Pithoragarh
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Transport Network
The whole district, within and from without is conveniently well connected by all weather motorable roads and is served by public and private sector
transport companies like K.M.O.U. Ltd. The principal road links to the district from the railway terminals atTanakpur and Kathgodam are Tanakpur-
Pithoragarh and Haldwani-Pithoragarh mettled roads with buses, jeep and other light vehicles regularly in service everyday. There are yet a few
remote areas of the district possessing the wild romantic beauty of their own which an adventurer would love to explore and feel. The difficult
mountainous terrain of these areas would not permit traffic of any kind except the traditional modes of Yak, Horses, mules and sheep which carry
people and head load in a manner which provides the pleasure of novelty to a city-bred. The airstrip at Naini Saini at Pithoragarh is an answer
to a long felt need in favour of easy accessibility to this district possessing remarkable tourism potential. Many
adventures & expeditions to the distant
locations of untrodden beauty did not
materialize due to awe of the travel
sickness associated with a long
journey through serpentine hill roads.
An overview of the available transport
modes and systems is outlined as
below :
Air Strip at Naini Saini Naini Saini Air Strip
Kharanja Road
Air : Local airport situated at Naini Saini some 5 Km away from Pithoragarh town. Nearest commencing
airport is Pant Nagar in Udham Singh Nagar district.
Rail :
Nearest railway terminals are :
Tanakpur in Champawat district connected with Pithoragarh by 151 Km long motor route via Champawat
and Lohaghat. Kathgodam in Nainital district connected with Pithoragarh by 212 Kilometers long motor
route via Bhowali, Almora, Daniya and Rameshwar.
Road :
Below is given a list of direct motor road links to Pithoragarh from various important stations :
Agra via Kasganj 492 Km
Almora via Daniya 120 Km
Bareilly via Tanakpur 251 Km
Dehradun via Tanakpur 538 Km
Delhi via Tanakpur 503 Km
Gwaldam via Berinag 206 Km
Haldwani via Almora 218 Km
Moradabad via Khatima 329 Km
Nainital via Almora 188 Km
Pilibhit via Tanakpur 215 Km
The details of the roads and communication facilities available in the district are as follows :
1. Total length of motorable roads 1078 Km
2. Total length of non-motorable roads 141 Km
3. Total length of kuccha roads 632 Km
4. No. of inhibited villages connected by all weather Pucca road
a. No. of villages falling within 1 Km of Pucca road 657 Km
b. No. of villages falling with 1 to 3 Km of Pucca road 192 Km
c. No. of villages falling with 3 to 5 Km of Pucca road 222 Km
d. No. of villages falling beyond 5 Km of Pucca road 489 Km
Total 1560 Km
There are 320 post offices and 9 telegraph offices which cover all the villages of the district. Besides that there are 204 P.C.O.s and 6337 telephone
connections in the town.
Flora and Fauna
Although one does not find an abundance of flora and fauna in Pithoragarh but these are remarkable for their sheer variety. The biological diversity
is very important in many aspects.
Bugyal : Passing along the route of Chhota Kailash, a lover of adventure moves into the enchanting world surrounded by the lush stretches of
velvetty grass bugyals (alpine meadows) such as Chhiplakot and Vyans Valley.
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Chhiplakot - Bugyals
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Vyans Valley - alpine meadow
Since the district possesses a great range of elevation there is a remarkable diversity in its natural vegetation. In addition climatic variations,
particularly in temperature and precipitation associated with the alignment and altitudes of ranges and nature of valleys, determine the altitudinal
growth and variety of vegetation. The northern hilly zone is covered with dense forests, particularly on northern slopes, with the diverse flora upto an
elevation of about 14,000 ft.
Brahmakamal found above 14,000 ft. Globe Artichoke
Brahmakamal [Flower above 14,000 feet] Globe Artichoke
The flora of this district may be classified into tropical, Himalayan sub-tropical and sub alpine and alpine vegetation.
Monal Pheasant Jambu Flower
Chura flower
The alpine and sub-alpine zones which include Milam, Ralam, Garbyang, Martoli etc, are very rich in the medicinal herbs and are considered as the
most natural abode of the largest number of medicinal plants.The sub-alpine zones are a natural sanctuary for Leopard, Chital, fleet little Monkeys,
Parceli plant Musk Deer (Kastura)
Parceli Musk Deer (Kastura)
Langoor, Bear, Kakar or barking deer, Ghoral etc. Whereas the high altitude zones abound in Musk deer, popularly called Kastura, Snow
Leopard, Blue Sheep, Thar etc.
