3. Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh
Town in Uttarakhand
Pithoragarh is a western Himalayan town with a Municipal Board in Pithoragarh district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is the largest organized semi-urbanized to urbanized town and village cluster in the hills of Uttarakhand. Wikipedia
Pithoragarh is the easternmost district of Uttarakhand, neighboring Tibet in the north and Nepal in the east. A place of exquisite natural beauty and serenity, Pithoragarh is popularly known as the ‘Little Kashmir’. This captivating town with fascinating forests around it is located at an impressive height of 1,645 m and is nestled in a small valley. Pithoragarh town is a historical landmark. It was a major center of power during the regime of the Chand Kings in Kumaon.

From here, pilgrims take their journey to the holy shrines, Kailash and Mansarovar. This valley also nestles the snow-crested peaks Nanda Devi East (7,434 m) and West (7,817 m). Below these mighty peaks lie the alpine valleys and glaciers like Milam, Ralam, Namik, and Sundardunga.

Elevation: 1,514 m
Weather: 7 °C, Wind W at 0 km/h, 72% Humidity
Population: 56,044 (2011)
PIN: 262501
Vehicle registration: UK-05
Local time: Thursday, 10:12 am

State: Uttarakhand
District: Pithoragarh
Famous for/as: Scenic
Languages:  Kumaoni, Hindi
Best Season:  Mar-Jun, Sep-Dec
Weather:  Summer 15-30°C,
Winter:  0-24°C
Altitude:  1514 m
Pincode:  208016
STD code:  05964

Geography
Pithoragarh is at 29.58°N 80.22°E. It has an average elevation of 1,514 meters (4,967 feet). It is situated in Soar Valley. The valley is spread across around 50 square kilometers.

History
"The district is named after its headquarters town, Pithoragarh. Tradition has it that during the reign of the Chand Rajas of Kumaon, one Piru, also called Prithvi Gosain, built a fort here and named it Prithvigarh which, in the course of time, got changed to Pithoragarh."

Pithoragarh District having its entire northern and eastern boundaries being international assumes a great strategic significance and, obviously, is a politically sensitive district along the northern frontier of India. Being the last district adjoining Tibbet, it has tremendous strategic importance as the passes of Lipulekh, Kungribingri, Lampia Dhura, Lawe Dhura, Belcha, and Keo, open out to Tibbet. The breathtaking beauty of Pithoragarh – the Himalayas, wide expanses of grassy meadow, perennial streams roaring down the zig-zag course, a stupendous variety of flora and fauna, above all, pure nature yet unsullied, seem to beckon the beholder into their folds, into a charmed world of virgin beauty.

It was in the wake of the Chinese aggression that on the 24th Feb. 1960, a sizeable section of Almora district was carved into Pithoragarh district containing extreme border areas with its headquarters in Pithoragarh town. On 15th September 1997, the Champawat Tehsil, hitherto under Pithoragarh, was carved into Champawat district.

The Pithoragarh town is located at a height of 1645 meters above sea level. The district lies between 29.4° to 30.3° North latitude and 80° to 81° East longitude along the eastern and southern part of the central Himalayas with Indo-Tibetan watershed divide in the north and the Kali river.

forming a continuous border with Nepal in the east. The Pithoragarh district   is  surrounded by the national  boundaries  of   Almora, Champawat,
Bageshwar and Chamoli districts and extends over an area of  7,217.7  sq. Km.  The details of  the land utilization are given as below :

There are numerous scenic spots to which the prospective tourist may plan excursions like Chandak, Thal Kedar, Gangolihat (77 km) famous for its Kali temple, Patal Bhuvneshwar (99 km), Berinag (Tea Garden of Chaukori – 11 km away from Berinag), Didihat, Munsyari (base camp for treks to Milam, Ralam and Namik Glacier), Dharchula(base camp for Kailas Mansarover Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, Narayan Swami Ashram) and Jauljibi.


Places of interest

Kailash Ashram in the suburb of Wadda. The ashram is run by Mahamandaleshwar Santoshi Maa, who has her akhada in Haridwar. Every year around April, there is a yagna organized with grandeur.
Chandak Reserve Forest, 7 kilometers from the city center. . Leopard sighting is common during the night.
Mostamanu Temple is famous among locales for serenity and scenic beauty.
Kamakhya Temple.
Munsyari
Maharajke Park is situated in the cantonment area. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Soldiers of the Kumaon Regiment captured the Pakistani post of Maharajke in Jammu and Kashmir. This park is constructed in remembrance of the Shahids of that operation.
Pithoragarh Cantonment area.
Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple is situated on top of kapileshwar hill. I Temple has a 10-meter long cave.
Thal Kedar Temple is located approximately 18 kilometers from the city center. Banj Oak trees are in abundance here. This forest is home to Asiatic black bears and Himalayan leopards.
Dhwaj.
Ashurchula.
Askote wildlife sanctuary.
Bhatkote.
Pithoragarh Fort.
London Fort.
Khaliya Top
Daivchula Temple.
Birthi Waterfall.
Sirakot Temple.


Sharadotsav
Saradotsav has played a significant role in conserving and sharing Pithorgarh's unique culture. It showcases local culture through music and dance, often featuring performances in the Kumaoni language.

In popular culture
The small town was extensively described in a novel by American author Bradley Swift, From Pithoragarh to Pittsburg.

Location
Pithoragarh is connected by road, and it also has an airport. Commercial flights on 3 routes are proposed under the government schemes. Flights in Pithoragarh - Dehradun, Pithoragarh - Pantnagar, and Pithoragarh - Ghaziabad route are planned to be operational. Out of these Pithoragarh - Ghaziabad (Hindon) route was launched on Oct, 12th 2019. A Heritage Aviation aircraft with nine passengers on board took off from Naini-Saini airport in Pithoragarh to mark the start of flight operations between the Pithoragarh and the Hindon airport.

