Visit Top 11 Less Travelled Places in Kumaon from Delhi
Take a break from the daily chaos of your urban lives by travelling to these quiet villages located in Kumaon,Uttarakhand from Delhi as Weekend Trips.
While most hill stations are flanked by all sorts of conifers and draped in a garb of green, Kumaon changes its coat of blooms several times a year. From a soft pink in the early winters to the scarlet rhododendrons erupting like lava on the slopes in different gradients during summers, Kumaon is a delightful experience for travelers.
What is the best time to visit Kumaon?
October to December and March to May are the best months to visit Kumaon. While January and February are good for those who wish to experience snowfalls. June is quite hot, while July onwards, Kumaon receives lots of rains which makes commuting quite difficult in the area. Spring to summer is the ideal time to visit Kumaon when the skies are clear the temperature is just perfect for all the sightseeing, and the scenery makes for some really lovely photographic memoirs.
How to reach Kumaon by train
The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 km at Kathgodam, it enjoys good connectivity with all the important places such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. There are daily running trains from Delhi to Nainital. Some of the popular trains that you can take to reach Nainital are Kranti Express, Bagh Express, Ranikhet Express, Uttar Sampark and Dehradun Kathgodam Express. Outside the railway station, you can take a taxi to the hotel.Lalkuan & Haldwani also have good connectivity for Kumaon.
Places to visit in Kumaon-
1.Bhimtal: Offbeat version of Nainital
Not as touristy as Nainital and Dehradun neither as isolated as Chaukori and Peora, Bhimtal is among the most gorgeous offbeat places in Uttarakhand. With a sparkling lake at the centre, named after Bhima from Mahabharata, this small yet beautiful place lies between Kathgodam and Nainital and mostly visited by solo travellers and honeymoon couples, in pursuit of privacy, isolation and solace.
Major attractions: Apart from boating in Bhimtal Lake, visit Victoria Dam, Hidimba Parvat, Butterfly Research Centre and Folk Culture Museum. One can also enjoy stargazing, dirt biking and paragliding.
How to reach: From Pantnagar, one can reach Bhimtal in approximately 2 hours. But the easiest way is to avail train, get down at Kathgodam and hire a cab to reach Bhimtal, located 30 kms from the railhead.
2.Pangot: Bird Watcher's Paradise
Lying quite close to Nainital, yet not as touristy as the same, Pangot is an offbeat name in the list of places to be visited in Uttarakhand. This is an emerging mountain getaway which promises mesmerising views of mighty Himalayan ranges like Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It’s nothing less than pure bliss to wake up to melodious chirping of birds, feel the cool breeze and rejuvenate your mind and body. If you do not like crowded destinations and wish to spend few days in solace and seclusion- this the perfect choice for you.
Major attractions: Naina Devi Bird Reserve, Himalaya Botanic Garden, Kainchi Dam and Himalaya View Point.
How to reach: Kathgodam is 50 kms from Pangot and Pantnagar Airport is just about 98 kms.
3.Dhaulchina-Lose Yourself In The Quietness
Dhaulchina is a small village located in Almora district of Uttarakhand surrounded by lush green forests. This beautiful village is situated at a height of approx. 5983 ft. from sea level. One can enjoy majestic and panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks from View point and is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Dhaulchina is rich in its flora and fauna and one can enjoy bird watching and wildlife.
Major attractions:Patal Bhuvaneshwar - Approx. 80 kms from Dhaulchina. Jageshwar Mandir - Approx. 31 kms from Dhaulchina. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary - Approx. 23 kms & Almora is Approx. 39 kms from Dhaulchina.
How to reach-Nearest railway station is Kathgodam. Distance from Kathgodam to Dhaulchina is approx. 118 kms. Local taxis and buses are available from Kathgodam.
4.Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Almora
Perched at an elevation of 2420 mt, 95 km from Nainital,Binsar is a spectacular hill station amidst the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. The lush green forest and picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges, this place is a paradise for holiday seekers, nature lovers and trekking buffs from across the nation. The thick foliage, vibrant flower-strewn meadows and dense cover of oak, pine and rhododendron forests, entices every visitor to fall in love with the serene and calm beauty of this place. The Binsar wildlife sanctuary is a home to more than 200 species of birds. The place is famous for the 300 km of a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks.