Jhainpu (A kind of cow found in Dharchula region)
Photo : Lalit Verma
The entire zone is rich in a remarkable variety of birds possessing plumage of magnificent design and colours like Peacock, which
include Grey Quail, Kala Titar, Whistling Thrush, Chakor, Monal Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, Koklas Pheasant etc.
Excursions
Chandak : Situated 7 Kms away by bus through an uphill climb Chandak constitutes the northern of Soar Valley.The famous temple of Mostamanu
is 2 Km. from Chandak. Chandak offers a fascinating view of the Himalayan ranges and the sprawling Soar Valley. It is a potential hang gliding resort
and the magnesite mining factory is located too here.
A Panoramic view of Soar
Panoramic view of Soar valley Thal Kedar : Known for its famous temple of Mahadev. 16 Km from Pithoragarh. Jayanti Temple of Dhwaj 21 Km via Totanaula. Cave temple of Kapileshwar. Cave temple at Rai , Ulka Devi Temple, Kailash Ashram Wadda , Hanuman Temple etc.
Gangolihat : An important religious place and rich in folk culture and ancient myths , is situated 77 Km from Pithoragarh . It is particularly well known for the famous Mahakali temple where the Shakti Peeth was installed by Shankaracharya himself. During Navratries a fair is held on the occasion of which devotees offer pujas-along
with sacrifices. 2 Km from Gangolihat near the Mankeshwar temple are the ruins of the fort which once belonged to the Mankotis -an obscure
dynasty of Kumaon region. 2 Km away is Uprara, the native village of poet 'Gumani', the first Kumaoni poet, who also wrote in Hindi, Sanskrit
and Nepali with great dexterity and command. 4 Km east from Uprara, near the village of Tamanauli is the Bharbhyo cave.
An old temple near Gangolihat
An old temple at Gangolihat Accommodation : P.W.D. Rest House, Gopal Tourist Lodge, Shah Tourist Lodge.
Places of Tourist Attraction : Mahakali Temple , Chamunda Temple , Mankeshwar Temple , Cave Temple of Patal Bhuvneshwar.
Berinag : A small township facing the glorious snow clad pieces of Himalayas. Berinag is situated at a distance of 102 Km from Pithoragarh at an elevation of 1720 meters.
Accommodation :Tourist Rest House(Chaukori), P.W.D. Rest House, Hotels Kailash Darshan and Kamal Vihar.
Sunrise from Berinag
Sunrise from Berinag Photo : Deep Chauhan
Places of Tourist Attraction : Snake Temples, Tripura Devi Temple, Cave Temple of Koteshwar, Tea Gardens of Chaukori,
Chaukori : Eleven Km away from Berinag, Garaun water falls four Kms to the east of
the Berinag, Musk Deer Farm at Kotmanya,
Him Darshan Kutir at Dharamghar.
Thal : An important transit station for Mun-
syari and Chaukori (Berinag). Thal is 62 Km away from Pithoragarh and is situated
on the banks of Ram Ganga.
Places of Tourist Attraction : Ek Hatiya
Temple, a monolithic shrine in Amiya
village is 2 Km away from the motor road.
Himalayas from Chaukori A View of Himalayas from Chaukori
Kot Gari Devi : Situated about 9 Kms from Thal the temple of Kotgari is held to be the final divine court of appeal for the deprived and the victim
of cruelty and injustice.
Didihat : 55 Kms from Pithoragarh, Didihat is situated at an elevation of 1725 meters.
Accommodation : P.W.D. Rest House, Tourist Rest House.
Hotels : Anand Hotel, Kumaun Hotel, National Hotel, Sharma Hotel.
Places of Tourist Interest : Seerakot fort cum Temple : 3 Km from Didihat Govt. Sericulture Garden is situated near G.I.C.
Munsyari : Munsyari, the center as well as the gateway of Johar region is situated 154 Km from Pithoragarh at an elevation of 2298 meters
and is snuggled in the folds of snow clad mountains.
Panchchuli from Munsyari
Panchchuli from Munsyari
Safu Udiyaar (Munsyari)
Safu Udiyar (Munsyari)
Kalamuni at Munsyari Kalamuni at Munsyari Photo : Deep Chauhan Accommodation : P.W.D. Rest House, Tourist Rest House.
Hotel : Himani Tourist Lodge, Zara Residency.
Places of Tourist Interest : Munsyari is the base station for traks to Millam, Ralam and Namik Glaciers.
Dharchula : Situated at the banks of Kali river at the border of Pithoragarh district, Dharchula is 94 Km from Pithoragarh and is an important camp
along the Kailash Mansarovar, Chotta Kailash and Narayan Ashram route.
Narayan Ashram Narayan Ashram Photo : Deep Chauhan Accommodation : N.H.P.C. Guest House , P.W.D. Rest House , Tourist Reception Centre and Hotel Yash.