Haldwani and Tanakpur are two entry points for entering Pithoragarh by road. Both are connected by railway services. Regular state bus transport services along with private taxi services are available at both places.


Education

Schools in Pithoragarh are run by the state government or private organizations, many of which are religious. Hindi and English are the primary languages of instruction. Schools in Pithoragarh follow the "10+2+3" plan.

After completing their secondary education, students typically enroll in Inter Colleges that have a higher secondary facility and are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education, CISCE or the Department of Education of the Government of Uttarakhand. They usually choose a focus on liberal arts, business, or science.[citation needed]

As of 2011, Pithoragarh had 17 primary schools, 20 middle schools, 22 secondary schools, 14 senior secondary schools, and 1-degree college.:685 Before independence, during the middle of the 19th century when Pithoragarh was part of Almora, there were only two middle schools in Pithoragarh.

LSM Govt. Post Graduate College is the only government college in the town providing studies up to post-graduation. It is affiliated to Kumaun University, Nainital. With the growing impact of I.T., the government opened to SIT Pithoragarh in 2011. Almost a dozen of privately owned computer centers opened up later in the town. A few of the IT centers which are in Pithoragarh town are NIIT, Hiltron, Aptech, UpHill Computers, Info. Park, Sri Calculation and Care Computer.


Pithoragarh Tourism
A small urban town bustling with tourists is a prime example of raw beauty of nature and is often fondly referred to as the 'Little Kashmir'. A gateway to Himalayan Range, this town also serves as the stopover for pilgrims on their way to Kailash Mansarover.

Situated in a beautiful Soar valley and flanked by Nepal in the east and Tibet in the north, Pithoragarh promises of an unforgettable trip. With River Kali flowing through the town which is prettily adorned with tranquil temples, villages, fort, lush green forests and natural resources, this place is a blessing in disguise for travel enthusiasts.



                                             Places To Visit In Pithoragarh

1. London fort
Category  Historic

The Pithoragarh fort is located on top of a hill on the outskirts of Pithoragarh. It was built by the Gorkhas back in the year 1789.
Pithoragarh Fort
Pithoragarh Fort is one of the most sought after destination of this town. Located in the proximity to the place, this fort affords spectacular views of the Kali Kumaon.

As per the records, this fort was established in the year 1789 by Gorkhas after the invasion of the town.

How to Reach:
By Air
7 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
280 km from kathgodam station

By Road
500 mt from district headquarter


2. Thal Kedar
Category  Religious
A pilgrim spot that is reached through a narrow pathway, the Thal Kedar is nestled at an elevation of 880 meters above sea level. The place is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is mentioned in the ancient text of the Skanda Purana. The location also offers some really amazing views of the valley and is attracts several tourists during the festival of Shivratri every year.

A holy place dedicated to Lord Shiva is also known for its mesmerizing beauty and spellbinding surroundings. Located 15 km from the town, this temple can only be reached by trekking either from Pithoragarh or from Nakuleshwar Temple.

Thal Kedar is situated at an altitude of 2000 m and attracts a large number of devotees during Shivratri.

How to Reach:
By Air
12 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
280 km from kathgodam railway station

By Road
10 km from district headquarter and 3 km on foot


3. Naini Saini Airport
Category  Recreational
Naini Saini Airport otherwise called Pithoragarh Airstrip is situated in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India. The airstrip was built in 1991 for authoritative utilize and got ready for the operations of Dornier 228 sort flying machine.

How to Reach:
By Air
92 km from Pantnagar airport

By Train
280 km from kathgodam railway station

By Road
230 km from Haldwani city


4. Chandak
Category  Adventure
Chandak refers to a hill that is famous for housing a temple dedicated to the Hindu deity ‘Manu’ and is situated at a distance of 8 kilometers from Pithoragarh. The location is one of the best spots for hang gliding and the magnetite mining factory is also located near the valley.

Chandak is a hill with an opportunity for a small trek situated on the north side of the Soar Valley. Located at a distance of 8 km from Pithoragarh, this beautiful place also offers its visitors a taste of adventure in the form of hang gliding.
Apart from this, the Mostamanu Temple is also found here almost 2 km away on foot. This temple attracts a lot of visitors during August and September when a fair is organized.

How to Reach:
By Air
8 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
280 km from kathgodam railway station

By Road
5 km from district headquarter Pithoragarh


5. Berinag Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Category  Religious
Patal Bhubaneshwar, which literally means the sub-terranean shrine of Lord Shiva is a cave temple located about 91 km. from Pithoragarh and 14 km north of Gangolihat. The way to the temple is through a tunnel that leads into a cave and through a narrow dark passage of water.

Amidst the mighty Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Berinag sits quietly in its serene solitude. The small village town is the perfect place to answer the mountains call and reconnect with nature. Nature's bounty awaits you in this mountainous hamlet with absolutely breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lovely hilly roads to explore. From here, you can see some of the best jewels in the crown of the Himalayas like Nanda Devi, Trishul and some more. The Nepal Himalayas are visible too - even though distant and blurry.

Berinag once used to be a colonial establishment. The emerald tea gardens spread across the village town is ample proof of that. With so much green, cool misty weather and the apparent tranquillity of the mountains, Berinag is a perfect place to relax and unwind for a couple of days. Albeit it does not have many tourist spots to hop around and visit, it is in itself quite enough to charm the travelers over a weekend.

