pithoragarh. Review on Pithoragarh

One of the most striking regions in the hills of Uttaranchal is Pithoragarh, Kumaon’s easternmost district. The district headquarters, also called Pithoragarh, is wedged in between Nepal and Tibet, in the tiny Soar Valley of the Lesser Himalayas.

The valley is flanked by four hills - Chandak, Dhwaj, Thal Kedar and Kundar - and is dramatic in its beauty. Pithoragarh is a beautiful hill station that lies on the Kailash-Mansoravar trail and lies on the route to as many as six mountain passes into Tibet.

You can choose to bask in the beauty of Pithoragarh with its many temples or you can set off on some adventures of your own. Pithoragarh is both temple town and an excellent base for treks and river-rafting in the surrounding countryside.

Pithoragarh’s history can be traced to the time of the Puranas when it flourished though no documents from that era have been recovered. What is known is that Pithoragarh used to be an important stop en route to Kailasa Parbat. The first recorded document is from the time of the great Rajput King Prithviraj Chauhan who named the place as Rai Pithora.

Under the Chand and Katyuri dynasties its name was adapted to “Prithigarh.” Several kings and dynasties ruled Pithoragarh and perhaps one of the last was the Chand dynasty that built a fort to show their might and strength. This fort today houses the girls hostel Pithoragarh was taken over by the British administration, and they have left their impressions in the churches, cantonment area etc., that exist in Pithoragarh even today.The list of things to do in Pithorgarh includes hang-gliding, paragliding, trekking, skiing, canoeing, river rafting, and fishing adventures.

Pay homage at the various temples here or hike through the thick forests where you are sure to spot some snow leopards, musk deer, and peafowl. Tired after all the activity then just sit back and relax on the soft velvety grass as you breathe in the scent of wild flowers or delve into the variety of north Indian cuisine available here. Pick up colourful shawls and blankets or traditional gems. Take a trip to places like Mostamanu, Dhwaj, and Chaukori near Pithorgarh. If you are looking for a destination that lets you enjoy your holidays at your own pace then Pithorgarh is an ideal holiday destination.