Uttarakhand; also known as Dev Bhoomi (Land of Gods) is undoubtedly one of the most scenic destinations in India. With many places that offer absolute bliss and tranquillity, Uttarakhand is indeed a paradise for travellers from all over the world. From snow-covered mountain peaks, serene high -altitude lakes, lush green forests to quaint little mountain villages; it has so much to offer. Other than the famous tourist spots it is also home to some of the most mesmerizing offbeat or ‘hidden’ destinations that are not part of the regular travel itineraries.

Kumaon and Garhwal are the two most prominent regions of Uttarakhand. Both these regions largely remain untouched by urbanisation making it an ideal destination for travellers looking for an offbeat and unique experience. While the Garhwal region boasts of its raw and untouched mountain peaks, the Kumaon region attracts travellers with its hill stations, scenic landscapes and vibrant culture. The Kumaon region also has many offbeat trekking trails that are perfect for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. In this blog, we have listed out some of the hidden gems and offbeat treks of Kumaon Hills. Trekking in Kumaon is exciting and will surely give you an exhilarating experience.

1.      Binsar Zero Point Trek

Quick Facts
Best Time: March to October
Duration: 11 Days
Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 4150m
Commences At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport
Ends At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport

One of the most scenic villages of Uttarakhand, Binsar is famous for the breath-taking views of the snowy mountain ranges of Panchchuli, Shivling, Chaukhamba, Trishul and Nanda Devi.

A paradise for trekkers, Binsar is located at the altitude of 2420 m and just 95km away from Nainital. The trek to the Binsar zero point is famous all over the country for the mesmerizing views that it offers. The Binsar village is surrounded by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to numerous animals and about 200 species of birds. The rich flora and fauna of this place make it a perfect destination for nature and wildlife lovers.

Besides its natural beauty, the Binsar Zero Point trek gives you an opportunity to enjoy the local Kumaoni culture and tradition. On this trek, you will not only get an opportunity to spend time in the lap of nature but also visit the mountain villages, interact with the locals and experience their lifestyle and traditions. One can visit Binsar throughout the year except for the monsoon season. You can visit Binsar in winter to experience spectacular snowfall.

This trek is an easy grade trek and the short duration of this trip makes it an ideal weekend getaway. It is also a perfect trek for families with kids who are looking for a Himalayan vacation with perfect combination of adventure and leisure.

Read more about Binsar Zero Point Trek here

2.      Pindari Glacier Trek

Quick Facts
Best Time: April to June; October, November
Duration: 7 Days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Max. Altitude: 3750m
Commences At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport
Ends At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport

Pindari Glacier Trek is one of the most easily accessible glacier treks in India. Situated in the remote corners of Kumaon Himalayas, this trek offers diverse and strikingly beautiful landscapes. The trek traverses along the Nandadevi Sanctuary and takes you to the Pindari Glacier which is the source of the Pindari River. The Pindari Glacier Trek starts from a small hamlet called Loharkhet which is around 210 km away from Kathgodam. Although a long trek, Pindari Glacier Trek is an easy grade trek and is recommended for beginners. On this trek, you will trek through dense forests, lush green meadows and valleys with spellbinding views of majestic Nanda Devi Peak in front of your eyes.

It is an enthralling experience to walk on the glacier and spend time near the alpine lakes situated at the footsteps of snow-clad mountain peaks.

3.      Kafni Glacier Trek

Quick Facts
Best Time: March to October
Duration: 11 Days
Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 4150m
Commences At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport
Ends At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport

Kafni Glacier Trek is a moderate grade trek to the majestic Kafni Glacier which is located in the Bageshwar district in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Perched at the altitude of 3853m, this glacier is situated on the left of the Pindari Valley, below the Nandakot (6860m) Peak. Comparatively an easier trek than the neighbouring Pindari Glacier Trek, this trek starts from a small hamlet called Loharkhet which is also the start point of the Pindari Glacier Trek. Both these treks have the common trail till the village of Dwali. Dense forests, meadows with colourful flowers like that of Rhododendrons, gushing rivers, untamed streams and some steep climb through boulders, all these adds into the challenge and make it a memorable trekking experience.