Contrary to the hustle and bustle of the city hill stations that Uttarakhand is so famous for, Berinag sits secluded with its mesmerizing natural appeal and bunches of snake legends. In fact, the whole origin of the name Berinag is related to these stories and myths. The word nag in Sanskrit means snake. And true to its name, the place has got a temple called Nag Devta which is dedicated to the serpent avatar of Lord Vishnu. There are other stories about this place as well.

Legend of Berinag 
The village of Berinag has many myths and legends told about it locally. All of them revolve around various snakes, real and mythical, and the most common one is that the place has been named after the temple Berinag or Veninag, as it is locally called. The temple is a shrine of Lord Vishnu's snake manifestation which is probably a nod to his residential serpent deity Seshanag.

Another belief is that the place was once under the rule of King Benimadhava of the Nagaveni dynasty and in his memory, the place was called Berinag. However, the most popular legend takes us back to Lord Vishnu. Everybody knows the story of his Kaliyadaman episode, where he killed the giant snake Kaliya and made him leave his home of Yamuna. The local lore says that he took his few followers and made his home here in a cave in the Kumaon Himalayas.

Places To Visit & Activities in Berinag 
Nag Devta Temple
The existence of the village and the temple of Berinag is inextricably involved. In fact, there is a high chance that the place is in fact named after the temple itself. Like most ancient temples of India, this one also has to a specific date of origin but has loads of myths surrounding it.

It is said that this place was infested with various snakes when it was uninhabited. So, when the Pant Gotra people came here from Maharashtra, they built the temple to show respect. The temple is located in the heart of the Berinag village, and almost everyone who comes to Berinag pays a visit here out of devotion or out of curiosity.

Trekking and Exploration
Berinag is a cozy hamlet with not many places to visit, but it sure has enough winding, hilly roads and small village neighborhoods which you can trek and explore. Remember to wear durable, protective shoes and carry water with you. The rest should not be a trouble. This is, in fact, one of the best ways to travel a place. You get to have a glimpse at the real people and their lives and get to chat with them instead of simply hopping from one site to another.

Panoramic view of the Central Himalayan sentinels
Though most of the Himalayas lie in Tibet and China, India has some of the most beautiful peaks of the range. The great sentinels of Central Greater Himalayas like Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachulli, Nandakot and more can be seen in a horizontal chain from the village of Berinag. Though they are not clearly visible all the time; but when the sky is clear and blue, it paints a brilliantly picturesque panoramic view which is an absolute delight to behold. Do remember to carry your DSLRs with you, because if you are lucky enough to get the view, you deserve to keep a copy of it.

Tea Gardens
Because of climatic conditions and land positions, Berinag used to be a British tea plantation estate. The tea gardens are still there, holding on to the hint of colonial vibe. The tea cultivated here is quite famous and the lush gardens are a treat to the eyes as well. You can take a walk past the tea gardens and stop to take photographs. You will get the best sort of green carpet-like background.

Best Time To Visit Berinag 
If you love the cold, then the winter months are the best time to visit Berinag. From December to February, you will get the real mountain cold of the Himalayas, and if you are lucky, you might even get some snow. The place is misty and beautiful during this time. It is always better to avoid the monsoons in the mountains.

How To Reach Berinag 
Berinag is a well-connected place with good roads and an equally good transport network. From Delhi, many interstate buses go to the nearby cities like Almora and Champawat from where you can take hire cabs to Berinag. You can also hire cars from any region of Kumaon, and it will take you to the village of Berinag.


By Air
90 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
270 km from kathgodam station

By Road
115 km from district headquarter


 6. Narayan Ashram
Category  Adventure, Natural / Scenic beauty
The ashram was established by Narayan Swami in 1936, about 136 km north of Pithoragarh and 14 km from Tawaghat. This spiritual cum socio-educational center is set at an altitude of 2734 meters amidst scenic surroundings. It has a school for local children and imparts training to local youth. There is also a library, meditation room, and samadhi sthal.

Imagine Zen, nature, culture, and some light literature meeting for an early brunch in the hills. Now imagine you joining them. This is the only perfect way to describe a visit to the Narayan Ashram.

While sometimes in the hill you may find the silence too eerie to handle on your own, the Ashram makes one celebrate the silence. The blooms around the Ashram are in full strength, while the Ashram itself houses a library and a meditation room as well. A socio-education center is a place where you can learn in the lap of serenity and nature and makes your trip a well-rounded one.

How to Reach:
By Air
100 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
350 km from kathgodam station

By Road
116 km from district headquarter


7. Jhulaghat
Category  Historic
This small town on the Indo-Nepal border is named after a hanging bridge on the Kali River. One can enter Nepal through this bridge. The small market here deals with Nepali goods and other electronic items
How to Reach:
By Air
40 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
310 km from kathgodam station

By Road
38 km from district headquarter.


 8. Chaukori
Category  Natural / Scenic beauty
The small hill town of Chaukori provides great weather and majestic views of snow-capped peaks. The entire area is filled with tea gardens and orchards. It is located about 112 km from Pithoragarh. Gangolihat: The sacred site is famous for the Hatkalika Fair held on the Ashtami of Chaitra month at the Kalika temple. Devotees visit the shrine during this time with drums and flags to pay homage to Goddess Kalika.

How to Reach:
By Air
90 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
300 km from kathgodam station

By Road
82 km from district headquarter


9. Askot Sanctuary
Category  Adventure, Natural / Scenic beauty
This beautiful sanctuary which is located about 54 km from Pithoragarh nestles at a height of 5412 feet above sea level. It is very popular among wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is a haven for snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deers, snow cocks, tahra, bharals, chirs, koklas, pheasants and chukors. The lush sanctuary area dotted with temples is also a fine place to view the beauty of the Himalayas
A heaven for wildlife lovers and botany enthusiast, Askot sanctuary is adorned with a wide range of flora and fauna. Located at the height of 5412 m and at a distance of 54 km from Pithoragarh, this place is bounded by rich and gorgeous surroundings.

