Binsar - a charming hill station in Uttarakhand

Overview

A small hilly town in Kumano hills of Uttarakhand, Binsar is renowned for its beautiful countryside and pristine natural environs. Located at a distance of 35 km away from Almora, Binsar is also popular for its forest reserve and bird sanctuary. Set at an elevation of 2,480 metres above sea level, amidst oak, pine, deodar and rhododendron forests, Binsar provides a welcome respite to people living in plains. Get the wonderful views of the noted Himalayan peaks from vantage points in Binsar. Besides its natural beauty, Binsar is also known for its historic connection. Binsar has served as the capital of Chanda Raj rules from between 7th century AD to 8th century AD. Plan a trip to Binsar to enjoy a relaxing vacation in the lap of nature. Also get a fine glimpse of the region’s rich past by visiting the historic spots including archeological sites.

Binsar Camping Site

Fast Facts

Main Languages: Garhwali as well as Hindi is widely spoken by the locals.

When to Go: Binsar enjoys a soothing climate almost all around the year. Summer season (April to June) is quite comfortable, while winter season (November to Februar) is chilly. Don’t forget to carry sufficient woolen clothes while visiting Binsar during winters. Light woolen is required during summers, especially in nights.

Local Transport: Thee town and nearby areas can be explored by car / taxi. You can also take leisurely strolls to cover major spots of Binsar.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: Jhandi Dhar Hills in Uttarakhand

Altitude: 2,480 metres above sea level

Nearest Metropolis: New Delhi – 380 km away

Eating

North Indian cuisine is usually served by the eateries in and around Binsar. Don’t forget to savour the traditional Kumaoni cuisine, known for its unique aroma. You can find Kumaoni cuisine at small food stalls as well as restaurants in the guest houses and resorts.

Shopping

Shopping in Binsar revolves around locally manufactured handicrafts especially wooden items. Pick up the beautifully carved crafts to carry as a souvenir of Binsar trip. Don’t expect about fixed market or shops in Binsar. You will find vendors around Binsar, who sells a variety of items at impressive rates. Do little bargaining and get the items at cheap prices.

Sightseeing

When talked about sightseeing, every nook and corner of Binsar is an attraction in itself. Situated about 2,400 metres above sea level, Binsar provides a fine opportunity to closely observe the unspoiled nature that is more than sightseeing. However, if you are looking for some specific sightseeing hotspots, then Binsar will not disappoint you.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the town. Set up in 1988, the wildlife sanctuary spreads over an area of 45.59 sq. km and provides shelter to plenty of plant and animal species, and more than 200 bird species. Besides wildlife viewing, you can enjoy magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks from the wildlife sanctuary. Zero Point is the best place in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary to get the amazing views of noted Himalayan peaks, namely Nanda Devi, Kedarnath and Trishul. Binsar Museum is another highlight inside the sanctuary that exhibits flora and fauna of the region, and also provides handy information about the sanctuary.

After exploring the wildlife sanctuary, visit the temples and other attractions in and around Binsar. Just 4 km from Binsar is the temple of Golu Devta, which is famous all over Kumaon region. Also pay a visit to Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, about 8 km away from Binsar. Built in the 16th century, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of 9 km from Binsar, Kasar Devi Temple is a popular spot among visitors, especially foreigners. Kasar Devi Temple was the house for Dutch Monk (from 1970 – 80) and it is said that the hippie culture got popularity from this temple.

Khali Estate, once the residence of the commissioner of Kumaon (from 1856 to 1884) is now a resort and deserves a visit. The region around Binsar encompasses a rich history, even today you can get a glimpse of the bygone era by visiting the archaeological spots.

Activities

Usually visitors to Binsar spend hours in exploring the famous spots on foot and enjoy a splendid view of the natural surroundings. There are numerous nature trails around Binsar that are ideal for short to long treks. While walking along the trails, you can see colourful birds. Also enjoy breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain ranges from Binsar. The town is home to a well-managed forest reserve, where you can see a variety of floral and faunal species including avian species. Remember to carry a pair of binoculars to get a close view of the birds found in the area. You may also carry a good book for identification of birds.

Events

People in and around Binsar celebrate many festivals round the year. Besides regional and national festivals, people celebrate temple festivals on some specific days of the year. Try to participate in local festivals or events if they fall during your visit. You will get a better understanding of local culture and traditions by seeing the festivities.

Nightlife

Enjoy a bonfire or campfire in the premises of your hotel (guest house). You can also arrange a small party in the night. Apart from these, Binsar doesn’t have any specific nightlife option. It’s better to stay in the hotel (guest house) after the sunset.

Excursions

During Binsar trip, you can take visit nearby tourist attractions by undertaking short excursions. About 35 km away from Binsar is the beautiful town of Almora. One of the famous hilly towns of Uttarakhand, Almora is renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, exquisite handicrafts, rich cultural heritage and varied wildlife. Nanda Devi Temple is a major attraction of Almora that draws visitors in large numbers. You can also visit the hill stations of Nainital and Ranikhet. Kausani, Jageshwar or Chowkori, Bhimtal and Sattal are other popular destinations close to Binsar.

