Discovering the Enchanting Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand

Nestled between the snow-capped peaks of the Kumaon mountain range and the lush Terai plains, the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand are a sanctuary of untouched beauty. This region, steeped in mythology and history, offers a harmonious blend of misty valleys, sacred temples, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. Unlike crowded destinations like Shimla or Manali, Kumaon remains a serene escape where pine forests, glacial rivers, and ancient traditions thrive. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil Kumaon lakes or the rugged Kumaon trek routes, this guide unveils the region’s secrets, from its kumaon district list to hidden Bhimtal homestays.  

Why Kumaon? A Land of Myths and Majesty 

The name Kumaon derives from Kurmanchal—the land of Lord Vishnu’s tortoise incarnation. Ruled by the Katyuri and Chand dynasties for centuries, the region’s legacy lives in its stone temples, forts, and folklore. Today, the Kumaon district list includes six districts: Almora, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar, home to over 4.2 million people (Census 2021). Elevations here range from 200 meters in the Kumaon valley to 7,816 meters at Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak. 

Key Highlights: 

• Biodiversity: Hosts 15% of India’s bird species, including the Himalayan monal. 

• Sacred Flora: Rare Brahma Kamal flowers bloom at high altitudes. 

• Cultural Tapestry: Vibrant festivals like Harela and Nanda Devi Raj Jaat. 

Popular Hill Stations in Kumaon: Where Serenity Meets Adventure 

The Popular Hill Stations in Kumaon blend colonial nostalgia with Himalayan grandeur. 

1. Nainital: Jewel of the Kumaon Lakes 

• Naini Lake: A crescent-shaped Kumaon lake surrounded by seven hills, ideal for boating and evening strolls. 

• Snow View Point: Reachable by cable car, offering panoramic views of the Kumaon mountain range, including Nanda Devi. 

• Governor’s House: A Gothic architectural marvel built in 1899. 

• Did You Know? Nainital hosts the Winter Carnival, featuring snow sports and cultural performances. 

  
  

2. Bhimtal: Serenity by the Lakeside 

• Bhimtal Lake: Larger and quieter than Naini, with a 17th-century island temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

• Butterfly Research Centre: Home to 500+ species, including the Kaiser-i-Hind. 

• Stay at Obhula: Among the best Bhimtal homestays, Obhula offers panoramic lake views, organic meals, and cozy cottages perfect for stargazing. 

  
  

3. Mukteshwar: Orchards and Adventure 

• Chauli Ki Jali: A cliffside spot for rock climbing and sunrise views over the Kumaon valley. 

• Mukteshwar Temple: A 350-year-old shrine where devotees perform mundan rituals. 

• Apple Orchards: Producing over 2,000 metric tons annually, best visited in October. 

  
  

4. Kausani: The Himalayan Panorama 

• Anashakti Ashram: Where Gandhi penned Anashakti Yoga during his 1929 stay. 

• Rudradhari Falls: A scenic Kumaon trek through cedar forests (3 hours round-trip). 

• Tea Estates: Sip locally grown brews while soaking in views of Trishul and Nanda Devi peaks. 

  
  

Spiritual Destinations: Temples, Myths, and Mystic Trails 

Kumaon’s spiritual essence is etched in its ancient shrines and pilgrimage routes. 

1. Jageshwar: Abode of Shiva 

• Temple Cluster: 124 intricately carved stone temples (7th–14th century CE) set in deodar forests. 

• Jageshwar Monsoon Festival: Held in July–August, featuring rituals performed under torrential rains.

2. Baijnath: Where Mythology Meets Architecture 

• Legend: Believed to be where Ravana worshipped Shiva to heal his wounds. 

• Architecture: Katyuri-style carvings depicting scenes from the Shiv Purana. 

  
  

3. Pindari Glacier Trek: A Sacred Journey 

• Route: A 54-km Kumaon trek from Loharkhet to the glacier (3,660 m), traversing villages like Khati and Dwali. 

• Significance: The Pindar River originates here, considered sacred by locals. 

Adventure Hotspots: From Wildlife to Whitewater 

The Kumaon mountain range is a playground for thrill-seekers. 

1. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Wilderness Unleashed 

• Flora & Fauna: Spot leopards, Himalayan black bears, and 200+ bird species. 

• Zero Point: A 360° viewpoint showcasing the Kumaon mountain range, including Kedarnath Peak. 

  
  

2. Munsiyari: Trekker’s Paradise 

• Milam Glacier Trek: A 10-day expedition to India’s second-largest glacier. 

