Enshrined in mystery and mythology, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is the hidden pilgrimage centre, near Gangolihat in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
Located 91 kms from Pithoragarh on the way to Berinag, at an elevation of about 1350 m, this highly revered shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The sub-terranean shrine of Lord Shiva is situated with sprawling interiors. Limestone rock formations have created various spectacular stalactite and stalagmite figures. The way to the cave temple is through a long, narrow tunnel. Inside the cave, the limestone formations have taken shape of many Gods and Goddesses of Hindu pantheon. The forms of Ganesha, Sheshnag, Garurh, Shivling etc are distinctly visible to the believers.
Its popularly believed that the holiest cave is the abode of 33 crore Gods and Goddesses, amidst the absolute Himalayan isolation.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is not just one cave, rather a cave city. Caves within caves, steps leading to another, each one unmasking deep secrets from within.
The motorable road ends half a kilometer away from the cave entrance. You have to descend nearly 100 steps into this narrow cave, to reach the sanctum sanctorum, which gives an overwhelming feeling that you are entering into the center of the earth.
Each stone, each stalagmite within each cave or doorway in magnificent erection revels the story of Hindu pantheon in the shapes of Gods, Goddesses, saints and known mythological characters.
According to the belief Kind Rituparna of the Sun dynasty (Surya Vansha) discovered the cave in Treta Yug. It has been described in the Manas Khand of Skand Puran. Adi Guru Shankaracharya visited this cave in 1191 AD. That was the beginning of the modern pilgrimage history at Patal Bhuvaneshwar.
The journey inside the cave has to be carried in feeble lights, holding protective iron chains. The stone formations of Sheshnag ca be seen, holding earth, heaven the workd beneath. Havan is performed in a dimly lit solemn atmosphere, under the spell of holy chants. You will also be impressed by the huge stalactites called Jatas of Lord Shiva, located at the different locations inside the cave.
It is believed that Pandavans, the Mahabharata’s heroes proceeded towards their last journey in the Himalayas after meditating here, in front of Lord Shiva.
The priest families, the Bhandaris are performing religious rites at Patal Bhuvaneshwar since the time of the Adi Guru Shankaracharya. More than 20 generations in the line! They are a treasure house of legends, lores, anecdotes and information about this holy place.
Gangolihat
14kms from Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Gangolihat is rich in folk culture, music and religious traditions and had been chosen by Adi Guru Shandaracharya for the installation of Mahakali Shaktipeeth at Haat Kalika.
How to Reach
Air: Pantnagar (Nainital) is the nearest airport.
Rail: Nearest railhead are Tanakpur 182 kms and Kathgodam 210 kms.
Road: Patal Bhuvaneshwar can be reached from Pithoragarh, Bageswhwar, Gangolihat or Chaukori. The major nearby town is Gangolihat (14km)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
MUKTESHWAR MAHADEV
Set amidst the conifer forests and fruit orchards, Mukteshwar offers the most enchanting view of the Himalayas and its snow bound peaks. It is situated at an altitude of 2286 m, 51 km from Nainital. Surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest it was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalaya. Old temple of Lord Shiva exists on the top of a hillock.
Jim Corbett, the world renowned hunter and nature lover came to shoot a tiger here and fell in love with its natural beauty.
Away from the popular hill station environ, Mukteshwar is pure magic. Abundant with apple, plum, peach and apricot trees, this place is a hidden beauty, mostly unexplored.
The snow clad Himalayan peaks can be seen from Muktesthwar. Among the major peaks visible from Mukteshwar are Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Nandaghunti, Trishul and Panchachuli.
The most enchanting thing about Mukteshwar is its serenity and tranquility. The vastness of nature in the background of a boundless sky and mighty Himalayas provides an air, that's oozing out the elixir of life. The place surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalayas.
Because of the hilly topography, agriculture in the area consists chiefly of potato fields and fruit orchards on terraces cut into the hillsides.
The town of Mukteshwar is associated with a legend of Shiva who gifted immortality or Mukti to a demon here.
