
Distance from Kinner Kailash: Approx. 12 km
Where to stay: Hotel Apple Pie, The Monk Hotel Kinner Villa, Rakpa Regency Hotel, Aucktong Guest House
Places to Eat: Try the multi-cuisine The Monk Restaurant or explore local dhabas
2. Reckong Peo
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Kinner Kailash is only 7 km from Reckong Peo – this pretty town overlooks the majestic Himalayas. It is a perfect place for people who want to enjoy the pulsating Himachali culture in its serene surroundings. Tourists can purchase souvenirs, including gadget items designed and manufactured in the country, marvel at the beautiful dusty details of different Buddhist structures, and be embraced by the friendly people of the place. Still, for food lovers, there are some brilliant things to eat, such as the traditional specialities of this area in Reckong Peo. Hotel Golden Apple Restaurant offers pure ‘N’ fresh Himachali food, and Mahesh Regency Restaurant also provides an assortment of gourmet food that focuses on the authentic flavour of Himachal Pradesh.
Distance from Kinner Kailash: Approx. 7 km
Highlights: Local market, Buddhist monasteries, and views of the Himalayas
Places to Eat: Try Indian and Himachali cuisine at Hotel Golden Apple Restaurant or authentic local meals at Mahesh Regency Restaurant or other local eateries.
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3. Sangla Valley
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Sangla Valley is about 43 Km from Kalpa and is probably the best place to visit because of the natural beauty that the place offers. This quaint valley is also blessed with the Baspa River, Kamru Fort and the beautiful Sangla meadow to encourage tourists interested in nature and adventures. There is also beautiful scenery for trekking lovers and generic people who would like to meet attractive local villages like Batseri that show rural life. Some tourist-friendly accommodations are Banjara Camps & Retreat, Hotel Mount Kailash, and Hotel Batseri, which will make their stay comfortable. These are also useful to visitors who may be planning to visit other nearby destinations, such as Bir Billing, which makes your travel easier.
Distance from Kinner Kailash: Approx. 43 km
Highlights: Baspa River, Kamru Fort, Sangla Meadows, and Batseri village.
Where to stay: Banjara Camps & Retreat, Hotel Mount Kailash, Hotel Batseri
4. Chitkul
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Sangla Valley’s Chitkul is the last village on the road to the border of Indo-Tibet; the place is wonderful, surrounded by snowy giants of the Himalayas. Situated at around 61 km from Kinner Kailash Parvat, this is a charming village that has not been explored much to date, and therefore, it provides some unspoilt nature along with wooden houses and the Baspa River. This is why Chitkul has beautiful surroundings and life appears very calm. The scenery offered by these mountains is amazing, and the sound of the river makes it an even more tranquil place.
Distance from Kinner Kailash: Approx. 61 km
Highlights: The village was last inhabited near the Indo-Tibetan border, the Baspa River, and traditional wooden houses.
Where to stay: The Wanderers Nest, Shangri-La Guest House, Samaa Resorts
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5. Nako
Image Credit: Snotch for Wikipedia
Nako is located at the base of Reo Purgul hill, the village is surrounded by upto the Himalayan range, which makes it a perfect peaceful gateway for nature as well as adventure lovers. Besides, hardly any human activity is seen around Nako, which has an ideal blend of cultural as well as spiritual flavours. For the tourists, there are various facilities to accommodate them, like Hotel Reo Purgui, Knaygoh Kinner Camps, and Nako Residency for a comfortable stay, while the enchanting scenic beauty of the village adds more charm. If you and your friends are looking for fun or need a break to find some peace and serenity in the mountains, then Nako is the place to be.
Distance from Kinner Kailash: Approx. 102 km
Highlights: Nako Lake, Nako Monastery, and panoramic views of the Reo Purgyil mountain.
Where to stay: Hotel Reo Purgui, Knaygoh Kinner Camps, Nako Residency
How To Reach Kinner Kailash
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Reaching Kinner Kailash involves a combination of road travel and trekking. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get to this sacred destination:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kinner Kailash is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport), approximately 244 km from Kalpa. However, this airport has limited connectivity. Alternatively, you can fly to Chandigarh International Airport, which is better connected and around 350 km from Kalpa.
1. Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport) to Kalpa:
- Distance: 244 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours
2. Chandigarh International Airport to Kalpa:
- Distance: 350 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Shimla Railway Station, connected via the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla railway line. For broader connectivity, you can reach Chandigarh Railway Station.
1. Shimla Railway Station to Kalpa:
- Distance: 240 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours
2. Chandigarh Railway Station to Kalpa:
- Distance: 350 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours
By Road: Kalpa is well connected to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states. You can drive or take a bus from Shimla, Chandigarh, or Delhi.
1. From Shimla to Kalpa:
- Distance: 240 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours
2. From Chandigarh to Kalpa:
- Distance: 350 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours
3. From Delhi to Kalpa:
- Distance: 590 km
- Mode: Taxi or bus
- Duration: Approximately 18-20 hours
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Kinner Kailash trek is the most challenging trek, and it covers the most attractive parts of Himachal, the religious significance of Kailash and the beauty of the Himalayas. Whether it is the serene and sombre town of Kalpa, the bustling city of Reckong Peo or the lesser-explored Chitkul, each has something unique to offer. The necessary accommodation is to be taken care of early; for those who want to get the most out of their trek, many numbered options of tours and packages for different grades of trekking are offered. So what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Himachal Pradesh and embark on an unforgettable journey.
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Cover Image Credit: Anubhav Agarwal for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kinner Kailash
How hard is the Kinner Kailash trek?
Kinnaur Kailash Trek is one of the most arduous treks in the region, that circles around the holy Mount Kailash known as Kinner Kailash in Kinnaur. It is a trail of about 80 kilometres it’s exhausting, physically and mentally draining and one needs to be very fit to manoeuvre some areas and be very sure-footed.
Is there any minimum age for the same?
Passengers must be at least 14 years old to go to Kinnaur Kailash trekking, depending on their physical fitness.
When is the right time to visit Kinner Kailash?
The favourable months to visit Kinner Kailash are from June to September. These months are friendly in terms of weather and the trekking tracks are also open most of the time.
Where does the Kinner Kailash trekker find easy and where does he find it tough?
The Kinner Kailash trek is rated as a hard way. It calls for energetic stamina, and prior hiking on steep hills and at high altitudes as well as appropriate acclimatization.
What are the requirements to do the Kinner Kailash trek, if I am required to get any permits?
Yes, you have to take permission from the local authorities of the district of Kinnaur. Hence, it is recommended to consult with the local secretary of tourism for the most recent requirements and process.
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