Shrikhand Mahadev Trek – My First Kailash Yatra: A Journey to the Divine

We go on journeys to see the world, and then we go on the ones that make our journey into ourselves. For me, the Shrikhand Mahadev trek was not only an adventure, but it was a spiritual calling. Looking up at the 75 feet (Shrikhand Mahadev Peak, n.d.)Shivling at an altitude of 17,150 ft only the silence of the Himalayas surrounding me, I knew that this trek was not just about taming a mountain but finding an association with an entity much larger and far more powerful than me. When I went there for my first Kailash Yatra It seemed like a path of faith, strength, and an experience that transformed me completely.

The Shrikhand Mahadev Trek is a spiritually uplifting and adventurous journey to the Shrikhand Mahadev Peak, where a 72-foot-high natural Shivling represents Lord Shiva. Located in Himachal Pradesh, this challenging trek spans 32 kilometers and reaches at Shrikhand mahadev altitude of 5,227 meters (17,150 feet), making it a test of endurance and devotion. Ideal for trekking between July and August, the journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush meadows, and glacial streams. Pilgrims and adventurers alike experience a mix of natural beauty and divine energy as they traverse steep climbs, rocky trails, and high-altitude passes like Bhim Dwar and Parvati Baag. This unforgettable Kailash Yatra is a must for those seeking spiritual fulfillment and a connection with the divine amidst nature’s splendor.

A Calling from the Mountains

There is something about the mountains that cannot be described in words — they beckon, silently and persistently. I had been listening for years, the voyage to Shrikhand trek of Himachal Pradesh is said to be one of the most sacred Kailash Parvat Yatra. It was more than just a trek; it was a route travelled by followers to attain the blessings of Lord Shiva. I heard the call, and I felt it deep within me, so I had to answer.

As I stood at the base in Jaon village, waiting for hours before beginning the arduous climb triggered feelings of anticipation and nervousness that I could not name which I believe was respect for what lay ahead. Though the jaon to Shrikhand Mahadev distance might have been 32 odd kilometers I knew that real journey was inside.

History and Spiritual Significance of Shrikhand Mahadev

Shrikhand Mahadev: This story will melt the heart. It was not just any other mountain this was a holy Kailash Parvat also considered to be one of the abodes of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims traverse this treacherous route with unalloyed devotion to catching a glimpse of the natural Shivling perched at 18,570 feet. As per legends, it is believed that even the Pandavas of Mahabharata visited this place making it one of historically most important sites in Hindu belief.

The destination is all very fantastic and everything, but what truly elevates this trek above the rest is not where you end up, it’s how you get there. It will only take me one step closer to letting go to the divine power. Higher up, the sound of my heartbeat consumed my head and for the first time I understood what people meant when they referred to this trek as being life changing.

Best Time to Visit Shrikhand Mahadev Trek

The Months of July to September are the Shrikhand Mahadev trek best time. This is the time when the winter finds some respite and sheds off snow which covers all those trails getting them into condition to be walked upon again. However, Shrikhand Kailash Yatra weather is capricious in summer as well. The days are Cold to Chilling at 10°C-20°C & it gets chillier as we approach Camps and Night temperature will dip down to -5°C on higher camps.

I recall waking up at the Thachru campsite, with my visible breath in the cold air, a mixture of excitement and anxiousness about what was to follow. It was cool and the sky was mostly clear, making it seem that the mountains themselves were beckoning me on. However, in the mountains you must expect Shrikhand mahadev weather sudden changes for rain, snow and icy winds are never far away.

Physical Fitness (Must do things before trekking)

• Start cardio exercise to improve your lung and heart capacity
• Do some jogging or fast walking in the morning to fine tune your muscles
• Don’t smoke and drink while planning for trek.
• Prepare yourself mentally fit to accept the challenging conditions in high altitude.
• Do some yoga and try to control your breath.

Things to Carry for Shrikhand Mahadev Trek

Packing for the Shrikhand Kailash trek isn’t just about preparing for physical endurance—it’s about respecting the unpredictable nature of the mountains. Here’s what I packed for my journey:

• Layered Clothing: I learned quickly that the mountains demand preparation. I carried thermal wear, fleece jackets, and waterproof jackets. At night, the biting cold made me thankful for my woolen socks and gloves.
• Trekking Shoes: My sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes were my lifeline. The rocky and slippery paths demanded good grip and ankle support.
• Backpack: A 50–60-liter backpack held everything I needed—warm clothes, rain gear, and food supplies.
• Trekking Poles: These were my constant companions, helping me balance on steep inclines and rocky terrain.
• First Aid Kit: Including band-aids, blister pads, painkillers, and Diamox for altitude sickness was essential for high altitudes.

Each item I carried felt like a protective shield against the unpredictable nature of the Himalayas, ensuring I was prepared for both the physical and emotional trials of the trek.

Medicines to Carry for Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Yatra

The trek to Shrikhand Kailash takes you to extreme altitudes, where the air is thin and the cold biting. To stay safe and healthy, I carried:

• Diamox: To help prevent altitude sickness, which became necessary as I climbed higher.
• Pain relievers: For the muscle aches and joint pain that are inevitable on such a challenging trek.
• ORS sachets: To prevent dehydration as the trek demanded constant hydration, especially in the high-altitude air.
• Blister pads: The rocky terrain can be hard on the feet, and blister pads became my best friends by the end of the journey.

