loader image
Kinner Kailash Parikrama Trek
Kinnaur-Kailash-Shivling-peak
Vantage-view-of-Ribba-villag-from-Kinnaur-Kailash
Side-face-of-Kinner-Kailash-peak
Crossing-glacier-below-Gufa-camp
Glacier-below-Gufaa
Parvati-Kund
IMG_0638
IMG_0716
IMG_0703
IMG_0707
IMG_0653_picmonkeyed

Charang to Chitkul : Charang-La (Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama Trek)

Embarking on the Kinner Kailash Parikrama trek is delving into the heart of the Indian Himalayas, specifically the remote wilderness of Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur region. This area, nestled near the Indo-Tibetan border, offers an immersive experience amidst breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness. The majestic Mt. Kinner Kailash stands as a sacred pinnacle, overseeing the Sutlej River's origin from the slopes of Kailash Parvat, a site with spiritual and picturesque allure. Kinnaur's allure stems not just from its stunning vistas but also from its fusion of Hinduism and Buddhism. The pagoda-style architecture and presence of monasteries reflect this unique blend, adding to the region's mystique. However, given its proximity to Tibet, the area requires foreign nationals to secure permits from tourism authorities due to its sensitive border status. For devotees of Lord Shiva, Kinnaur holds profound significance as one of the mythical abodes of the deity. Mt. Kinner Kailash boasts a remarkable 79-foot-tall Shivlinga, renowned for its mesmerizing color changes with each passing moment. Undertaking the Kinner Kailash Parikrama trek is not merely a physical journey; it's a test of faith, mental fortitude, and physical endurance. As pilgrims traverse the path, they're treated to unparalleled vistas of meadows, apple orchards, hanging glaciers, and towering peaks. Yet, this beauty comes with challenges—treacherous trails, daunting boulder climbs, narrow paths strewn with loose gravel, and traversing large water streams. The trek commences from Thangi village near Chail and winds its way through the scenic Charang Village, culminating in Manali via Chitkul, Tabo, and Losar after traversing the high mountain pass of Charang La, standing boldly at an altitude of 17,200 ft. above sea level. This journey is more than just a physical odyssey; it's a spiritual and cultural immersion amidst the raw, untamed beauty of the Himalayas.

Kinnaur Kailash Trek Cost Includes / Excludes

  • All arrangements for overnight stays during the trip.
  • Camping and Climbing gear.
  • All food expenses
  • Food will usually consist of morning breakfast, lunch, evening high tea, and dinner.
  • All food will be vegetarian.
  • Trained and certified guides trained for emergency situations.
  • Local guides and workers with in-depth knowledge about the local area.
  • One luggage per person will be transported by us.
  • Inner line permits and arrangements en route will be arranged by the operator.
  • All stays and lodging on a twin sharing basis shall be provided.
  • Any kind of personal expenses.
  • Camera fees or any other costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances and situations beyond our control.

Daywise Itinerary of Kinner Kailash Trek

Arrival welcomes you, followed by a scenic drive traversing Kufri, Narkanda, and Reckong Peo en route to Charang. The journey from Shimla to Charang unveils picturesque landscapes featuring the awe-inspiring Phawarang peak (6050 m) and the stunning Rangrik range. By evening, you’ll arrive at Charang, where lodging arrangements, either in a homestay or rented accommodation, will be made for your stay.

Village walk, a visit to Rangrik monastery, and the last ITBP post on the Indo-Tibetan border. Explore the places around Charang and pay a visit to the Rangrik Monastery. Overnight stay in the village homestay or camping.

Our trek today takes us from Charang to Lalanti. The initial part involves a steep ascent lasting 2-3 hours until we reach Charang Kanda. Beyond this point, the terrain gradually levels out until we reach Lalanti. This area is adorned with abundant wildflowers and picturesque meadows, creating a stunning vista of blooming flowers against the backdrop of the clear blue sky, accompanied by the melodic rush of nearby rivers. We’ll set up camp for the night alongside a serene stream in Lalanti.
Trek to the base camp of Charang La today. The climb is relatively steep today and we will reach the base camp by evening. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Today we start early and climb steeply to Charang La. The view of the Kinnaur range is spectacular from this point. We pass Charang La and descend down to Chitkul village. Overnight stay in the village.
Chitkul is the last village on the Indo-Tibet border. We can explore the places around Chitkul like Nagasti ITBP post and Ranikanda meadows. Drive back from Shimla with a bag full of lifetime memories.

Trek FAQ's

No! The Shirkhand Mahadev Yatra route is situated in the outer Siraj area within the Greater Himalayan National Park in the Kullu district. On the other hand, the Kinner Kailash Yatra route is entirely within the Sairag (Kalpa) valley of Kinnaur.
Initially, you’ll need to get to Reckong Peo, the main administrative center of Kinnaur district. From there, you can choose one of three routes:
  1. Tangling village-Gufa-Kinner Kailash Shivling route.
  2. Ribba village-Parvati Kund-Kinner Kailash Shivling route.
  3. Purbani village-Parvati Kund-Kinner Kailash.
Kinner Kailash, standing at 6050 meters, is a sacred mountain dominating the Kalpa valley in Kinnaur (known as Sairag by locals). Reaching the summit of Kinner Kailash requires prior climbing or mountaineering skills. However, trekking to the Shivling pillar, situated beneath the 6050 meters high Kinner Kailash peak, is feasible (though not advised) for those without prior trekking experience.
The Kinnaur Kailash pilgrimage dates are officially set for a span of 4-5 weeks by the Kinner Kailash Yatra committee in consultation with the local administration. It’s mandatory to undertake the pilgrimage within this approved time window; going before or after isn’t permitted by the administration. On the other hand, the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama (circuit) trek can be undertaken from May to September. This broader period allows for the trekking circuit to be completed within these months.
The name “Kinner Kailash” pays homage to the Kinner tribe, the inhabitants of Kinnaur. This term holds numerous mythological meanings deeply rooted in Hindu religious texts and epics. These texts portray the Kinners as a tribe residing in the Himalayas known for their exceptional singing and dancing abilities. During ancient and early medieval times, artists from India and Central Asia created sculptures depicting the Kinner tribe. Notably, Cave 1 of the Ajanta caves is dedicated to showcasing the Kinners. At that time, the Kinner tribe inhabited a vast region, stretching from the Bhagirathi valley in Uttarakhand to the origins of the Chandrabhaga river in the west.

As per the Himachal Pradesh Miscellaneous Adventure Activities Rules, 2017 any trekking activity in the district has to be carried out with prior permission from the tourism office and camping permission for the trek is to be obtained from the forest department.

Deputy Commissioner, Kinnaur
Still Have Questions ? Fill-out This Form👇 to Reach to us
Scroll to Top