Major attractions: Other than Kasar Devi temple, Zero Point and Golu Devta temple, pay a visit to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. There you can enjoy jeep safaris and jungle treks and spot endangered wildlife and birds.
How to reach: Distance from the nearest major town Almora is 30 km, Nainital is 96 km away. From Delhi it is 410 km.
5.Chaukori-a secret hamlet of Kumaon
Chaukori is a hill station in the Pithoragarh district set among the lofty peaks of the western Himalayan Range in the Kumaon Division of Uttarakhand. Featuring aromatic tea estates and luxuriant deodar and alpine forests and fruit orchards, Chaukori is among the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand. With the stunning backdrop of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachuli peaks; Chaukori is an offbeat destination of Uttarakhand that promises spellbinding views.
Major attractions: Enjoy most photogenic sunrise and sunset views, trek up to Musk Deer Park, Dharampur, Berinag and Patal Bhuvaneshwar.
How to reach: Located at a height of 2010 meter, and 173 km away from Nainital.Nearest railhead is Kathgodam.
6.Munsiyari-Gateway to Johar Valley
Embedded in the crown of Kumaon Hills, is a precious gem called Munsiyari whose beauty is in its serenity and untouched landscape. Munsiyari is said to be the sub-division headquarters in Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand and is often compared to Kashmir for its natural beauty. This picturesque hill station is situated at 2298 m and is home to breathtaking view of the Panchachuli Peaks which include Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot.
Major Attraction:Explore Maheshwari Kund, Tribal Heritage Museum, Birthi Falls, Kalamuni Top, Thamari Kund and Panchachuli Peak. Indulge in bird watching, nature walks and trekking.
How to reach: Munsiyari is at a distance of 135 kms from Pithoragarh and 200 km from Almora. It’s the gateway to the Johar region of inner Himalayas.
7.Shitalakhet: The soul of Kumaon
Tucked away from tourist gaze, Shitalakhet provides stunning panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas while the cosy town abounds in natural richness and adventure activities.
Major Attraction: Katarmal Sun Temple – a 7th Century Sun Temple and one of the few in India. Your drive can then wind around the Binsar Sanctuary and also some of the places around Ranikhet.
How to reach: 35 km from Ranikhet, Shitalakhet is on the highway. One can reach here directly from Almora too.
8.Landour-a beautiful cantonment town near Mussoorie
Landour, which was a Cantonment town in British India was named after a village called Llanddowror in south-west Wales. Lost in the mists of Himalayas, draped in the scarlet red color of rhododendrons & thick deodars, Landour reminds you of the British Raj. A 5-kilometer steep drive or walk from the crowded bazaars of Mussoorie, it’s a different world of peace and lush views.
How to reach: One can walk from Mussoorie bazaar to Char Dukan area (in Landour), which takes only about 40 minutes. You can also hire a cab from Mussoorie bazaar.
9.Discover The Myths and Mysteries of Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a limestone cave temple 14 km from Gangolihat in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.It is at a height of 1350 meters above sea level.Patal Bhuvaneshwar is not just one cave, rather a cave city. There is a 1 km long cave in Patal Bhuvaneshwar. This is 90 feet below the ground level.he cave is 160 m long and 90 feet deep from the point of entrance.
How to reach: To visit Cave temple of Patal Bhubaneswar you have to take a left turn at Guptari on the main road connecting Raiagar to Gangolihat. If you are travelling from Chaukori ( 0 Km ) then take right turn at Udaiyari Bend ( 2 KM ) ( left goes to Munsiyari ) and via BeriNag ( 10 KM) , Raiaigar ( 18 KM ), you have to take left turn at Guptari ( 29 KM ) to travel towards Patal Bhubaneswar ( another 8 KM ). Total distance from Chaukori to Patal Bhubaneswar is 37 KM.
10.Mukteshwar
Mukteswar is located at an altitude of 2286 meters. In addition to being a tourist spot, the place is also a well known pilgrimage spot.Mukteswar is a beautiful hill station located in the state of uttarakhand. It is located in the Kumaon division and is situated in the midst of the Garhwal Mountains.The 15 idols of Vishnu and other gods in the temple complex are sculpted in black stone.
Major Attractions:Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mukteshwar are:Mukteshwar Temple,Chauli Jali,Veterinary Research Institute,Chauthi Jali.
