Kinner Kailash Trek is definitely one of the best Indian treks out there. If you are planning on trekking the Himalayas, trek Kinner Kailash. I can give it in written that Kinner Kailash trek, or Kinnaur Kailash trek is not going to disappoint you if you love trekking through Himalayan landscapes.

Situated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, the Kinner Kailash range presents a challenging yet rewarding trek experience. Rising to an impressive height of 17,200 feet above sea level, this remote and less-explored region captivates trekkers with its breathtaking scenery.

As you trek through the area, you will encounter awe-inspiring landscapes that showcase the raw beauty of nature. Consequently, the majestic views and rugged terrain make the journey both demanding and unforgettable, leaving you with a profound sense of accomplishment and wonder.

The trek takes you through the stunning Sangla Valley and Hangrang Valley, where you can witness nature in its purest form. From the snow-capped mountains to lush green apple orchards, the landscape is a fairytale come to life.

Kinner Kailash Trek Details

The Kinner Kailash trek is a 14 km long trail that starts from Tangling Village, the base camp situated on the banks of the Sutlej River at an altitude of 7,050 ft. From there, trekkers can either take the adventurous Jhoola Pul (hanging bridge) or the sturdy Shongtong Bridge to begin their journey.

The trek route goes from Tangling to Maling Khata (8 km), then to Parvati Kund (5 km), and finally a 1 km climb to reach the majestic Kinner Shivalinga. Guides and porters are available from Reckong Peo or Tangling Village for those who require assistance.

Kinner Kailash Trek Cost

The cost of the Kinner Kailash trek can vary based on the tour operator and the services included. Generally, you can expect to pay around INR 15,000 to INR 20,000 per person for a guided trek package.

This fee typically covers essential elements such as transportation, accommodation, meals, permits, and guide fees. As a result, it ensures that you receive a comprehensive and hassle-free trekking experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.

Kinner Kailash Trek Itinerary

A typical Kinner Kailash trek itinerary spans 5-6 days:

• Day 1: Reach Tangling Village (base camp)
• Day 2: Trek from Tangling to Maling Khata
• Day 3: Trek from Maling Khata to Parvati Kund
• Day 4: Trek from Parvati Kund to Kinner Shivling and back to Parvati Kund
• Day 5: Descend from Parvati Kund to Tangling Village
• Day 6: Depart from Tangling Village

Kinner Kailash Trek Distance

The Kinner Kailash Trek is approximately 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) round trip. It typically takes around 7 to 10 days to complete, depending on your pace and the specific route you choose. The trek takes you through beautiful landscapes, including forests, rivers, and stunning mountain views, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey!

he trek usually starts from the village of Wangtu and takes you through several picturesque villages, offering a glimpse of local culture and traditions. As you ascend, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, with the majestic Kinner Kailash peak looming in the background.

It’s a challenging trek, often involving steep climbs and changing weather conditions, so proper preparation and acclimatization are key. Make sure to pack essentials and stay hydrated as you soak in the breathtaking views along the way! This includes:

Tangling to Maling Khata Distance

The base camp for the Kinner Kailash trek is Tangling Village. The first stretch takes you from Tangling to Maling Khata. The total distance covered during this time is approximately 8 kilometers.

Distance is 8 km from Tangling Village to Maling Khata

Maling Khata To Parvati Kund Distance

On your second stretch, you will travel from Maling Khata to Parvati Kund. During this journey, you will be covering around 5 kilometers distance.

Distance from Maling Khata to Parvati Kund is around 5 kilometers.

Parvati Kund To Kinner Shivling Distance

On your final stretch you will travel from the Parvati Kund straight to the top, i.e. the Kinner Shivling. During this stretch, you will be covering a distance of not more than 1 kilometer.

Distance from Parvati Kund to Kinner Shivling is 1 kilometer.

Kinner Kailash Trek Height

The Kinner Kailash range stands tall at an impressive height of 17,200 ft (5,242 meters) above sea level. The trek itself takes you to an altitude of around 15,000 ft, with the Kinner Shivalinga located at 14,900 ft.

Kinner Kailash height in feet is 17,200 feet.

Kinner Kailash height in meters in 5242 meters.

Best Time To Visit Kinner Kailash

The best time to embark on the Kinner Kailash trek is between September and October. Although the trek is open from May to October, the monsoon months from May to August experience heavy rainfall, which makes the trail more challenging and prone to landslides and cloudbursts.

Therefore, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience, it’s recommended to plan your visit during the post-monsoon months when the weather is more stable and the skies are clearer.

Kinner Kailash Location

Kinner Kailash is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The trek starts from Tangling Village, which is accessible by road from major towns like Shimla, Rampur, and Reckong Peo.

The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 250 km away, while the closest railway station is Shimla Railway Station, approximately 240 km from Tangling Village. However, you can also do a road trip to Tangling village.

Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama / Charang-La Trek

The Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama, also known as the Charang-La Trek, is a more challenging and extensive version of the Kinner Kailash trek. This circuit trek covers a distance of around 60 km and takes 7-8 days to complete.

