What is the best Adi Kailash trek itinerary for budget travelers?

If you're looking for the best Adi Kailash trek itinerary on a budget, I highly recommend a 5 to 7-day plan starting from Dharchula. Use shared jeeps till Gunji, stay in local homestays, and avoid peak season rates. I’ve shared my exact day-wise breakdown in the blog — feel free to DM me on Instagram @Nomadzcalls for a free PDF guide.

How much does the Adi Kailash trek cost in 2025?

In 2025, the average Adi Kailash trek cost for budget travelers is between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per person from Dharchula to back. This includes travel, stay, permits, and food. However, costs can increase if you take private vehicles or guided tour packages.

Do I need a permit for Adi Kailash trek?

Yes, permits for Adi Kailash trek are mandatory since this region falls near the India-China border. You’ll get the permit from the SDM office at Dharchula or KMVN. Carry ID proofs, passport-size photos, and plan to apply a day before moving ahead.

What is the best time for Adi Kailash trek?

The best time to visit Adi Kailash is from May to mid-October. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) because of heavy rains and landslides. I went in early June — perfect weather and fewer tourists.

What are the best places to stay during Adi Kailash trek?

The best stays on the Adi Kailash trek route are local homestays in Gunji, Nabi, and Kutti villages. They are affordable (₹500-₹1000 per night), and you get home-cooked food with incredible hospitality.

What should I pack for Adi Kailash trek?

For the Adi Kailash trek, pack warm clothes, rain cover, trekking shoes, basic medicines, ID proofs, dry fruits, and extra cash. The region has limited ATMs and no card payment options beyond Dharchula.

Is Adi Kailash trek safe for solo travelers?

Yes, the Adi Kailash trek is safe for solo travelers, provided you stay updated with weather alerts and follow local advice. The route has army check posts, and locals are helpful. Still, I’d suggest first-timers to trek in a small group for better safety.

Think It’s Expensive? Real Adi Kailash Trek Itinerary and Cost Tips You’ll Thank Me For

Himalayan Inc
Apr 14
3 min read

I get it.You saw Adi Kailash pictures online — mighty Om Parvat glowing in snow, wild trails, remote villages — and thought, “This must cost a fortune.”

I thought the same... till I actually did the trek.

Truth? Adi Kailash trek isn’t just about money.It’s about planning smart, knowing the routes, local hacks, and respecting the raw nature of this sacred land.

Here’s my real Adi Kailash trek itinerary with a full cost breakdown — no fluff, just the stuff I wish someone told me before I packed my rucksack.

Why Adi Kailash is Different From Other Treks

This isn’t your fancy Manali-to-Leh road trip.

Adi Kailash sits near the Indo-Tibet border in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region — far, raw, spiritual.

Two things rule here:

Nature’s Mood.
Border Security Rules.

You’ll need permits, local jeeps, sometimes offline stays, and most importantly — patience.

But the reward?

Silent mornings in Nabi Village with views straight out of a dream. And that chill you feel when Om Parvat shows up naturally carved with snow.

Hiking gear, map labeled "Adi Kailash," tea cups, and colorful prayer flags on wooden surface. Cozy and adventurous vibe.

The Real Adi Kailash Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi to Haldwani / Tanakpur

→ Overnight Train or BusCost: ₹300 - ₹1500

Day 2: Haldwani to Dharchula

→ Shared Taxi / Private Cab via Lohaghat, PithoragarhCost: ₹500 - ₹800

Stay in Dharchula (Budget Lodge or KMVN Guest House)Cost: ₹500 - ₹1000

Day 3: Dharchula to Gunji (Via Permit Clearance)

→ Visit SDM Office Early MorningPermit Fee: ₹150 + Photocopies

→ Shared Sumo to Gunji (8-10 hours rough mountain ride)Cost: ₹500 - ₹700

Stay in Gunji Homestay (Simple Meals)Cost: ₹600 - ₹1000 (Stay + Meals)

Day 4: Gunji to Nabi Village & Om Parvat Darshan

→ Local Jeep Ride or Trek OptionCost: ₹500 (Shared)

Spend Time at Om Parvat ViewpointStay in Nabi VillageCost: ₹500 (Homestay)

Day 5-6: Return Via Same Route

Keep Buffer for Delays or Weather IssuesReturn Cost: Approx. ₹2000-₹3000

Total Estimated Adi Kailash Trek Cost (Per Person)

Expense Item	Cost (INR)
Travel (Delhi to Dharchula Return)	₹2500 - ₹3500
Permits & Entry	₹150
Local Jeep / Sumo	₹2000 - ₹3000
Stay & Food	₹2000 - ₹3500
Misc / Buffer	₹1000 - ₹1500

Grand Total Estimate: ₹7500 to ₹12000 Per Person

(Costs vary on group size, season, and negotiation skills)

Things I Wish I Knew Before Adi Kailash Trek

Carry extra photocopies of ID & passport-size photos — permits take time.
Don’t overpack. Essentials only. Warm clothes, rain cover, torch, basic medicines.
Offline Maps — Network is patchy post-Dharchula. Download Maps.me or offline Google Maps.
Start Early Every Day — Landslides & weather can cause unexpected delays.
Carry Cash — No ATMs in remote villages.

Best Time To Visit Adi Kailash

May to Mid-June — Pleasant Weather
September to Mid-October — Post Monsoon Clear Views

Avoid peak monsoon (July-August) due to landslides.

Must-Do Experiences on Adi Kailash Trek

Have Chai in Gunji’s tiny shops — those pahadi smiles stay with you.
Early morning Om Parvat view — Spiritual calmness hits differently.
Talk to locals — They have stories more ancient than any guidebook.
If possible, extend your trek to Parvati Sarovar — serene beyond words.

Final Words from a Fellow Traveler

Everyone thinks Adi Kailash is expensive till they realise — the real cost is patience, humility, and respect for the mountains.

Money? That part is manageable with good planning.

But the experience?

Unforgettable.

Want My Personal PDF Guide?

Packed with:

Exact Itinerary
Cost Chart
Packing List
Local Contact Info
Bonus Travel Hacks

DM me “Adi Kailash Guide” on Instagram → @Nomadzcalls

Happy to share my free guide & some untold travel stories that didn’t make it to this blog.

Catch you on the trails someday.Stay curious, stay humble.