Trek through time

One of the top attractions of the town is the Pithoragarh Fort (also known as London Fort), a must-see for any history buff. This impressive stone fort perched on a hilltop on the outskirts of town showcases stunning Gorkha architecture. Ready for a challenge? The hike to the fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys – the perfect reward for your effort.

Mystical temples and spiritual bliss

If you love unravelling the secrets of a place's rich cultural legacy, Pithoragarh is an absolute gem. This picturesque town is peppered with ancient temples and tales of epic legends from the Mahabharata to the reign of mighty kings. Start your spiritual adventure at the Nakuleshwar Temple, a revered shrine devoted to Lord Shiva constructed in the exquisite Khajuraho style. According to lore, it was built by Nakul and Sahadev, the legendary Pandava twins from the epic Mahabharata.

Another renowned sanctuary awaits at Thal Kedar, where a cherished temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands tall. Mentioned in the ancient Skanda Purana, this sacred site offers spellbinding vistas of the surrounding valleys. Visit the hilltop Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple in Ancholi village, where a Lord Shiva shrine nestles deep within a captivating cave! Can you imagine the thrill of exploring this mystical abode? You also get to savour panoramic views of Pithoragarh town and the verdant valley below.

Other captivating temples you may visit are the Dhwaj Temple, Kamakhya Temple, and many more, each with its own unique story to tell.

Himalayan views and adventure await

Venture beyond the town itself and discover a wonderland of natural beauty, cultural wonders, and hidden gems in the Pithoragarh district! For a breath of fresh mountain air and a touch of spiritual serenity, head to Chandak, a hilltop village about 8 km from the town. This idyllic escape offers a trek perfect for unwinding and soaking in the beauty of nature. Pay homage at the Mostamanu Temple, dedicated to the regional deity Mosta, or visit the serene Pashupatinath Temple, which boasts stunning valley views. Chandak is also a popular spot for hang gliding! Soar above the clouds and experience the thrill of a lifetime against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

The Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple, 87 km from Pithoragarh, is a hidden gem you can't miss. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this limestone cave temple can only be accessed through a narrow, tunnel-shaped cave, igniting a sense of excitement within every explorer. Seek blessings at Haat Kalika Temple, nestled amidst dense deodar forests near Gangolihat. This temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, is a must-visit for the spiritually inclined. Explore Nagmandir, located in Berinag, a snake temple bordered by trees and ravines, which offers a glimpse into local beliefs. Be sure to explore Chaukori’s sprawling tea gardens and savour some freshly picked tea!

Hike through the pristine Didihat, a captivating hillock 68 km north of Pithoragarh and a popular stopover for pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Adventure enthusiasts can head to Munsyari, a quaint hamlet often blanketed in snow. It is the base camp for expeditions to the Ralam and Milam Glaciers, and the majestic Nanda Devi Peak. For a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, you can visit Narayan Ashram. This spiritual centre, amid dense Deodar trees, offers yoga and meditation classes or simply a chance to relax and soak in the serenity.

Behold the sacred Adi Kailash & Om Parvat

Imagine a journey where breathtaking beauty meets profound spirituality. In Pithoragarh district, nestled amid the majestic Himalayas, lie two peaks that ignite the soul: Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. Adi Kailash, revered as a mirror image of Mount Kailash in Tibet, beckons with a mystical serenity. Hike through landscapes that will leave you breathless, following challenging yet rewarding trekking routes. At the foot of this sacred mountain, marvel at the enchanting Parvati Lake or take a dip in the holy Gauri Kund to cleanse your spirit. Om Parvat, a peak of unparalleled majesty, unveils a wonder unlike any other. Its unique rock formations hold a sacred secret – a perfect ‘Om’ (ॐ), the holiest symbol in Hinduism, appears etched onto the mountain face. It's a part of the renowned Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage that draws devotees from across the globe.

Up for a wild encounter?

Head to the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary, a hidden gem about 54 km from Pithoragarh. Perched at 5412 feet, this stunning sanctuary is a haven for all things wild. Apart from the elusive musk deer, watch out for snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, snowcocks, tahr, bharal, cheer pheasants, koklas, and chukars.

Escape to Sarmoli: Eco-village gem

Pithoragarh has many villages that can give you a taste of authentic rural life and rich Kumaoni culture. But if there’s one village that stands out, it is the Sarmoli village, a hidden gem in the Munsyari region known for its sustainable practices. In this scenic village, you can stay in a traditional homestay, eat delicious home-cooked meals, experience the warmth of Kumaoni hospitality, and learn from the villagers' commitment to sustainable living. This is conscious travel at its finest.

Dive into the rich culture

Pithoragarh's vibrant culture, a melting pot of influences shaped by various tribes, promises an unforgettable journey if you seek to explore beyond the scenic beauty. Witness the Kandali festival, celebrated by the Rung tribe, a phenomenon unlike any other. This once-in-twelve-year spectacle coincides with the rare blooming of the Kandali flower. Pithoragarh's fairs are more than just shopping sprees; they're vibrant expressions of the region's soul. Jauljibi and Thal fairs offer a delightful mix of trade and cultural exchange, allowing you to rub shoulders with locals and soak up the festive atmosphere. At the Navratri fair held at the Kali temple in Gangolihat, witness the fervour of religious devotion as large crowds gather to celebrate.

Pithoragarh celebrates year-round! Maha Shivratri, Basant Panchami, Dussehra, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima are just a few highlights in the region's festive calendar. The region’s enriching folk songs and dances will captivate you.

Savour the flavours of the Himalayas

Uttarakhand's cuisine is a symphony of flavours featuring organically grown grains and fresh mountain vegetables. The ‘pahadi’ (dwellers of mountains) traditions create a unique blend – subtle in taste yet packed with protein and essential nutrients. Some must-try local specialities include Gahat Ki Daal (hearty lentil dish), Kafuli (spinach or fenugreek gravy), Aloo ke Gutke (spicy potato snack), Sisunak Saag (a unique nettle leaf curry), Kappa (tangy vegetable curry) and Chainsoo (a chickpea flour delicacy). Don't forget to leave room for dessert! Kumaon's sweet treats like Bal Mithai (milk fudge), Jhangora ki Kheer (millet pudding), and Singauri (a delectable seasonal fruit dish) will provide the perfect ending to your culinary journey. Apart from traditional cuisine, you'll easily find a plethora of restaurants and roadside dhabas offering delicious North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and even continental fare.

Local treasures you can’t miss

Beyond the world of natural wonders, explore a world of unique handicrafts, local delights, and everything you need to gear up for your adventures. Start your shopping spree at the Purana Bazar, a kaleidoscope of colours and textures. Weave your way through stalls overflowing with local handlooms, exquisitely crafted brass items, and warm woollen garments. Keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind treasures: intricate aipan (alpana) art, charming dikara (clay idols), and colourful jatra masks. Doka (baskets), pichhaura (odhnis), and stunning rugs and carpets will complete your souvenir collection. Head to the Naya Bazar or Simalgair for a delightful selection of woollen clothes and local crafts.

Pack for Pithoragarh now!

If you're seeking an escape from the mundane, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to challenge yourself, Pithoragarh is calling out to you. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to embark on an adventure like no other in this hidden gem of Uttarakhand. Aim for a visit between April and November to experience Pithoragarh at its most comfortable.