Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is indeed a picturesque district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Nestled in the eastern part of the state, it shares its eastern border with Nepal. The district is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, earning it the nickname “Little Kashmir.” The region’s elevation, at 1,650 meters above sea level, contributes to its cool and refreshing climate.

Geographical Charm: The valley of Pithoragarh is relatively small, measuring about 5 kilometers in length and 2 kilometers in width. Despite its modest size, the area is rich in biodiversity and scenic beauty. The surrounding hills, lush greenery, and the presence of the Kali River add to the charm of Pithoragarh.

A Symphony of Nature: Tourists and nature enthusiasts visit Pithoragarh to experience its serene environment, explore trekking routes, and witness the unique culture of the region. The district is also known for its historical significance, with ancient temples and forts that showcase the rich heritage of the area.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural exploration, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Pithoragarh offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors.

Places to See in Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh Fort: Pithoragarh Fort was built by the Gorkhas in the year 1789. This fort is perched on top of a hill on the outskirts of the town.

Dhwaj Temple: Dhwaj is a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Maa Jayanti. The views of the legendary Himalayas are astonishing and awe inspiring from Dhwaj Temple. Dhwaj is perched at an elevation of 2100 mts. above sea level.

Kapileshwar Mahadev: This sacred shrine is situated at a short distance of 3 kms. from Pithoragarh. There is a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The view of the snow-laden Himalayas is mesmerizing from Kapileshwar Mahadev.

Chandak: It is situated at a distance of 8 kms. from Pithoragarh and affords splendid views of the gigantic Himalayan range.

Excursions

Rameshwar Ghat: Rameshwar Ghat is located at a distance

of 36 kms. from Pithoragarh on the confluence of the Ramganga and Saryu Rivers. There are two principal temples here dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Rama

Askot Sanctuary: Askot Sanctuary is located 54 kms. from

Pithoragarh at an elevation of 5412 ft. above sea level. You can see Bharals, Monals, Snow Leopards, Himalayan Black Bears, Chirs, Koklas, Pheasants, Musk Deers, Snow Cocks, Tahra, and Chukors.

The best time to visit Pithoragarh is throughout the year.

Where to Stay

Besides the tourist rest house (KMVN) there are many hotels and lodges to suit every budget.

For more information, please visit www.kmvn.gov.in & www.uttarakhandtourism.gov.in

By Air: The nearest airport to Pithoragarh is located in Pantnagar (almost 241 km away in the Nainital district). Buses and cabs are available from the airport to Pithoragarh

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Pithoragarh is Tanakpur 138 kms, away.

By Road: Pithoragarh is well connected to all major destinations of Uttarakhand.

PURNAGIRI

Situated at a height of 3000 mts. above sea level, Purnagiri is 20 kms. from Tanakpur, 171 kms. from Pithoragarh and 92 kms. from Champawat. Purnagiri temple is visited throughout the year

Purnagiri temple

Purnagiri

by devotees from all parts of the country, particularly during Chaitra Navratri in the months of March and April. Purnagiri Devi temple is one of the 108 Siddha Peeths.

From Purnagiri, the River Kali descends into the plains, where it is known as Sharda.

From the highest point (the temple) of Purnagiri, one can see the expanse of Kali, its islands, the township of Tanakpur and a few Nepali villages.

Purnagiri Mela

The temple administration of Shri Parnagiri organises the Purnagiri Mela on the Annapurna range during Navratri The temple is situated at a distance of 20 kilometers from Tanakpur. on the right bank of the river Kali in the district of Chamражу Tunyas is 17 kilometers away from where a 3 kilometer trek leads to Purnagiri Temple, the site of Purnagiri Mela.

Where to Stay

Besides the tourist rest house (KMVN) there are many hotels and lodges to suit every budget.
For more information, please visit www.kmvn.gov.in & www.uttarakhandtourism.gov.in
Getting there

By Rail: The nearest railhead is situated at Kathgodam at a distance of 180 kilometers.

By Road: Purnagiri can be reached from all the major towns of Uttarakhand. At Champawat, taxis are available as means of local transport.

CHAMPAWAT

Champawat is famous for its intrinsic natural beauty and historic temples. It is one of the easternmost towns of Uttarakhand perched at an elevation of 1,670 mts, above sea level. Champawat has a wide variety of fauna and flora. Teak, Babool, Eucalyptus, Sagon and Jamun are some of the important trees found in the district,

Places to See

Baleshwar Temple: Baleshwar temple was built by the rulers of Chand Dynasty in the 16th century. The deity of the Baleshwar temple is Lord Shiva. Baleshwar Temple is one of the most artistic temples of Kumaon region with innovative and precise stone carving work.

Ek Hathiya Ka Naula: It is a beautifully carved work on stone. Ek Hathiya ka Naula is situated 5 kms. from Champawat and as per legend, was constructed in just one night by a one handed artisan.

Kranteshwar Mahadev: This sacred shrine is situated

perched on the top of a hill to the east of Champawat. This place is also known as Kurmapad or Kandev.

Patal Rudreshwar: It is believed that Lord Shiva used to meditate at this peaceful cave. The cave has a length of approximately 40 mts. and width of 18 mts.

Meetha Reetha Sahib: Situated 72 kms, from Champawat, Reetha Sahib is an important Sikh pilgrim centre. The Gurudwara is situated at the confluence of Lodhiya and Ratiya rivers. near village Deyuri. There are trees of Reetha (Sapindus Emarginatus) in the premises.

Lohaghat: Lohaghat is a popular destination in the Kumaon region situated 13 kms. from Champawat at an elevation of 1745 mts. above sea level. Lohaghat holds great historical and mythological importance. During summers the area is covered with ‘Burans’ Rhododendron, the state flower of Uttarakhand.

Excursions

Devidhura: It is situated 45 kms. from Champawat. There is a famous Varahi temple here which holds great importance amongst the locals. Devidhura is also an adventure site for trekking. Temple Tiger’ – the tale of famous Jim Corbett is associated with Devidhura temples also.

Shyamlatal: is a beautiful lake situated 56 kms. from Champawat at an elevation of 1500 mts. above sea level. There is a Swami Vivekananda Ashram on the banks of this emerald lake. The lake is spread over an area of 1.5 sq kms. The famous Jhula Fair of Kumaon region is held at this place.

Abbott Mount: Situated at an elevation of 2018 mts., Abbott Mount offers a peaceful and picturesque environment. Abbott Mount remains covered with sheets of snow during winters. The enchanting snow-clad Himalayan peaks can be seen from Abbott Mount, 21 kms. from Champawat.

Where to Stay

Besides the tourist rest house (KMVN) there are many hotels and lodges to suit every budget.

For more information, please visit www.kmyn.gov.in & www.uttarakhandtourism.gov.in

Getting there

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Champawat is Tanakpur, situated at a distance of 60 kms.

By Road: Champawat is well connected by motorable roads to major destinations of Uttarakhand.