Places of Tourist Attraction
Narayan Ashram : Established by Narayan Swami in 1936 , Narayan Ashram is situated at a distance of 17 Kms from Tawaghat. The Ashram is a spiritual cum socio-educational centre.
Jauljibi : A point of confluence of the river Gori and Kali and of three different cultures, is situated at a distance of 77 Km from Pithoragarh.
During the autumn season Jauljibi pulsates with an important trade fair which is an indication of the cultural and commercial prosperity of
Kalapani near Gunji
Kalapani Near Gunji Photo : Deep Chauhan Jauljibi Jauljibi, the confluence of the rivers Kali & Gori
the region. Along the Kailash Mansarovar route, from Gunji (3500 m), one can move along the quieter Kali to walk to 10 Km to reach
Kalapani (3600 m). There are pine, bhojpatra and juniper forests in this region. Although the river has been coming all the way from Lipulekh pass,
the small pool formed under a huge rock is considered to be the source of the Kali. There are snow -clad mountains all around and Vyas's cave is
to be found on the mountain in front of Rishi Vyas that the region is known as Byans. There is also a hot water spring at Kalapani.
Adventure Spots : The department of tourism proposes to create and provide necessary infrastructure, equipments and the allied facilities for
adventures sports like:
(a) Hang Gliding, (b) Para Gliding
Hang Gliding at Pithoragarh
Hang Gliding
Gliders can be made available on hire and conveyance to the gliding point and first aid facilities can be provided. Chandak, Munakot and Dwaj have
been proposed into gliding points.
Temples
Mahakali Temple of Gangolihat : Tehsil and block Gangolihat is at a distance of 77 Km. from Pithoragarh. It is rich in folk culture, music and
religious traditions and had been chosen by Sankaracharya for the installation of Mahakali shaktipith. Amidst the cluster of pine trees is situated
Mahakali Temple at Gangolihat
Maha Kali Temple, Gangolihat
the shakti temple. The Goddess Kali as represented in her fierce form conquering the demon, is offered sacrifices of lambs and goats. In the
direction opposite of the Kali temple about 2 Km. away is situated the Chamunda temple which is believed to be in the centre of an area of
wilderness exclusively possessed by spirits and demons conquered by the Goddess in her fierce aspect. The temple has an aura of mystery and
weird charm and during the dark hours of night the spirits are believed to have a free sway outside the temple premises.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar : The exposure of Patal Bhuvaneshwar (Lord Shiva in the underground temple complex) is one of this unique way to help
mankind. 16 Km. to the north-east of Gangolihat and 20 Km. to the south of Berinag is situated the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave temple. It is 91 Km.
away from the district head quarter and situated at a height of 1350 meters above sea level. The temple place comes under village Bhuvneshwar
which is in the tehsil Didihat.The way to the temple is through a narrow tunnel shaped cave, giving a very thrilling experience. The main passage
way opens into several small caves which have in them the stone carvings of many traditional Gods & Goddesses and can evoke weird romantic
fancies and images in the religiously inclined person. The cave temple of Patal Bhuvaneshwar is traditionally believed to be the abode of thirty three
crore deities.
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Bhuwneshwar Cave Temple
Mostamanu : Some six Km. by bus and then 2 Km. on foot to the north of Pithoragarh is situated the temple dedicated to Mosta God. The
temple premises are a center of a big lively fair held in August - September every year.
Mostamanu temple at Chandak
Mostamanu Temple
Nagmandir of Berinag : About one Km uphill to the south of Berinag proper in a romantic setting flanked in the north by a cluster of trees and
to the further south by a ravine, is the location of the famous snake temple which is dedicated to one of several manifestations of Lord Vishnu.
Legends say that the place was named Berinag after the Nagveni King Benimadhava. It is believed that when the pants from Maharashtra
came to settle here they saw coiled snakes of allcolours in a very large number and as a mark of reverence to them they built a snake temple
sometimes in the fourteenth century. It is a popular belief that Lord Krishna after conquering Kalinag advised him to leave river Jamuna and settle
somewhere amidst the snowy peaks, and that, Kalinag followed by many others came to a place somewhere around here.
Lateshwar temple at Barabe
Lateshwar Temple, Barabe Photo : Deep Chauhan
Sirakot : Built by Reka Kings, the Sirakot fort cum temple is situated at a distance of 2 Kms away from Didihat town which is some 52 Kms from
the district headquarters.The outer part of the fort was used by the King as household accommodation
Sirakot temple near Didihat
Sirakot Temple Photo : Deep Chauhan where the temples of Shiva & Bhairab were built in the inner part. They are now in a state of ruins. The hilltop on which the fort is situated offers a remarkably clear and fascinating view of the Himalayan ranges.