Getting There

Air: The nearest major airport is located in New Delhi, about 380 km away. IGI Airport in New Delhi is well-connected to many cities in India as well as abroad. From IGI Airport taxis / cars can be hired for Binsar. Pantnagar Airport (127 km) is another airport close to Binsar, which is served by limited flight.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 100 km away from Binsar. Kathgodam Railway Station has trains from New Delhi and other cities of North India. From the railway station, you can hire a cab to reach Binsar.

Road: State Highway No 37 connects Binsar with popular destinations in Uttarakhand and North India. Buses of Uttarakhand Road Transport ply to Almore, from there you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Binsar.   

Driving directions: From Delhi – Start from Anand Vihar and take Ghazipur Road. Take a right on Grand Trunk Road (NH 24), followed by NH 58 and SH 39. Further you have to proceed onto NH 24 that connects further with NH 87. After crossing NH 87E take SH 37 to reach Binsar (380 km, 10 hours approx).

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Top 5 Must See

Zero Point: Situated inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point is the highest vantage point in Almora district. You can get the best view of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks and beautiful surroundings from this vantage point.

Pariyadeva-Pashan: A popular vantage point in Binsar, Pariyadeva-Pashan offers breathtaking view of the town and nearby areas. The point also houses a stone with cup marks that belongs to the megalithic age. 

Badrinath - the sacred place for Hindus

Overview

One of the four pilgrimage sites (Char Dham) of India, Badrinath is situated in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Once served as the abode of Lord Vishnu and other Hindu gods, Badrinath was established as a pilgrimage site in the 9th century by Adi Shankara. In fact, Badrinath finds its description in mythological scriptures like Bhagavata Purana and legends dating back to more than 1000 years. Set between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges along the banks of Alaknanda River amidst pristine natural surroundings, Badrinath thrills visitors with its unparalleled beauty and pleasant cool climate. The lofty Neelkanth Peak raising above 6500 meters above sea level provides a magnificent backdrop to the quaint town of Badrinath. Besides the main shire of Badrinath dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the holy town houses many other spots of religious importance especially for Hindus. A trip to Badrinath not only purifies the soles of the devotees but it also provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a vacation in the lap of nature.

Badrinath

Fast Facts

Main Languages: Hindi along with Garhwali is widely spoken by the people of the town.

When to Go: Badrinath enjoys a pleasant soothing climate almost all through the year. Except in winters (November to February) when the mercury drops up to freezing point the maximum temperature during summers (March to June) and monsoon season (July to October) remains around 15 to 20 degree Celsius. You can visit Badrinath any time in the year, but the Badrinath Temple opens for devotes between May to mid November.

Local Transport: Because of hilly terrain you will not find public transport at Badrinath. You can drive through the narrow roads of Badrinath but it needs lots of expertise. Better cover the temples and other tourist attractions of the town on foot.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: On the banks of Alaknanda River in the Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand

Nearest Metropolis: New Delhi – 500 km away

Eating

Badrinath is an important pilgrimage town for Hindus and doesn’t offer a lavish eating experience to visitors. The area around the temple is dotted with small eating joints that serve vegetarian food. Most of the eateries offer limited choice from North Indian cuisine. You can savour some local delicacies of Uttarakhand as well. Remember non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are not permitted at the holy town of Badrinath. Also you should not expect about luxury restaurants or eateries at this small town.

Shopping

Although Badrinath is not a shopper’s paradise, but you can find some interesting items in the stalls around the temple. In fact, some of the objects can be bought as a souvenir for near and dear ones. Chinese goods especially electronic gadgets are sold at various spots of the town. Sacred threads, beautiful beads and bracelets, woollen garments, sea shells and ancient coins are some of the famous items found at Badrinath. You can also buy holy books and booklets on ‘Aarti’ and other related topics in the shops adjacent to temple. Haggling is very common at Badrinath so you are free to ask any desired price for the selected objects.

Sightseeing

Set at an altitude of about 3,133 metres above sea level, Badrinath Temple is the principal attraction of the holy town. A popular pilgrimage centre of Hindus, Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Since its construction in the ancient time the temple has undergone renovations several times. While the Kings of Garhwal expanded the temple in the 17th century, the Kings of Jaipur reconstructed it in 1803 after the major earthquake. An architectural masterpiece, Badrinath Temple looks like typical Buddhist temples. The 15 metre high temple has a small cupola on the top and covered with gold-gilt roof. The façade of the temple is built of stone and equipped with arched windows.

You can reach the temple through a broad stairway that leads up to the main arched gateway. Enter inside the mandapa (a large pillared hall with delicately carved walls and pillars) that leads further to the main shrine (garbha griha) which is adorned with the deity of Lord Vishnu. Darshan Mandap and Shobha Mandap are other two main portions of the temple. Besides the shrine of Lord Vishnu, the temple complex houses the shrine of goddess Lakshmi. You can see 15 other idols of different Hindu gods and goddess in the temple complex. Visitors to Badrinath spend maximum time inside the temple and worship the principal deities Vishnu and Lakhsmi.

