Kinnaur Kailash: Conquer a Spiritual Epic Journey

Introduction

Deep in the heart of Kinnaur, where rugged Himalayan terrain meets ancient spirituality, lies a path that few dare to walk — the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey of faith, endurance, and inner discovery.

Circumambulating the Kinnaur Kailash Shivling — a 79-foot vertical rock pillar believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva — this trek weaves through glacial passes, sacred valleys, and high-altitude villages, offering a spiritual adventure like no other.

Where Is the Kinnaur Kailash Trek?

✅ In the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh
✅ Trail starts from Tangling or Charang village
✅ Encircles the sacred Kinnaur Kailash range
✅ Max altitude: 5,248 meters (17,218 ft) at Charang-La Pass
✅ Duration: 6–9 days, depending on the route

Why Kinnaur Kailash Is Sacred

Shivling-shaped rock pillar at ~4,800 meters
Worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists
The Kinnaur Kailash is considered the winter abode of Lord Shiva
Locals believe a complete parikrama (circuit) cleanses one’s sins and brings blessings

Route Overview – The Parikrama Trail

Day	Route	Altitude	Highlights
1	Tangling – Sundo – Thangi	2,650 m	Start of trek, riverside forest trail
2	Thangi – Lambar	3,300 m	Apple orchards, Buddhist stupas
3	Lambar – Charang	3,800 m	Monastery stay, Kinnauri culture
4	Charang – Lalanti Meadows	4,300 m	Green meadows, wildflowers
5	Lalanti – Charang La Pass – Chhitkul	5,248 m	Tough climb, glacial views, descend into Sangla valley

✅ Reverse route also possible: Chhitkul to Tangling
✅ Needs proper acclimatization, fitness, and permits

Key Highlights of the Trek

🔹 Charang La Pass

Most challenging section
Snow-covered for most of the year
Offers a 360° view of Kinnaur–Spiti–Tibet ranges

🔹 Kinnaur Kailash Shivling

Vertical rock monolith changes color throughout the day
Not part of the trekking route, but visible on the alternate Tangling–Gufa trek

🔹 Ancient Monasteries

Buddhist monasteries in Charang, Lambar, and Chhitkul
Blend of Hindu-Buddhist art and peaceful prayer rituals

Camping & Accommodations

✅ Stay options during trek:

Tents (most common, carried by operators)
Homestays in Charang and Chhitkul
Basic food, warm bedding, and limited network connectivity

✅ Trekking groups usually include:

Porters and guides
Cook and support staff
Mules for equipment

Spiritual Significance

Devotees do the trek barefoot or without gear, as penance
Pilgrimage is especially popular in July–August (Shravan month)
The trek is symbolic of detachment from ego and materialism
Stories of Lord Shiva meditating here still echo in local folk songs

What to Pack for the Parikrama

Trekking shoes, walking sticks, gloves
Woolen layers, thermals, windproof jackets
Headlamp, water bottle, ORS
Energy snacks, dry fruits
Personal ID, basic meds, altitude sickness tablets

📌 No shops or electricity during most parts — prepare accordingly

Best Time for the Trek

Month	Conditions
June	Snow melting, trail opens gradually
July–Aug	Best window, spiritual significance
Sept	Clear skies, crisp air
Oct–May	Avoid – trail closed due to snow

✅ Monsoon alert: July–Aug is sacred, but trails can be slippery
✅ Best to go with certified trekking groups

How to Reach the Starting Point

✅ Tangling/Thangi Base Point:

Reach Reckong Peo from Shimla (via Rampur)
Local taxi or trek operator to Tangling village
Closest airport: Shimla or Bhuntar

✅ Chhitkul End Point:

Reachable from Sangla valley
Ideal for rest after completing the trek

Photo Opportunities

Scene	Best Moment
Shivling from afar	Sunset/sunrise
Charang La top view	Clear mid-day skies
Monks at Charang Monastery	Early morning
Campsites under stars	Night photography
Chhitkul descent trail	Golden hour

Safety & Permits

✅ No Inner Line Permit is needed for Indians (check current rules)
✅ Foreigners may require permission from Reckong Peo SDM
✅ Always go with a registered guide or agency
✅ Carry altitude sickness medication

Summary

The Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama isn’t just a physical journey — it’s a soulful awakening. Every step through its remote passes and ancient villages reminds you of the fragility and power of nature, and the strength of human spirit in its most humble form.

Planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh? Don’t miss our other posts on amazing places in the Kinnaur District.

Planning to Undertake the Parikrama?

Start your training. Respect the mountains. And be ready to leave a part of your heart behind.
📢 Have questions? Drop them below or share your trek experience using #KinnaurParikrama.