Places to see in Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a quiet paradise. On the sunshine days you can easily see the surrounding peaks with your naked eyes, stretching upto the far borders of Nepal. You can trek to your heart's content, visit the local temples or do absolutely nothing, just enjoy the bliss around.
Mukteshwar Temple: This place got its name from the ancient Shiva temple atop a hill. There is an ashram on the hill, with a hermit living there. Mukteshwar Temple is at an altitude of 2,312 m and can be approached by stone stairs. The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and has a lingam made of white marble. The idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Ganesh, Nandi and Hanuman surround the lingam. Next to the temple is the Chauli Ki Jali. It is a natural latticework on the rock. It is a belief that barren women are blessed with kids if they touch this jali.
Ramgarh: Ramgarh is a small and beautiful hill station and tourist destination on the way to Mukteshwar (25 kms from Mukteshwar). Ramgarh is rich in fruit orchards.This serene place is situated at an altitude of 1789 mts.An unobstructed view of the snow-capped ranges of the Himalayas from this place can be seen.The place was once the cantonment of the English army.The famous poets Rabindra Nath Tagore and social worker Narain Swami had established their ashrams over here. There is also a library dedicated to famous writer Mahadevi Varma, who got the idea of writing Lachma, the famous story, in Ramgarh.
Chauli ki Jali: A fascinating rocky cliff behind the Mukteshwar temple. Leaning on the edge of the cliff you can have a view of your lifetime of the surroundings and the far off peaks. But be careful. This particular place is worth a visit. According to local belief, if you make wishes here, they are fulfilled.
Where to stay in Mukteshwar
- KMVN Tourist Rest House
- PWD Guest House (Jim Corbett stayed here).
- Many private hotels are also offering accommodations in and around Mukteshwar.
How to reach Mukteshwar
Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (152 kms.).
Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam (65 kms.).
Road: The nearest major city is Nainital, at a distance of 52 kms. An uphill drive from Nainital via Bhowali and Dhanachuli is endowed with breathtaking views around.
Jim Corbett, the world renowned hunter and nature lover came to shoot a tiger here and fell in love with its natural beauty.
Away from the popular hill station environ, Mukteshwar is pure magic. Abundant with apple, plum, peach and apricot trees, this place is a hidden beauty, mostly unexplored.
The snow clad Himalayan peaks can be seen from Muktesthwar. Among the major peaks visible from Mukteshwar are Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Nandaghunti, Trishul and Panchachuli.
The most enchanting thing about Mukteshwar is its serenity and tranquility. The vastness of nature in the background of a boundless sky and mighty Himalayas provides an air, that's oozing out the elixir of life. The place surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalayas.
Because of the hilly topography, agriculture in the area consists chiefly of potato fields and fruit orchards on terraces cut into the hillsides.
The town of Mukteshwar is associated with a legend of Shiva who gifted immortality or Mukti to a demon here.
Places to see in Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a quiet paradise. On the sunshine days you can easily see the surrounding peaks with your naked eyes, stretching upto the far borders of Nepal. You can trek to your heart's content, visit the local temples or do absolutely nothing, just enjoy the bliss around.
Mukteshwar Temple: This place got its name from the ancient Shiva temple atop a hill. There is an ashram on the hill, with a hermit living there. Mukteshwar Temple is at an altitude of 2,312 m and can be approached by stone stairs. The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and has a lingam made of white marble. The idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Ganesh, Nandi and Hanuman surround the lingam. Next to the temple is the Chauli Ki Jali. It is a natural latticework on the rock. It is a belief that barren women are blessed with kids if they touch this jali.
Ramgarh: Ramgarh is a small and beautiful hill station and tourist destination on the way to Mukteshwar (25 kms from Mukteshwar). Ramgarh is rich in fruit orchards.This serene place is situated at an altitude of 1789 mts.An unobstructed view of the snow-capped ranges of the Himalayas from this place can be seen.The place was once the cantonment of the English army.The famous poets Rabindra Nath Tagore and social worker Narain Swami had established their ashrams over here. There is also a library dedicated to famous writer Mahadevi Varma, who got the idea of writing Lachma, the famous story, in Ramgarh.
