The Adi Kailash Yatra, one of the most revered pilgrimages in the Indian Himalayas, has been disrupted due to a major landslide in the Pithoragarh district, leaving hundreds of pilgrims and locals stranded.
Triggered by heavy rainfall, the landslide has reportedly blocked the main path to Adi Kailash, cutting off access to the region. The yatra, which began on May 2, was stopped after a massive landslide struck near Alagad, about seven km from Dharchula, on Tuesday night.
According to reports, vehicular access to three major high-altitude Himalayan valleys—Darma, Chaudas, and Vyas—has been completely cut off. Reports also note that hundreds of vehicles are stuck along the blocked route, leaving pilgrims and locals stranded.
Relief operations are underway, and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) teams have been deployed to clear the debris and restore road access.
Located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, also known as Chhota Kailash, Adi Kailash mountain is considered the second most sacred among the "Panch Kailash"—the five abodes of Hindu deity Shiva, after the famed Mount Kailash in Tibet.
At over 6,000 m, Adi Kailash stands near the Indo-Tibetan border in the Kumaon region. The pilgrimage offers pleasing views of snow-covered peaks, remote Himalayan villages, and high-altitude lakes such as Parvati Sarovar and Gauri Kund.
The journey typically begins from Dharchula, a small town on the banks of the Kali River. Pilgrims pass through scenic and rugged terrain, with key halts at Gunji, Nabhi, and Kuti—villages steeped in mythology and legend. The yatra demands physical endurance and mental fortitude, which involves navigating high mountain passes and unpredictable weather.
Despite such challenges, the spiritual magnetism of Adi Kailash continues to draw thousands of devotees each year. The Adi Kailash Yatra is considered a deeply enriching pilgrimage for those seeking a sacred experience far from commercial circuits.
(This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more updates.)
