How to Reach Adi Kailash
Your comprehensive guide to reaching the gateway of this sacred pilgrimage
Journey Overview
The gateway to Adi Kailash is Dharchula, a small town in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. From Dharchula, you'll proceed to restricted areas with your Inner Line Permit. Here's how to reach Dharchula from major cities:
By Air
Fastest way to reach the region
Pantnagar Airport (PGH)
Distance & Time
- 301 km from Dharchula
- 8-9 hours drive to Dharchula
- Best option for time-constrained travelers
Flight Connections
- • From Delhi: 2 hours 15 minutes (direct flights available)
- • Airlines: Air India, IndiGo (seasonal)
- • Frequency: 3-4 flights per week (check seasonal availability)
From Airport: Hire a taxi or pre-book through us for direct transfer to Dharchula (₹5,000-₹7,000 for sedan, ₹8,000-₹10,000 for SUV).
By Train
Most popular option for budget travelers
Kathgodam Railway Station
Major Trains:
- • Ranikhet Express (Delhi-Kathgodam)
- • Uttar Sampark Kranti (Delhi-Kathgodam)
- • Shatabdi Express (Delhi-Kathgodam)
Tanakpur Railway Station
Advantage:
Closer to Dharchula, shorter road journey. Good option if arriving from western regions.
By Road
Scenic drive through Uttarakhand
Distance Chart to Dharchula
| From | Distance | Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 560 km | 14-16 hrs | Delhi → Haldwani → Almora → Dharchula |
| Dehradun | 450 km | 12-14 hrs | Dehradun → Haridwar → Haldwani → Dharchula |
| Haldwani | 290 km | 10-11 hrs | Haldwani → Almora → Pithoragarh → Dharchula |
| Almora | 195 km | 7-8 hrs | Almora → Pithoragarh → Dharchula |
| Pithoragarh | 90 km | 3-4 hrs | Direct route via NH309A |
Private Vehicle
- ✓ Most flexible and comfortable option
- ✓ Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way
- ✓ Cost: ₹15,000-₹25,000 (full trip, depends on vehicle)
UPSRTC Buses
- ✓ Budget-friendly option (₹500-₹1,000)
- ✓ Regular services from major towns
- ✓ Book in advance during peak season
Travel Tips & Recommendations
✓ Best Options
- • Fly to Pantnagar if short on time
- • Train to Kathgodam for budget travel
- • Start early morning for road journeys
- • Book vehicles in advance during season
- • Allow buffer day for delays
⚠️ Important Notes
- • Roads can be challenging in monsoon
- • Limited ATMs after Pithoragarh
- • Mobile connectivity weak in mountains
- • Carry motion sickness medication
- • Check road conditions before travel
Let Us Handle Your Travel Arrangements
Book your package with us for seamless transportation from Delhi/Kathgodam to Dharchula and back