Chauli ki Jali: A fascinating rocky cliff behind the Mukteshwar temple. Leaning on the edge of the cliff you can have a view of your lifetime of the surroundings and the far off peaks. But be careful. This particular place is worth a visit. According to local belief, if you make wishes here, they are fulfilled.
Where to stay in Mukteshwar
- KMVN Tourist Rest House
- PWD Guest House (Jim Corbett stayed here).
- Many private hotels are also offering accommodations in and around Mukteshwar.
How to reach Mukteshwar
Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (152 kms.).
Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam (65 kms.).
Road: The nearest major city is Nainital, at a distance of 52 kms. An uphill drive from Nainital via Bhowali and Dhanachuli is endowed with breathtaking views around.
JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the closest proximity of Ramnagar (Nainital) is the majestic Jim Corbett National Park. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the park is famous for its wild population of Tigers, Leopards and Elephants. Corbett national park was established in 1936, as the Hailey National Park (named in the honour of Sir Malcolm Hailey, then governor of the United Provinces). After independence, the name was changed to Ramganga National Park in 1952 but was finally changed to Jim Corbett National Park in 1957, named after the legendary hunter, naturalist-turned-author and photographer who had helped in setting up the park and demarcating its boundaries. India's first national park and the first sanctuary to come under Project Tiger, Corbett supports a variety of vegetation making it the ideal habitat for the Tiger and its prey. With the help of the World Wildlife Fund, Project Tiger was launched in Corbett National Park in 1973 and this park was one of the first such tiger reserves in the country.
Flora in Jim Corbett Park
The varied topography comprises hilly and riverine areas, temporary marshy depressions, plateaus and ravines. The lower areas are almost completely populated by Sal trees. In the Jim Corbett National Park are found 110 tree species, 50 mammals species, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species.
Major Wildlife Attractions - Corbett National Park
Corbett is a haven for Tigers as well as its prey, which include four kinds of Deer, Wild Boar and some lesser-known animals. Leopards are mostly found in the hilly areas of the park. Some nocturnal cats found here are the Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat and Fishing Cat. Sloth Bear is found in the lower regions of the park while the Himalayan Black Bear is seen in the higher hills only. The Dole or Wild Dog, though they can be seen in the southern areas of the park along with the Jackal.
Elephants are among one of the main attractions of Jim Corbett Park. Along the Ramganga river shores, one can spot the long-snouted, fish-eating Gharial, Crocodile and the 'Mugger' Crocodile. Also seen on the rocky hillsides is the Ghoral or Goat Antelopes. The Langur and Rhesus Monkeys are well distributed through out the park and warning the whole Jungle with alarm calls when they see either a Tiger or Leopard from tree-top perches.
Other Attractions In Corbett Park
Ramnagar : Situated in the rich farm belt of Terai, on the southeastern fringes of the great forests, the busy market town of Ramnagar is the main administrative centre for Corbett National Park and Project Tiger. Ramnagar makes a fishing base camp. At Lohachaur, 15-kms north along the River Kosi, good anglers are in with a chance of landing the legendary Mahseer, a redoubtable battling River Carp. Permits to have a go must be sought from the Project Tiger office in Ramnagar; most resorts also arrange all inclusive fishing trips.
Wildlife Viewing : Chital, Sambar, and various other Deer species find refuge in the Savannah grasslands known as the Maidan, behind the campsite to the south, and Tigers are occasionally drawn in looking for prey. Two hour elephant rides, explore this sea of grass, rarely penetrating far into the deep jungles beyond; try to convince your Mahout or Elephant driver to venture in, as they can be quite magical. Come at dusk or dawn; in the heat of the day you probably won’t come across much more than deer among the tall grass. Tiger-sightings are few and far between, but you may be rewarded with fresh pug marks.