Just outside the temple the surrounding natural beauty fascinate the visitors a lot. Enjoy a breathtaking view of snow-covered Neelkanth Peak (6,597 metre) the overlooks the Badrinath Temple and the town below. Fondly called the ‘Queen of Garhwal’, Neelkanth Peak is a favoured spot for devotees, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts as well. Further visit Brahma Kapal Ghat, a flat platform along the banks of Alaknanada River. Located about 100 meters north of Badrinath shrine, Brahma Kapal Ghat is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma resided. Mata Murthy Temple, Charanpaduka, Sheshnetra, Tapt Kuna and Narad Kund are other places of religious significance at Badrinath. Also visit the Vasudhara Falls that cascades down from a height of 400 feet and amaze visitors with its unmatched charm and tranquil environs. Don’t forget to include Hemkund Sahib - a Sikh pilgrimage site located en-route to Badrinath in the itinerary of Badrinath tour.  

Activities

Badrinath offers a fine combination of leisure and adventure activities to visitors. Close to Badrinath Temple there is a hot spring, where you can take a dip. You can take nature walks or treks along the beautiful countryside and experience the nature at its best. Take a trek up to Vasudhara Waterfall approximately 8 km away from Badrinath. You can cover first 3 km by a car or bus up to Mana Village. Later on a 5 km trek takes you to the serene waterfall. Pass relaxing moments along the fall and also meet with the locals. You can see a small water stream at Mana Village which is believed to be the source of mythological river Saraswati.

Events

Badrinath is inhabited by around 1000 – 1500 people who celebrate a number of festivals every year. Besides religious and regional festivals the people of the town organise few special events including fairs. Among the Hindu festivals, Janmashtami (July / August) is celebrated by the locals with great pomp and gaiety. Kedar-Badri Utsav is a major cultural event organised during May / June. The fair of Mata Mruti is held in the month of September that showcases numerous interesting rituals and celebrations.

Nightlife

After the sunset the town of Badrinath virtually sleeps and you need to confine yourself within your hotel premises. Badrinath doesn’t offer anything exciting or happening to do in the evening. Only during the tourist season between May and November the area around the temple remains open in the evening for few hours. Don’t try to explore the far-off areas after the sunset as it may be dangerous.

Excursions

After exploring the temple and other attractions of Badrinath, you can pay a visit to nearby tourist destinations. Situated at a distance of about 30 km, Auli is a famous skiing destination and thronged by adventure seekers and discerning travellers in large numbers. Visit Auli to enjoy skiing along the snow-covered slopes. You can take basic training on Skiing at the government run skiing institute in Auli. Valley of Flowers (75 km) is a picturesque destination that deserves a visit. Away from the bustling cities, Valley of Flowers is like a heaven and provides natural habitat to a variety of floral and faunal species. Pauri (195 km), Kedarnath (210 km) and Gangotri (250 km) are other destinations that can be explored besides Badrinath.

Getting There

Air: The nearest airport from Badrinath is Jolly Grant Airport which is located close to Dehradun. Jolly Grant Airport is served by limited flights from Delhi. Indian Airlines, Kingfisher Airways and Jet Airways offer flight services between Delhi and Jolly Grant Airport. Taxis / cabs are available at Jolly Grant Airport for Badrinath that costs around Rs. 3500 – 4000.

Rail: Badrinath doesn’t have its own railway station, the nearest railheads are situated at Haridwar (315) and Kotdwar (335 km). Both these stations are connected to Delhi by a number of trains. After reaching at the railway station you can take a cab or tourist bus for Badrinath.

Road: Badrinath is linked with the many cities of North India such as Rishikesh, Haridwar and New Delhi by public and private buses. You can take a luxury or deluxe tourist bus from New Delhi to Badrinath that charges about Rs 800 – 1000 per passenger.

Driving directions: From New Delhi – Start from Anand Vihar and take a left on Ghazipur Road that takes you to NH 24 (Grand Trunk Road). Drive on NH 24 and further switch on to Meerut Road (NH 58) that takes yout to Badrinath crossing Muzaffarnagar, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Chamoli and Auli en-route (500 km, 16 hours approx).

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Top 5 Must See

Vijaypur - a secluded hill station in Uttarakhand

From Delhi – 475 km

From Ranikhet – 120 km

From Kathgodam – 214 km

Overview – 

Far from the maddening crowds, Vijaypur is perfect place to enjoy a peaceful vacation amidst unspoiled natural environs. Vijaypur is situated atop a 2,050 mtr high ridge, overlooking the picturesque Himalayan range. A secluded place, Vijaypur offers breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Nanda Kot, Neel Kanth, Hathi Parvat, Panchchuli, Trishul and Appi (Annapurna). The town is flanked by a magnificent valley dotted with small hamlets, where people live a relaxed life and no one seems to be in a hurry!  

Vijaypur

Don’t Miss – 

When in Vijaypur enjoy the nature at its best. Watch the sunrise on Nanda Kot…a splendid sight. 

Getting There –

By Rail- Kathgodam railway station (214 km) is the nearest railhead from Vijaypur. Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express run between Delhi and Kathgodam. From Kathgodam, take the road to reach Vijaypur, approximately seven hours away.

