Darma Valley
पिथौरागढ़
Uttarakhand, a state in northern India crossed by the Himalayas, is known for its Hindu pilgrimage sites. Rishikesh, a major centre for yoga study, was made famous by the Beatles’ 1968 visit. The city hosts the evening Ganga Aarti, a spiritual gathering on the sacred Ganges River. The state's forested Jim Corbett National Park shelters Bengal tigers and other native wildlife. Beauty is so inherent to almost all things Uttarakhand stands for – the magnanimous Himalayas, the holiest of the rivers, the spiritual mystery, stunning landscapes, the incessantly colorful play of nature, enchanting history carved in ancient stones, a mesmerizing floral and faunal plethora and the simplest of the people. Myths, anecdotes and stories are part of every visual that unfolds itself to the eyes of the beholder. The age-old Hindu traditions have always accorded highest esteem to the glory of the colossal and composed heights of the Himalayas which are spontaneously assumed to be the chosen consecrated residences of Gods. A whole lot of the Hindu lore sets out from this ‘Land of the Gods’. Pilgrimages to these heights dating back to more than 1500 years are found recorded in authentic documents and Uttarakhand still attracts millions of devout people who come here with the chaste objective of spiritual emancipation and revelation. Today, these mountains are no longer restricted to the religious or the spiritual – as a traveler one can get pleasure from mountaineering, trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing or simply strolling amongst the highest mountainous terrains in the world. A description of the charismatic beauty of Uttarakhand would be incomplete without the mention of people who inhabit this blessed country – simple, willing to help and hardworking people of the state are as diversified as the elements of nature. Several indigenous tribal groups peacefully co-exist with others, simultaneously keeping their distinct cultures alive. Apart from being a unique tourism destination, Uttarakhand is a goldmine for anthropologists, historians, ornithologists, linguists, geologists … you name the discipline and the state has something on offer. No words can ever be enough to perfectly describe this blessed land. The incredulous variety of experiences – both spiritual and sensory – goes beyond any language or dialect.
Embedded in the crown of Kumaon Hills, is a precious gem called Munsiyari whose beauty is in its serenity and untouched landscape. Munsiyari is said to be the sub-division headquarters in Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand and is often compared to Kashmir for its natural beauty. This picturesque hill station is situated at 2298 m and is home to breathtaking view of the Panchachuli Peaks which include Nanda Devi and Nandakot. Munsiyari apart from an ideal destination for nature lovers, is a destination for those seeking some adventure in the Kumaon Hills, apart from trekking on lesser trodden paths and viewing sightly views, an adventurist at heart can enjoy skiing and can even go for an exhilarating Snow Leopard Trek in the winter season. This must-see travel destination is also dubbed the 'Gateway to Johar Valley,' which though lesser known, is extremely beautiful and is home to famous explorer, Nain Singh Rawat. Our Munsiyari travel guide is overflowing with information on best places to visit and amazing things to do, which makes it quite essential for the travellers looking for an impeccable travelling experience. Also, handcrafted for you are the varied holiday packages by Tour My India that ensure a vacation unlike any other.
Explore the hill, monastery, valley and temple, all in one tour. Chandak is a supreme place to visit if you are looking for spectacular visuals, mountains, adventure, religion and good food all in one go, as this place offers it all. Chandak refers to a hill that is famous for housing a temple dedicated to the Hindu deity ‘Manu’ and is situated at a distance of 8 km from Pithoragarh. The magnetite mining factory is also located near the valley. It is bounded on all 4 sides by 4 different hills, the Chandak, Dhwaj, Thal Kedar and Kumdar.The weather at Chandak remains pleasant with comparatively cold nights. The views obtainable from here are some of the most beautiful, and it is best watched when night falls and celestial light is reflected in various colours, lending it a painting like feel. There are also long walking and climbing trails that are unique .(Do not trek or walk if you are not physically up to it.)Summers in Pithoragarh are a pleasant breakaway , by virtue of location and proximity to hills. The months of April-June are the best time to pay a visit. Monsoons are not that preferable, since heavy mountainous rains make for impeded communication, heavy showers obstruct sightseeing and there are natural risks of phenomena like landslides.