Ghunsera Devi Temple : The Ghunsera caves are located in the middle of a lofty hill on the top of which is situated the Asurchula temple. The stone images of Gods and Goddesses are believed to have been installed by the Khol kings of Kartikeya pura. Two of the stone images found here are said to belong to the Gupta period.
Thal Kedar : Eight Kms on motor roads to the south of Pithoragarh and thence after a climb along a narrow pathway flanked by dense vegetation is reached the Kedar temple situated at a height of 2000 meters.
Nakuleshwar Temple : This temple has its location at a place about two km. removed from the village Shiling which it self is about four Km away
from Pithoragarh. The word Nakuleshwar is derived from a combination of two words : Nakul
Statue of Mahishasur Mardini at Nakuleshwar meaning Himalaya and Ishwar meaning God and hence, Shiva the Himalaya God. The architectural design of the main temple is splendid and appears to have been modeled on the stylistic pattern of Khajuraho. In all, there are some thirty eight stone images of Shiva-parwati, Uma-Vasudev, Nauvarga, Surya, Mahishasur mardini, Vaman, Kurma, Narsingh etc. many of which are broken and disfigured because of neglect and age.
Kamaksha Temple : To the north east of Pithoragarh at a distance of about 7 Kms near the army contonment base is situated the Kamaksha temple on the top of a hillock over looking the surrounding mountain ranges.
Kapileshwar Mahadev : In the Soar Valley right above the villages of Takaura and Takari overlooking Pithoragarh town, is situated the cave temple dedicated to Mahadeva. The legend goes that the great sage kapil meditated here. The passage through the cave is very long and branches out to several indeterminate destinations and has hence been closed. The temple is situated some ten meters deep inside the cave. There is another cave temple of this kind also dedicated to Mahadev at a place called Rai which is about half a Km to the north-east on Dharchula-Pithoragarh road.
<-- Mahishasur Mardini at Nakuleshwar
Ulkadevi Temple : On Pithoragarh chandak motor road close to where the tourist rest house is situated stands the Ulkadevi temple besides
which has also been built a memorial for the martyrs who laid down their lives in defense of the mother land. The temple offers a remarkable view of
the sprawling Soar Valley.
Ulka Devi temple near TRC guest house (PTH)
UlkadeviTemple
Photo: Mrigesh Pandey
Jayanti Temple Dhwaj : Eighteen Km from Pithoragarh on Didihat road is situated a place called Totanaula from where after a 3 Km long steep
and tough climb is reached the Jayanti temple. On the way, some 200 ft. below the main
temple, is situated the cave
temple of Lord Shiva. From
the hill top where the Jayanti
temple is situated the Panch-
chuli and Nandadevi peaks
of Himalayas in all their
splendour can be clearly sighted.
Arjuneshwar : Ten Km from
the west of Pithoragarh town
on the top of a hill at a height
of 6000 ft. is situated the
Shiva temple called Arjune-
shwar believed to have been
built by Arjuna the great
warrior & the supreme archer. Dhwaj temple near Didihat
Dhwaj Temple Photo : Mrigesh Pandey
The principal among them are Laxminarayan temple and Shivalaya in the town and Shiva, Hanuman, Chatkeshwar, Gurna Devi and Igyara
devi around the town.
Budha Temple near Sukoli (PTH)
Buddha Temple, Sukoli (Pithoragarh)
Then again there are temples dedicated to local Gods like Gangnath, Bhumia, Airi, Chamu, Badan, Haru, Balchan, Churmal, Gabila, Chipla and
so on. These latter Gods are a class apart from the divine order and are Gods restricted to specific areas, families and castes.
KOT GARI Devi : Situated about 9 Kms from Thal the temple of Kotgari is held to be the final divine court of appeal for the deprived and the victim
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Aatwar at Kot Gari
Mrigesh Pande
of cruelty and injustice.
International Trade & Travel Links
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
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To the Hindus, the Himalayas are central to their cosmology. The peaks are the petals of the Golden Lotus which lord Vishnu created as a first step in the formation of the universe. On one of these peaks - Mount Kailash, sits Shiva in a state of perpetual meditation, generating the spiritaul force that sustains the cosmos.
The ancient text, Rigveda has a mention of the Himalayas, their formation and sacredness. The most sacred peak in the Himalayan range, Mount Kailash, is said to have been formed 30 million years ago during the early stages of the formation of the Himalayan chain.
According to the Jains, at the dawn of history their first law giver, Rishabhdev attained Nirvana on Mount Kailash.
