Information about Pithoragarh District

Picturesque Pithoragarh town is delight for mountaineers, trekkers, adventure seekers, botanists, pilgrims as well as sightseers. It is an important halt on the famous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route. The rivers originating from the Pithoragarh mountains are perfect for water sports, while the lush jungles here teem with rich variety of flora and fauna.
This eastern most district of Uttaranchal popularly called as 'Miniature Kashmir', shares international boundary with China (Tibet) on the north and Nepal on the east. The northern parts are studded with majestic peaks like Nanda Devi (east), Nanda Devi (west), Trishul, Nandakot, Rajrambha, Panchachuli group etc. The alpine meadows and glaciers below these majestic mountains has made the district a virtual paradise for nature lovers.

Pithoragarh Stats

District Headquarters: Pithoragarh
Area: 7110 sq km
Total Population: 462,289
Literacy: 76.48%

Places to Visit in Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh Fort:

It is set atop a hill on the outskirts of the town. The fort was built by the Gorkhas in 1789.

Kapileshwar Mahadev (3 kms):

The cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva affords fine view of the Soar valley and lofty Himalayan peaks.

Chandak (8 kms) :

The beautiful hill affords a fine view of the Himalayas. The Manu Temple here is highly revered by the locales.

Dhwaj Temple:

This famous shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Maa Jayanti and is 10 kms by road and 4 kms on foot from Pithoragarh. It also commands a breath taking view of the snow capped peaks.

Thal Kedar (16.3 kms) :

This Shaivite pilgrim site is also known for its scenic splendour. During the annual fair of Shivratri large number of devotees flock to Thal Kedar.

Nakuleshwara (10 kms):

It is believed that Nakuleshwara Temple was built by Nakul and Sahdev (two brothers of Pandavas). The place is located at Athgaon Shilling area.

Askot Sanctuary:

The scenic sanctuary 54 kms from Pithoragarh nestles at a height of 5412 ft. in Kumaon Himalayas and is popular among wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is a safe haven for snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deers, snow cocks, tahra, bharals, mona/s, chirs, koklas, pheasants and chukors. The lush sanctuary area dotted with temples is also a fine place to view the beauty of the Himalayas.

Chaukori:

The small hill town affords balmy weather and great views of snowclad peaks. The entire area teems with tea gardens and orchards. It is 112 kms from Pithoragarh via Gangolihat and Berinag.

Gangolihat:

The sacred site is famous for the Hatkalika Fair held on the ashtami of Chaitra month at the Kalika temple. Devotees visit the shrine during this time with drums and flags to pay homage to Goddess Kalika.

Jhulaghat :

This small town on the Indo-Nepal border is named after a hanging bridge on the Kali river. One can enter Nepal through this bridge. The small market here deals in Nepali goods and other electronic items.

Narayan Ashram :

The ashram was established by Narayan Swami in 1936, about 136 kms north of Pithoragarh and 14 kms from Tawaghat. This spiritual cum-socio educational centre is set at an altitude of 2734 metres amidst scenic surroundings. It has a school for local children's and imparts training to local youth. There is also a library, meditation room and samadhi sthal.

Patal Bhuvaneshwar :

Patal Bhubaneshwar, literally means the sub-terranean shrine of Lord Shiva. The cave temple is 91 kms from Pithoragarh and 14 kms north of Gangolihat. The way to the temple is through a tunnel which leads into the cavern through a narrow dark passage of water. The electrified sanctum sanctorum is deep inside the cave. The main passage also leads to several small caves where water oozing from limestone rocks have created various shapes arid figures. Some of them resemble various gods and goddesses of Hindu pantheon. In fact cave temple complex is said to be the abode of thousands of deities and people believe that these deities were consecrated by Adi Shankracharya. Large number of pilgrims visit the shrine during the fair of Maha Shivratri.