One can witness vivid kinds of animals like chirs, pheasants, koklas, bharals, Himalayan black bears, chukors, snow leopards and musk deers, etc. Apart from inhabiting wildlife, Askot is also dotted with many temples.


How to Reach:
By Air
97 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
310 km from kathgodam station

By Road
54 km from district headquarter



10. Nakuleshwara Temple
Category  Religious
Situated about 10 km. from Pithoragarh is Nakuleshwara. Legends have it that the Nakuleshwara temple was built by Nakul and Sahdev (two brothers of Pandavas). The place is located in Athgaon Shilling area.

 this temple has a very fascinating story attached to it. It is said that this temple was built by the last two Pandavas namely Nakula and Sahadev and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

With an aura of tranquility, the temple is constructed in the Khajuraho style consisted of 38 stone images of different Gods which are deteriorating fast.
How to Reach:
By Air
12 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
290 km from kathgodam station

By Road
10 km from district headquarter



11. Dhwaj Temple
Category  Adventure, Religious
Dhwaj temple is a very famous shrine that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Maa Jayanti and is about 10 km by road and 4 km on foot from Pithoragarh. It also provides a breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks that surround it. Surrounded by a view majestic Himalayas, which is so captivating that it works wonderfully with the spirituality of the temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Maa Jayanti, this well-known pilgrimage lies at a distance of 10 km from Pithoragarh by road.
There is also an option of hiking to this place by covering a distance of 4 km.

How to Reach:
By Air
5 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
290 km from kathgodam station

By Road
5 km on foot



12. Kapileshwar Mahadev
Category  Natural / Scenic beauty
The Kapileshwar Mahadev cave is located about 3 km. from Pithoragarh. The cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it provides a beautiful view of the Soar valley and the Himalayan peaks...  This is a cave temple dedicated to Lord Mahadev and offers breathtaking views of Soar Valley and equally bewitching sight of snow-covered peaks of the great Himalayas.

Situated 3 km from Pithoragarh, the cave houses many tunnels to the temple which are closed. To worship the deity placed in the complex, one has to travel 10 m into the cave. Another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is also situated there about half a km away.

How to Reach:
By Air
10 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
290 km from kathgodam station

By Road
5 km from district headquarter



13. Maharajke park
Category  Historic
Maharajke Park of Pithoragarh was constructed to commemorate the battle of Maharajke post in Kashmir during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.


How to Reach:
By Air
3 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
280 km from kathgodam station

By Road
5 km from district headquarter



14. Munsyari
Category  Adventure, Natural / Scenic beauty
Munsyari acts as the base camp for treks to Milam, Ralam and Namik Glacier, while Dharachula is the base camp for Kailas Mansarovar Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, and Narayan Swami Ashram. It stands at an altitude of 2,135 meters above sea level and the entire region is known as Johar Valley. Situated around Munsyari are apline lakes of Maheshwari Kund and Thamri Kund.

Often referred to as "Little Kashmir", Munsiyari is a cozy hamlet located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 2298 meters, the pretty little hill town is known for its panorama of snow-capped Himalayan Range and some adventurous trekking trails.

Perched between the borders of India, Tibet, and Nepal, Munsiyari is a base for three glaciers namely Namik, Milam and Ralam Glaciers. The scenic village is often seen romancing with brilliant weather throughout the year and the stunning backdrop of Panchachuli (the five peaks), Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot. Also dubbed 'Gateway to Johar Valley', Munsiyari is the starting point of Johar Valley which was the ancient trade route between Tibet and India.

How to Reach:
By Air
94 km from Naini Saini airport

By Train
300 km from kathgodam station

By Road
90 km from district headquarter

Mini Kashmir of Uttarakhand 
Situated at an altitude of 2,300 mt and snuggled in the folds of snow-clad mountains, Munsiyari is considered as the Kashmir of Uttrakhand. Located in the Pithoragarh District, it is one of the fastest-growing tourist destination famous for panoramic vistas of the virgin nature. People visit Munsiyari to escape the bustling life of the cities and to feel the tranquillity of this place. The place offers a spellbinding view of the Himalayas and some breathtaking treks.

Gateway to the Himalayan treks 
Famous for the indescribable beauty, the town of Munsiyari is used as a base camp by mountaineers, glacier enthusiasts, high altitude trekkers, and nature lovers as it provides the gateway to Milam, Ralam, and Namik glaciers. The place is a bliss for the trekkers as it offers a number of moderate to high altitude treks. A short trek to Nanda Devi temple is a must-do when you are in Munsiyari. It is situated at a distance of 3 km and offers the most beautiful view of the Panchachuli mountains. Khalia top trek, Thamri Kund, and Maheshwari Kund are among the other famous treks in Munsiyari.

Restaurants and Local Food in Munsiyari 
Munsiyari is a small village that does not offer many eating outlets or restaurants. The best option is the in-house restaurant at the hotel. These restaurants offer Indian, Chinese, continental and Kumaoni cuisine. The small dhabas in the village mostly serve delicious Indian and Kumaoni cuisines. Kulka is a very delicious local delicacy comprising of flour and potatoes fried in dhungar (a local herb).

Best time to visit Munsiyari
With brilliant weather throughout the year, the summer season offers its visitors a sound chance for a picture-perfect clear view of peaks and plenty of trekking options. It welcomes you with a cold climate that will pull you away from the scorching heat. Adventurers may take a trip to this glorious place to find their piece of paradise, for Munsiyari is home to some of the most challenging trekking trails, river rafting, and hiking trails. The winters (November-mid March) are the time when the whole place is covered with the sheet of snow, making it an ideal place for couples and honeymooners. Skiing and other snow sport can be enjoyed during the season. When it comes to the monsoon, heavy rainfall and landslides can ruin your whole trip and thus avoid traveling during the season.