The Parikrama route circles the Kinner Kailash range, crossing high-altitude passes such as Charang La (17,200 ft). Along the way, it offers stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash and Jorkanden peaks. The trek begins in Thangi Village and concludes in Chitkul, which is the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. Therefore, hikers can enjoy a diverse range of landscapes and breathtaking vistas throughout the journey.

Kinnaur Kailash Shivling

One of the main attractions of the Kinner Kailash trek is the Kinnaur Kailash Shivling, a 79 ft tall natural rock formation that resembles a Shiva Linga. This unique geological wonder is said to change colors every second, adding to its mystical allure.

The Shivling is a sacred site for devotees of Lord Shiva, who come from far and wide to offer their prayers and seek blessings. Situated at an altitude of 14,900 feet, it is located just a kilometer away from Parvati Kund. As a result, its proximity allows pilgrims to easily visit this revered spot during their trek.

Kinnaur Mahadev

Kinnaur Mahadev, also known as Kinnaur Kailash, is another name for the Kinner Kailash range. It is often referred to as the “Kailash of Kinnaur” due to its resemblance to Mount Kailash in Tibet.

Further emphasizing the spiritual importance of this sacred mountain range, ‘Mahadev’ refers to Lord Shiva.

Kinnaur Kailash Trek Opening Date

The Kinnaur Kailash trek usually opens in the month of May and remains accessible until October. However, the exact opening date may vary each year depending on weather conditions and the discretion of the local authorities.

Additionally, it’s always advisable to check with the tourism department or your trekking operator for the most up-to-date information on the trek’s opening and closing dates. However, you can still make the most out of the trek if you thoroughly follow this guide.

Kinnaur Kailash Trek Difficulty

The best time to embark on the Kinner Kailash trek is between September and October. Although the trek is open from May to October, the monsoon months from May to August bring heavy rainfall. Consequently, this makes the trail more challenging and increases the risk of landslides and cloudbursts.

Therefore, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience, it is advisable to plan your visit during the post-monsoon months. During this time, the weather is generally more stable, and the skies are clearer, providing better trekking conditions and a more pleasant journey.

The trek involves steep ascents, rocky paths, and navigating through narrow trails. Altitude sickness is also a concern, as the trek reaches heights of up to 17,200 ft. I have been to Gurudongmar Lake. Gurudongmar Lake height in feet bears resemblance to this trek’s difficulty. I already talked about how difficult it was up there in one of my previous articles.

Proper acclimatization, adequate rest, and a slow ascent are crucial to minimize the risk of altitude-related issues. It’s essential to be both physically and mentally well-prepared, before beginning this trek.

Kinnaur Kailash Trek Key Points

• Kinner Kailash is a challenging trek suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness.
• The trek offers stunning views of the Kinnaur landscape, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and apple orchards.
• The trek has religious significance as Kinner Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
• The best time to trek is from September to October, avoiding the monsoon months.
• Guides and porters are available for assistance, and proper trekking gear is essential.

Kinnaur Kailash Story

According to Hindu mythology, Kinner Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that every winter, Lord Shiva would hold a meeting with gods and goddesses at this sacred spot.

Near the Kinner Kailash peak, you will find Parvati Kund, a natural lake that, according to legend, was created by Goddess Parvati herself. It is believed that this was the meeting point for Lord Shiva and his consort. As a result of its significance in their divine love story, the place was even referred to as ‘Aashiqi Park.’ Consequently, this site holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for many devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kinner Kailash Trek

Questions about the Kinner Kailash trek, asked frequently have been answered below:

Is Kinner Kailash and Shrikhand Mahadev the same?

No, Kinner Kailash and Shrikhand Mahadev are two different treks located in separate regions of Himachal Pradesh. Kinner Kailash is in the Kinnaur district, while Shrikhand Mahadev is situated in the Kullu district.

How many days is the Kinner Kailash trek?

The Kinner Kailash trek typically takes 5-6 days to complete, starting from Tangling Village and ending back at the same point.

Is Kinner Kailash trek difficult?

Yes, Kinner Kailash trek is a moderate to difficult trek. It rates as 4 out of 5 in difficulty. It requires good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and proper acclimatization to handle the challenging terrain and high altitude.

How much does the Kinnaur Kailash Trek cost?

The cost of the Kinnaur Kailash trek varies but typically ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 20,000 per person for a guided trek package. This usually includes transportation, accommodation, meals, permits, and guide fees.

What is the story behind Kinner Kailash?

Hindu mythology says that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside in Kinner Kailash. According to legend, Lord Shiva holds a meeting with gods and goddesses at this sacred spot every winter. The nearby Parvati Kund is also associated with the divine love story of Shiva and Parvati.

Concluding the Kinner Kailash Trek

In conclusion, the Kinner Kailash trek is an unforgettable experience that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure. With its stunning landscapes, challenging trails, and sacred sites, it is undoubtedly one of the best trekking destinations in India.

So, if you’re a trekking enthusiast looking for a Himalayan adventure, the Kinner Kailash trek should definitely be on your bucket list. Prepare well, respect the local culture, and approach the journey with an open heart and mind.

Happy trekking!