The sacred Adi Kailash and Om Parwat Yatra in Uttarakhand's picturesque Vyas Valley will officially close for the winter season starting December 1, 2024, as harsh winter conditions grip the high Himalayan region.
Administrative Decision Amid Freezing Conditions
Dharchula Sub-Divisional Magistrate Jitendra Verma confirmed that the administration has decided to halt the pilgrimage due to rapidly dropping temperatures. Daytime temperatures have already fallen below zero degrees Celsius, creating hazardous conditions for pilgrims.
The official stated that the last inner-line passes will be issued on November 30, marking the formal conclusion of this year's pilgrimage season. The decision comes as water bodies and natural water sources throughout the region have begun freezing, making basic survival increasingly challenging for travelers.
Record-Breaking Pilgrimage Season
This year witnessed an extraordinary surge in visitors to the sacred site. More than 36,000 tourists undertook the Adi Kailash pilgrimage, representing a significant increase compared to the over 23,000 visitors recorded in 2024.
The yatra season began in May with inner-line passes being made available through both online and offline channels, facilitating easier access for devotees and adventure seekers alike.
Prime Minister's Visit Boosts Popularity
The dramatic increase in pilgrim numbers can be largely attributed to the site gaining national attention following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit in 2023. This high-profile visit brought widespread recognition to the previously lesser-known pilgrimage route.
A crucial development that supported the tourism surge was the completion of road connectivity between Adi Kailash and Om Parwat, making the sacred sites more accessible to visitors while maintaining the spiritual significance of the journey.
Located at an altitude of 19,000 feet in Vyas Valley, Adi Kailash holds profound religious importance for the local Rang community, who consider it an essential part of their spiritual heritage.
Winter Preparations and Temple Closure
Officials reported that the portal of the Shiv Temple at Adi Kailash was ceremoniously closed on November 5 for the winter months, following traditional practices.
Meanwhile, residents of upper Himalayan settlements have begun their seasonal migration to lower altitudes, a centuries-old practice that helps them escape the extreme winter conditions that make mountain living nearly impossible during these months.
The combination of freezing temperatures, limited resources, and safety concerns has made the temporary closure of the yatra necessary until conditions improve with the arrival of spring.
