The Kumaon region, nestled in the eastern part of Uttarakhand, is a treasure trove of serene lakes, lush green valleys, charming hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. It’s often called the “Lake District of India” and offers a gentler, more verdant beauty compared to its Garhwali counterpart. Kumaon is perfect for those seeking peaceful retreats, nature immersion, and a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life.
If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting region, here are some of the best places to visit in Kumaon.
Best Places to Visit in Kumaon
1. Nainital: The Jewel of Kumaon
Nainital is arguably the most famous and popular hill station in Kumaon, known for its iconic, crescent-shaped Naini Lake. This bustling town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and colonial charm.
- Naini Lake: The heart of the town, offering boating, yachting, and pedal boating. The lakeside promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Naina Devi Temple: A revered Shakti Peeth located on the northern shore of the lake.
- Snow View Point: Accessible by cable car or trek, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot.
- Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): Another popular viewpoint providing stunning vistas of Nainital and the surrounding hills. It’s a great spot for a picnic.
- Mall Road: The vibrant central hub, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, ideal for an evening stroll.
2. Almora: Kumaon’s Cultural Capital
Perched on a horseshoe-shaped ridge, Almora is a charming town known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and stunning views of the Himalayan range. It’s a more tranquil alternative to the bustling Nainital, offering a deep dive into Kumaoni culture.
- Nanda Devi Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to the patron goddess of the Chand Dynasty, known for its intricate wood carvings and vibrant annual fair.
- Kasai Devi Temple: Located on a hill, this temple offers spectacular sunset views and a serene atmosphere, believed to be a powerful energy vortex.
- Bright End Corner: A popular viewpoint offering majestic sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
- Zero Point: Situated in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers 300-degree panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks.
- Local Markets: Explore the traditional markets to find local handicrafts, woolen products, and the famous Bal Mithai.
3. Ranikhet: Queen’s Meadow
Often called the “Queen’s Meadow,” Ranikhet is a peaceful and picturesque cantonment town surrounded by dense pine and oak forests. It’s known for its serene environment, well-maintained golf course, and magnificent views of the Nanda Devi peak.
- Chaubatia Gardens: Famous for its fruit orchards, especially apples, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Jhula Devi Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, adorned with numerous bells.
- Haidakhan Babaji Temple: A serene spiritual abode offering tranquility and views.
- Upat Golf Course: One of the highest golf courses in Asia, offering a beautiful setting.
- Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum: Showcases the history and achievements of the Kumaon Regiment.
4. Mukteshwar: A Tranquil Escape
Mukteshwar is a quiet and charming hill station offering spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Panchachuli. It’s less crowded than other popular spots, making it perfect for those seeking peace, solitude, and natural beauty.
- Mukteshwar Temple: An ancient Shiva temple perched atop a hill, offering stunning views and a calm ambiance.
- Chauli Ki Jali: A natural rock formation near the temple, popular for rock climbing and rappelling, and offering panoramic valley views.
- Fruit Orchards: The region is known for its apple, plum, and peach orchards, especially beautiful during blooming season.
- Sitla Estate: A colonial-era estate offering charming accommodation and splendid views.
5. Kausani: Switzerland of India
Often dubbed the “Switzerland of India” by Mahatma Gandhi due to its striking resemblance, Kausani is famous for its breathtaking 300 km panoramic views of prominent Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. It’s a small, quiet village, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
- Anashakti Ashram (Gandhi Ashram): Where Mahatma Gandhi stayed and wrote his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita.
- Pant Museum: Dedicated to the famous Hindi poet Sumitranandan Pant.
- Kausani Tea Estate: Explore the lush tea gardens and sample fresh Kumaoni tea.
- Rudradhari Falls and Caves: A picturesque spot involving a short trek to a waterfall and ancient caves.
6. Jim Corbett National Park: Wildlife Haven
While not a traditional hill station, Jim Corbett National Park is a major attraction in Kumaon, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s India’s oldest national park and a prime habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger, elephants, and a wide variety of birds.
- Jeep Safari: Explore the various zones of the park (Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Durgadevi) for wildlife spotting.
- Elephant Safari: An alternative way to explore the dense forests and grasslands.
- Garjiya Devi Temple: A revered temple located on a large rock in the Kosi River.
- Corbett Falls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests.
7. Bageshwar: The Abode of Lord Shiva
Bageshwar is a significant pilgrimage town located at the confluence of the Gomti and Saryu rivers. It’s known for its ancient temples and its spiritual importance, especially during the Uttarayani fair.
- Bagnath Temple: An old and holy temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located right where the Gomti and Saryu rivers meet. People know this temple for its stunning architecture and its deep spiritual importance. According to an old story, Lord Shiva actually appeared here as a tiger, which is how the temple got its name, “Bagnath” (since “Bagh” means tiger).
- Uttarayan Mela: A vibrant annual fair held in January, attracting thousands of devotees and traders.
- Chandika Temple & Bhileshwar Temple: Other important local temples.
8. Pithoragarh: Mini Kashmir
Nestled in a valley, Pithoragarh is often called “Mini Kashmir” due to its striking resemblance to the beautiful valley of Kashmir. It’s a gateway to the famous Kailash Mansarovar and Adi Kailash Yatra and offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks.
- Pithoragarh Fort: A historic fort offering panoramic views of the valley.
- Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple: A revered cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary: A wildlife sanctuary aimed at conserving the endangered musk deer.
9. Jageshwar: Temple Town
Jageshwar is a tranquil temple town renowned for its cluster of over 100 ancient Hindu temples, dating back from the 7th to the 14th centuries. These exquisitely carved stone temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities, nestled amidst a dense deodar forest.
- Jageshwar Dham Temples: The main complex, including the prominent Jageshwar Mahadev and Mrityunjaya Temples.
- Archaeological Museum: Houses ancient sculptures and artifacts found in the region.
- Vrindha Kund: A sacred pond believed to be the origin of the river Gomti.
Conclusion
The Kumaon region offers a diverse array of experiences, from the bustling lakeside charm of Nainital to the spiritual tranquility of Jageshwar and the wildlife adventures of Jim Corbett. Whether you’re a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Kumaon has something special to offer. Its gentle beauty, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of Uttarakhand
