Pithoragarh Travel Essentials
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best Time: April to June, October to December Read More
Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question
"Uttarakhand’s Himalayan town with fort views and treks"
Pithoragarh Tourism
A small urban town bustling with tourists is a prime example of raw beauty of nature and is often fondly referred to as the 'Little Kashmir'. A gateway to Himalayan Range, this town also serves as the stop over for pilgrims on their way to Kailash Mansarover.
Situated in a beautiful Soar valley and flanked by Nepal in the east and Tibet in the north, Pithoragarh promises of an unforgettable trip. With River Kali flowing through the town which is prettily adorned with tranquil temples, villages, fort, lush green forests and natural resources, this place is a blessing in disguise for travel enthusiasts.
Read More
Places To Visit In Pithoragarh
Top Hotels In Pithoragarh
More on Pithoragarh Travel
The Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand
Encompassed by Nepal from east and Tibet from the north, Pithoragarh is a small valley established amidst the stunning Kumaon Himalayan ranges. The tranquil ambience and the divine landscapes of this little town match with that of Kashmir and hence it is also called the “Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand”. The small town of Uttarakhand is brimmed with the natural charm and awe-gaping vistas. It is the home to some of the blessed temples, blissful treks and serene waterfalls and hence makes it a place which does not lack in the recreational activities and sightseeing. Pithoragarh is dotted with a number of temples and forts that speak highly of the rich history that this town has witnessed in the past. From the tales of Mahabharat to the reign of kings, you will find several places that are full of interesting stories.
Trekking in Pithorgarh
Sin la in Pithoragarh is a popular trekking destination in the Kumaoni Himalayan mountains. Located at an elevation of 5495 metres, the trek passes through an array of lush green fields, remote villages and thick forests. It connects Bidang in Darma Valley to Jolingkong Lake in the Kuthi Yankti valley. Sin La was an ancient trade route of the Bhotiyas to Tibet. You can also witness the magnanimous Adi Kailash Peak standing at the height of 6191 metres.
Culture of Pithoragarh
Pithoragarh has a vibrant culture due to the presence of numerous unique tribes. The most celebrated festival of the place is called Kandali, celebrated by the Rung tribe. The festival is based on the blooming of Kandali (Stingy Nettle Plant) flowers which happen once in twelve years.
The customs, rites and rituals followed by the local people are mostly those of the Hindus. Some of the most popular festivals are Maha Shivratri, Basant Panchmi, Dussehra, Diwali, Kartik Purnima etc. Pithoragarh is also famous for its enriching folk songs and dances.
While the official languages of the place are English and Hindi, Kumaoni is widely spoken in the region. Some smaller tribes speak the dialect of the Kumaoni language.
Restaurants and Local Food in Pithoragarh
Pithoragarh is a small town where options to eat outside the hotel are minimal. Apart from some small multi cuisine restaurants, dhabas and street side eateries serving mouth watering north Indian dishes, most meals are taken at the hotel only.
View Top Restaurants in Pithoragarh
View Top Restaurants in Pithoragarh
Suggested Itinerary for Pithoragarh
Pithoragarh is a fascinating pace with an amazing blend of nature, spirituality, solitude and an incredible past. One day in this town can be quite interesting. Start your day early morning with a walk in the wilderness of the place followed by nice warm breakfast. Begin your journey with a trip to Pithoragarh Fort and moving on to Kapilaswar Cave. Do not forget to carry snacks and packed food items. Heading on to Chandak, break for lunch at any local dhaba. From there a 4 km trek to Dhwaj Temple and then a short drive to Nakuleshwara temple will be an amazing way to end your trip. If there is some time left and you are not tired, you can head on to Thal Kedar directly from the temple. A good dinner at the hotel is best place to complete this wonderful journey.
Best Time to Visit Pithoragarh
Top Stories about Pithoragarh Tourism
Nearby Places
How to Reach Pithoragarh
How to Reach Overview
Pithoragarh does not have its own airport or railway station. The nearest airport and railway station are located more than 100 km way from the city, hence, the most convenient way of travelling to Pithoragarh is by road.
How to reach Pithoragarh by flight
Pantnagar, situated 241 kms from Pithoragarh is the nearest airport to the town. Connected to National Capital Delhi via daily flights, it is easy to approach from airport to Pithoragarh through taxis and well maintained road.
How to reach Pithoragarh by road
Pithoragarh is well connected to all the major cities of Uttaranchal via well maintained roads. In fact this small town can be reached from the neighbouring states as well by private as well as state owned buses which have regular services.
How to reach Pithoragarh by train
Tanakpur serves as the nearest railway head to Pithoragarh lying at a distance of almost 138 kms. This station has a good connectivity with many major cities in India. One can easily hire a cab from outside the station for comfortable ride to your destination.
Local transport in Pithoragarh
Commuting within the town of Pithoragarh is quite easy. Being a small urban town, getting a taxi is the best option. Make sure you avoid visiting the place during rainy season as frequent landslides can spoil your trip. The town is quite refreshing during the summers while winters offer some breath taking views.
Browse Hotel Collections
Pithoragarh Photos
+ 18photos
FAQs on Pithoragarh
What is the best time to visit Pithoragarh?
The weather during the summer season i.e. from April to June is neither very hot nor very cold but pleasant enough for sightseeing. Monsoon season experiences heavy rainfall during the months of July and August leading to landslides and slippery roads. It is advised to avoid travelling during this season. Winters in Pithoragarh are freezing cold with snow at higher altitude. The best season to enjoy the town is recommended to be summers.
Read More
Read More
What are the places near Pithoragarh?
The top places near to Pithoragarh are Nainital which is 76 km from Pithoragarh, Almora which is located 53 km from Pithoragarh, Auli which is located 122 km from Pithoragarh, Patal bhuvaneshwar which is located 16 km from Pithoragarh, Ranikhet which is located 76 km from Pithoragarh
What are the things to do in Pithoragarh?
The top things to do in Pithoragarh are Munsiyari, Chandak, Kafni Glacier Trek, Askot Sanctuary, Didihat, Gangolihat. You can see all the places to visit in Pithoragarh here
What is the best way to reach Pithoragarh?
Pithoragarh does not have its own airport or railway station. The nearest airport and railway station are located more than 100 km way from the city, hence, the most convenient way of travelling to Pithoragarh is by road.
Read More
Read More
What is the local food in Pithoragarh?
Pithoragarh is a small town where options to eat outside the hotel are minimal. Apart from some small multi cuisine restaurants, dhabas and street side eateries serving mouth watering north Indian dishes, most meals are taken at the hotel only.
Read More
Read More
Who should visit Pithoragarh?
Pithoragarh is perfect for trekkers, nature explorers, and people looking for a place family vacations.
What is not so good about Pithoragarh?
Does not have its own railway station. Also, the airport is located far away from the hill station, which makes it difficult to access. Local transport isn't too convenient.