Munshyari :

Munshyari a small Himalayan township about 127 kms north of Pithoragarh and 66 kms from Jauljibi. It nestles at an elevation of 2135 metres. and the entire region is known as Johar valley. Munsiyari is a base for treks to Milam and Namik glaciers. The trek from Munshyari to Milam Glacier, the source for Goriganga river is fascinating. Around Munshyari are alpine lakes of Maheshwari Kund and Thamri Kund. Munshyari Bugyal, an alpine meadow full of wild flowers is enchanting. Khalia Top and Betulidhar are suited for skiing.

How to reach Pithoragarh

By Air: The nearest airport for Pithoragarh is at Naini Saini (5 kms). However, the nearest operational airport is at Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar.
By Rail: The nearest rail head is at Tanakpur (151 kms).
By Road: Pithoragarh is well connected by road with important towns of the region and other states as well.

Information about Pauri District

Panoramic Pauri is perched at an altitude of 1814 metres on the northern slopes of Kandoliya hills. The peaceful resort affords a fine view of the snowy Himalayan peaks.

Pauri Stats

District Headquarters: Pauri
Area: 5438 sq km
Total Population: 697,078
Literacy: 77.99%

Places to Visit in Pauri

Kandoliya (2 kms):

The temple dedicated to Kandoliya Devta, a folk deity is located on the Lansdowne road amidst scenic surroundings.

Chaukhamba Viewpoint (4.1 kms):

The ridge overlooks the splendid Idwal valley and Chaukhamba Peak.

Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev:

The 8th century Shiva temple affords stunning views of the snow-clad peaks.

Khirsu (19.5 kms):

The serene site at a height of 1,700 metres affords a fine view of the snow-clad mountains. The ancient temple of Ghandiyal Devta is worth visiting. Located nearby are oak and deodar forests and apple orchards.

Jwalpa Devi Temple (34 kms):

The pilgrim site lies on the main Pauri Kotdwar road. During 'Navaratras', a special festival is held here which is attended by large number of devotees.

Tarakund:

 The charming site has a small lake and an ancient temple. It is also known for the Teej Festival.

Kotdwar :

Kotdwar, 108 kms from Pauri is one of the rail terminus for Garhwal region.

Siddhibali Temple:

Famous temple of Lord Hanuman.

Durga Devi Temple:

It is one of the important shrines of the town, situated near Duggada on Kotdwar-Pauri road.

Bharat Nagar (22.2 kms) :

The scenic site affords a panoramic view of the Balawali bridge on Ganga, Kalagarh dam and Kotdwar.

Kalagarh (48.6 kms):

It is an ideal place for nature lovers. The dam across Ram Ganga river is also worth visiting.

Kanvashram (14 kms):

This historical and archaeological site is said to be the place where legendary saint Vishwamitra meditated. According to mythological legends, Lord Indra, the king of Gods, was scared by Vishwamitra's meditation and sent Menaka to lure him out of his deep penance. Menaka succeeded in her endeavour and later gave birth to a girl child named Shakuntala. It is believed that our country is named after Bharat, the son of Shakuntla and the prince of Hastinapur.

Shri Koteshwar Mahadev:

The sacred shrine is set at an elevation of 1428 metres, north of Medanpuri Devi temple. The temple is especially popular among the childless couples. It is believed that couples who recite the Mahamrityunjaya mantra (verse) during the full 'Shravana' month with faith and devotion are blessed by the Lord and their wishes are granted.

Medanpuri Devi:

The temple dedicated to Goddess Medanpuri Devi is considered to be a Siddha Peeth. 'Medan' literally means curd and it is said that the Goddess showers her devotees with milk, curd and whey by way of blessings. Large number of devotees visit the shrine during the 'Navratras', followed by a big fair on 'Ashtami' and make special offerings. It can be easily reached from Rishikesh (37 kms).

Lansdowne

Lovely Lansdowne, set at an altitude of 1,706 metres about 81 kms from Pauri is one of the quietest hill station in the country. It was very popular among the Britishers and is named after Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1894. The charming resort surrounded by thick oak and pine forest is a perfect place for a peaceful holiday in the lap of mother nature.

