Om Parvat is a holy mountain situated in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district. It is famed for its unique rock formation that bears similarity with the Hindu symbol “Om”. It is perched at an altitude of 5590 meters above sea level. Its name has been derived from the word “Om” which comprises three sounds A, U, and M that represent three states of consciousness including heaven, Earth, and atmosphere. Pure consciousness or silence is the fourth state symbolized by the Om symbol dot above the crescent. On the route of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you can see Om Parvat from Nabhidhang Camp. Nabhidhang is the last Indian camp where you can have an overnight stay. It is situated near Lipulekh Pass on the Indo-Tibetan border.
Spiritual Significance
Om Parvat is considered holy by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is considered to be Lord Shiva’s sacred abode. The sacred Om symbol is formed naturally during the winter season making it immensely popular amongst the Hindus. Om Parvat is also Kailash Mansarovar Yatra’s part, a pilgrimage that includes visiting Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash in Tibet. Devotees associate it with the universe and Lord Shiva. The letter Om is considered to be Lord Shiva’s essence, the supreme god of Hindus.
Om Parvat Yatra Circuit
- Access: Viewable from Nabhi Dhang Camp, before Lipulekh Pass.
- Route: Trekkers to Adi Kailash pass through Gunji to see Om Parvat.
- Base Camp: Jolingkong Lake, 17 km from Kuthi Village.
Om Parvat is situated at the junction where China, Nepal, and Indian borders meet. Some parts of this holy mountain peak are in India and some are in Nepal. It is claimed that 74% of Om Parvat is in Nepal in their country and the rest of the mountain is in the Indian state of Uttarakhand in Pithoragarh district. From Nabhi Dhang Camp devotees can have a glimpse of Om Parvat, which is considered to be the last camp before entering Lipulekh Pass on the Indo-Tibetan border. Many trekkers to Adi Kailash make a diversion at Gunji to witness Om Parvat. Mount Kailash can be viewed from the Old Lipulekh Pass and Limpiyadhura Pass (a few kilometers west of Lipulekh Pass). Adi Kailash’s base camp is 17 km from the Kuthi village in Kuthi Valley at Jolingkong Lake.
Climate
- Summer: Mild days (10–15°C), cold nights.
- Monsoon: Heavy rain, slippery trails.
- Winter: Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, harsh conditions.
The climate of Om Parvat is characterized by its frigid temperatures and temperature fluctuations. It is perched at an elevation of around 6,191 meters and it demands respect, challenging the resilience of both nature aficionados and spiritual seekers. It has a subarctic climate and experiences below-freezing temperatures, especially during the winter.
From May to September (summer season), the weather becomes a bit milder, offering a pleasant environment for exploration and pilgrimage. Daytime temperatures range between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius offering some relief from the biting cold of winter. Even during the summer, there is a significant decrease in nighttime temperatures, necessitating adequate preparation and clothing.
From July to September (monsoon season) you will encounter heavy rainfall, making trekking trails slippery and dangerous. You should exercise strategic planning and caution to navigate these obstacles related to monsoons effectively.
Winter, from October to April is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping frequently to -15 degrees Celsius or even lower. During these months the landscape gets transformed into a pristine expanse as the surroundings get blanketed by snow, adding beauty to the mystical ambiance. For pilgrims, this season poses the greatest challenge, demanding a profound understanding and specialized gear of the unforgiving conditions.
- Check out: Om Parvat Yatra by Helicopter
Om Parvat and Adi Kailash
It is often believed that Om Parvat and Adi Kailash are the same. But, this is not the truth. Both these mountain peaks differ from each other. They are situated in different directions from one another. Om Parvat is situated near Uttarakhand near the Nepal border. On the other hand, Adi Kailash is one of the holiest mountain peaks situated near Sin La Pass near Brahma Parvat. Adi Kailash is situated completely in India. On the other hand, Om Parvat is partly situated in Nepal and partly in India.
Om Parvat Trek
The trek to Om Parvat is a bit challenging. It’s difficult to moderate trek, with paths that wind through dense forests, lush green valleys, and alongside gushing rivers. The trek starts from Dharchula, a picturesque town in Uttarakhand, and depending on the weather conditions and route can take up to five to seven days. You need to be well-prepared if you’re planning to undertake this trek. From ensuring you’re physically fit for the journey to acclimatizing to the altitude you need to prepare yourself beforehand. The trek demands resilience and stamina, as you’ll be adapting to the high altitude and navigating rough terrains. Months before your trek, you’re advised to engage in physical exercise and cardiovascular training. Trekkers should maintain cleanliness and silence, preserving this sacred landscape’s pristine nature.
- Suggested Tour: Adi Kailash & Om Parvat Helicopter Tour Packages
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