4.      Kumaon Glacial Lake Trek

Quick Facts
Best Time: May to October
Duration: 08 Days
Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 4420m
Commences At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport
Ends At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport

Kumaon Glacial Lake Trek is one of the most scenic trekking trails in the Bageshwar, Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The trek starts from and ends at a village called Kharkia. The well-defined trail covered with wildflowers and beautiful waterfalls all around takes you to a high-altitude semicircle Lake Devi Kund, which is known for its tranquil beauty and crystal-clear water. The Devi Kund Lake offers mesmerising views of many snow-capped peaks such as Panwalidwar, the imposing Maiktoli, Anamik, Bhanouti, Tharkhot, Durgakot, Simsagam, the massive Mrigthuni and Mt Nandakot.

Breath-taking views of snow-clad peaks, gushing streams, waterfalls, lush green meadows and tranquil lakes on the trail will make you fall for its beauty instantly. The trail to the Maiktoli Glacier and Devi Kund Lake is a mesmerizing walk in itself as you go past the rhododendron, pines and cedar forests. The Kumaon Glacial Lake Trek is one of those treks that leaves you in complete awe of its natural beauty and the surroundings. You can also pay a visit to the local villages and get to know about their culture and traditions.

5.      Panchachuli Base Camp Trek

Quick Facts
Best Time: April to June & September, October
Duration: 09 Days
Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 4260m
Commences At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport
Ends At: Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport

Situated in the Darma Valley near the borders of Nepal and Tibet, Panchachuli massif is a popular trekking destination in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The trek to Panchachuli Base Camp is the highest trek in the Darma Valley. The trail to the Panchachuli Glacier offers enchanting landscapes, gorgeous alpine meadows and a rich variety of the flora and fauna. The trail starts from Dharchula village and runs alongside the Dhauliganga river all the way up to the glacier at the base of Panchachuli Peak. On the trek, you will walk through thick forests of Deodar, Conifer and some tribal villages like Bongling, Sela, Nagling, Baaling and Duktu.

With the total distance of approx. 60 kms, the trek to Panchchuli Base Camp is really an enthralling experience and is recommended for fit beginners and experienced trekkers.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1.      Where is the Kumaon region?

Situated at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Kumaon is located in Uttarakhand. Kumaon is one of the two divisions of the Uttarakhand state. The beautiful lake city Nainital is the headquarters of the Kumaon Division.

2.      How to reach Kumaon?

Air: Pantnagar Airport in Nainital is the nearest airport to the Kumaon region.

Rail: Kathgodam is the nearest airport to the Kumaon region.

Road: Kumaon is well connected with major cities by road. It is 375km away from Delhi.

3.      What is the best time to visit Kumaon?

Spring season (February to April) and post-monsoon or the autumn season (from October to November) are the best times to visit the Kumaon region for hiking and trekking. One can also visit Kumaon in winters (December-January) to experience snowfall.

4.      Which are the major tourist attractions in the Kumaon region?

Nainital, Ranikhet, Binsar, Almora, Pithoragdh, Kausani, Bhimtal, Mukteshwar and Munsiyari are some of the famous hill stations in the Kumaon Himalayas. Wildlife lovers can also visit the Jim Corbette National Park which is the oldest national park in India.

5.      What are the top things to do in Kumaon?

Kumaon is the perfect backdrop to experience various activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, birdwatching, wildlife safari and adventure sports like paragliding. Blessed with incredible natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, rich flora fauna and biodiversity, snow clad mountains and a vibrant culture, Kumaon has something to offer for each kind of travellers.

Hope you enjoyed reading the blog and found the information useful. Get in touch with us to plan your next trekking adventure in the Kumaon Himalayas. Please leave a comment with your feedback or any queries you may have about visiting Kumaon.

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Umang Dave