Tarkeshwar Mahadev (36 kms):

The temple of Lord Shiva is perched at a height of 1,800mts. It is surrounded by thick forests of deodar and pine, and is an ideally suited for nature lovers. During the auspicious occasion of Shivratri, a special prayer is held here.

Srinagar:

This erstwhile capital of the Garhwal kings is set on the banks of Alaknanda river about 30 kms from Pauri. Srinagar was an important centre for art and architecture. The Garhwal University is located here.

Keshorai Math:

The temple was perhaps built in 1682, and is noted for its architectural beauty.

Kamleshwar Temple:

This ancient Shiva temple is associated with an interesting legend. It is said that Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here with thousand Lotus flowers. While praying he was short of one flower, thus Rama offered his eye instead of a lotus. On 'Vaikunth Chaturdashi', women come here to worship Lord Shiva whole night with lighted lamps.

Shankar Math (3 kms):

The shrine with unique architecture is said to be built by Adi Shankaracharya.

Devalgarh (19 kms):

It was set up by king Deval of Kangra. Main attractions - The Laxmi Narayan temple, Gauri Devi temple & Rajrajeshwari temple. The site is also of archaeological value.

Dhari Devi (16.6 kms):

Pilgrim centre. Devotees assemble here to worship Goddess Dhari.

How to Reach Pauri 

By Air: The nearest airport for Pauri (155 kms) :
By Rail: Nearest rail head is Kotdwar (108 kms).
By Road: Well connected by road with important town of the region.

Information about Nainital District

Nainital - The beautiful lake resort nestles amidst seven hills in a lush valley at an altitude of 1938 metres. In 1841, the British first discovered Nainital as a holiday resort. Today, the town has emerged as one of the most important hill resorts of India.

Nainital Stats

District Headquarters: Nainital
Area: 3853 sq km
Total Population: 762,909
Literacy: 79.60%

Places to Visit in Nainital

Naini Lake:

The eye (naina) shaped lake surrounded by lush hills is named after Goddess Naini and is the icon of Nainital. According to legends, the lake was formed when the eye of Goddess Sati fell here, while Lord Shiva was carrying her body. The Naina Devi temple at the northern end of the lake is said to be the exact spot where Parvati's eye is said to have fallen. The gaily coloured yachts sailing on the waters of the lake is a sight to behold.

Naina Peak (6 kms):

Popular picnic spot at a height of 2,610 metres. Breathtaking view of the Himalayas and entire lake region.

Laria Kanta (6.5 kms):

Picnic spot at an altitude of 2,481 metres. Panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Snow View (2.5 kms):

Scenic picnic spot. Affords fine view of the snowclad Himalayas. Can be reached by a ropeway, horse or on foot.

Dorothy Seat (4 kms):

A memorial to a British lady, said to be killed here in an accident. Fine view of the town and lake can be enjoyed from here.

Hanumangarhi (3.2 kms):

Pilgrim site and spectacular sun-set views.

Khurpa Tal (5 kms):

The lake on Nainital - Ramnagar road is an angler's delight.

Lands End (4 kms):
The hill affords fine view of Khurpa Tal and the terraced fields on the side of the hill.

State Observatory (4.4 kms):

It is ideal for astronomical studies and optical tracking of artificial earth satellites.

Bhowali (11 kms) :

Health resort and orchard country.

Bhimtal :

Bhimtal is a serene scenic lake resort just 22 km from Nainital

Mukteshwar (50.5 kms):

This small hill station amidst thick wooded forest affords majestic view of the Himalayas. Nearby is a stone hole of Chauli Ki Jali, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spectacular view of Almora and the peaks of Adi Nampa of Nepal stretching upto the Chaukhamba peaks of Garhwal can be enjoyed a moonlit night. Mukteshwar is also known for Indian Veterinary Research Institute.

Naukuchia Tal (26 kms):

A lake with nine corners. Migratory birds flock to the lake. Good boating and fishing spot.

Sat Tal (20 kms):

Lake resort.

Jeolikote (18 kms):

Health resort and bee-keeping centre.

