Offbeat Himalayan Resorts in Kumaon Region

“Offbeat Himalayan Resorts in Kumaon Region” was originally written by Gaurav Purohit in 2008. It formed a part of our old website. Since then and multiple visits later, we have only broadened our selection to include only the best that the region has to offer!   

Facing the icy peaks of the Nandadevi range of the Himalayas, the Kumaon hills are arguably one of the most picturesque locales in the Indian Himalayas. Dense coniferous forests, deep verdant valleys, fascinating views of the snow-capped peaks are the words which can be associated with almost any beautiful Himalayan destination. Kumaon is no exception.

What makes the Kumaon experience a little different and more enjoyable are the quaint little lodges / resorts dotted across this mountainous landscapes. These small lodges or resorts consist of standalone Bungalows / Cottages or just a few rooms. What makes them appealing is the personal touch! In most of these places you will be treated as “guests” rather than clients”. Small inventory of rooms mean that your experience will be very much private. Most of these lodges / resorts are situated in private estates offering magnificent views, beautiful walks which make them a destination in itself.

For those who are not keen on the mundane sight-seeing and would rather relax in a wicker chair with a book and cup of piping fresh coffee, looking at the endless vistas from your sit out, these lodges / resorts will provide just that!! For the active lot, you could also hitch up with the local guide and go for a hike /trek and explore the forest or take a walk through the beautiful mountain villages. The foodies will certainly enjoy the fresh food (at many places, homegrown) with cottages catering to occasional personal requests. “Aaj sham dinner mein kya banaun sir!!??”, your personal cottage cook may ask you as you are relaxing with your feet up enjoying your wine besides a crackling fireplace. Pure Bliss!!

SEASONS

Winter : October – March – Best for views, especially October – November when the weather is moderate and the views of the mountains crystal clear. It may snow in some “higher” destinations in January and February.

Summer : April – June – Best weather, Generally clear and sunny weather ideal for exploring. Mountain views may be unclear due to the summer haze and sometimes due to forest fires. Though generally early mornings are likely to yield good views of the mountains.

Monsoon : July – September – Fruiting Season!! Wit the the advent of monsoon, the orchards start bearing delicious fruits like Pears, Plum, Apples and Cherries. Great season to pluck your own fruits and eat. August can be especially rainy and landslide-prone. Clouds generally start clearing in latter part of September, offering some dramatic views as the clouds have not yet completely disappeared.

ABBOTT MOUNT

A colonial bungalow at Abbott Mount. One of the best Offbeat Himalayan Resorts of Kumaon.
A colonial bungalow at Abbott Mount. One of the best Offbeat Himalayan Resorts of Kumaon.

The lovely British Cottage at Abbott Mount
A remote, very little known hill retreat with the cottages situated on top with verdant valleys around and the Himalayas in the distance. Fantastic place for relaxation and walks.

CHAUKORI

Offbeat Himalayan Resorts at Chaukori will offer unhindered views of snowclad peaks
Offbeat Himalayan Resorts at Chaukori will offer unhindered views of snowclad peaks

Magnificent Himalayas from Chaukori
Probably some of the best mountain views in all of Kumaon, Chaukori is brilliantly situated to offer a panorama of the Nandadevi and Trishul range of mountains. Excellent place for views and also base to explore Patal Bhuvaneshwar.

BINSAR

Binsar has many small Resorts / Lodges within the erstwhile Estate / Sanctuary.
Binsar has many small Resorts / Lodges within the erstwhile Estate / Sanctuary.

Incredible views from Binsar
Binsar is a wildlife sanctuary close to Almora, situated at a much higher altitude than most other hill retreats, offering great climate in summers. Ideal place for birdwatchers, for Kumaoni Village Walks and views.

PANGOT

The cottage at Pangot
The cottage at Pangot

Cosy Cottages at Pangot
Just miles away from Nainital yet a world away from the maddening crowd. surrounded by some of the best Oak forests of Kumaon, Pangot is a birdwatchers paradise. If you don’t like birds, well the views, the lovely cottages and the great food will still keep you interested. Pangot certainly would be an interesting choice should you want an to stay in one of the offbeat Himalayan Resorts. 

RAMGARH- NATHUAKHAN
Again these twin lesser known hill retreats offer unhindered views of the Himalayas. Few resorts offer some adventure activities as well.

SATTAL
Another beautifully forested area, with the lakes basking in the verdant shadow of the forests. These spectacular settings are ideal for some hikes and excellent for birdwatching.

Offbeat Himalayan Resorts in Kumaon are plenty. In my personal opinion, the options are more than in Himachal and Garhwal. Get in touch with us and we will help you plan your memorable holidays to the Kumaon Himalayas. 

Author : Gaurav Purohit 
More about him on : Click Here

Key Websites that you can see :
(For the information on destinations)
http://kmvn.in/

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