Munsiyari in Summer (March-May) 
If adventure is what you are looking for, then make sure to book your tickets to Munsiyari between March and May. Not only does the cold weather offer a soothing sigh of relief from the scorching heat, but the trekking trails are fully accessible as well. With temperatures that range from a pleasant 15 degree Celsius to 30 degree Celsius, it is also an apt time to set out on foot to explore the concealed treasury that lay hidden amidst this place. Some of the places you may visit at this time are the cascading Birthi Falls, the legendary Bethulidhar, the glorious Panchachuli Peak, and the ethereal Khaliya Top. Apart from trekking, you can also take part in the fantastic white river rafting, or camp beneath the starry sky at night.

Munsiyari in Winter (October - February) 
With temperatures that may drop down to -12 degrees Celsius and rise to 20 degrees Celsius, Munsiyari between October and February experiences the kind of winter that is sure to make one shiver with the chills! For those who love snow, plan your trip sometime between the last week of December to the early weeks of February. This is also an ideal time for newlyweds to go on a romantic honeymoon trip or for families who are looking to explore the place together. While you are here, do not miss out on the adrenaline-inducing skiing that is one of the most popular winter sports here. Thamari Kund, Maheshwari Kund, Nanda Devi Temple, and Darkot are some of the places you may want to visit during these months. Winter is also the time when various species of migratory birds settle in for a while, so if you are interested in these awesome creations of nature, make sure to carry your binoculars!

Munsiyari in Monsoon (June - September) 
Even though Munsiyari gets decked with the brightest shade of green during the monsoon months of June to September, it is best to stay away from this place, owing to the frequent, unpredictable landslides that may bring misfortune to anyone. Most of the roads are inhospitable at this time, and the ones that are accessible are often slippery and dangerous. With an average temperature that remains between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degree Celsius, the place experiences moderate to heavy downpour throughout these months.



15. Kafni Glacier Trek,
The scenic beauty and the tranquility prevailing in this region have an unbeatable charm. The Kaphini (Kafni) Glacier lies left of the Pindar Valley below the famous peak of Nanda Kot.

As compared to Pindar the valley is much broader and the rhododendron (burans) that blooms here is spectacularly beautiful. The main Himalayan summits visible from the glacier are Nandakot (6860 m) and Nandabhnar (6236 m).

About Kafni Glacier Trek
Approx trekking distance (Both sides): 90 Km
Base Camp: Saung
Difficulty: Moderate
Highest point of trek: 13,120 ft
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railhead: 151 km
Region: Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand
Snow: Mid April to the end of November is the best time for this trek.
The starting point of trek: Saung


Food Availability 
Dhaba food is available up along the way. You can pack essential food for the rest of the climb.

Water Availability 
Water is available in the guesthouses along the way. It is advisable to stock up in reasonable quantities whenever a refilling option is available.

Camping/Shelter 
Guesthouses are available at all destinations. Camping can also be adopted by trekkers on the trek because of the natural beauty that it boasts of. There are no rest houses beyond Dwali and one has to spend nights in tents or caves.

General tips and tricks 
1. Make sure you carry warm clothes along with you no matter during whichever season you are traveling in.
2. Be always prepared with your trekking gear and equipment.
3. Carrying your medication and a good pair of shoes is a must.
4. Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region.
5.  Also, carry raingear along as weather at higher altitude changes at every moment.
6. Choose a well-qualified and professional guide and fix the rates to avoid any misunderstanding.
7. Carry spare batteries and film roll for the camera as there may be no electricity supply.

Best Time To Visit Kafni Glacier Trek 
January -  Lot of snow, trek not recommended
February - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
March - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
April - Late April onwards
June - Great time for trekking for nature lovers
July - Monsoon (Not Advised)
August - Monsoon (Not Advised)
September - Amazing time for trekking for adventure enthusiasts
October -  Amazing time for trekking for adventure enthusiasts
November - Amazing time for trekking for adventure enthusiasts
December - Lot of snow, trek not recommended

How to reach Kafni Glacier Trek 
Rail: Take a train to Lucknow from Delhi. SHC Garib Rath from New Delhi station is the best option. The train leaves New Delhi at 10:55 am and reaches Lucknow at 6:40 pm. Board Nainital Express from Lucknow to Tanakpur. The train leaves Lucknow at 8:35 pm and reaches tanakpur at 9:25 am. Tanakpur to Saung is 151 Km and takes about 4 hours to reach.

Road: Delhi to Saung is 500 km by road via Kathgodam.



16. Didihat, 
Tucked away in the eastern corner of Uttarakhand, Didihat is a wondrous and pristine hillock full of natural beauty. The place is known for its ruins of forts and temples belonging to an era gone by as well for being a halting point on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Situated at an altitude of 1800 meters in the Pithoragarh district of eastern Uttarakhand, Didihat is blessed with infinite natural beauty and some great viewpoints of the Mighty Himalayas.

The small hillock is a wonderful little town brimming with greenery, beautiful landscapes, and peaceful charm. Didihat also has some remnants of its glorious past in the ruins of the forts and temples belonging to the Doti and Chand Rulers who ruled the lands some centuries ago. Didihat lies on the famous pilgrimage route of Kailash Mansarovar and is known to provide some amazing views of mighty Himalayan peaks such as Panchachuli and Trishul Peaks. Being here one can totally escape the rigors and stress of normal life and rejuvenate one_ã_s soul and enthusiasm for life.