Mount Kailash is situated in Tibet where it is given the dignified title of 'Kang Rampoche' meaning 'Precious Jewel'. Near Mount Kailash, during the geological shift in the initial statges of the formation of the Himalayan mountain chain four rivers arose from the area, flowing in four different directions : the Indus flowed north, the Karnali south, the Yarlung Tsangpo flowed east and Sutlej travelled west.
People have been visiting Kailas - Mansarovar for centuries. Almost all the major passes of Uttarakhand lead to Kailas-Mansarovar. Because of the
Indo-chinese border dispute, Indians were not allowed to visit Kailas - Mansarovar for nearly two decades. However, since 1981, under the
auspices of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and with the cooperation of the Chinese Government, Kumaun Mandal Vikas Nigam has
been conducting trips to Kailas- Mansarovar through the Lipulekh pass. Even though only a limited number of people are allowed to visit
Kailas - Mansarovar today, the very fact that the trips have been resumed raises hopes that, in the near future, more Indian pilgrims will be allowed to
visit Western Tibet, the region of sacred mountains and lakes. It is because of Kailas - Mansarovar, which is 865 Kilomet. from Delhi, that Kumaon is sometimes called 'Manaskhand'. Many of our myths are associated with
this unusual mountain and lake. The Buddhists, the Jains and the Bonpas of
Tibet too, consider this abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati and the lake born from the mind of Brahma to be a sacred place.
Therefore, it is not surprising that one often comes across Om Mani Padme Hum (hail to the Jewel (of creation)
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"There are no mountains like the
Himalaya, for in them are Kailas
and Mansarovar. As the dew is
dried up by the morning Sun, so
are the sins of mankind dried up
by the sight of the Himalaya."
-Skanda Puran Kailas Mansarovar
Mount Kailash
in the lotus) written on stones (the Buddhists), people making anti-clockwise pilgrimage around Mt. Kailas (the Bonpas) or a few ones specially
visiting Astpaad near the southern face of Kailas, (the Jains) in the Kailas - Mansarovar region.
Rakastal & kailas
Rakastal & Kailas
One has to walk 53 Km to go around the Mount Kailas ( 6675 m ), which is also known as the centre of the universe in the Hindu Puranas and the Buddhist texts , Astpaad in Jain texts and Yungdruk Gu Tseg ( nine storey Swastika Mountain) in Bonpa tradition. Its highest point is Polmapass at 19000 feet (4515 mtrs). South of Mount Kailas are Rakastal (4515 m), Mansarovar (4530 m), and further south the peaks of Gurla Mandhata (7683m). The circumference of Mansarovar is 90 Km, its depth is 90 m and total area is 320 Sq. Km.The lake freezes in the winters and melts only in spring. It looks unbelievably fascinating on moonlit nights. The circumference of Rakastal , also known as Ravan Hrid, is 22 Km from the corner of which originates the
Sutlej river. A 6 Km long channel -Gangachhu- connects Manas with Rakastal. From Tanakpur or Kathgodam one can reach Kailas- Mansarovar
via Dharchula - Tawaghat - Lipulekh Darma and Johar valleys.
Sunset on Mansarovar
Sunset on sacred Mansarovar
However, at present one can go only through the route chosen by the two governments, and join the pilgrimage conducted by the Kumaon
Mandal Vikas Nigam (Indian Territory) and Tourist Co. of Ali (in Tibet), from June to September, after one has completed all formalities.
Peaks and Passes
Peaks : Reach Tawaghat along the Kailas - Mansarovar route. From here trek along the Dhauli E to reach Dugtu/ Dantu or along the Gori (along
Jauljibi) to reach Madkot and then along the Mandakini or Mandkanya river upto the base camp. From these two points mountaineers
can climb the Panchchuli peaks. Various peaks like Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nand Kot and Panchchuli can be clearly viewed from
Chaukori which is 112 Km (via Gangolihat) and 75 Km (via Thal) from Pithoragarh.
A view of Panchchuli from Pithoragarh
Panchchuli Photo : Deep Chauhan The highest peak of Panchchuli The Highest Peak of Panchchuli
Nanda Kot
Nanda Kot Nanda Devi Nanda Devi
A view of Nanda Devi from Ashurchula (PTH)
Nanda Devi from Ashurchula Temple (Pithoragarh)
Passes : The area to the north beyond the main zone of Himalaya with a range of altitude between 5300 - 6500 meters, possesses the following
well known passes :
Sinla Pass
Sinla pass Photo : Lalit Verma
In Gori Gunkha Valley - Belcha Dhura (5,384 m), Kungri Bhingri (5,564 m), Keo Dhura (5,439 m)
In Dhauli E Valley - Lwa Dhura (5,564 m)
In Kali Valley - Lipu Lekh (5,122 m)
In Kuti Valley - Lampiya Dhura (5,553 m), Nuwe Dhura (5,650 m)
Legends and Design Formations
The entire Kumaun region by virtue of its proximity with the Himalayas, has by tradition and legends been associated with numerous gods and
goddesses. Pithoragarh district commencing its boundaries just at the foot of the Himalayas has acquired the unique distinction of being the holy
land of gods and therefore, temples of very large variety dedicated to diverse gods including local deities and demons of restricted influence are
spread over the whole expanse.These temples either possess the architectural features of great interest to a scholar or provide sustenance to faith
Laxmi Narayan at Kasni Shiva-Parvati at Nakuleshwar
Laxmi Narayan, Kasni Shiva Parvati, Nakuleshwar
Photo: Deep Chauhan
through setting local, associated legends or fantastic design formations. The urge to comeback to them is irresistible in as much as they exercise
an impact on human psyche that beats all scientific logic. Apart from this these temples are of great interest to a casual tourist from the point
of view of design, land scape around and several other features unique to them.
