Pithoragarh

Why visit Attractions What to do Weather How to reach Where to stay

Picturesque town against the backdrop of the Panchachuli peaks
Launch pad for treks to Kailash Mansarovar Lake
Hotspot for nature walks
Among the lesser-known hill-stations

What to know

An idyllic hill-station, Pithoragarh is a dream destination for those looking for a trip away from the crowd. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, specially the Panchachuli Peaks which overlook lush green Saur valley criss-crossed by meandering rivers and waterfalls cutting across forests, the town of Pithoragarh is a nature-lover's paradise. Perched at a height of 1,645 m above sea level, Pithoragarh serves as the headquarters of its eponymous district.

The third-largest city of the Kumaon region, Pithoragarh is popular as being the starting point for treks to the Milam Glacier and the Darma Valley. Being a border town, Pithoragarh is also an important base of the Indian Army. Historically, the town was a major centre of power during the reign of the Chand Kings in Kumaon and even today some remnants of that time exist.

When to visit

While summers are pleasant, it gets chilly during the winter months. The ideal time to visit the town is between the months of April and November.

Attractions

Pithoragarh Fort. — Pithoragarh Fort
Read More

What To Do

Trekking

There are plenty of trekking routes that begin from Pithoragarh, the most revered and famous being the one to Kailash Mansarovar. The ones leading to Ralam Glacier, Namik Glacier and Milam Glacier are other popular routes.