Jeep Safari in Corbett : Jeeps Safari, is the most convenient way to travel within Corbett national park, and can be rented for the park trips from Ramnagar, from the KMVN Tourist Lodge and other travel agencies. One bus each day goes to Dikhala from Ramnagar, stopping at the Forest Rest houses en route. Banking and other important tourist facilities are available at Ramnagar.Note : Bring binoculars, remain quiet, and don’t wear bright colours or strong perfumes.
Best Time to Visit - Jim Corbett National Park
The best visiting season of Corbett is from November 15 to June 15. Corbett remains closed between June 16 and November 14, when the monsoons flood the river beds and cut the fragile road links. However the park has been thrown open for the public on October 15 this year (2004).
How to Get there
Air : Phoolbagh, Pantnagar at a distance of 50-kms is the nearest airport. Delhi at a distance of 300-kms is the nearest international airport.
Rail : Ramnagar is on the broad gauge track from where the road transport options have to be availed to reach the park. For faster trains and connections to other parts change at Moradabad.
Road : Dhikala is 300-kms from Delhi, 145-kms from Lucknow and 51-kms from Ramnagar. The route from Delhi spans Hapur-Murababad-Ramnagar. The turn off is some 7-kms beyond Muradabad to the left, marked by a small board. The route from Lucknow spans Bareilly–Kichha–Rudrapur–Doraha–Kashipur. Ramnagar is served by frequent buses to and from Nainital and Ranikhet, 112-kms north. Buses arrive every half hour or so after the eight hour trip from Delhi; Delhi Transport corporation run a semi deluxe service, and most of the alternatives are pretty basic.
General Information
Entry Inside The Corbett National Park : Visitors are advised to reach the gate half an hour in advance to complete the formalities for entry into the park.
Tourist Information Centres : All visitors to Corbett National Park have to obtain permits from the park administration centre at Ramnagar. The closest of the various gates into the Corbett national park, 1-m from central Ramnagar, is on the road to Bijrani camp, 11-km away, a base for day trips. Dhangarhi Gate, 18-kms along the highway north to Ranikhet, provides access to the northern and north western portion of the Jim Corbett Park along the Ramnagar River valley, and to the main camp of Dhikala.
Flora in Jim Corbett Park
The varied topography comprises hilly and riverine areas, temporary marshy depressions, plateaus and ravines. The lower areas are almost completely populated by Sal trees. In the Jim Corbett National Park are found 110 tree species, 50 mammals species, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species.
Major Wildlife Attractions - Corbett National Park
Corbett is a haven for Tigers as well as its prey, which include four kinds of Deer, Wild Boar and some lesser-known animals. Leopards are mostly found in the hilly areas of the park. Some nocturnal cats found here are the Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat and Fishing Cat. Sloth Bear is found in the lower regions of the park while the Himalayan Black Bear is seen in the higher hills only. The Dole or Wild Dog, though they can be seen in the southern areas of the park along with the Jackal.
Elephants are among one of the main attractions of Jim Corbett Park. Along the Ramganga river shores, one can spot the long-snouted, fish-eating Gharial, Crocodile and the 'Mugger' Crocodile. Also seen on the rocky hillsides is the Ghoral or Goat Antelopes. The Langur and Rhesus Monkeys are well distributed through out the park and warning the whole Jungle with alarm calls when they see either a Tiger or Leopard from tree-top perches.
Other Attractions In Corbett Park
Ramnagar : Situated in the rich farm belt of Terai, on the southeastern fringes of the great forests, the busy market town of Ramnagar is the main administrative centre for Corbett National Park and Project Tiger. Ramnagar makes a fishing base camp. At Lohachaur, 15-kms north along the River Kosi, good anglers are in with a chance of landing the legendary Mahseer, a redoubtable battling River Carp. Permits to have a go must be sought from the Project Tiger office in Ramnagar; most resorts also arrange all inclusive fishing trips.