Kilbury (10 kms):

It is a part of a forest reserve and is rich in flora and birdlife.

Ram Nagar:

This important town of the region is located on the banks of river Kosi. It was established by Commissioner H. Ramsay (1856-1884) and is connected with broad gauge railway line. Ramnagar is the headquarters of 'Project Tiger' and famous Corbett National Park is just 50 kms from here.

Kotabagh (10 kms):

Ruins dating back to Chand rulers.

Garjiya Devi Temple (14 kms):
The sacred shrine on the way to Ranikhet attracts large number of devotees especially during the fair held on 'Kartik Poornima'.

Seeta Bani Temple (20 kms):

It is believed that Goddess Sita, the consort of Lord Rama had entered into the lap of Mother Earth here. A fair is held here during Ram Navami.

Corbett National Park:

The magnificent park established way back in 1936, is one of the best known sanctuaries of India. It is named after Jim Corbett, the famous hunter author and conservator. The park covers a large forested area of over 520 sq. kms, comprising of foot hills of Shivalik ranges and the Patlidun Valley with swiftly flowing river Ramganga. The varied topography thus provides home to rich and diverse wildlife.
The dense jungles of the Jim Corbett National Park are famous for the tigers of Kumaon. It is also a haven for the panther, wild boar, sloth bear, elephant, deer, python, cobra, crocodile and gharial etc. The river Ramganga is full of mahseer, trout and goonch fishes. The park is also an 'ornithologist's paradise', as over 538 species of birds have been recorded here. The park also provides a first hand introduction to the raw magnificence of nature and a visit is an unforgettable experience. The nearest airport is Pantnagar (130 kms) and rail head is at Ramnagar (50 kms), which is an obligatory entrance for the park.

Corbett Waterfall:

The Corbett waterfall is situated 36 kms. from Nainital, on the Kaladhungi-Ramnagar motorable road falling under the Ramnagar Forest Division. The waterfall stands at a distance of 3 kms. from the Kaladhungi main road. The fall with a drop of 20 mtrs is surrounded by a forest belt and camping sites with an abundance of birdlife and plant life.

Haldwani :
Haldwani is one of the biggest business center of Uttaranchal especially Kumaon. It connects the Kumaon region with Railway lines. It is also emerging as the IT hub of Uttaranchal.

How to reach Nainital

By Air: The nearest airport for Nainital is Pantnagar (71 kms)
By Rail: Nearest rail head is Kathgodam (35 kms) connected to Lucknow, Agra, Delhi & Howrah.
By Road: Nainital is well connected by road.
Agra (403 kms), Almora (64 kms), Bareilly (140 kms), Dehradun (387 kms), Delhi (326 kms), Haridwar (310 kms) and Kausani (118 kms)

Information about Haridwar District

Haridwar is located on the right bank of river Ganga and from here the holy river spreads over the northern plains. According to a mythological legend, Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to Saint Kapila's curse. Bhagirath was blessed and the holy river descended on the earth and its water revived the sons of King Sagara. Following the tradition of Bhagirath, devout Hindus stand in the sacred waters here, and pray for the salvation of their ancestors.
Haridwar is also famous for the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh fairs that are held once in every 12 and 6 years respectively. Millions of devotees assemble here during this auspicious occasion and take a dip in the holiest river of India. It is said that drops of amrit (nectar) obtained after the 'Sagar Manthan' fell at four places Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain and Nashik and the Kumbh fair is held at these four sacred sites.

Haridwar Stats

District Headquarters: Haridwar
Area: 2360 sq km
Total Population: 14,47,187
Literacy: 64.60%

Places to Visit in Haridwar

Har ki Pauri:

This most sacred Ghat was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhatrihari, who is said to have meditated on the banks of Ganga in Haridwar. It is also known as Brahamakund and is the site for the famous Kumbh Mela. Large number of devotees take a holy dip in Ganga over here.
The evening Ganga Aarti provides a truly enchanting experience as large lumber of ornate oil lamps (diyas) with dozens of flames burning in pure ghee are offered to Mother Ganga accompanied with devotional songs and prayers. A temple on the river bank here is said to have an imprint of Lord Hari's footprint.