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 24 to reach Rampur and then turn left for Bilaspur. Move straight through Rudrapur to Haldwani and take NH 87 for Nainital to reach Almora. From there, take the road leading to Bageshwar via Ayar Puni and take a right on the State Highway to Vijaypur via Kanda.

Yamunotri - the sacred dham of Hindus

From Delhi – 487 km

From Dehradun – 172 km

From Rishikesh – 213 km

Overview – 

Perched at an elevation of 3,293 mtr above sea level, Yamunotri is the source of the sacred River Yamuna. Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri is one of the four (char) sacred dhams (places) according to Hindu mythology. According to Hindu mythology, it was the home of an ancient sage - Asit Muni. Thousands of pilgrims flock to the holy shrine here, which remains open between May and November. Yamunotri lies on the western side of the Bandarpunch Mountain (6,315 mtr) close to the Indo-China border. The Yamunotri Temple dedicated to goddess Yamuna and the hot water springs in the vicinity are the major attractions of this pilgrimage destination.  

Yamunotri

Don’t Miss – 

A dip in hot springs and cooking rice in its water are popular rituals performed by the devotees at Yamunotri. Surya Kund, an important thermal spring and Divya Shila, a huge rock pillar are other attractions. Jankichatti located 7 km from Yamunotri is famous for its hot water springs. Hanumanchatti - the confluence of River Yamuna and Hanuman Ganga, at a distance of 13 km, is the starting point for the thrilling Dodi Tal Trek.

Getting There –

Rail – Dehradun (172 km) and Rishikesh (213 km) are the nearest railheads from Yamunotri. Both these railway stations are linked to Delhi by a number of express trains. 

Road – From Delhi, take NH 58 to reach Rishikesh, via Modinagar and Roorkee. The journey takes around 6 hours. From Rishikesh, a 213 km road journey takes one to Hanumanchatti, where the motorable road ends. From here, one has to cover the 13 km trek either on foot or on ponies. Porters and palanquins are available on hire and the route passes through rugged mountains and dense forests. 

Uttarkashi – the sacred place for Hindus

From Delhi – 385 km

From Haridwar – 175 km 

Overview – 

Set at an elevation of 1,352 mtr above sea level, Uttarkashi is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The picturesque town, situated on the banks of Bhagirathi River, also draws adventure seekers in large numbers. Uttarkashi is home to several temples and ashrams, with Lord Vishwanath Temple being the most important. Other noted temples of the town are Gyaneshwar Temple, Bhairav Temple and Ekadash Rudra Temple. Every year on the occasion of ‘Magh Mela’ (January 14), devotees visit the town to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi River. 

Uttarkashi

Don’t Miss – 

Located 5 km from Uttarkashi, the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering offers training in mountaineering to adventure enthusiasts. From the town, also pay a visit to Kuteti Devi Temple, perched atop a hill, about 1.5 km away. You may also take leisurely walks along the picturesque trails, leading to temples and ashrams in the vicinity. 

Getting There –

Train – Rishikesh railway station (170 km) is the major railhead close to Uttarkashi. From Delhi, a number of trains run to Rishikesh. From there, you have to travel by road to reach Uttarkashi, approximately six hours away. 

Rail – From Delhi, drive on NH 58, which takes you to Rishikesh via Modinagar and Roorkee. The journey should take you 6 hours. After crossing Rishikesh town, leave NH 58 and take a left turn towards NH 94. Further, NH 94 takes you to NH 108, which is directly connected to Uttarkashi. As the roads from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi pass through hilly terrain, the journey may take five to six hours.   

Sonapani - a tranquil getaway closeby Mukteshwar

From Delhi – 360 km

From Kathgodam – 80 km

From Nainital – 55 km

Overview – 

Just 8 km from the famous hill station Mukteshwar, Sonapani is a small town in Nainital district. Far from bustling city life, the town is a tranquil getaway amidst ‘nature’s own abode’. Sonapani is an ideal place to enjoy a relaxed vacation, both for discerning travellers and adventure sports lovers as well. Set amidst the lofty Himalayan peaks, it offers breathtaking views of snow clad mountain ranges, including Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Maiktoli, Panchchuli and Trishul. 

Sonapani, Uttarakhand

Don’t Miss – 

If you’re looking for a never before adventure experience, then Sonapani is the perfect place for you. Adventure options available at Sonapani are rock climbing, rappelling, jungle and village walks, trekking to Kapileshwar Temple and river crossing. You can also visit Almora, 23 km away, for a quaint hill station experience. 

Getting There –

Train – The nearest railhead from Sonapani is located at Kathgodam (80 km). From there, you have to take the road to Sonapani, approximately two hours away. Kathgodam railway station is connected by Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express from Delhi. 

Road – Take NH 24 from Delhi, drive till you reach Rampur and then turn left towards Bilaspur. Drive further to reach Haldwani via Rudrapur and take NH 87 for Nainital. From there, take the road passing through Talla Ramgarh and Malla Ramgarh. After crossing these places, turn towards Sonapani by leaving the road leading to Mukteshwar. The trip from Delhi to Sonapani will take around 10 hours. 