Wildlife Viewing : Chital, Sambar, and various other Deer species find refuge in the Savannah grasslands known as the Maidan, behind the campsite to the south, and Tigers are occasionally drawn in looking for prey. Two hour elephant rides, explore this sea of grass, rarely penetrating far into the deep jungles beyond; try to convince your Mahout or Elephant driver to venture in, as they can be quite magical. Come at dusk or dawn; in the heat of the day you probably won’t come across much more than deer among the tall grass. Tiger-sightings are few and far between, but you may be rewarded with fresh pug marks.
Jeep Safari in Corbett : Jeeps Safari, is the most convenient way to travel within Corbett national park, and can be rented for the park trips from Ramnagar, from the KMVN Tourist Lodge and other travel agencies. One bus each day goes to Dikhala from Ramnagar, stopping at the Forest Rest houses en route. Banking and other important tourist facilities are available at Ramnagar.Note : Bring binoculars, remain quiet, and don’t wear bright colours or strong perfumes.
Best Time to Visit - Jim Corbett National Park
The best visiting season of Corbett is from November 15 to June 15. Corbett remains closed between June 16 and November 14, when the monsoons flood the river beds and cut the fragile road links. However the park has been thrown open for the public on October 15 this year (2004).
How to Get there
Air : Phoolbagh, Pantnagar at a distance of 50-kms is the nearest airport. Delhi at a distance of 300-kms is the nearest international airport.
Rail : Ramnagar is on the broad gauge track from where the road transport options have to be availed to reach the park. For faster trains and connections to other parts change at Moradabad.
Road : Dhikala is 300-kms from Delhi, 145-kms from Lucknow and 51-kms from Ramnagar. The route from Delhi spans Hapur-Murababad-Ramnagar. The turn off is some 7-kms beyond Muradabad to the left, marked by a small board. The route from Lucknow spans Bareilly–Kichha–Rudrapur–Doraha–Kashipur. Ramnagar is served by frequent buses to and from Nainital and Ranikhet, 112-kms north. Buses arrive every half hour or so after the eight hour trip from Delhi; Delhi Transport corporation run a semi deluxe service, and most of the alternatives are pretty basic.
General Information
Entry Inside The Corbett National Park : Visitors are advised to reach the gate half an hour in advance to complete the formalities for entry into the park.
Tourist Information Centres : All visitors to Corbett National Park have to obtain permits from the park administration centre at Ramnagar. The closest of the various gates into the Corbett national park, 1-m from central Ramnagar, is on the road to Bijrani camp, 11-km away, a base for day trips. Dhangarhi Gate, 18-kms along the highway north to Ranikhet, provides access to the northern and north western portion of the Jim Corbett Park along the Ramnagar River valley, and to the main camp of Dhikala.
BINSAR
The summer capital of the erstwhile Chand Rajas (7th – 18th Centrury), Binsar is a picturesque, sleepy hamlet one of the most scenic spots in the Kumaon Himalayas.
Pitched the impressive altitude of 2420 m, 35 kms from Almora it offers a majestic view of the snow covered Himalayan peas the mesmerizing range of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Shivling and Panchachuli. From here, one a sunny day, you can have a glimpse of the holiest shrines in the Himalayas, Kedarnath, Badrinath and Gangotri.
It’s a fascinating spot, encircled by a a vast wildlife sanctuary, a home to many rare animals, birds and wild flowers.
Binsar is also a trekker’s paradise. Trekking the salubrious air, amidst the misty mountain trails, towering Oaks and Rhododendron. A formation of sleepy hamlets amidst orchards, silver streams and green meadows. The mantle of green hangs all around- rocks covered with unusual moss and ferns, flowers and shrubs – foliage sprouting out of every conceivable nook and corner of the hillside. The entire area is now a sanctuary.
Outside Binsar is the temple complex of Jageshwar, 34 kms from Almora nestles in a beautiful valley, crested by majestic deodars. This important pilgrimage centre is considered to be the one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Time just stands still at Binsar. You will keep discovering new walking trails up the mountains and down the valleys, new lookout points for another spectacular sunset. This intimate little hill retreat makes you feel that noting can ever come between you and nature.