Canal Centenary Bridge:

It affords a panoramic view of the ghats and Ganga canal.

Maya Devi Temple:

The ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi, the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. It is regarded as one of the Siddhapeethas and according to mythology the heart and navel of Goddess Sati had fallen over here.

Mansa Devi Temple:

It is perched atop the Bilwa Parwat and can be reached by a rope-way with its brightly coloured cable cars or on foot. A statue of the Goddess here has three mouths and five arms, while the other one has eight arms. The temple commands a fine view of Haridwar.

Daksha Mahadev Temple:

This ancient Shiva (Mahadev) temple is located in the south Kankhal town. The mythological legends state that King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Sati (Lord Shiva's consort) performed a yagya here, but didn't invite Lord Shiva. Sati was offended by her father's behaviour and sacrificed her life by jumping into the fire of yagya. Infuriated Lord Shiva killed King Daksha, but later brought him back to life.

Chandi Devi Temple:

It is set atop Neel Parvat on the banks of Ganga. The shrine was built by Suchat Singh, the king of Kashmir in 1929, but the main statue is said to be established by the Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century. According to a legend Goddess Chandi killed demons Chanda - Munda, the army chief of demon kings Shumbh Nisnumbha here. The temple is 3 kms trek from Chandighat.

Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar:

The legendary site is said to be the place where Saptarshis (seven sages) meditated and river Ganga, not wanting to disturb them split herself into seven streams (Sapt Sarovar) around them.

Gurukul Kangri University:

This old centre of herbal medicine and traditional studies is located on the Haridwar-Jwalapur bypass road. The Ved Mandir Museum here exhibits archaeological exhibits.

Other places of interest –

Kanva Rishi Ashram; Bilkeshwar Mahadev; Pawan Oham; Bhooma Niketan; Vaishnav Oevi Temple; Doodhadhari Temple; Shahi Gurudwara; Jairam Ashram.

Rajaji National Park (Chilla):

The park endowed with pristine beauty and rich bio-diversity covers an area of 820 sq. kms on the edge of the Doon Valley about 10 kms from Haridwar. It was established in 1996 and has over 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. It is a safe haven for elephant, tiger, panther, bear, chital, sambar, wild boar, barking deer, python, monitor lizard etc.

Piran Kaliyar:

It is 23 kms south of Haridwar, on the outskirts of Roorkee, an important educational centre. The 'Dargah' of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahmed Shah 'Sabir' here is a shining example of communal harmony and peace. It is believed that the wishes of the devout are fulfiled here and large number of devotees from all faiths and religions visit the dargah from all over the world. The annual Urs is celebrated from 1 st day of sighting the moon to 16th day of Rabeeull month Islamic calender.

How to Reach Haridwar 

By Air: Nearest airport for Haridwar is Jolly Grant at Dehradun (41 kms)
By Rail: Connected with major cities of India- Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Agra, Varanasi, Allahabad, Ujjain, Amritser, Dehradun, Lucknow, etc.
By Road: Hardwar lies on N. H. 45 and is connected to all major cities. Delhi (214 kms), Agra (386 kms) Ambala (168 kms), Badrinath (325 kms), Dehradun (52 kms), Kedarnath (250 kms), Saharanpur (81 kms), Nanital (287 kms)

Information about Dehradun District

Dehradun - The capital city of Uttarachal is a complete blend of city and hill culture. It is set in the foot hills of Himalayas at the centre of the 120 kms long Doon Valley. The name Dehradun is literally made up of two words where Dera means Camp and Dun stands for Valley. The beautiful town is referred as the gateway to Mussoorie and Garhwal interior. It is perhaps one of the oldest cities in India and was occupied in turns by the Sikhs, Mughals and Gurkhas before coming under the reigns of the British. Elite educational and other institutions were established during the British period.

