In this guide
Welcome to the Hills of Kumaon
The Kumaon region forms the eastern half of the state of Uttarakhand. Known for its deep oak and pine forests, panoramic views of the high Himalayan peaks (including Nanda Devi and Trishul), and rich local heritage, Kumaon is a quiet alternative to the busier pilgrimage routes of Garhwal. A classic Kumaon itinerary combines heritage towns, wildlife reserves, and ancient stone temple complexes.
Key Cultural and Natural Highlights
1. Almora: The Heritage Capital
Almora is a historic hill town founded in 1568 by the Chand Dynasty. It is famous for its unique traditional markets featuring stone-paved paths, houses decorated with carved wooden windows (Likhai art), and local sweets like **Bal Mithai** (a roasted milk fudge covered in white sugar balls).
2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Binsar is a dense oak and rhododendron forest reserve located at 2,420 meters (7,940 feet). Vehicles are restricted inside, offering quiet forest walks. The **Zero Point** viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks spanning from Kedarnath to Nepal.
3. Jageshwar Dham
Located in a narrow valley surrounded by towering Deodar trees, Jageshwar Dham is a complex of over 124 ancient stone temples built between the 7th and 12th centuries by the Katyuri and Chand dynasties. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, these temples showcase beautiful Nagara-style architecture and stone carvings.
Slow Tourism: Kumaoni Village Stays
Instead of staying in standard commercial hotels, Kumaon is famous for community-led **Village Homestays**. Projects in villages like Almora's Peora or Binsar's forest buffer zones let tourists stay in renovated traditional mud-and-stone Kumaoni houses. Guests can participate in organic farming, learn local cooking, and directly support the village economy. Homestay rates range from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 per day including home-cooked vegetarian meals.
How to Reach the Region
By Train (Recommended): Take the Shatabdi Express from Delhi to the **Kathgodam Railway Station**, which serves as the railhead for Kumaon. From Kathgodam, Almora and Jageshwar are located 3 to 4 hours away by taxi.
By Air: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest domestic airport, located about 120 km from Almora, connecting to Delhi.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Team
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