Best Time To Visit Didihat 
Didihat can be visited any time of the year except for the monsoons, given its calm and pleasant weather. The winters are harshly cold so those visiting should carry adequate woolen clothing. The summer is a great time to visit with the cold breeze, warm sun and the lush greenery making it a sight to behold.

Traveling Around Didihat 
Traveling in town is largely by foot and car.

Stay Near Didihat 
Didihat has a rest house run by the KMVN association offering great services and facilities since it is not a very known tourist destination getting a room shouldn't be a problem. In case, accommodation is not available at Didihat you can stay at Pithoragarh which has good options for accommodation.

Sightseeing Around Didihat 
Shirakote and Asskot are attractions you must visit if you find yourself in Didihat.

Activities At Didihat 
Given its terrain and mighty views, one can enjoy trekking at this hillock.

Local Experiences At Didihat 
Didihat is a quaint little hillock located in a very remote part of Kumaon Himalayas being here you can experience the lifestyle of the people in this remote location and relax unhindered by crowds.

Food At Didihat 
Try out some amazing Garhwali and Kumauni cuisines such as aloo ke gutke, gahat, chainsoo and kaapa.

Sample Itinerary For Didihat 
Didihat can be a day trip from or an extension to your trip to Lansdowne or Pithoragarh. Follow it with trips to Asskot and Shirakote.

Tips For Visiting Didihat 
Make sure that you advance book your room in the KMVN Rest House to avoid any problems at the time of arrival as it is the only accommodation option in the town and can be occupied especially during peak season.

How to reach Didihat 
Air: The nearest airport is at Pant Nagar which is 229 km away from Didihat. One can find a cab or catch a bus towards Didihat from the airport.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam railway station which is 195 km from Didihat. Buses and taxis are easily available from outside the station for Didihat and Pithoragarh.

Road: Didihat is well connected by motorable roads to different parts of the state. Public and private buses plus taxis ply regularly to and from the town.



17. Gangolihat, 
A small Himalayan hill town, Gangolihat is particularly famous for hosting the Shakti Peethas of Goddess Kali. It is a very small town which is located near important tourist spots such as Patal Bhuveneshwar, Binsar and Abbott Mount. The place is also famous for many other temples that are scattered all over this small town. Perched at an altitude of 1800 meters above ground in the scenic Himalayan vista, it is a place of true worship and natural wonders.

The small, quaint town is loved by devotees and travelers. It is a wonderful place to get some mighty and wide views of the Himalayan panorama and of peaks such as Panchchuli and Kailash. Patal Bhuvaneshwar a very famous tourist spot known for its deep caves underground is another of the major attractions at Gangolihat. All in all, it is a wonderful location 82 km away from Pithoragarh for a day-long excursion to explore the Himalayan vista and its many ways of life.

Best Time To Visit Gangolihat 
The best period to visit Gangolihat is from October till March. The weather is refreshingly pleasant and begins to get colder towards the later part of the winter, requiring to carry multiple layers of woolen. The hill town is magnificent during this period as it is flush with greenery and the blooming flowers.

Traveling Around Gangolihat 
One can travel around by foot or car.

Stay Near Gangolihat 
Gangolihat doesn't have any accommodation options. One should seek accommodation in Pithoragarh where there are many options for accommodation for varying budget sizes.

Sightseeing Around Gangolihat 
While in Gangolihat, visit Haat Kalika, Ambika Dewaal, Chamunda Mandir, Vaishnavi Mandir and Patal Bhuvaneshwar.

Activities At Gangolihat 
Trekking and Village exploration can be enjoyed here.

Local Experiences At Gangolihat 
A temple town, being here, you can experience the devotion and piety of the people as well as the livelihoods in a small Himalayan town.

Food At Gangolihat 
Try out some amazing Garhwali and Kumauni cuisines such as aloo ke gutke, gahat, chainsoo and kaapa.

Restaurants Near Gangolihat 
Nagarkoti Bhojanalaya and Sagar restaurant in Pithoragarh.

Tips For Visiting Gangolihat 
Avoid the monsoons at any cost and make sure to advance book your hotel at Pithoragarh to avoid any problems upon arrival.

How to reach Gangolihat 
Air: The nearest airport is Pant Nagar Airport which is about 250 km from Gangolihat. One can easily get a cab for Gangolihat or catch a bus till Pithoragarh and take a connecting bus at Pithoragarh for Gangolihat.

Rail: The nearest rail head is Kathgodam Railway Station which is 200 km from Gangolihat. One can easily get a cab for Gangolihat or catch a bus fro Pithoragarh and take a connecting bus at Pithoragarh for Gangolihat.

Road: Gangolihat lies at the meeting point of Old Pithoragarh-Almora road and the new Ghateshwar Road meaning it is well connected by motorable roads. There are many public and private buses which connect the village to nearby towns.


18. Purana Bazar,
Resplendent with various kinds of arts and crafts, Pithoragarh Purana Bazar is a shopping center that cannot be missed by visitors.

19. Cinema Line, 
Shopping in Cinema Line in Pithoragarh is a magical experience, to say the least. Travelers can find everything there ranging from local handloom and handicrafts, brass items to woolen garments. One can also find various artifacts made of aipan (alpana), clay idols, Jatra masks and rugs, and carpets.

20. Arjuneswar Temple, 
Another temple once again dedicated to Lord Shiva is believed to be built by one of the Pandavas named Arjuna. Situated at an altitude of 6000 ft and 10 km to the west of Pithoragarh, Arjuneswar Temple is approachable both by road as well as by trekking.