Pandav Fort at Kuti Kushan sculpture at Shera
Pandav Fort at Kuti Kushan Sculpture at Shera (Pithoragarh)
Carpet weaving at Pithoragarh
Carpet weaving at Pithoragarh
ADI-KAILASH (CHHOTA KAILASH)
OM PARVAT
Adi Kailash is an ancient holy place in the Himalayan Range, similar to Mount Kailash in Tibet. This abode of Lord Shiva ina remote area is worth to
have a Darshan. Trekking to Adi Kailash in the Himalayan ranges of Kumaun region near the Indo Tibetan Border in district Pithoragarh.
Upto Gunji the route is same. One walks 14 km, first to the left of Kuti and then to the right, to reach Jollingkong (4572 m). The river Kuti and its
bridge will perhaps may be under a thick blanket of snow.
Rivers, Water Sources and Lakes
The district abounds in rivers some of which originate within the fold of the district and,assuming a peripheral course along the borderline, enter the
Garhwal region and eventually merges into the Ganga and have thus been geographically grouped under the rivers of the Ganga system. These are:
Girthi : This river has a short course in the extreme NW of Pithoragarh and, moving along Kungribingri range in a west and south west course,
finally enters in the Garhwal region.
Keogad : To the north of Girthi and alike having a short course in Pithoragarh the Keogad river moving along the inner enclosures of the district
enters the Garhwal region.
Then again, there are rivers so gigantic and dominating that they have, infact, become a way of life. They thunder through the district, determine
geographical borders with the neighbouring country, nourish cultures along their course and cause economic boom or recession according as they
are kind or playful.
Kali : The river Kali originating from trans Himalayan zone forms the continuous border with Nepal all through its course from Kalapani to Tanakpur
where terminating its serpentine hilly course it finally enters plains and is then called Sharda. Along its vast catchment in the entire northern and
eastern parts of Pithoragarh, the Kali is almost a human presence,masterful yet benign.The Kali river possesses an immense potential for irrigation
and hydro electric generation and a project for the construction of a massive dam at Pancheswar is pending under political negotiations with Nepal.
River Garbyang
Garbyang, confluence of the Kali & the Tinkar
Gori : Originating from a dual source in a glacier near south of Untadhura ridge feeding the eastern branch, and another glacier near Milam feeding
the western branch, the Gori river joins the Kali at Jauljibi.
Snow bridge on the river Gori
Snow bridge on the river Gori
Dhauli : Dhauli is, infact, a combination of two head waters namely Dharamganga and Lassar with the glacier close to Darma pass as their source
and, taking a south eastern course, finally joins Kali and serves as its important tributary.
Kutiyangti : This river originates from a small glacier along the southern base of Lumpiyadhura Pass and is a tributary of Kali.
Sarju : Originating from the extreme south of adjacent Almora district, the river Sarju makes the south west boundary between
Pithoragarh and Almora and, finally, at a point at Pancheswar, it joins Kali along with Panar river.
Ram Ganga : Forming the boundary between Almora and Pithoragarh districts the Ram Ganga originates from the Namik glacier. The river is
fed by numerous small and big rivers and finally joins Sarju at Rameshwar.There are scriptual evidences which bearout that the great sage Vasistha
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Ramganga at Ghat
also performed penance here and that the river Sarju originating from the feet of Lord Vishnu has journeyed to the ashram of Vasistha.The
river is held in great reverence and is traditionally associated by the Hindu population of the district with the belief that it is gifted with the power
of condoning their sins and hence is a preferred spot for cremation.