How to reach: The town is around 51 kms from the city of Nainital.
11.Kausani-hidden gem in Himalayas
With a total area of 5.2 sq. km, situated at a height of 1890 m above sea level, located 51 km north of Almora, Kausani is the birthplace of famous Hindi poet Sumitranandan Pant, who wrote some of his memorable poems in praise of this paradise on earth. In 1929, Mahatma Gandhi stayed here for 14 days at the Anasakti Ashram while scripting his book titled ‘Anasakti Yoga’ and was greatly impressed by its environs.
How to reach:Kausani is linked to several other hill stations by road. Some of the major road distances are: Almora-51 kms, Ranikhet-60 kms, Pithoragarh-107 kms, Gwaldam-39 kms and Nainital-117 km. From Delhi it is 431 kms away.
Suggested Itinerary in Kumaon with Tour Package Cost
4N/5D @Rs.9500/-
Day 1 : Arrival At DelhiIn the morning drive to Nainital and upon arrival transfer to a hotel. Overnight stay there.Day 2 : Nainital Local SightseeingPost breakfast we will be taking you for a sightseeing tour of Nainital. We will be visiting the most famous tourist charms of the place. You will be free to explore the local markets and grab some memories to be cherished forever.Day 3 : Nainital to Kausani Local SightseeingEarly in the morning after breakfast we will leave for Kausani via Ranikhet. In Ranikhet we will be visiting Chaubatia Kalika and Upat. Spend the day in leisure followed by dinner and overnight stay in a hotel at Kausani.Day 4 : Kausani Local SightseeingThis day is completely dedicated for local sightseeing and leisure activities at Kausani. Come back to hotel overnight stay.Day 5 : Back To HomeDrive back to Delhi after breakfast. On arrival we will transfer you to airport or railway station for your journey back home.
5N/6D @Rs.11550/-
Day 1 : Drive from Delhi to Nainital (300 km/approx. 8 hours)
Arrive at the Delhi Railway Station/Airport and drive to Nainital. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Spend the day at your leisure or enjoy a boat ride on Naini Lake (cost to be borne by traveller). Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2 : Sightseeing in Nainital
Visit Hanumangarh, a famous religious centre and a beautiful picnic spot. Later, proceed for an exciting lake tour of three beautiful lakes – Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal and Sattal – situated at a distance of 5 to 8 km from each other. These lakes are known for their scenic beauty and lovely surroundings. You can also enjoy boating here. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3 : Drive from Nainital to Corbett (125 km/approx. 4 hours)
Check out from the hotel. Drive to Corbett and check in to the hotel. You may relax for the rest of the day. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4 : Drive from Corbett to Mussoorie (287 km/approx. 7 hours)
Go on an early morning safari in the park (cost to be borne by traveller). Check out from the hotel and drive to the picturesque town of Mussoorie, spread along a horseshoe-shaped ridge overlooking the Doon Valley. On arrival, check in and stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 : Sightseeing in Mussoorie
Spend time at Kempty Falls which is a popular picnic spot or explore the Mall road. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6 : Drive from Mussoorie to Delhi (270 km/approx. 7 hours)
Check out from the hotel and drive to Delhi Airport or Railway Station for your return journey.
6N/7D @Rs.12900/-
Day 1 : DELHI – NAINITAL (320 kilometers / 09 hours)
Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport or any Delhi railway station, meet our representatives and then embark on a drive to Nainital. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a hotel. In the evening, you will go for boating on the Naini lake and visit Naina Devi Temple. Overnight stay at the Nainital hotel.
Day 2 : Sightseeing in Nainital
Post breakfast, go for the Nainital Lake tour, which includes Sattal, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal. In the evening, you will ride on the ropeway and visit the Mall road. Overnight stay at the Nainital hotel.
Day 3 : NAINITAL – ALMORA – KAUSANI (115 kilometers)
Check out from the Nainital hotel after breakfast and then drive to Kausani via Almora. When in Almora, visit Deer Park, Chitai Golu, and Devta Temple. Later continue the journey toward Kausani; upon arrival check in the hotel. Overnight stay at the Kausani hotel.