Places to see in Binsar
Binsar Hill - Locally known as Jhandi Dhar, if offers panoramic view of the Kumaon Hills and the Greater Himalayas from an altitude of 2420 m. In the night, the lights of the Almora town look fascinating.
Khali Estate - The erstwhile royal palace. Once occupied by Sir Henry Ramsay and later on the Smt. Vijaylakshmi Pandit, it now houses a heritage hotel.
Gangnath Temple - The holiest shrine in the region, at the height of 2116 m. During Kartik Purnima a fair is held in the area, when the whole place turns into a magic land pulsating with folk songs and folk dances, running through the nights.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary - Known for the rarest species of animals, birds, butterflies and wild flowers. Accomodation facility available at KMVN Jungle reort.
Jalna - At a distance of 59 kms from Binsar, at a lofty height of 1677 m, it provides fascinating view of the Himalayan peaks. Full of orchards producing apples, apricots, peaches, pears and other alpine fruits.
Shiva Temple - A cave temple, 31 kms from Binsar is highly revered by the people in the hills. Set amidst dense forest of Oak and Deodar, its of much archeological importance.
Best time to visit Binsar
Binsar can be visited round the year. But its better to plan your tour between October to November, as this is the most ideal time for all visitors.
How to Reach
Air - Binsar is 380 km from Delhi. The closest airport is at Pantnagar, 127 km
Rail - Train Last station is Kathgodam 120 km from Binsar.
Road - You can take a tourist bus, taxi or drive up via Almora, 30 km from Binsar.
Pitched the impressive altitude of 2420 m, 35 kms from Almora it offers a majestic view of the snow covered Himalayan peas the mesmerizing range of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Shivling and Panchachuli. From here, one a sunny day, you can have a glimpse of the holiest shrines in the Himalayas, Kedarnath, Badrinath and Gangotri.
It’s a fascinating spot, encircled by a a vast wildlife sanctuary, a home to many rare animals, birds and wild flowers.
Binsar is also a trekker’s paradise. Trekking the salubrious air, amidst the misty mountain trails, towering Oaks and Rhododendron. A formation of sleepy hamlets amidst orchards, silver streams and green meadows. The mantle of green hangs all around- rocks covered with unusual moss and ferns, flowers and shrubs – foliage sprouting out of every conceivable nook and corner of the hillside. The entire area is now a sanctuary.
Outside Binsar is the temple complex of Jageshwar, 34 kms from Almora nestles in a beautiful valley, crested by majestic deodars. This important pilgrimage centre is considered to be the one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Time just stands still at Binsar. You will keep discovering new walking trails up the mountains and down the valleys, new lookout points for another spectacular sunset. This intimate little hill retreat makes you feel that noting can ever come between you and nature.
Places to see in Binsar
Binsar Hill - Locally known as Jhandi Dhar, if offers panoramic view of the Kumaon Hills and the Greater Himalayas from an altitude of 2420 m. In the night, the lights of the Almora town look fascinating.
Khali Estate - The erstwhile royal palace. Once occupied by Sir Henry Ramsay and later on the Smt. Vijaylakshmi Pandit, it now houses a heritage hotel.
Gangnath Temple - The holiest shrine in the region, at the height of 2116 m. During Kartik Purnima a fair is held in the area, when the whole place turns into a magic land pulsating with folk songs and folk dances, running through the nights.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary - Known for the rarest species of animals, birds, butterflies and wild flowers. Accomodation facility available at KMVN Jungle reort.
Jalna - At a distance of 59 kms from Binsar, at a lofty height of 1677 m, it provides fascinating view of the Himalayan peaks. Full of orchards producing apples, apricots, peaches, pears and other alpine fruits.
Shiva Temple - A cave temple, 31 kms from Binsar is highly revered by the people in the hills. Set amidst dense forest of Oak and Deodar, its of much archeological importance.
Best time to visit Binsar
Binsar can be visited round the year. But its better to plan your tour between October to November, as this is the most ideal time for all visitors.
