Location: Kumaon Region (Uttaranchal)
Altitude: 1890 m above Sea Level.
Originally Called: Valna
Best Time: September to April

THE ETHEREAL TOWN Located 53 km to the north of Almora, Kausani, is a picturesque hill station famous for its scenic splendor and its spectacular 300 km-wide view of the Himalayas? Snuggled amongst thick, dense pine forests, atop a narrow ridge, the view of the snow covered Trishul and Nanda Devi is so vivid that one gets a feeling of the snow being within touching distance.
The ethereal sunrise that Pithoragarh offers has attracted thousands of visitors to this place time and again. Eulogized by poets and philosophers, this scenic and beautiful spot has on offer something or the other for every visitor from sightseeing, history, sport and pilgrimage to complete relaxation all year round. In 1929, Mahatma Gandhi stayed here at the Anashakti Ashram, and was greatly impressed by its environs.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

Anashakti Ashram: It is located at a quiet place where the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi spent some days. Set against the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, this Ashram offers a good resting-place for travelers. It also has a magnificent library.

View of the Nanda Devi Hill: Some spectacular views of the hills exist and several snow-capped peaks spanning a 300-km range can be seen from vantagepoints around. One of the best spots from which one can photograph the Nanda Devi Range is the State Bungalow at Kausani. A particularly good time is prior to sunrise when one can watch the sun slowly lighting up the tips of the Nanda Devi Range.

EXCURSIONS

Baijnath: (19 kms.) Situated on the banks of the Gomti River and just below the Kausani Ridge are Baijnath, an important pilgrimage and historic center. A group of ancient temples dating back to the 12th and 13th century line the bank of the river, presenting a beautiful sight. Their intricate carvings and stonework are simply awe-inspiring.

Bageshwar: (42 kms.) This important Shaivite center stands at the confluence of rivers Gomti and Saryu. The famous Baghnath temple built by King Lakshmi Chand in 1602 AD, adorns the city. Not only temples but also the sacred confluence & famous Uttarayani Fair held annually in mid- January, also make it a revered spot for pilgrims, who often equate it to Varanasi, in divinity and sanctity.

Gwaldam: (48 KMS.) At an altitude of 1829 m, this typical small Himalayan town surrounded by fruit orchards is an ideal base for trekking to Roopkund and Pindari glaciers (in Kumaon Himalayas).

HOW TO GET THERE

Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar, 180 kms.

Rail: Nearest railhead is Kathgodam, 142 kms.

Road: The hill station is well connected by road to all nearby towns.

NEARBY CITIES

Bageshwar:42 kms
Gwaldam:48 kms
Pantnagar:180 kms.
Kathgodam:142 kms

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area:5.2 sq.km.
Population:4046 (1991 census).
Altitude:1890 m above sea level.

Clothing

summer: Light Woolens.
Winter:Heavy Woolens.