Marchula - a picturesque weekend getaway from Delhi

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 250 km from Delhi

Popular for: Natural beauty

Marchula, Uttarakhand

Getting There –

By Train – Ramnagar railway station is the nearest railhead. From Delhi, Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express run daily to Ramnagar. Further, you have to take road journey to reach Marchula, about 40 km away. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH till Moradabad. Then, take a left onto the State Highway to reach Ramnagar via Kashipur. From there, drive further to reach Marchula, approximately one and half hours away. 

Overview – 

A weekend break in tiger country, amidst the dense forest is a thrilling experience. If you are looking for such wild getaway and some never before wild experiences, then Marchula is an ideal destination for you. Marchula is a small hamlet, located 40 km away from Ramnagar and approximately 17 km from Dhangadi, the entrance to the Corbett National Park. Situated on the banks of Ramganga River, Marchula is surrounded by lofty mountains and thick forests. Besides, the pristine environs, the soothing sound of the gushing river and the occasional sightings of tiger, leopard or deer, altogether make Marchula a perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.   

Don’t Miss – 

Perched 500 mtr above sea level, Marchula offers lots of exciting adventure activities to indulge in. You can take a leisurely walk along the hilly trails, enjoy a swim in the gushing stream or a tiger safari. However, the most amazing feature of Marchula is angling in the River Ramganga, home to the famous fish – Mahaseer, in addition to Goonj and Trout. Fishing at Marchula is of course a fun-filled activity, but, you need be patient and skilful for a good catch. It is mandatory to avail a license before the fishing expedition. Also cross the river to see the crocodiles living in a fresh water pool. 

Munsiyari - A Quaint Weekend Getaway from Delhi

Location: Kumaon Hill of Uttarakhan

Distance: 600 km from Delhi, 260 km from Kathgodam

Popular As: Hill Station

Getting There –

By Train – Kathgodam railway station, at a distance of 260 km, is the nearest rail head. Board the Ranikhet Express or Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express in Delhi to reach Kathgodam. Further, you have to travel by road to reach Munsiyari, approximately 10 hours away. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 24 till Rampur. Then, take a left onto NH 87 to reach Nainital, a convenient place to break your journey en-route. The road journey from Delhi to Nainital, should take around eight hours. Further, the state road via Almora and Bageshwar, takes you to Munsiyari, around 280 kms away.  

Overview – 

Munsiyari is a quaint weekend getaway in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude 2,200 mtr above sea level, the small hamlet serves as a starting point of thrilling treks into the inner ranges of the Himalayas. Munsiyari is set along the banks of Goriganga River, flanked by lofty snow capped peaks. Opened to visitors only a few years back, the town draws discerning travellers, nature lovers and adventure seekers from across the globe. A fast growing tourist destination, Munsiyari greets visitors with its unspoiled environs, verdant valleys and breathtaking views of the glaciers.

Don’t Miss – 

From Munisyari you can enjoy splendid views of the snowy Himalayas, including the famous Panchuli quintuplets, looking like five chimneys. Proceed on leisurely walks along the exciting trek routes, leading to Milam, Ralan and Namik glaciers. Remember, you require inner line trekking permits before starting your expeditions. While trekking along the Munsiyari jungles, you can see vast range of mountain birds and animals. You can also enjoy river rafting on the Goriganga River and skiing on the higher slopes of Khaliatop and Betulidhar. Madkote (22km), Birthi Falls (31 km) and Jaulijibi (66 km) are other must visit places around Munsiyari. 

Incredible India! Roopkund Lake, Uttrakhand

Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) is a glacial lake in Uttarakhand at an altitude of about 5,029 metres. It is famous for more than five hundred human skeletons found at the edge of a lake. In 1942 a British forest guard in Roopkund, India made an alarming discovery. Some 16,000 feet above sea level, at the bottom of a small valley, was a frozen lake absolutely full of skeletons. That summer, the ice melting revealed even more skeletal remains, floating in the water and lying haphazardly around the lake's edges. Something horrible had happened here.

A 2004 expedition to the site seems to have finally revealed the mystery of what caused those people's deaths. The answer was stranger than anyone had guessed. As it turns out, all the bodies date to around 850 AD. DNA evidence indicates that there were two distinct groups of people, one a family or tribe of closely related individuals, and a second smaller, shorter group of locals, likely hired as porters and guides. Rings, spears, leather shoes, and bamboo staves were found, leading experts to believe that the group was comprised of pilgrims heading through the valley with the help of the locals. All the bodies had died in a similar way, from blows to the head. However, the short deep cracks in the skulls appeared to be the result not of weapons, but rather of something rounded. The bodies also only had wounds on their heads, and shoulders as if the blows had all come from directly above. What had killed them all, porter and pilgrim alike?

Among Himalayan women there is an ancient and traditional folk song. The lyrics describe a goddess so enraged at outsiders who defiled her mountain sanctuary that she rained death upon them by flinging hailstones “hard as iron.” After much research and consideration, the 2004 expedition came to the same conclusion. All people died from a sudden and severe hailstorm. Trapped in the valley with nowhere to hide or seek shelter, the "hard as iron” cricket ball-sized [about 23 centimeter/9 inches diameter] hailstones came by the thousands, resulting in the travelers' bizarre sudden death. The remains lay in the lake for 1,200 years until their discovery.