Dehradun Stats

District Headquarters: Dehradun
Area: 300 sq km
Total Population: 4,47,808
Literacy: 77%

Places to Visit in Dehradun

Assan Barrage (40.2 kms):

The wet land near the confluence of rivers Assan and Yamuna attracts large number of migratory birds and is an 'ornithologist's paradise'.

Mussoorie:

the 'Queen of Hills' perched at a height of 2000 metres is one of the most popular hill resort of the country. It was set up in 1823, by Captain Young during the British era and is 34 kms from Dehradun. This popular weekend retreat provides first glimpse of snow-clad Himalayas for the travellers from the plains.

Gun Hill:

This second highest peak of Mussoorie had a gun mounted over it, which was fired to herald mid-day. Travelling by the 400 m ropeway connecting the Mall to Gun Hill is quite exciting.

Childrens' Lodge:

It is the highest peak of Mussoorie and has a telescope which provides aweinspiring views of the Himalayas and Doon valley.

Camel's Back Road:

It is a charming pony trek or walk which girdles the northern base of Gun Hill. A fine view of sun-set can be enjoyed from here.

Municipal Garden:

Beautiful garden and scenic picnic spot. An artificial lake and boating facilities.

Nag Devta Temple:

The ancient temple on Cart Road is 6.2 kms from the town and is popular among devout followers, who believe that wishes are fulfiled here.

The Jheel:

Fine picnic spot on Dehradun - Mussoorie road.

Clouds End:

The beautiful bungalow amidst lush deodar forest was one of the first four buildings of Mussoorie. It has now been converted into a hotel.

Kempty Falls (15 kms):

The picturesque waterfall is a popular attraction of Mussoorie.

Bhadraj Temple (15.5 kms):

It is dedicated to Lord Balbhadra, brother of Shri Krishna. Panoramic view of the Doon Valley and Chakrata ranges.

Surkhanda Devi (36 kms):

The temple of Surkanda Devi is located 8 kms from Dhanolti. The temple commands a majestic view.

Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill) (9 kms):

The shrine amidst lush forest affords a fine view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and. Yamuna valley.

Rishikesh:

Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is an important pilgrim and spiritual centre on the right bank of holy Ganga. It is surrounded by Shivalik ranges on three sides and is the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage. It also attracts large number of people interested in meditation, Yoga and other aspects of Hinduism. The International Yoga week, which attracts participation from all across the world, is held here every year from 2nd to 7th Feb on the banks of Ganga.

Bharat Mandir:

This temple is deidicated to Bharat, the brother of Lord Ram. It lies near the Triveni Ghat and is the oldest temple in Rishikesh.

Triveni Ghat:

The sacred bathing ghat on the banks of Ganga is believed to be the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati river. The evening Aarti ceremony here is worth attending.

Shatrughan Temple:

This is an ancient temple dedicated to Shatrughan, Lord Ram's brother and is situated 5 kms from Rishikesh.

Neelkanth Mahadev:

It is set atop a hill across the Ganga. According to mythological legends Shiva drank the venom produced during 'Sagar Manthan' here, which turned his throat blue and was named Neelkanth.

Lakshman Jhula:

This hanging bridge across Ganga is about 5kms from Rishikesh, on the way to Badrinath. It was originally a jute rope bridge without pillars and was rebuilt with iron ropes in 1889. On the side of this famous bridge is the well known Shri Raghunathji temple dedicated to Lord Ram.

Kailash Niketan Temple:

The 13 storied structure is the main temple at Laxman Jhoola.

Ram Jhuol:

The hanging bridge similar to Lakshman Jhoola is built between the Shivanand Ashram and the Swargashram.

Shivanand Ashram (The Divine Society):

The famous spiritual centre was established by Swami Shivanand. It imparts lectures on spiritual life and training in meditation and Yoga.

How to Reach Dehradun 

By Air: The airport for Dehradun is Jolly Grant (24 kms). Dehradun Flighs information
By Rail: Dehradun is well connected by rail with important towns of the country. Dehradun Railway Station details
By Road: It is connected by good network of roads and highways.