Pithoragarh Travel Guide — Everything You Need to Know
Pithoragarh is the largest town of eastern Kumaon and the headquarters of its border district, set in the wide, green Soar valley at about 1,650 m in Uttarakhand. Few travellers make it the destination; most pass through on the way to Munsyari, Dharchula and the high valleys near the Tibet and Nepal borders. It rewards a night or two of its own, though, with an old fort, temples in the hills around it and views of the snow peaks to the north. Pulp Hotels does not list a stay in Pithoragarh yet.
Things to do in Pithoragarh
- Pithoragarh fort — the old hilltop fort above the town, with views over the valley.
- Kapileshwar Mahadev — a cave temple of Shiva in the hills a short drive from town.
- Chandak — a ridge above Pithoragarh with views of the valley and, on clear days, the Himalaya.
- Patal Bhuvaneshwar — a deep limestone cave temple near Gangolihat, a few hours' drive away and one of Kumaon's best-known pilgrim sites.
- Haat Kalika, Gangolihat — the hilltop Kali temple on the same route, often combined with Patal Bhuvaneshwar.
The gateway to the border valleys
Pithoragarh is where journeys into the far east of Uttarakhand begin. The road north leads to Munsyari and the Panchachuli peaks; the road along the Kali river leads to Dharchula and the valleys beyond, where travel close to the border needs permits from the local administration. Many travellers spend a night here to break the long drive and arrange what they need.
Best time to visit Pithoragarh
March to June is pleasant and the main season. October and November bring the clearest views of the peaks. December to February is cold, with snow on the higher ridges. July to September is the monsoon, when landslides can close the roads in and out of the district.
Getting to Pithoragarh
The nearest railway stations are Tanakpur and Kathgodam, each a long day's drive away through the hills. The small airport at Naini Saini near the town has had limited flights; check what is running before you plan around it. Roads also connect Pithoragarh to Almora, Lohaghat and Champawat.
Where to stay in Pithoragarh
Stay in town for markets, services and an easy start onward, or on the ridges around it for quiet and views. If you are travelling on to Munsyari or Dharchula, ask about the road conditions the evening before you leave.
