Kinner Kailash, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is a sacred mountain revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Standing at an altitude of about 6,050 meters (19,850 feet), it is believed to be the winter abode of Lord Shiva. The most iconic feature is a 79-foot vertical rock pillar, considered a natural Shivling, which changes color with the sun. The Kinner Kailash Parikrama is a challenging high-altitude trek, passing through rocky terrain, glaciers, and scenic valleys. The journey is both physically demanding and spiritually enriching, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and deep moments of inner reflection.

1. Mythological and Spiritual Significance

In Hindu mythology, Kinner Kailash is considered one of the abodes of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Shiva held meetings with the divine entities here. The region is home to the semi-mythical Kinnaur people, regarded in the epics as celestial beings—part human, part divine.

The Shivling rock formation is said to change color depending on the position of the sun, and devotees believe that completing the trek brings blessings and spiritual merit equivalent to visiting Mount Kailash in Tibet.

2. Trek Overview

• Location: Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh

• Altitude: Up to 4,800 meters (approx. 15,748 ft)

• Duration: 3 to 5 days depending on route and pace

• Base Village: Tangling village (near Reckong Peo)

• Trek Length: ~24–30 km (round trip)

There are two main ways to experience Kinner Kailash:

• Kinner Kailash Shivling Trek: A direct, high-altitude trek from Tangling village to the vertical Shivling.

• Kinner Kailash Parikrama: A longer and more difficult circuit route covering Charang-La Pass, mainly for seasoned trekkers.

This guide focuses on the Shivling trek—the more accessible and widely attempted journey.

3. Starting Point: Reckong Peo and Tangling Village

The adventure begins at Reckong Peo, the headquarters of Kinnaur district and a gateway to the trek. It’s a well-connected town, accessible by road from Shimla (roughly 250 km). The town offers spectacular views of Kinner Kailash Range and serves as the last place for stocking up on essentials, gear, and permits.

From Reckong Peo, a short drive (about 3–5 km) takes you to Tangling village, the official base for the trek. The trek begins here, crossing over a suspension bridge and heading straight into the lap of the Himalayas.

4. Tangling to Ganesh Park (~7–8 km)

The first leg is steep and physically demanding. The trail winds through dense pine and cedar forests, and the sound of mountain streams accompanies you for most of this part. The route is not paved, and you’ll often be walking over loose rocks, muddy slopes, and narrow ridges.

You’ll pass through rolling meadows and alpine grasslands, and eventually reach Ganesh Park, a small plateau with panoramic views of the Kinnaur ranges. This is usually the first night’s campsite, and the temperature can drop significantly at night—even during summer.

Ganesh Park is named after Lord Ganesha, who is believed to guard the sacred site. Many pilgrims offer prayers here before proceeding to higher altitudes.

5. Ganesh Park to Kinner Kailash Shivling (~5–6 km)

This is the most challenging and high-altitude part of the trek. As you ascend, oxygen levels drop, and signs of altitude sickness may appear—headache, breathlessness, and dizziness are common.

The terrain becomes rugged, with rocky cliffs, boulder-strewn trails, and patches of snow even during peak summer. The final approach involves a sharp climb over a scree slope and may require scrambling over rocks with your hands.

But once you reach the Shivling, all fatigue vanishes in a wave of devotion and wonder. The 79-foot tall vertical rock formation towers above the surroundings and is often draped in clouds or kissed by sunlight. Pilgrims offer flowers, incense, and prayers. Some sit in meditation, while others simply absorb the serene, otherworldly energy.

You’ll feel like you’re standing at the gateway between the physical and the divine.

6. Return Journey and Descent

The descent usually follows the same route back to Tangling. Though downhill, it can be harder on the knees and joints. The loose gravel and narrow ridges require cautious steps.

It is advisable to start the descent early in the morning, as the weather can deteriorate quickly in the afternoon. Most trekkers reach Ganesh Park by mid-day and descend to Tangling by nightfall.

7. What You’ll See and Experience

Scenic Beauty

• Dense alpine forests, wildflowers, and moss-covered boulders

• Panoramic views of the Kinner Kailash Range, including Jorkanden Peak

• Chance sightings of Himalayan wildlife like musk deer or Himalayan griffons

Spiritual Energy

• Sacred spots like Ganesh Park, where pilgrims pause for prayer

• Strong local beliefs in the presence of deities along the trail

• A sense of solitude, peace, and spiritual reflection in the high altitudes

Challenging Terrain

• Steep ascents, narrow paths, and unmarked trails

• Cold winds, sudden fog, and possible snow even in summer

• A test of stamina, balance, and mental focus

8. Best Time to Visit

• Mid-June to September is the ideal trekking season.

• Avoid monsoon months (July-August) for safety, as the region is prone to landslides.

• Nights are cold even in summer; temperatures can dip below 0°C at higher camps.