Tourist Destinations in Kumaon
Nainital
Nainital, a lovely hill station in the Kumaon hills, is famous for its beautiful Naini Lake. The heart-shaped lake is surrounded by lush hills and is a perfect spot for boat rides. Visitors can ascend to viewpoints like Snow View and Tiffin Top for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains or enjoy paddle boating, rowing, sailing, kayaking, or canoeing on these serene waters. The bustling Mall Road offers a delightful mix of shops, cafes, and local culture, making Nainital a well-rounded destination for nature lovers and shoppers alike.
Mukteshwar
High up in the mountains, Mukteshwar offers breathtaking views. This scenic hill station is blessed with panoramic and magnificent mountain peaks such as Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, and Trisulas. The lush green surroundings and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect choice for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Ranikhet
Translating to the “Queen’s Meadow,” Ranikhet unfolds its royal charm with peaceful surroundings and breathtaking scenery. The Jhula Devi Temple, known for its numerous bells, adds a spiritual touch to the town. Situated at 1,828 metres above sea level, Ranikhet offers numerous trekking routes amid scenic mountains. From an enchanting view of the Bhagirathi River in the east to Nandakot in the west, the area is adorned with temples, orchards, and museums.
Almora
Almora is a special place filled with history and culture. Here, the viewpoints of Bright End Corner and Kasar Devi offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The town’s cobbled streets and colonial architecture add to its charm, making Almora a delightful blend of spirituality and heritage. The streets are usually quiet, making it a calm and enchanting destination.
Jim Corbett
Jim Corbett National Park covers around 521 sq.km. Together with Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Reserve Forest, it becomes the extensive Corbett Tiger Reserve, spanning about 1288 sq.km. The park is a home to many plants, animals, and birds. You can spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, and over 600 types of birds here. Named after the famous hunter and conservationist Edward James “Jim” Corbett, the park provides a peek into the rich natural heritage of the region. It’s a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking the beauty of the Himalayan wilderness.
Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a peaceful hill station situated amidst the lush Kumaoni hills, it’s quite pleasant in the summer and makes for a wonderful holiday spot. Named after Bhim, one of the Pandava brothers, Bhimtal is one of the largest lakes in the state. Boating on the lake and leisurely walks along its shores add to the serene charm of Bhimtal, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solace and natural beauty.
Jageshwar
Situated approximately 36 kilometres from Almora, Jageshwar is home to a cluster of 124 temples and numerous statues, enveloped by verdant Deodar trees. It holds significance as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is open for visits throughout the year.
Kasauni
Kausani, fondly known as the ‘Switzerland of India’ per Mahatma Gandhi, is a serene hill station offering stunning Himalayan views. Gandhiji found solace here, staying at the Anashakti Ashram for yoga, endorsing Kausani as an ideal retreat for good health. The town unfolds a panorama of Someshwar Valley on one side and Garur and Baijnath Katyuri Valley on the other. Kausani, with its historic Baijnath Temple and tea gardens, remains a haven for nature enthusiasts.