21. Askot 
Nestled at an elevation of 1106 meters, the small town of Askot is situated in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Bordering India with Nepal and China, the spectacular town is known for its rhododendron carpeted hills, enchanting valleys, meandering streams, and picture-perfect setting. Enveloped by the Chhiplakot and the Panchchuli ranges, the offbeat hilly hamlet is especially popular for its Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary. The rocky mountains offer perfect trekking opportunities for both amateurs and professionals. Besides, the surreal natural landscape attracts a lot of nature lovers as well as photography buffs who want to capture the picturesque landscape in their cameras. In short, the hill town is perfect for a relaxing getaway away from the din of the city in the lap of nature.

Etymology 
Askot was once home to 80 forts and therefore, it came to be known as ‘Assi Kot’ i.e. 80 forts. Some of these forts were also situated in Darchula district of Nepal.

Things to Do in Askot 

Trekking
Surrounded by dense woods of Pine and Deodar, Askot is considered a trekker’s paradise as it provides innumerous trekking opportunities at all- easy, mediocre and difficulty levels. Some of the popular trekking trails in the region include the treks in Dharchula Range, Kailash and Mansarovar Parvat, etc.

Askot Deer Musk Sanctuary
Visit the renowned Deer Sanctuary and spot the beautiful musk deer. The sanctuary takes rampart measures for safeguarding the rare species as the musk deer is highly in demand and is hunted to make perfumes and fragrance products.

interact with the Locals
The region is home to Van Rawat which is an endangered tribe. They reside in a village called Ghangdura which is based on the hilly slopes inside the Askot Deer Musk Sanctuary. You can watch these people carry out their daily lives and interact with them to get an insight into the local way of living.

Photography
The area around Askot boasts of affluent wildlife with a diverse variety of flora, fauna and avifauna species. The rich wildlife attracts a lot of photographers who visit to capture the beautiful nature around them.

Sightseeing
There are a couple of villages around Askot which you can tour. The most popular of them all is Lakhanpurkot which is located across the river Kali. The village boasts of picturesque landscape and various vantage points from where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the valley below. The village is also home to the ruins of an ancient fort which is the highlight of the hamlet.

How to Reach 
The nearest airport is Naina Sani in Pithoragarh which is just 60 km away from Askot. The nearest railway station is Tanakpur which is 204 km away from Askot. Alternatively, regular buses run from all major cities to Almora. From Almora, you will have to take another bus to cover the 160 km distance.




                                                  How to Reach Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh does not have its own airport or railway station. The nearest airport and railway station are located more than 100 km away from the city, hence, the most convenient way of traveling to Pithoragarh is by road.

How to reach Pithoragarh by flight
Pantnagar, situated 241 km from Pithoragarh is the nearest airport to the town. Connected to National Capital Delhi via daily flights, it is easy to approach from airport to Pithoragarh through taxis and well-maintained road.

How to reach Pithoragarh by road
Pithoragarh is well connected to all the major cities of Uttaranchal via well-maintained roads. In fact, this small town can be reached from the neighboring states as well by private as well as state-owned buses which have regular services.

How to reach Pithoragarh by train
Tanakpur serves as the nearest railway head to Pithoragarh lying at a distance of almost 138 km. This station has good connectivity with many major cities in India. One can easily hire a cab from outside the station for a comfortable ride to your destination.

Local transport in Pithoragarh
Commuting within the town of Pithoragarh is quite easy. Being a small urban town, getting a taxi is the best option. Make sure you avoid visiting the place during rainy season as frequent landslides can spoil your trip. The town is quite refreshing during the summers while winters offer some breathtaking views.



                                                 Best time to visit Pithoragarh

The weather during the summer season i.e. from April to June is neither very hot nor very cold but pleasant enough for sightseeing. The monsoon season experiences heavy rainfall during the months of July and August leading to landslides and slippery roads. It is advised to avoid traveling during this season. Winters in Pithoragarh are freezing cold with snow at higher altitudes. The best season to enjoy the town is recommended to be summers.

Pithoragarh in Summer (March - June) 
The weather during the summer season i.e. from April to June is neither very hot nor very cold but pleasant enough for sightseeing. The temperature in Summers ranges from 7 to 20 degrees Celcius which are ideal for a summer vacation on a hill station.

Pithoragarh in Monsoon (July - September) 
The monsoon season experiences heavy rainfall during the months of July and August leading to landslides and slippery roads. It is advised to avoid traveling during this season.

Pithoragarh in Winter (October - February) 
Winters in Pithoragarh are freezing cold with snow at higher altitudes. The temperature in winters can drop to 0 and -1 degrees Celcius and does not rise above 14 degrees Celsius. The snowfall begins in the month of January.



                                                      Hotels In Pithoragarh


Parwati Resort
16.9 km from city center
Starting from
INR 2,700

THE SILVER OAK PLACE
0.7 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,097

Hotel Sangam
0.6 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,714

Sumeru Resort
4.3 km from city center
Starting from
INR 910

hotel 78
0.3 km from city center
Starting from
INR 2,000

Meditation Cottage in the Himalayas!
  7.9 km from city center
Starting from
INR 685

Hotel Meghna
 3.1 km from city center
Starting from
INR 700

Pithoragarh House
1.3 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,234

OYO 28598 Hotel King
1.0 km from city center
Starting from

INR 1,184



                                                       Food of Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is a small town where options to eat outside the hotel are minimal. Apart from some small multi-cuisine restaurants, dhabas and street-side eateries serving mouth-watering north Indian dishes, most meals are taken at the hotel only.


Jyonar Restaurant
7.30 AM - 10 PM
Extras, Gandhi Chowk
The Chinese, Continental and Indian cuisine here are all great. The views here are breathtaking since it's located on top of the hill. Don't forget to try the sweets for desserts!

