The second phase of the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat pilgrimage commenced on Wednesday, with 195 pilgrims departing for Gunji on the first day. Around 400 more travelers are currently waiting in Dharchula for the issuance of Inner Line Permits. This leg of the journey is scheduled to continue until the end of October.
The second phase was initially slated to begin on September 15, but poor weather conditions delayed the issuance of permits. Responding to the rising number of pilgrims in Dharchula and growing demand from tour operators, the administration started granting permits from Wednesday.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manjeet Singh confirmed that 195 permits were issued on the opening day, enabling pilgrims to proceed to Gunji for onward travel to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. He added that the remaining 400 permits will be released in batches, with 200 to be issued on Thursday and 200 on Friday, depending on weather conditions.
The revival of the yatra has brought relief and joy to both pilgrims and local tourism operators. The first phase, held from May to June, saw nearly 50,000 devotees visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. The pilgrimage was halted during the monsoon season and is now expected to draw over 70,000 visitors in its second phase. If weather conditions remain favorable, the yatra may be extended further.
