Parvati Sarovar
Parvati Sarovar is a revered high-altitude glacial lake located near Adi Kailash (Chhota Kailash) in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, rocky terrains, and untouched natural beauty, Parvati Sarovar offers a deeply spiritual and tranquil experience for devotees and nature lovers alike.
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas at an elevation of approximately 4,200 meters, this serene lake holds immense religious and spiritual importance for Hindu pilgrims. It is believed to be the divine meditation and bathing place of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
Religious & Spiritual Significance
Parvati Sarovar is closely associated with Hindu mythology and is considered one of the most sacred spots on the Adi Kailash Yatra route.
According to legends:
- Goddess Parvati performed penance at this lake to attain Lord Shiva as her husband.
- The lake is believed to possess divine and purifying powers.
- Pilgrims often perform prayers, meditation, and rituals at the site before proceeding to Adi Kailash.
A visit to Parvati Sarovar is considered spiritually incomplete without offering prayers here during the Adi Kailash pilgrimage.
Best Time to Visit Parvati Sarovar
Ideal visiting months:
- May to June
- September to October
Avoid:
- Monsoon season (July–August) due to landslides.
- Winter months as the region remains snowbound and inaccessible.
Weather & Climate
- Summer: Cold but manageable (5°C to 15°C)
- Night Temperature: Can drop below freezing
- Oxygen Level: Low due to high altitude
Pilgrims are advised to acclimatize properly before visiting.
Accommodation Options
- Basic guesthouses & homestays at Gunji, Nabi, and Kuti
- Limited accommodation near Jolingkong
- Facilities are simple and mostly managed by locals or the government
Luxury hotels are not available in this region.
Important Permits & Requirements
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) mandatory
- Medical fitness certificate
- Valid ID proof
- Permits issued at Dharchula or online through authorized agencies
Parvati Sarovar Location & Altitude
- Region: Kumaon, Uttarakhand
- Nearest Major Site: Adi Kailash (Chhota Kailash)
- Altitude: ~4,200 meters (13,800 ft)
- Terrain: Rocky Himalayan landscape with glacial water
Parvati Sarovar lies a short trek away from Jolingkong, the base point for Adi Kailash.
How to Reach Parvati Sarovar
Step-by-Step Route
- Dharchula – Starting point of the Adi Kailash Yatra
- Gunji / Nabi / Kuti – Villages en route
- Jolingkong – Base camp for Adi Kailash
- Parvati Sarovar – Short walk/trek from Jolingkong
By Road
- Roads are accessible up to Dharchula.
- From Dharchula, the journey continues via mountain roads to Jolingkong (requires permits).
By Trek
- The final stretch involves a short but steep walk from Jolingkong.
- Suitable for pilgrims with moderate fitness levels.
Travel Tips for Pilgrims & Tourists
- Carry warm clothing, gloves, and thermal wear
- Keep medicines for altitude sickness
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol
- Respect local customs and environment
- Do not pollute the lake or surroundings