Mostamanu temple is situated in the Pithoragarh city of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mosta, who is the local deity of the region who is considered god of water and rain . Devotees of God Mosta travel far and away while worshiping the deity and receive blessings in the form of prosperity and welfare. In order to celebrate the divine presence of Lord Mouza, a local fair is also organized in the month of August-September known as Mostamanu Mela.The Mostamanu Temple, is one of the city’s most visited destinations. This temple is located about 6 km from the main Pithoragarh town. The temple of this hill shows an enchanted view of the entire city and the high valley. The temple complex is large and you can spend some special time here. In the compound there is a heavy stone and it is believed that if one can lift the stone, one's wishes would come true. The pure atmosphere of the temple, body and soul reaches utmost comfort. According to local folk tales, this temple was built by a saint, that is, they came from Saint Nepal and settled in this place and this temple is considered to be a replica of Nepal’s Pushpatinath temple.
Thalkedar is a sacred temple of Lord Shiva situated at a height of 8300ft. The Kedar temple is the centre of faith and devotion. The place is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is mentioned in the ancient text of the Skanda Purana. The location also offers some really amazing views of the valley and is attracts several tourist during the festival of Shivratri every year. Every year on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, a large fair is held at Thalkedar that attracts large no of devotees. The place is a well-known religious shrine .The scenic beauty of the place along with ethereal view of the Kumaon Himalayas makes it quite a unique adventure. Situated at distance of 16km from Pithoragarh, this place usually involves trekking through the enchanting Soar Valley. Hence, it attracts trekkers and nature lovers all through India The trekking route covers a mountainous stretch and requires quite a decent climb of nearly 8 kmc(come well equipped and wear comfortable shoes and clothes).Despite being a pilgrim destination its magical beauty and the panoramic view of attracts a range of tourists all through the year. A Visit to the renowned Thal Kedar Shiva temple is incomplete without an offering at the temple.Pithoragarh along with Thal Kedar bears the same weather and climatic conditions. Autumn and Spring remains the best time of the year to visit this place.
The sanctuary is located at Askot, which is a small hamlet situated some 54 km from the Pithoragarh town . It is very popular among wildlife enthusiasts and nature loversEstablished in 1986, the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary was created in order to protect the endangered Musk Deer and its habitat. Perched at an elevation of 1600 meters, Askot Sanctuary has a sprawling area of 600 sq km it is located in the Pithoragarh district near the Indo-Nepal border formed by the Kali River . The River Kali forms the international boundary and divides it from Nepal to the east . The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna along with a great number of shrubs, trees and herbs. The most commonly found trees in the sanctuary are teak and eucalyptus. The lush sanctuary area dotted with temples is also a fine place to view the beauty of the Himalayas.Intensive efforts have been initiated to conserve this rare species. Other mammals found in this sanctuary include the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Himalayan jungle cat, civet, barking deer, serow, goral and Himalayan brown bear. Many species of high altitude birds are also found in this sanctuary. The sanctuary marks the origin points of two rivers – Dhauli River and Ilki River. The Gori Ganga River passes through the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary. The weather in the sanctuary is classified as sub-arctic with severe winter, heavy rainfall and a maximum temperature of 30 degree Celsius. The Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary can be visited from 6 am to 5 pm every day. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between the months of April and September.
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. Jhulaghat is an indo-aryan language word which literally means "Hanging pier". The landmark is known as Jhulaghat after the suspension bridge. The suspension bridge is small in size so only pedestrian, cyclist and biker can cross the border through it. There has been a small town emerged both side of the bridge. Unlike any other border zone with electrified fences separating one country from the other, Jhulaghat has a distinct border zone. There is a custom station both side of the river in India and Nepal. Pithoragarh-Jhulaghat road connects the Jhulaghat to Pithoragarh which is 38 KM at distance from Jhulaghat. Naini Saini is the nearest airport which is 40 KM far by air and Kathgodam is the nearest railway station which is 310 KM at distance. In Nepal side, There is a Feeder road F-50 at Jhulaghat, which is connected with Mahakali Highway at Satbanjh, at 37 kilometres (23 mi) of distance. jhulaghat is the end point of Mid-Hills Highway of Nepal which starts at Chiyo Bhanjyang. Chiyo Bhanjyang is a border point between Province No. 1 (Nepal) and Sikkim (India). The Mid-Hill highway runs. 1776 KM through Mid hills of Nepal.