How to Reach
Air - Binsar is 380 km from Delhi. The closest airport is at Pantnagar, 127 km
Rail - Train Last station is Kathgodam 120 km from Binsar.
Road - You can take a tourist bus, taxi or drive up via Almora, 30 km from Binsar.
KAUSANI
Kausani (1890 m) is a celebrated spot for its scenic beauty enroute to Baijnath and Bageshwar. Nature has bestowed its beauty to make it a spot par-excellence. Mahatma Gandhi, wondered if the scenery was to be surpassed by any of the beauty spots of the world. The close and captivating view which Kausani offers of the silvery majesty of the great Himalayas kindles hope even in the greatest pessimist and enlivens the worst of the depressed feelings. Several snow-capped peaks stand astride in a stately row over 300 kms in length shining against the pure blue of the sky making the Kausani horizon an enviable spectacle.
Mahatma Gandhi, during his stay at Kausani, penned his memorable commentary on the 'Gita-Anashakti Yoga' inspired by the scenic grandeur of this richly gifted spot. Mahatma Gandhi was impressed so much that he started calling it “Switzerland of India”. The guesthouse where Mahatma Gandhi stayed is now known as the Anashakti Ashram. A serene and peaceful atmosphere prevails at the Ashram. There is yet another popular Ashram known as 'Lakshmi Ashram' established by late sister 'Sarla Ben', an American who had been a faithful follower of Mahatma Gandhi. Lakshmi Ashram prepares young girls and women for the national service. Hindi poet-laureate Sumitra Nandan Pant was born at Kausani. Some of his early poems composed here have described the nature in its manifestations. Kausani is ideal for those who seek an escape from the din and dust, hustle and bustle of big cities and wish to spend a quiet holiday in the lap of Nature. Indeed, Kausani is a veritable heaven of beauty to which an excursion must be made while visiting the Kumaon Hills.
General Information
Altitude: 1890 m. Temperature: Summer-Minimum 10° C to 26° C. Winter - 15° C to 20 ° C.
Rainfall: Minimum 1777 mm Maximum 3048 mm.
Best season to visit: September to April.
Clothing: Summer -light woollen or cotton.
Winter - Heavy woollens.
Language spoken: Hindi, English and Kumaoni.
How to Reach
Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar (150 kms) connected by Air service with Delhi.
Rail: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (145 kms) via Almora.
Road: Some of the roads connected to Kausani are: Almora (53 kms), Kathgodam via Almora (145 kms), Kathgodam via Ranikhet (163 kms), Ranikhet (79 kms), Nainital via Almora (120 kms), Nainital via Ranikhet (138 kms) and Bageshwar (39 kms).
Where to Stay
Government Accommodation: State Bungalow, Forest Rest House and Tent Colony. Hotel: Pine View Hotel and Anashakti Yoga Ashram.
Mahatma Gandhi, during his stay at Kausani, penned his memorable commentary on the 'Gita-Anashakti Yoga' inspired by the scenic grandeur of this richly gifted spot. Mahatma Gandhi was impressed so much that he started calling it “Switzerland of India”. The guesthouse where Mahatma Gandhi stayed is now known as the Anashakti Ashram. A serene and peaceful atmosphere prevails at the Ashram. There is yet another popular Ashram known as 'Lakshmi Ashram' established by late sister 'Sarla Ben', an American who had been a faithful follower of Mahatma Gandhi. Lakshmi Ashram prepares young girls and women for the national service. Hindi poet-laureate Sumitra Nandan Pant was born at Kausani. Some of his early poems composed here have described the nature in its manifestations. Kausani is ideal for those who seek an escape from the din and dust, hustle and bustle of big cities and wish to spend a quiet holiday in the lap of Nature. Indeed, Kausani is a veritable heaven of beauty to which an excursion must be made while visiting the Kumaon Hills.
General Information
Altitude: 1890 m. Temperature: Summer-Minimum 10° C to 26° C. Winter - 15° C to 20 ° C.