• Birthi Falls: A 126-meter cascade ideal for rappelling and picnics. 

  
  

3. Bhakra River Rafting: Conquer the Rapids 

• Grades: III-IV rapids near Dharchula, best tackled October–June. 

  
  

Hidden Gems: Beyond the Tourist Trail 

1. Almora: Cultural Capital of Kumaon 

• Bright End Corner: Sunset views over the Himalayas. 

• Lala Bazaar: Shop for Kumaoni woolens and copperware. 

• Culinary Gem: Khoya-stuffed Bal Mithai (a caramelized sweet). 

  
  

2. Chitai Golu Devta Temple: The Bell-Adorned Shrine 

• Legend: Devotees tie bells with wishes; over 10,000 jingle here. 

• Unique Ritual: Devotees tie handwritten wishes to bells, with over 10,000 bells adorning the temple. 

  
  

3. Rahikhola Village: Organic Farming Haven 

• Experience: Learn traditional farming techniques and cook Bhatt ki Churkani with locals. 

  
  

How to Reach Kumaon: Connectivity Simplified 

• By Air: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) connects to Delhi (1-hour flight). 

• By Rail: Kathgodam Station (KGM) is the nearest railhead, with overnight trains from Delhi. 

• By Road: 

• Delhi to Nainital: 300 km via NH9 (6–7 hours). 

• State Buses: UTC operates Volvo buses from ISBT Delhi. 

Best Time to Visit: Seasonal Splendors 

Season	Months	Weather	Activities
Summer	March–June	10°C–25°C	Trekking, Boating, Wildlife Safaris
Monsoon	July–September	15°C–22°C	Lush Greenery, Temple Tours
Winter	October–February	-2°C–12°C	Snow Sports, Stargazing

Travel Tips: Insider Hacks 

1. Permits: Foreign nationals need Inner Line Permits for areas like Lipulekh. 

2. Local Transport: Shared jeeps are cheaper than taxis. 

3. Stay: Choose Bhimtal homestays like Obhula for authentic Kumaoni hospitality. 

4. Health: Carry motion sickness pills for winding hill roads. 

   
   
   
   

The Call of the Mountains  

The Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand are more than a destination—they’re an emotion. Whether you’re meditating at Jageshwar, rafting the Bhakra River, or waking up to misty mornings at Obhula, Kumaon leaves an indelible mark on your soul. With its Popular Hill Stations in Kumaon, sacred trails, and warm homestays, this Himalayan gem invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature. 

Plan Your Trip: Explore curated itineraries via Uttarakhand Tourism or book a stay at Obhula for an authentic Kumaoni experience. 

FAQs Of Kumaon Hills 

1. In which state are the Kumaon Hills located? The Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand lie in the northern state of Uttarakhand, bordering Nepal and Tibet. 

2. What are the major rivers in the Kumaon region? The Kumaon valley is nourished by four rivers: Kosi, Kali, Saryu, and Ramganga, which originate from the Kumaon mountain range. 

3. What is the Kumaon region best known for? Kumaon is famed for its Popular Hill Stations in Kumaon (like Nainital and Bhimtal), ancient temples (Jageshwar, Baijnath), and the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot. 

4. What family-friendly activities can I enjoy in Kumaon? 

   Boating on Kumaon lakes like Naini and Bhimtal. 

   Nature walks in Mukteshwar or short Kumaon treks to Rudradhari Falls. 

   Exploring the vibrant markets of Almora. 

5. What’s included in the Kumaon district list? The region comprises six districts: Almora, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. 

6. Which is the best Kumaon trek for beginners? The 3-hour Kumaon trek to Rudradhari Falls near Kausani is ideal for novices, offering lush cedar forests and cascading waterfalls. 

7. Where can I find a budget homestay in Bhimtal? For an authentic experience, stay at Obhula - a budget homestay in Bhimtal with panoramic lake views, meals, and cozy cottages. 

8. What defines the Kumaon mountain range? The Kumaon mountain range, part of the Greater Himalayas, features peaks like Nanda Devi (7,816 m) and hosts alpine meadows, glaciers, and rare flora. 

9. Are there any sacred lakes in Kumaon? Yes! Nainital’s emerald Kumaon lake is revered, while Bhimtal Lake houses a 17th-century Shiva temple on its island. 

   
   

10. What’s unique about the Kumaon valley? The Kumaon valley blends terraced farms, orchards, and traditional villages, offering a glimpse into Uttarakhand’s rural life.