Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand is a picturesque place blessed with breathtaking sceneries of nature, peaceful and beautiful surroundings, dense forests, tranquil rivers, woody forests and warm welcoming locals. The town of Pithoragarh was ruled by the Chand Rulers in ancient times, later by Britishers. The town is famous for trekking, adventure seekers, pilgrims, botanists and mountaineers. It is an important halt in between the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route. The rivers originating from the mountains of the Pithoragarh district are perfect for water adventure sports like river rafting etc, while the lush jungles here are rich in flora and fauna.
The northern parts of the district are studded with majestic peaks like Nanda Devi (East), Nanda Devi (West), Nandakot, Rajrambha, Panchachuli group and Trishul. The alpine meadows and beautiful white glaciers below these mountains have made the district a virtual paradise for nature lovers.
Places to visit in Pithoragarh
Pithoragarh Fort:
It is an ancient fort set atop a hill on the outskirts of the town. This fort was built by the Gorkhas in 1789.
Chandak:
The beautiful hill of Chandak offers a beautiful view of the Himalayas. The Manu temple is highly revered by the local peoples.
Kapileshwar Mahadev:
The cave temple of Lord Shiva affords fine views of the Soar valley and lofty Himalayan peaks.
Thal Kedar:
This Shaivite pilgrim site is also known for its scenic views. During the annual fair of Shivratri many devotees visit Thal Kedar.
Nakuleshwara(10Km):
It is believed that Nakuleshwara temple the was built by Nakul and Sahdev(two brothers of Pandavas). The temple is located at Athgaon Shilling area.
Dhwaj Temple:
This famous temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Maa Jayanti and is 10 Km by road and 4 Km on foot from Pithoragarh city. It also commands a breathtaking view of the snow-covered peaks and mountains.
Jhulaghat:
This small and beautiful town on the Indo-Nepal border is named after the hanging bridge on the Kali river. One can enter Nepal through this bridge. The small market here deals in Nepali goods and items, as well as electronic items.
Chaukori:
The small hill town offers balmy weather and great views of snow-covered peaks. The entire area teems with tea gardens and orchards. It is 112 Km away from Pithoragarh to Gangolighat and Berinag.
Narayan Ashram:
The Ashram was established by Narayan Swami in the year 1936, it is located 136 Kms north of Pithoragarh and 14 Kms from Tawaghat.
Askot Sanctuary:
The scenic sanctuary is 54 Km from Pithoragarh and located at a height of 5412 ft. in Kumaon Himalayas and is very popular among wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Patal Bhuvneshwar:
Literally means the subterranean shrine of Lord Shiva. The cave temple is 91 Km from Pithoragarh and 14 Km north of Gangolighat.
How to reach Pithoragarh
By Road:
Pithoragarh district is well connected to all the major towns of Uttarakhand as well as to the other states.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is at Tanakpur which is 151 Km away.
By Air:
The nearest airport for Pithoragarh is Naini Saini which is only 5 Km away from the main city. However, the nearest operational airport is at Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar.
Stats of Pithoragarh District
- District Headquarters: Pithoragarh
- The Population of Pithoragarh: 4,85, 993
- Languages are spoken in Pithoragarh: Hindi, Kumaoni
- Altitude: 1514 m
- Literacy rate: 76.88%
- Area: 7110 sq km