Rainfall: Minimum 1777 mm Maximum 3048 mm.
Best season to visit: September to April.
Clothing: Summer -light woollen or cotton.
Winter - Heavy woollens.
Language spoken: Hindi, English and Kumaoni.
How to Reach
Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar (150 kms) connected by Air service with Delhi.
Rail: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (145 kms) via Almora.
Road: Some of the roads connected to Kausani are: Almora (53 kms), Kathgodam via Almora (145 kms), Kathgodam via Ranikhet (163 kms), Ranikhet (79 kms), Nainital via Almora (120 kms), Nainital via Ranikhet (138 kms) and Bageshwar (39 kms).
Where to Stay
Government Accommodation: State Bungalow, Forest Rest House and Tent Colony. Hotel: Pine View Hotel and Anashakti Yoga Ashram.
RANIKHET
Situated at an altitude of 1829 m with an area of 21.76 sq kms Ranikhet has everything to soothe the nerves of an avid city dweller, the salubrious atmosphere, tall conifer trees, green meadows, serene surroundings, absolute peace and the hospitable people. The charm of every season is irresistible in its own way. And this is what makes Ranikhet an all season destination.Ranikhet literally means “Queen's Meadow”. It is believed that Queen Padmini of Kumaon was in love with this tiny hill paradise. Kind Sudhardev had to oblige her by building a palace here and named this place Ranikhet, the queen’s field. Though no trace of the palace can be found here today, but the place remained the same: bewitching, full of flowers, trees and green meadows in the midst of heavenly Himalayan surroundings. Lost into oblivion for long, the picturesque hill station was rediscovered by the Britishers. In 1869, the British established the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment here and used the station as a retreat from the heat of the Indian summer. Ranikhet is a cantonment town and is the home for the Kumaon Regimental Centre (KRC)& Naga Regiment and is maintained by the Indian Army.
Places to See in Ranikhet
Chaubatia Gardens - 10kms from Ranikhet are the famous apple orchard which remain laden with fruits round the year. Ranikhet is known for its delicious apples, apricots, peaches and various opther alpine fruits. Besides apples, it is also possible to buy honey and fresh fruit juice from the sales counter of the garden.
Golf Course - Ranikhet's golf course is a natural 9 hole course and is one of the prime attractions of Ranikhet. It is one of the highest situated golf courses in Asia.
Hairakhan TempleHairakhan Temple is located 4 km from Ranikhet town at Chiliyanaula. It was established by Shri Hairakhan Maharaj who is said to be incarnation of Lord Shiva. One can have a good Himalayan view from this place.
Jhula-Devi TempleJhula-Devi Temple is a temple of goddess Durga. It is 8th century old temple and is believed that if a person asks for something he gets it and on fulfillment of his desire ties a bell in the temple. Very close to Jhula Devi temple is the Ram Mandir dedicated to Lord Rama.
Dwarahat - Located 37 kms from Ranikhet on the Karnaprayag road, Dwarahat is of much historical and archaeological importance. Once the centre of Katyuri rulers, Dwarahat later become associated with Chand rulers. This place is famous for its clusters of temples. Every year a fair is held in Dwarahat from 13-16 April called Syaldeh-Bikhoti Mela. The Kumaoni Holi of Dwarahat is also very popular.
Sitalakhet - 35 kms from Ranikhet, it’s a scenic spot with unparallel beauty in the Himalayas amid green forest and apple orchards. The famous temple of Syahi Devi is situated nearby.
Binsar Mahadev 15 km from Ranikhet town is the Binsar Mahadev Temple which has a beautiful stream flowing close to it. Apart from a Shiva temple, an ashram, Binsar Mahadev also has a lovely cedar forest surrounding it.
Katarmal - Katarmal(Sun temple) is about 25 km from Ranikhet. A beautiful trek leads you to one of the two sun temples of the country, first one being Konark, Orissa. This temple is a 12th century creation and the ancient idol of Sun God is presently preserved at the National museum Delhi.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
