Pithoragarh - Uttar Pradesh

The district of Pithoragarh was carved out of the district of Almora, Uttar Pradesh in 1962. Pithorgarh boasts majestic peaks like Nanda Devi East, Nanda Devi West, Trishul, Hardeol, Nandakhat, Rajrambha, Bambadhura, and the Panchchuli group amongst others. It has its fair share of magnificent glaciers too, like the Milam, Namik, Ralam, Meola and Balati glaciers. From these flow the mighty rivers of Kuti, Dhauli Ganga (East), Gori Ganga, Ram Ganga (East), Saryu and Kali (Sharda) which provide ample scope for rafting and canoeing. The lower hill ranges are home to picturesque summer resorts like Champawat, Lohaghat, Pithoragarh, Didihat and Berinag. The lush forest cover is home to a mind-boggling variety of flora and fauna.

On the south, Pithoragarh district touches the Tarai area of Nainital. The northern part of the district is the abode of exotic and colourful tribes whose adventurous spirit is legendary in the annals of mountaineering and exploration. The Raji tribe, on the verge of extinction, makes its home in the jungles of the Himalayan range.

Festivals and religious ceremonies take place in all parts of the district all year around. The festival of Devi Dhura is famous for its large scale stone-pelting by two rival teams. Some of the ritualistic festive events of Beas, Chaudas and Darma Valley takes place once in 12 years. The festival of Kanar-Chhiplakot is another major event in this area. The temple of Punyagiri on the banks of the river of Sharda is frequented by thousands of devotees from the plains of Uttar Pradesh throughout the year.

What to See

Pithoragarh: The district headquarters is located at an altitude of about 1650 mts in a lush sprawling valley, also known as Sore. The hill of Chandak located at about 2000 mts commands a wonderful panoramic view of the divine snow rage extending from Trishul-Nanda Devi, Panchchuli Group and Mount Appi of Nepal. The nearest railhead is Tanakpur, 151 kms away and the nearest airhead is is Pantnagar Airstrip, 249 kms away. Tourist rest houses and hotels are available for accomodation.

Champawat: 76 kms from Pithoragarh at an altitude of 1615 mts is Champawat, the erstwhile capital of the Chand Rajas of Kumaon. The ancient fort now houses the Tehsil offices. The site of several shrines, the principal temple here is the Nagnath temple. A tourist bungalow is available for accomodation.

Devidhura: 45 kms from Lohaghat lies Devidhura at a height of 2500 mts. It is the site of the famous temple of Barahi Devi, and also the venue of a grand fair on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

Gangolihat: Gangolihat, an important religious site, lies 77 kms from Pithoragarh. At the ancient Kali temple, a colourful fair is held during Navratris. The famous Patal Bhuvneshwari caves are located 14 kms away. PWD and Zila Parishad Dak Bungalows are available for accomodation.

Chaukori: 112 kms from Pithoragarh is picturesque Chaukori which boasts a splendid view of the Himalayas. Tourist rest house is available.

Berinag: Berinag lies 102 kms from Pithoragarh, which also provides a fantastic view of the great mountains. PWD and Forest Rest Houses are available.

Punyagiri Temple: Punyagiri temple is one of the most renowned temples in the Kumaon region. Lakhs of pilgrims visit the shrine during April to June. The site is around 20 kms from Tanakpur, out of which 6 kms is to be trekked. A tourist bungalow and dharamsalas are available for accomodation.

Jaul Jibi: 68 kms from Pithoragarh, Jaul Jibi is the venue of a grand fair, held every year at the confluence of the rivers Gori and Kali, in the month of November, which attracts people from neighbouring Nepal too. The Sub-Divisional Headquarters town of Dharchula is 16 kms north of the Nepal border. Tourist and PWD rest houses are available.

Ritha-Saheb: A major Sikh pilgrimage site, Ritha-Saheb lies 62 ks from Lohaghat. Accomodation facilities are provided by the Gurudwara authorities.

Rameshwar: 36 kms from Pithoragarh is Rameshwar, located at the confluence of the Ram Ganga (East) and Saryu rivers. It is the site of a Shiva temple, where a huge fair is held every year on Makarsankranti (January).

Milam Glacier: This majestic glacier lies 208 kms from Pithoragrah. From Munsiyari one has to trek for 54 kms. Rest Houses are available enroute.

Munsiyari: Munsiyari lies 154 kms from Pithoragarh enroute to Milam Glacier. Perched at an altitude of 7000 feet, Munsiyari commands a fascinating view of the Panchchuli Range and Gori river. It also forms the base for treks to Milam, Namik and Ralam glaciers. Munsiyari is also the venue of numerous fairs during August and September. Tourist rest house is available for accomodation.

Shyamla Tal: 132 kms from Pithoragarh is Shyamla Tal, a beautiful natural lake at the bank of which is located Swami Vivekananda Ashram where accomodation facilities are available on request.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is conducted by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. The road journey for this Yatra concludes at Tawaghat near Dharchula. From this point pilgrims have to trek through the valley of Kali (Sharda river). Campsites are centred arond Narayanswamy Ashram, Sirkha, Budi, Gunji, Navedhang and Kalapani. From Gunji (3500 mts) there is a diversion to Kuti valley which leads to Chhota Kailash through the village of Kuti.

Adventure Tourism: The upper reaches of Pithoragarh district provide thrilling treks like Trail's pass, Milam Glacier, Ralam Valley, Chhota Kailash, Sinla etc. All these lie above 300 mts. These are good not simply for treks but some great skiing during winter. Several snow peaks like Mount Hardeol challenge the most intrepid of mountaineers. The Gori and Sharda rivers are wonderful for river rafting while the lakes and rivers in the lower reaches are apt for angling. Pithoragarh is one of the best sites for hang-gliding.