Ralam Glacier is one of the main Himalayan glaciers . Intriguing and extremely enchanting, Ralam Glacier is situated in Munsiyari tehsil of Pithoragarh district. Featuring an elevation of 2290 m, this glacier is found near Ralam Dhura at Ralam Khal in the Kumaon region. Characterizing a length of 15 km it is a fascinating natural wonder worth witnessing. Adding to the beauty of this glacier, three other glaciers namely Kalabaland, Sutela and Yangchar meet with Ralam Glacier. An epitome of beauty and tranquility, this majestic glacier lures countless trekking freaks from places far and wide. Taking one past pristine villages and magnetizing natural beauty, this trek is extremely adrenaline filled. Munsiyari serves as the starting point of the trek, which is an easy point of access. The glacier is glaciologically divided into two parts named Upper Ralam and Lower Ralam. This trek spanning from 8-10 days is the one that will lend you with an experience of a lifetime. The picturesque surrounding landscapes and the majestic abundance of the Himalayas have not to be explained much. The Ralam Glacier is a trekker’s delight and it is beauty and grandeur at its epitome.
Surrounded by a view majestic Himalayas, which is so captivating that it works wonder with the spirituality of the temple.The Dhwaj Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Jayanti. It is located near Pithoragarh and is perched at an elevation of 2,100 metres above sea level. The temple can be easily accessible as it is 10 km by road from Pithoragarh. It also provides a breathtaking view of the snow capped peaks that surround it. The trek to Dhwaj Temple is beautiful and should not be missed out . the location is very fascinating for those who want a place with peace then it is the best choice as u can feel the peace and the positive vibes in the air.
Gangolihat is a small Himalayan hill town in the Pithoragarh district. It has an average elevation of 1,760 metres (5,773 feet). At a distance of 82 km from the Pithoragarh town, it lies in the proximity of known places such as Binsar, Abbott-Mount and Patal Bhuvaneshwar. Also nearby are the tiny hill stations of Chaukori (35 kms) and Berinag. The scintillating view of the Pachachuli peaks and Nanda Devi leaves the viewer with immense memories.Gangolihat is situated at the point, where the old Pithoragarh-Almora foot path meets with the new Ghat-Bageshwar motor road. In our ancient literature Gangolihat, which lies between the rivers Saryu and Ramganga, is referred to as Gangawali. It is considered to be the centre of the Gangoli region. Gangolihat is famous for its Shakti Peeth of "Haat Kalika" dedicated goddess Kali. 'Haat Kalika Mandir' was built by Adi Guru Sankaracharya for installation of one of the Shakti Peethas. It is believed that the goddess Kalika Mata, who is thought to reside in West Bengal, moved from West Bengal to North (Gangolihat). Gangolihat is the site of a number of ancient temples and caves, including the templates of 'Haat Kalika'in the east, 'Ambika Dewaal'in North, 'Chamunda Mandir to the west' and 'Vaishnavi Mandir'. From 'Vaishnavi Mandir' it is possible to clearly view the Himalayas. This temple is situated on a mountain that was called 'Shail Parvat', which is written in Hindu holy books. The caves in Gangolihaat include 'Patal Bhuvneshwar' , 'Shailashwer Gufa' and 'Mukteshwar Gufa'. A cave has also been recently found and that is called 'Bholeshwar Gufa'. The peak Bhurgottam near village Mallagrkha is famous as place of Bhrigu who was one of the seven great sages, The Saptarshis. Patal Bhuvneshwar cave is believed to be the abode of 33 crore Gods and Goddesses.The highest peak in the range, Lamkeshwar which is a temple of Lord Shiva, The view of greenery rich valleys of Kumaun Himalayas from this hilltop is memorable and heavenly. It has always been a great trekking site.