Little Explored Destination Series: Abbott Mount, Uttarakhand

Fast Facts About Abbott Mount

Located in the State of: Uttarakhand

District: Champawat

Popular as: Hill Station

Altitude: 2,150 metres

Languages Spoken by Locals: Kumaoni and Hindi

Best Time to Visit : Any time in the year

Temperature: Summer 17 to 25°C, Winter -5 to 15°C

Recommended Cloths: Woolen and hot cloths

STD Code: 05965

Far from the mundane city life at an altitude of 2,150 metres lies the small hamlet of Abbott Mount. A little known hill station, Abbott Mount offers a wonderful base to enjoy a laidback vacation along with the breathtaking views of the snowcapped cliffs of the mighty Himalayas. Abbott Mount is situated on the eastern side of the Kumaon Hills and unravels a passable vision of the massive Himalayan peaks from the Gangotri cliff to Dhaulagiri range.

 

Like most hill stations of India, Abbott Mount was developed by an English men, especially John Harold Abbott, during the early part of the 20th century, but it succeeded to keep its identity till now. Abbott Mount is bestowed with spectacular trails and walkways that fascinate the visitors a lot. Adding to its unparalleled natural beauty are picturesque and serene surroundings of deodar and pine forest. The forests serves as the paradise of exotic Himalayan birds whose twittering and chirping creates a melodious environ.

Abbott Mount is a recommended place for those who love to be nestled in the lap of Mother Nature. It would be a perfect quixotic location for young couples and honeymooners as well. The hill resort boasts a cluster of 13 Cottages set in the midst of five acres of marvelous woods. On its pictorial ambiance, this hamlet holds a lovely church, which provides an ethereal appeal to its magnificence. You can opt a tour to this hilly resort at any time of the year. However, if you prefer slower and easy paced vacation, you choose the summers when the entire surroundings would be filled with the diaphanous shades of large variety of butterflies.

Things to See & Do at Abbott Mount

Fishing: If you plan your tour to Abbott Mount during October to June, you would be fascinated with exhilaration fishing options. The stretch between Marchula till downstream is a permits site for fishing. This area is famous for Masheers and catfishes. From October to till mid December and then mid February to June are considered as the best season for fishing.

How to Reach Abbott Mount

By Air: The closes airport is Naini Saini Airport at Champawat, about 40 km, 1 hour journey by road. The nearest major airport is Indira Gandhi Intl Airport, Delhi (DEL) at a distance of 330 km.

By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station, 163 km away from Abbott Mount is the nearest railehad. Abott Mount can be reached from Kathgodam by about 6 hours journey by road costing about Rs 2500/-.

By Bus: Abbott Mount is connected by good roads with Delhi. Tourist service providers arrange taxi facilities from Delhi to Abbott Mount. Normally, Delhi to Abbott Mount is about 11 hour road journey with a taxi rate of about Rs 6000/-.

Incredible India! Lansdowne: A Seculded Hill Station in Uttarakhand

Fastfacts about Lansdowne

Located in the State: Uttarakhand

District: Pauri Garhwal

Famous as: A Quaint Hill Station of North India

Local Languages: Garhwali & Hindi

Best Time to Visit: March to October

Are you looking for a quaint break in this summer away from the heat and mundane city life? If you answer affirmatively, then the small but beautiful hill station of Lansdowne in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand can be a perfect place for you. Little explored and blessed with unspoiled nature, soothing breeze and amazing surroundings, Lansdowne is a place for all including family vacationers, honeymooners, adventure seekers and groups. Lansdowne is located on the Kotware-Pauri Road at a height of 1,706 meters on a hillock. Lansdowne, named after its founder Lord Lansdowne, was the main base of independent movement activities of India during the British Raj.

Not only in summers, the hill station of Lansdowne is visited by tourists almost all through the year. The characteristic pleasant climate of Lansdowne makes the town very comfortable for vacationing tourists. In fact, Lansdowne is considered a gateway of romance, thanks to the natural comforts, nice accommodations, pleasant weather, calm environment and secluded atmosphere.

Lansdowne is surrounded by lusting greeneries of thick Oak woods and blue Pine forests. Magnificent views of snow covered mounts and forests, bracing cool air and unpolluted clean fresh atmosphere altogether make Lansdowne a perfect place for eco-tourism. The annual festival ‘Shardotsav’, celebrated during the season of autumn is a major attraction for the travelers to Lansdowne.

Things to Do & See in Lansdowne

The War Memorial at the Parade Ground of the Garhwal Rifles Center is a prime attraction for the travelers to the hill station. Places of interest around the city include Tip-n-Top (Tiffin Top), Santoshi Mata Temple, Regimental Museum, Bhulla Taal, St. Mary's Church, Lover's lane. The excursions from the hill town are Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple, Bhairav Garhi Temple, Bhim pakora(a stone which vibrates if touched).The Annual ‘Sharadotsav’ (Festival of Autumn) is also organized at this hill station during autumn season.