Average annual surface flow of the rivers of district Pithoragarh :
Rivers Av. Annual flow
Milliard m³ Discharge
recorded at Source region
Dhauli 2.6 Nyu Greater Himalaya
Gori 3.8 Bangapani Greater Himalaya
Ram Ganga (E) 3.1 Thal Greater Himalaya
Sarju 5.8 Shera Greater Himalaya
Kali 23.2 Pancheshwar Greater Himalaya
Traditional Drinking water Sources and natural lakes
The human settlements in different remote regions of Pithoragarh were principally based upon the factor of the easy availability of pure drinking
water and it is a notable feature of all upland habitations that the under ground water reservoirs capable of supplying drinking water perennially
either in the forms of guided springs called dharas or covered storages called Naulas, have been a primary source of water supply. Some of the
underground reservoirs are so enormous that they emerge as rivers in lesser Himalaya and are continuously replenished either by the snow melts or
by the rain water.
Nandikund Kedar Kund
There are a number of such spout springs (dharas) and covered storages (Naulas) which over a long period have gathered legends around
them due either to their topography, architecture or location special, so much so that they have now become chosen picnic spots e.g., to the north
of Dharchula is situated a hot water spring at the bank of Kali in a place called Tapowan and another in Madkot.
Gauri_Kund.jpg (19690 bytes) Parvatital
Perhaps heights and lakes do not make a very probable combination but be lying the normal belief, Pithoragarh possesses wonders of natural
lakes in the form of Jollingkong and Ancherital at an elevation of 4634 and 3658 meters respectively.
Cultural Heritage
Paintings, the art of 'aipan' and other art forms
The Aipan (Alpana) is a popular art form of Kumaun, and walls, papers and pieces of cloth are decorated by the drawing of various geometric and
other figures belonging to gods, goddesses and objects of nature Pichhauras or dupattas are also decorated in this manner. At the time of Harela
Alpana (Aipan) Alpana
Alpana (Aipan) Photo : Mrigesh Pandey
there is a tradition of making clay idols (Dikaras).
Folk Art Folk Dance
The Shaukas use their own and Tibetan knitting art form to decorate mattresses known as Dans. In these woolen goods we find the influence
of the Kumaoni and Tibetan styles. Pithoragarh also has a distinctive style of making different baskets called Doka. The art of hilljatra mukhotas
(masks) is also worth mentioning.
Urban lady in traditional dress
Urban Lady in traditional Kumaoni Dress
A local festival (Hariyala)
Harela (Yellow leaves)
Lady in local ornaments Local Ornaments Lady of Munsyari Lady of Munsyar Photo : Deep Chauhani
Lady in traditional dress
Lady in traditional dress Rural lady carrying 'Doka'
Rural Lady carrying 'Doka'
Photo : Mrigesh Pandey
Fairs
The fairs of Pithoragarh are not only an expression of the religious,social and the cultural urges of the people but have also sustained the folk culture
and have been central to the economic activities of the people. Jauljibi and Thal fairs are primarily trade fairs. During the navratri fair at the Mahakali
temple at Gangolihat the devotees turn up in a very large number and thus these fairs are manifestly religious in nature. The other famous fairs of the
region are :
Mostamanu fair held in Aug. - Sept.
Kapileshwar fair held on Shivratri.
Krishna Janmastami fair held at
Kalapani and Gunji
Kanar Devi fair at Baram in Gori
Valley.
Honkra Devi fair at Birthi
Dhanlekh fair at Askot
Lacchar fair at a place Naini Patal.
Nanda Devi Festival (Johar) Nanda Devi Festival - Johar
The Nandadevi fair
The Nandadevi fair is held at Almora, Nainital, Kot (Dangoli) and also in the far flung villages of Johar ( like Milam and Martoli). In Johar, people
come from far and wide to Danadhar, Suring, Milam and Martoli in order to worship the Goddess.
Chhipla Jaat
Chhiplakote is situated in the heart land of Kali and Gori rivers,south of Panchchuli mountains.The highest point of this mountain-Najurikund (4497m)
- is the seat of Chhipla Kedar.
The people of 15 - 20 villages of Dharchula and Gorikhal regions reach Kedardwe and Najurikote every third year on Bhado Purnmasi. The principal
yatra starts from village Khela near Tawaghat. It goes through thick forests, rocky lands and Bugyals. People go there barefoot even in these days.
The dhami burha or bonia (folk priest) finalizes the dates of the jaat (journey). With folk drums, bhankaras (metalic pipe instrument) and neja (the
flag of red cloth pieces collected from all the families of the villages) the jaat goes to Barmano, which is 6 Km from Khela. On the second day the
yatris go through a thick oak forest. After crossing Bunga,Garapani, Mangthil gwar, Ganbhujdhura (the blooming bugyal) comes Brahmkund (18 Km).