Chaukori is a hill station in the Pithoragarh district set among the lofty peaks of the western Himalayan Range. To its north is Tibet and to its south is Terai. The Mahakali River, running along its eastern boundary, forms the Indo-Nepal international border. Chaukori is famous among tourist as Hill Station and from here a wide and picturesque view of Himalayan range can be viewed. The golden yellow colour of sun rays falling on the Himalayan range in the morning time is really worth seeing. There are cottages available here where one can stay and enjoy the serene surroundings. Other than watching, the sunset it is good for quick weekend getaways and family picnics. The months from March to June and September to November are good to visit Chaukori. It can be easily accessible by road, rail and air. Tourists coming to this place generally also visit the nearby tourist places like Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Kausani, Bageshwar and Almora. Chaukori is located in Berinag Tehsil of Pithoragarh district . Chaukori's elevation is 2010 m with spectacular panoramic views of the snowy peaks of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and the Panchchuli group.Chaukori is well connected with Motorable roads to major destinations in Kumaon. The Udiari Bend in Chaukori marks the intersection of roads coming from Kanda-Bageshwar, Seraghat-Almora and Thal-Munsiari. Seraghat is a tri-junction .
Chaukori is among the few places of Kumaon, where you can find the luscious green gardens spreading the aroma of the fresh green tea leaves. These tea gardens were established by the British during the pre-independence period. Breathe in the salubrious mountain air, listen the chirping of birds and watch the crimson sun rays kissing snow laden Himalayas and you will forget going back from this place.
Kafni Glacier is situated in the district of Bageshwar 52km away from Pithoragarh. It is the main source of Kafni River and Pindar river's tributary which later joins the Ganges. The Kafni Glacier is located in the upper reaches of the Kumaon Himalayas, to the southeast of Nanda Devi and to left side of Pindar Valley, beneath the famous peak of Nandkot . Kafni is a small glacier but it is very well-liked by the trekkers and adventure lovers. It is compared with Pindar, the valley here is broader. you will come across the multi-colored high altitude flowers like that of Rhododendrons. The Kafni Glacier trek starts from Loharkhet trekkers have to climb up to Dhakuri pass, And from Dhakuri pass you get a view of the magnificent Himalayan peaks including Nanda Khat and Maiktoli. The glacier could be reached from both destinations Almora & Kathgodam .
Another temple once again dedicated to Lord Shiva is believed to be built by one of the Pandavas named Arjuna. . Arjuneswar Temple is a major religious site, which is nestled at an elevation of 6000 ft above sea level. It is located at a distance of around 10 km from Pithoragarh and can be reached by trekking There are many center off attractions at this destination like Laxminarayan temple and Shivalaya in the town and Shiva, Hanuman, Chatkeshwar, Gurna Devi and Igyara devi around the town. One can also visit the temples dedicated to local gods. Some of them are Gangnath, Bhumia, Airi, Chamu, Badan, Haru, Balchan, Churmal, Gabila and Chipla temple. Some of these are restricted to specific families, cast and areas. This is a very temple for the locals who throng it frequently. Held in great reverence in the entire region. There are many more other places too for those who love to travel and explore some of the places are:
The exposure of Patal Bhuvaneshwar (Lord Shiva in the underground temple complex) is one of this unique way to help mankind. 16 Km. to the north-east of Gangolihat and 20 Km. to the south of Berinag is situated the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave temple. It is 91 Km. away from the district head quarter and situated at a height of 1350 meters above sea level. The temple place comes under village Bhuvneshwar which is in the tehsil Gangolihat. The way to the temple is through a narrow tunnel shaped cave, giving a very thrilling experience. The main passage way opens into several small caves which have in them the stone carvings of many traditional Gods & Goddesses and can evoke weird romantic fancies and images in the religiously inclined person. The cave temple of Patal Bhuvaneshwar is traditionally believed to be the abode of thirty three crore deities.