Jungle Safari in Lansdowne: The hill station of Lansdowne is surrounded by dense forest that offers an ideal setting for Jungle Safari. The Oak trees and blue pine woods make the landscape of Lansdowne challenging for the adventurous tourist. While on Jungle Safari you can see many wild flora and fauna. There are a number of tour agents who arrange the planned jungle safari at an affordable price in the forests surrounding the hill station of Lansdowne.

Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Set at a close distance from Lansdowne atop of a hill of height 2092 meters, this temple is believed to be one of the ancient holy sites or SiddhaPitas. The main deity of Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is Lord Shiva and many devotees visit this ancient temple to offer prayers with the belief that the offerings here makes the wishes of the devotees be fulfilled. Mahashivarathri is celebrated annually with grandeur.

Kanvashram: This a sacred ashram located near Lansdowne hill station. Kanvashram is considered a gateway to Puri, the most sought temple town in India. This ashram is bordered by thick forests and hillocks, making it a beautiful place for feasting the eyes of tourists. A spectacular attraction nearby is the famous Malini River flowing near to this Ashram. This ashram bears mythological importance related to the Sage Kanvan.

Accommodation in Lansdowne: Good accommodation options are available in Lansdowne. You can stay at hotels, resorts or guest houses dotted across the town.

How to Reach Lansdowne: You can reach Lansdowne through Air, Rail and Road.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jollygrant Airport in Dehradoon, which is about 100 kms. away. Jollygrant airport is connected to IGI Airport in New Delhi. Taxi services are available from Jollygrant Airport to Lansdowne and it costs about Rs. 2000. Delhi is the nearest international airport which is 235 km away from Lansdowne. Delhi is well connected to all major cities in India and many cities abroad.

By Train: Kotdwar Railway Station is the nearest railhead from Lansdowne, which is nearly 40 kms. away. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to Lansdowne that will cost you about Rs 750.

By Road: Good roads connect Lansdowne with New Delhi, and other major cities of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

Uttarakhand - A charming state of North India

Once known as Uttaranchal, Uttarakhand was the part of Uttar Pradesh till Nov 8, 2000 A.D. The beautiful state is located in the northern Indian, and is bounded by the mighty Himalayas. Uttarakhand shares its international borders with China and Nepal and is neighboured by the states Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Dehra Dun, the largest city in Uttarakhand is the provincial capital of the state.

Uttarakhand is blessed with towering peaks, lakes and streams, rolling forests, pilgrimage centres and all of it welcome a great party. As an adventure sports destination and a major pilgrimage centre of Hindus, Uttarakhand generates a good revenue from tourism enterprises. The pleasant climate also makes it a popular vacations spending resort and an escape from the scorching north Indian sun.

Uttarakhand is dominated with the presence of mighty peaks and hills of the Himalayas. The state is primarily divided into two zones - Garhwal and Kumaon. There are 13 districts in all; seven in the Garhwal zone and six in the Kumaon zone. The two zones see a multitude of sky reaching peaks that form parts of the Greater Himalayas. These mountains are also the source of the great rivers of India - the Ganga and the Yamuna.

Some of the high peaks in the region include Bandarpunch (6,316 m), Yogeshwar (6,678 m), Sri Kailash (6,932 m), Kedarnath (6,490 m), Bhirigupanth (6,772 m), Chaukhamba (7,068 m), Kamet (7,756 m), Mana Peak (7,272 m), Abl Gamin (7,355 m), Mukut (7,242 m). These snow clad peaks give rise to a number of lakes that flow down and join the tributaries. The slopes at certain places are also ideal for winter sports. One such destination is Auli.

History of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand happens to be one of the cultural places in India where the dominant culture and civilization emerged and evolved centuries ago. One of the earliest references is found in Vedas and epics. A quick look at Uttarakhand's history reveals the influence of the following empires - Kushanas, Kudinas, Kanishka, Samudra, Gupta, Palas, Chandras, Pawaras and the British. The popular culture, however, flourished at all times and since the time of Shankaracharya the place has retained its values and sanctity.

Tourist Destinations of Uttarakhand

The fascinating terrain, peaks, glaciers, lakes, sanctuaries and holy centre makes Uttarakhand a favorite hunt for tourists. There are quite many places that guarantee the best of the vacations at Uttarakhand. The places are famous for their unique beauty, opportunities they provide and much revered places for Hindus. Tourist usually reach here seeking a summer resort to get rid of the extreme temperature in north, adventure sports and for pilgrimage. The famous destinations include Dehra Dun, Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussorie, Kausani, Tehri and Auli.

Pilgrimage in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is one of the major pilgrimage centres and much revered place for the Hindus. Both Garhwal and Kumaon zone feature a number of important sites. However, the four sites at Garhwal - Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath, are primary places of visit; two other being Hemkund Sahib and Joshimath. In Kumaon zone the sacred places include Baijhnath, Bageshwar, Jageshwar, Punyagiri and Ritha Sahib.

