Shrikhand Mahadev

Shrikhand Mahadev, revered as one of the Panch Kailash, holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, this sacred peak stands at an altitude of approximately 18,570 feet, drawing pilgrims and trekkers alike with its breathtaking vistas and divine aura. The journey to Shrikhand Mahadev is a test of faith and endurance, as it involves trekking through lush meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrains, with the towering Shivling-shaped peak as the ultimate destination. Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, Shrikhand Mahadev is not just a pilgrimage but a transformative experience, where every step resonates with devotion and the soul feels the presence of the divine. This revered Kailash is a symbol of spiritual awakening and connection to the supreme. Shrikhand Mahadev is not just a trek; it is a spiritual and adventurous journey that attracts thousands of pilgrims and trekkers each year. Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Shrikhand Mahadev stands at an elevation of 18,570 feet above sea level. The trek is revered for its religious significance, breathtaking views, and the sheer challenge it poses to adventurers. This guide provides an in-depth understanding of the trek’s route, challenges, and essential tips for a successful journey. 1. Overview of the Shrikhand Mahadev Trek Shrikhand Mahadev is named after Lord Shiva, and the trek culminates at a Shivling that is believed to be one of the abodes of the deity. The trek is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves traversing steep ascents, rocky terrains, and high-altitude landscapes. The journey spans approximately 32 kilometers (one way) and typically takes about 8-10 days to complete.Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash, also called Shikhar Kailash, is a Hindu pilgrimage site in Nirmand sub-division of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India, considered to be an abode of Lord Shiva and his wife Goddess Parvati. It is considered to be one of the toughest treks in India.[2] It is the third most important peak among the group of five separate peaks in Himalayas in separate locations collectively known as the Panch Kailash or "Five Kailashas", other being Mount Kailash in first place, Adi Kailash in second, Kinnaur Kailash in fourth and Manimahesh Kailash in fifth place in terms of importance.The 75 feet Shivalingam at the top of the Shrikhand Mahadev mountain is at a height of 18,570 feet. There are various spots that pilgrims take before reaching Jaon, some of them include (in decreasing order of their distance from the peak), Shimla, Nirmand, Jaon. It is a 32 km (from one side) trek from base village Jaon to the Shrikhand top which is approximately 18,570 ft above the sea level. From Jaon the journey begins, and after 3 km of walking reaches Singhaad, the first Base camp where Langar (free meal for the pilgrims) is available alongside some paid food services. After that there is a 12 km straight uphill stretch to Thaachru, also known as 'Dandi-Dhaar' (roughly translating to Stick-Height), because of the stretch being a very steep slope with an elevation angle of approximately 70 degrees. One gets to see lush green Deodar trees and streams while heading towards Thaachru. After the long 15 km trek, there is a recommended halt with tent lodging in Thaachru. Picture of a lake at a mountain. Nain Sarowar Thaachru is another base camp, surrounded by lush green Deodar trees and streams, where meals and tents are available. The journey begins with a 3 km uphill trek to Kali Ghati, which is supposed to be abode of the Goddess Kali. The Shiva-Linga can be seen from this point, given the weather is clear. From Kali Ghati, there is a 1 km downhill stretch towards Bheem Talai. Departing from Bheem Talai, there is a 3 km stretch to Kunsa Valley, a green valley with Himalayan flowers surrounding it. After another 3 km stretch from here, there is the next base camp, Bheem Dawaar, having all the usual services. Just 2 km ahead is another base camp, Parvati Bagh (Parvati's garden), supposedly a garden planted by Hindu Goddess Parvati. The garden has flowers like Brahma Kamal, also known as Saussurea obvallata, which supposedly was used by the Hindu deity Shiva to plant an elephant's head on Ganesha, the god of New Beginnings. 2 km from there, is the next spot Nain Saravor (meaning, Eye's Lake), and revered to be a holy lake, and numerous people reporting physical healing of old diseases, and impairments after dipping in the lake. After this, is the final stretch of approximately 3 km to the peak, through rocky terrains, to the peak, where the lingam is situated. The peak, alongside having Shiva's lingam also has a mountain for Lord Kartikeya, behind the main Shiva mountain.