Pithoragarh in Almora

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Pithoragarh, the easternmost hill district in the state of Uttarakhand, India is fast emerging as a tourist destination due to its beautiful locales and exquisite environs. Pithoragarh district is a part of Kumaon region and is one of its administrative divisions. Lying in the western part of the Soar valley which is also known as 'miniature Kashmir', Pithoragarh shares its border with Tibet in the north and Nepal in the east. The town is located in a small valley in the centre of 4 hills - Chandak, Dhwaj, Thal Kedar and Kumdar, extending to the southern border to Jhula Ghat segregated by river Kali adjacent to the desolate peaks of Nepal hills.

Pithoragarh came into being in 1960 when it was carved out of the Almora district. Perched at an altitude of 1651 mts, Pithoragarh is known for its immense beauty with snow capped Himalayas, alpine meadows, carpeted vales, passes and impenetrable woodlands. The northern part of the district is bejeweled by mighty snow capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchchuli group, Rajrambha and several others. The base of these mountains is decked by delightful views of the glaciers with the important ones being Ralam glacier, Milam glacier, Namik glacier and Sunder Dhunga glaciers.

Mother Nature has munificently bestowed Pithoragarh with beguiling splendor and an affluent combination of topographic features all seem to beckon the beholder into the folds into an enchanting world of virgin beauty. Gushing waterfalls, ostentatious glaciers, natural reservoir enclosed by improbable assortment of flora, tranquil lakes and perennial streams rolling down the meandering courses are all a part of weathered charisma that the region holds to such an overwhelming extent.

History of Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh was under the rule of Pal dynasty during the 14th and the 15th century but later on was conquered by the Chand dynasty in the 16th century. Being the citadel of the Chand dynasty, Pithoragarh town is dotted with several temples and ruined forts belonging to that era. Subsequently, in 1789 the Gorkhas established their control over the region. They built a huge fort in the outskirts of the main town which is known as Pithoragarh fort. Seated on the crown of a hill, it is bit difficult to climb up the fort but worth it for the pictorial sights of Kali Kumaon. Afterwards the region came under British authority that developed it as an army cantonment town and a church & a mission school was also established during that period.

Nearby tourist attractions

Chandak, located about 8 kms away from Pithoragarh, is a pretty hill from where one can get the best sights of the ice-capped mountains and of the luxuriant meadows of Pithoragarh. A famous temple of Manu is situated just 2 kms away and is highly venerated by the local inhabitants.

Pithoragarh is particularly famous for numerous lakes located around the town- the two most renowned lakes are Jolingkong (4634 mts) and Anchherital (3659 mts).

If you are a history lover and want to walk down the lanes of the bygone era, then a trip to Baleshwar is must. Sited about 76 kms away on the Tankpur road, the place is replete with beautiful temples and forts built by the early Chand rulers in the 8th century.

Pithoragarh also offers ample opportunities for thrill seekers. One can enjoy river rafting, canoeing, trout fishing, skiing, hand gliding and other adventure sports.

Pithoragarh is a must visit place for the nature lovers who just want to drench themselves in the beauty of the place.