Gauri Kund, Adi Kailash

Located at the foothills of the revered Adi Kailash, Gauri Kund is a sacred lake that holds great spiritual importance for Hindu devotees. The place is connected to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, and is also known as Parvati Sarovar. With mythological stories and spiritual significance surrounding it, this sacred lake symbolizes purity, devotion, and divine presence. It is an essential part of the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra. Devotees perform rituals at this lake, worshiping Goddess Parvati and engaging in spirituality. If you're undertaking the sacred pilgrimage of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, don't miss visiting this serene lake.

Spiritual and Mythological Significance

The Gauri Kund, also known as Parvati Sarovar, near Adi Kailash, is the top attraction of the Adi Kailash Yatra. This place has a great spiritual significance associated with Mata Parvati. According to Hindu Mythology, this is the place where goddess Parvati meditated for years to marry Lord Shiva.

Goddess Parvati used to bathe in this pristine lake. It is also the same place where goddess Parvati acquired her son Lord Ganesha. Afterward, the divine couple with their son, Lord Ganesha, started living in the region.

Since Adi Kailash is known as the replica of Mount Kailash and called Chota Kailash or Little Kailash, the lake near it, Gauri Kund, is sometimes referred to as the Mansarovar of the Adi Kailash Peak.

With these mythological stories, this place holds great importance for Hindu devotees. Pilgrims visit this holy site to seek blessings from the Almighty for marital bliss, harmony, and spiritual growth.

Why You Should Visit Gauri Kund

Besides the spiritual aura, the natural splendor of the site will captivate you. Apart from spiritual significance, here are the reasons why you must explore the place:

• Crystal clear water: The water of this pristine lake is crystal clear and calm. It creates a stunning mirror-like effect of the Adi Kailash Peak, which is a mesmerizing view for devotees and trekkers.
• Surrounding landscapes: Along with the beauty of the lake, the surrounding landscape of the snow-capped mountains and the towering Adi Kailash Parvat will enchant you with its beauty. The serenity of the site creates a profound sense of peace and calmness.
• Darshan of Adi Kailash: Pilgrims on their pilgrimage to Adi Kailash Parvat visit Gauri Kund. And, the lake offers the best viewpoint for the Adi Kailash. You get a clear sight of the Adi Kailash peak standing tall in the background of the Gauri Kund.

Rituals at Gauri Kund

This pious pond is associated with Goddess Parvati. Hence, devotees perform some rituals and spiritual practices that you must know about:

• Holy Dip: It is said that taking a holy dip in the Gauri Kund washes away all your sins and purifies your soul. Therefore, devotees who visit this holy place take a dip in the sacred pond or at least sprinkle water on themselves as a ritual of devotion and purification.
• Visit the Temple: A temple is located adjacent to the Gauri Kund in Adi Kailash, dedicated to Mata Parvati and Lord Shiva. Pilgrims visit the temple to perform prayers and worship, and also leave small offerings.

How and When to Visit Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund is a part of the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra, and it requires an Inner Line Permit due to its challenging terrain and restricted area. Pilgrims who undertake this sacred pilgrimage often visit Gauri Kund. And, the Adi Kailash Yatra is an annual pilgrimage organized by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) in collaboration with the registered tour operators. The Adi Kailash Yatra begins in mid-May and concludes in mid-October. You can visit Gauri Kund during this time only. However, it is good to avoid visiting Adi Kailash and Gauri Kund during the monsoon season.