Saraswati Sweet & Restaurant
7 AM - 8 PM
Pithoragarh Rd
Popular among the locals for it's rich, Tibetan dishes. The momos and the thukpas are a must-try for all, vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike,


Meghna Restaurant
7:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Hotel Meghna, Pithoragarh - 227520, India
The snacks here are a delight for visitors. Pav Bhaji is one of the favorite dishes among patrons.




                                                     Culture of Pithoragarh 

Pithoragarh has a vibrant culture due to the presence of numerous unique tribes. The most celebrated festival of the place is called Kandali, celebrated by the Rung tribe. The festival is based on the blooming of Kandali (Stingy Nettle Plant) flowers which happen once in twelve years. The customs, rites, and rituals followed by the local people are mostly those of the Hindus. Some of the most popular festivals are Maha Shivratri, Basant Panchmi, Dussehra, Diwali, Kartik Purnima, etc. Pithoragarh is also famous for its enriching folk songs and dances. While the official languages of the place are English and Hindi, Kumaoni is widely spoken in the region. Some smaller tribes speak the dialect of the Kumaoni language.



                                                         Trekking in Pithoragarh  
Sin la in Pithoragarh is a popular trekking destination in the Kumaoni Himalayan mountains. Located at an elevation of 5495 meters, the trek passes through an array of lush green fields, remote villages, and thick forests. It connects Bidang in Darma Valley to Jolingkong Lake in the Kuthi Yankti valley. Sin La was an ancient trade route of the Bhotiyas to Tibet. You can also witness the magnanimous Adi Kailash Peak standing at the height of 6191 meters.



                                                  The Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand 
Encompassed by Nepal from east and Tibet from the north, Pithoragarh is a small valley established amidst the stunning Kumaon Himalayan ranges. The tranquil ambiance and the divine landscapes of this little town match with that of Kashmir and hence it is also called the “Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand”. The small town of Uttarakhand is brimmed with the natural charm and awe-gaping vistas.
It is the home to some of the blessed temples, blissful treks, and serene waterfalls and hence makes it a place which does not lack in the recreational activities and sightseeing. Pithoragarh is dotted with a number of temples and forts that speak highly of the rich history that this town has witnessed in the past. From the tales of Mahabharat to the reign of kings, you will find several places that are full of interesting stories.



                                                             One Day Itinerary 
Pithoragarh is a fascinating place with an amazing blend of nature, spirituality, solitude and an incredible past. One day in this town can be quite interesting. Start your day early morning with a walk in the wilderness of the place followed by a nice warm breakfast. Begin your journey with a trip to Pithoragarh Fort and moving on to Kapilaswar Cave. Do not forget to carry snacks and packed food items. Heading on to Chandak, break for lunch at any local Dhaba. From there a 4 km trek to Dhwaj Temple and then a short drive to Nakuleshwara temple will be an amazing way to end your trip. If there is some time left and you are not tired, you can head on to Thal Kedar directly from the temple. A good dinner at the hotel is the best place to complete this wonderful journey.



                                                    Things To Do In Pithoragarh


Riverside Camping At Nachani Village, Uttarakhand

Out Nachani Village, Uttarakhand:
The village is wrapped up in natural beauty and lush green zones, along with birds and wildlife in abundance. One can enjoy a panoramic view of Himalayas easily and enjoy the lap of nature with calmness.

About the Camp:
The camp is sheltered at 4000 feet from sea level and lying beside the riverbed of Ramganga. One can enjoy the natural beauty and multiple activities while soothing their eyes with the Himalayan view.

About the Stay:
Check-in: 11.00 AM
Check-out: 10.00 AM
7 Alpine tents are present here with a common washroom having water 24/7. 2-3 people can stay in each with comfort and love. A total of 21 can stay here at a time, hence suitable for a large group.

About the Activities:
One can participate in activities like Riverside campfire, Kayaking (single-seater river Kayaks), Swimming/body surfing with Life Jackets, Hikes (mildly challenging) through the hills and villages, Slithering from a 100 feet bridge, Tyrolene traverse or flying fox, Caving and Angling, Waterfall splash at the ‘Birthi falls’, Volleyball at the beach, Common Campfire and games, Trekking, Mountain biking, and Fishing.

How to reach?
The site is easily reachable at a distinct location and can be accessed with private or shared vehicles. The exact location will be disclosed to you right after the confirmed bookings.

Activity

Riverside campfire

Kayaking (single-seater river Kayaks)

Swimming/body surfing with Life Jackets

Hikes (mildly challenging) through the hills and villages

Slithering from a 100 feet bridge

Tyrolean traverse or flying fox

Caving and Angling

Waterfall splash at the ‘Birthi falls’

Volleyball at the beach

Common Campfire and games.

Trekking

Mountain biking


Fishing



Kali River Rafting, Uttarakhand

On this rip-roaring rafting extravaganza, get to Kali River rafting that is plonked on Indo-Nepal border. Savor the adventure as rafting on the Kali trip takes you down the upper sections of this river. Your journey begins at Kathgodam, a charming town in the Nainital, Uttarakhand. It forms the last station on its Indian Railways line. From here onwards, you would have to take the automobile to reach the Kumaon region of the Himalayan Mountains.

Uttarakhand is the ideal playground for adventure sports. Displaying breath-taking beauty, it enchants with dramatic and arrayed landscape of pretty lakes, windy rivers, high mountains and soaring sights of the mighty Himalayas.

Lap up the journey amidst varied landscape comprising thick forest, farms, sandy beaches and more before you dash off to the plains. Enjoy run amidst a remote and desolate area that opens up natural splendors. Through this activity, pass many stalactite and stalagmite formations. Making this trip all the more delightful is all the natural beauty and the chance to challenge Class II-IV rapids rafting on the Kali river.

Temperature Range: The expected temperatures would be 12-20°C during the day and 7-8°C during the nights