Around 100 people can stay at the udiyar (cave) of Brahmkund. From this point one can have a glimpse of Chaudans region and the peaks of
W. Nepal. On the third day the route is on the back of Najurikote, which is full of buggi grass and brahmkamals (Saussurea obvallata). At Kedardwe
pond sacred dips are taken and the worship is performed.
Chaittol : In the village of Aath-gaon Shilling, Bin, Saatshiling, Chaunser etc., chaittol is celebrated on the Astami and Nawmi of Chaitra. On this
occasion the deity Deval samet who in fact is a human medium possessed by the deity, is taken around in a dola (palanquin). The temples
dedicated to this God are situated in Bin, Chensor, Kasni, Jakhni and Bharkatia villages. The fair in fact is an extension of a convention among
the inhabitants of Kumaon, enjoining upon a brother to make to his sister on endowment, in the month of Chait every year, in cash or kind called
Bhitola or Bhetna in local dialect.
Chaittol
Chaittol
Photo: Mrigesh Pandey
At the beginning and end of Chaittol the villages assemble, sing in chorus and join hands in rustic dance to the beat of the drums and hurka in
gay abandon and the whole process of merry-making is called Khel in local dialect.
The whole paraphernalia of the chaittol includes Dola (palanquin), Chattra, nissan (Symbol), golden Janevo (holy thread) , morpankh (peacock
feathers), tails of the chanwar gay (cow), silver Dhagula (bracelets), Chunni, traditional costumes including jhagula (frock) for dhami, the cover over
the chatra and a length of rope. With the brush made of the tail of chanwar cow the deity exorcises evil spirits and the rope is used to raise
and lower the dola when carried through the difficult mountainous terrains. The deity Deval samet, i.e. the possessed medium, is danced in the
mode of Tandava Nritya in 22 villages.
Kandali : In the Chaudans region of Pithoragarh district, a flower - Kandali (Strobilenthes wallichii) - blooms once every 12 years (last in 1999 and
next in 2011) and the people celebrate Kandali festival between the months of August and October. In the week long festival the local people -
Shaukas or the Rangs - participate with gaiety enthusiasm in different villages of the region. Some stories are associated with this festival,
Kandali Festival
Kandali Festival Photo : Mrigesh Pandey
associated with this festival, which express the marital tradition of the Shaukas. In the first story, it is said that by tasting the poisonous flower of
the Kandali the only son of a widow died. In the second story, this flower is the symbol of famine and poverty. According to the third and most
popular story, the region was once attacked while the menfolk were away for trade. The brave women repelled the enemy, who hide in the Kandali
bushes, and they attacked the bushes and destroyed the enemy. The festival commemorates their bravery and the women therefore destroy
the plant ceremonially to remind the local people of the incident and to prevent further mishaps.
Worship before commencement of Kandali Festival
Worship before commencement of the Kandali Festival
The festival begins with the worship of a Shiva Linga made of barley and buck wheat wheat flour mixture. Local liquor is traditionally used during
this festival. Every household performs it in a decorated corner of the courtyard. People pray for prosperity. The individual pujas are followed by a
community feast. Then, the women and men, in their traditional dresses and laden with gold and silver ornaments, assemble around a tree on the
sacred ground of the village. Strips of white cloth are tied to the tree and a flag is raised.
A procession is formed behind the flag. The women lead the procession, each armed with a ril (an implement used in compacting carpet on the
loom) followed by children and men armed with swords and shields. As they sing and dance their music echoes in the valley. On approaching the
blooms, war like tunes are played and war cries uttered and women attack the bushes with their rils. The menfolk then come to their aid, and the
bushes are hacked with swords. They uproot the bushes and take them back as the spoils of the war. Festivity, dancing and music continue
throughout the night.
Hilljatra : A festival of pastoralists and agriculturist hilljatra came to Pithoragarh valley from West Nepal and at once found fevour in Kumaour and
Bajethi and in its modified form as Hiranchital at Kanalichina and Askot. It is associated with ropai (paddy transplantation) and allied agricultural
activities of rainy season. In was introduced in Soar by the Chand king 'Kuru'
Hilljatra
Hilljatra (A local festival in Pithoragarh)
and is, in fact, an elaborate masquerade under the open sky where in various pastoral and agricultural activities are represented. The folk
legends based on the victory of traditional deities over the demon are enacted in a fantastic masquerade replete with the chiming
of bells and hymns in the local dialects supported by loud instrumental music and the booming dhool nagara (drums).
Trekking Routes
Milam Glacier : Munsyari is the point from where the trek to Milam glacier commences :
From To Distance Accommodation
Munsyari (2290 m) Lilam 12 Km P.W.D. Rest House
Lilam (1810 m) Bagudiyar 13 Km -----
Bagudiyar (2450 m) Rilkote 12 Km -----
Rilkote (3350 m)
December - March