Day 4 : Sightseeing in KAUSANI
Begin your day with the view of the sun rising above the horizon. After the beautiful view of the sunset, go to the hotel restaurant for breakfast. Today, you will visit the local attractions of Kausani like Anasakti Ashram (Gandhi Ashram), Laxmi Ashram, Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Kausani Tea Estate, and Baijnath Temple. Overnight stay at the Kausani hotel.
Day 5 : KAUSANI – RANIKHET (60 Kilometers)
Begin your day with the view of the sun rising above the horizon. After the beautiful view of the sunset, go to the hotel restaurant for breakfast. Today, you will visit the local attractions of Kausani like Anasakti Ashram (Gandhi Ashram), Laxmi Ashram, Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Kausani Tea Estate, and Baijnath Temple. Overnight stay at the Kausani hotel.
Day 6 : RANIKHET
Today, you will explore the other attractions of Ranikhet like Chaubatia Orchard, Jhula Devi Temple, Ram Mandir, Binsar Mahadev, Kumaon Regiment Army Head Quarter, Shawl and Tweed Factory and Mankameshwar Temple. Overnight stay at Hotel
Day 7 : RANIKHET – DELHI (353 Kilometers / 09 hours)
After breakfast, drive to Delhi to board a flight or train for the journey onwards.
7N/8D @Rs.14500
DELHI- NAINITAL (7 HRS DRIVE)
NAINITAL
After breakfast, we will take you to some of the most picturesque spots of Nainital. This sightseeing tour will make you explore different beautiful lakes and landscapes cuddled in the place. The tour will also include a visit to the local market, wherein you can shop some popular handicrafts.
NAINITAL – KAUSANI
Kausani
117 kilometers from Nainital, Kausani is located at a height of 1890 meters in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. Because of its exceptional natural splendor, Mahatma Gandhi named Kausani as the “Switzerland of India”. Kausani provides an exceptional vista of various Himalayan peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli. Moreover, it stands on the top the ridge amidst dense Pine trees overlooking Someshwar valley on one side and Garur and Baijnath Katyuri valley on the other on Almora-Bageshwar-Didihat Highway.
KAUSANI
Today we will make you wander amid various popular tourist attractions of Kausani. You will be enjoying local sightseeing and various leisure activities. Return to the hotel by evening for dinner and overnight stay.
ALMORA
Early in the morning after breakfast, we will take you to the cultural heart of Kumaon, Almora. On reaching, check into a hotel. Later, you can visit some local areas to experience the exquisiteness of Almora. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Almora
Almora is a municipal board, a cantonment town in the Almora district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at a height of 1638 meters (5,500 feet) on a ridge at the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills, it is famous for cosseting the beauty of nature. Further, it is also recognized for its cultural richness, unique handicrafts, tempting delicacies and fascinating wildlife. All this is quite enough to entice tourists from far and wide.
ALMORA – BINSAR
After breakfast, we will drive towards Binsar. Upon arrival, transfer to a hill resort. Later, we will take you to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Herein you can bask in the wilderness of the woods. Later, return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Binsar
Binsar is a steep hamlet, located on the top of the Jhandi Dhar Hills. This entire region is enveloped by dense woods of Oak, Rhododendron, Pine and Deodar. The place is popular for having the splendid Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
BINSAR
Early morning after breakfast, we will take you to the famous shrines located in and around Binsar like Bineshwar Mahadev Temple and Jageshwar Temple Complex. Later, come back to the hotel for lunch. After lunch you are free for enjoying some scenic spots of Binsar. The awe-inspiring vistas of various Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Panchchuli and Nanda Kot will be waiting to soothe your eyes. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
BINSAR – DELHI (8 HRS DRIVE)
After breakfast in the morning, drive back to Delhi. On arrival you will be transferred to airport or railway station for your journey back home.
Tour and Services ends
Hotel Used/ Inclusions/ Exclusions
Nainital-Hotel Maharaja/ Hotel Evelyn/Himalaya Hotel/Mount & Mist
Kausani-Himalaya Mount View resort/Hotel Uttarakhand/Himvadi Resort
Binsar-Gopal’s Binsar Retreat/Binsar eco Camp
Munsiyari-Pandey Lodge/Vijay Mount View
Chakuri-Hardic Resort/Angan Resort
Inclusions-Car like Bolero/Sumo,Accommodation Twin sharing basis
Exclusions-All meals,permits,toll taxes
Note-package cost is per head basis calculating 6 heads travel together