Adventure in Uttarakhand

The low lying southern tracts of the Himalayas and the towering northern peaks puts Uttarakhand on the adventure destinations map in the Indian sub continent. As if this were not enough, the rushing waters and gentle slopes open a hundred doors for various outdoor sports activities. White water rafting, Skiing, Paragliding and trekking are some of the popular events conducted in the state. There are multiple destinations, each with a scope and thrill of its own.

Wildlife in Uttarakhand

The lower Himalayan tracts in Uttarakhand see lush vegetation and forest growth. The foothills of Uttarakhand support great many species of wild animals. The dense out growing forests provide a perfect cover for the wild species, most importantly to the tigers. The lush vegetation also supports a number of game species for the tiger. The swamps and water holes further make up the habitat for a number of amphibious species. Corbett National Park, one of the famous wildlife reserves also fall in the region. Other important wildlife sanctuaries are Valley of Flowers , Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajaji National Park and Nanda Devi National Park.

Yoga and Meditation in Uttarakhand

The unique geographical features of Uttarakhand contribute to the good will of the state in more than one way. The natural ambience, isolation and un-interrupted solitude pours new life and lifts up the spirits. For centuries now, ordinary people as well the scholars have taken advantage and made incredible personal benefits. Rishikesh, one such place has developed into a popular yoga and meditation centre. The Himalayas are believed to effect in more ways than can be explained.

How to Reach Uttarakhand

Buses, trains, air flights provide the means of access to the state from long distances. For commutation buses, taxis and auto rickshaws serve the purpose. The popular modes are as follows:

Air: Two airports deliver their services at Uttarakhand, namely Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun and Patnagar Airport. These airports are connected with limited flights from the national capital New Delhi.

Rail: Northern Railways of the Indian Railways Division, connects the towns of the state with the rest of the country. Some major rail heads include Dehradun, Haridwar, Kathgodam and Roorkee.

Road: Dehradun and Nainital are two main entry points in the state. Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, regularly sees buses arriving from Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Nainital, likewise, is connected by bus services from many neighbouring states and cities.

Nainital - The Lake City of India

Nainital - A destination for All

Renowned as the home of noted conservationist Jim Corbett, Nainital is fondly called the 'Lake City of India'. Nainital is set an elevation of 1938 metres and considered the largest and one of the most popular hill resorts of Kumaon region. A glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, the hill station was discovered by a Britisher Lord Barron in 1841 and has grown around a 'tal' (mountain-lake). Nainital is blessed with pristine natural beauty and an enchanting landscape.

Nainital is always bustling with tourists who flock the city from far and wide. Today, the life of Nainital revolves around the Naini Lake, which mirrors the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds and mountains. The turquoise Naini Lake shimmers at the foot of the surrounding mountains, dotted with psychedelic sail boats. The tree flanked Mall runs parallel to the lake, teeming with tourists, hotels, shops and restaurants.

Nainital is the quintessential hill station, offering all trappings of civilization, while nestled in the beautiful Himalayan landscape. Spend your time walking leisurely by the lake, shopping at the Tibetan market or climbing up to Snow View in the ropeway to admire the brilliant vista of snow peaks. The town also offers some beautiful treks into the surrounding mountains.

Must Dos in Nainital

Naini Lake - Enjoy boating on the Naini Lake surrounded by lush green surroundings. There is no better way to unwind than to languidly float down water. Take a full tour of the lake, which brushes past the surrounding mountains and the greenery. The mountains dapple the water, a breeze ruffles your hair as you drift down lazily away from the Mall, it’s all serene.

Gondola Ride - Take a cable car or gondola to Snow View peak (2270 metres) from where you get a panoramic view of the snow covered Himalayan peaks and also surrounding valleys. The return ticket covers a one-hour stay. You can also trek up to Snow View, a fairly steep walk, to encounter dhabas and kiosks at the top.

St. John’s Church in the Wilderness - Built in 1844, St. John’s Church in the Wilderness showcases typical Victorian architecture, built in stone with thick walls and stained glass windows. The altar inside the church is inscribed with names of the 1880 landslide victims.

Shopping in Nainital

Shopping is a must do activity in Nainital. In fact, Nainital and its candles are synonymous. The Barra Bazaar at Mallital is lined with shops selling various types of candles. Nainital is also a great place to pick up natural preserves - an excellent variety of fruit squashes, jams, jellies, pickles and marmalades, all locally produced, are available in shops lining the Mall. Also visit the Tibetan Market at the Flats, a flea market area selling junk jewellery, bags, scarves, fake branded watches and so on. If you look closely, and haggle intelligently, you can pick up some good bargains.

Nearby Getaways from Nainital

Ranikhet - Siutated 64 kilometres away, Ranikhet is a quaint mountain town untouched by commercialisation. It offers awe inspiring views of the snow peaks spreading over 300 kilometres along with solitude, peace and tranquility. Heavily shaded by deodars and pine, life is gentle here and the world is dark green. With its colonial history, the town seems to be a chapter from the past. Highly recommended place for travelers to Nainital.

Sattal – Literally meaning ‘the seven lake’, Sattal is constituted by seven scattered lakes. A profusion of oaks and deodars and the gently dappling water charms you. The area around the lakes offers picturesque treks into the wilderness. Do go for a swim in the lake or a boat ride.