How to Reach Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash

By Road – The distance from Delhi to Shrikhand Mahadev is approximately 550 km and the road trip takes you through a beautiful journey across Himachal Pradesh. My way to Jaon village which is in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh started with a bus from Delhi to Shimla, after that I had to take a taxi. The way to Jaon Himachal Pradesh, via road, is a path carved through the mountains, valleys and rivers letting you get the first views of beauty that is lay ahead.

By Air – If you’re flying, the nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 180 km from Jaon village. From Shimla, you can easily get a taxi or bus to reach Rampur, and then continue to Jaon by road.

By Rail – The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is a famous rail option. From there, the Shimla to Shrikhand Mahadev distance can be covered by road, making the entire journey to Jaon an experience filled with breathtaking views.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: A Spiritual and Emotional Journey

Day 1: Jaon Village to Thachru Campsite (11,150 feet, 15 km)

We started our journey of Shrikhand yatra from a quaint little place named Jaon village, there is Goddess Kali Temple situated at Jaon village and we go temple to take blessing from Maa Kaali. Jaon Village is nestled in the foothills of Himachal Pradesh. At an elevation of 6700ft, Jaon is the village that you enter it feels like another world. When I headed out, I was excited and scared. The first day was 15 kms of dense forest trails, undulating climbs and spate stream. After 3 KM we reached at Singhaad the first base camp. From there we started climbing a 12 Km uphill stretch to Thachru also called “Dandi ki Dhaar” by locals due to elevation approx. 7degree.

The trail to Thachru where we were camped for the night was very strenuous, yet seeing natural beauty all around me made it easier. Those tall pines and the lull of a nearby waterfall seemed like words from the god himself and I felt privileged to walk on this sacred land shadowed by the Himalayas. At Thachru, we were at 11,150 feet and the cold night air was teething— but the view of the stars twinkling above the mountains made it all worth it.

Day 2: Thachru to Bheem Dawar (13,800 feet, 10 km)

This was my toughest day, by far. To me, the ascent from Thachru to Bheem Dawar was my limit. We climbed 3 KM uphill to Kaali Ghati where we bowed down in front of Maa Kaali. From here Shrikhand Shiva Lingam is visible because the weather is clear. We have reached Bhim Talai after 1Km downhill trek, and it takes 3KM more to reach beautiful Kunsa Valley. There are flowers all around and the scenic beauty is unprecedented. A further 3KM trek take us to Bheem Dawar. Every step was a searing pain in my legs, but my heart would not allow me to stop.

We felt as though making it to Bheem Dawar at 13,800 feet was an achievement. The air was rare, the winds brisk, yet I have never seen mountains more awe-inspiring than the snow-covered summits that encircled us. It was incredibly isolated but peaceful all at the same time.

Day 3: Bheem Dawar to Shrikhand Mahadev (18,570 feet) & Back to Parvati Bagh (14,000 feet, 14 km)

The third day was the holiest of days. This was the D-Day for us because today is our last lap to Shrikhand Mahadev. We have started early morning and after trekking around 2KM we reached at Parvati Bagh (Flower Valley), at Parvati valley we have seen Brahma Kamal which a rarest flower is as told us by some local people. The climb from Parvati Bagh to the summit was tough, the climb was up a rocky, snowy trail. It was bitterly cold, and the lack of oxygen made each step seem heavier. But just being able to see the Shivling at 17150ft justified everything.

Standing before the Shrikhand Mahadev temple, a 75 feet tall Shiva Lingam I was brought down to my knees in awe. The massive Shivling was set against the Himalayas in all its grandeur, a symbol that displays the mightiness of Lord Shiva. And as I prayed with a heart full of thankfulness…a peace came over me like nothing else. At this time we have covered Jaon to Shrikhand mahadev distance almost 32 km.

Post spending some time at the summit, it was time to descend to Parvati Bagh, at 14000 feet and it is a very beautiful camping ground. This was the end of our adventure, and it was a long tiring descent back to civilization, yet we were kept company by the peace of the mountains throughout.

Day 4 & 5: Parvati Bagh to Jaon Village

The last day was bittersweet. Next 12km was downhill to Jaon village which descended from Parvati Bagh. The physical challenge may have been waning, but my heart felt so full—a thankfulness for the mountains I had spent time with; an appreciation for the experience that was this trail I found itself upon; a realization of a divine Presence that seemed to walk beside me throughout every step. When we hit Jaon village, I realized that was not just a walk I did, it was a soul journey.

Conclusion: A Journey to Remember

Nestled in the folds of the Himalayas, the Shrikhand Mahadev trek was more than a physical challenge; it was an insight into the heart of God. Each step was a prayer, and each breath a meditation. Standing on the top gazing at the Shivling, I connected back to that million-year-old consciousness. Hopefully this will be my first among many Kailash Yatra. The mountains have a way of calling you back, and I know I will answer again.

The Shrikhand Mahadev trek is a path to the divine, a journey that will leave you changed. Answer the call of the mountains and let them guide you to the peace you seek. Om Namah Shivaya!

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