🏞️ 10 Best Places you must visit in Kumaon.

Tucked away in the majestic folds of the Himalayas, the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is a land of pristine lakes, pine-covered hills, sacred temples, and charming colonial towns. Unlike the more commercialized Garhwal region, Kumaon offers a perfect blend of serenity, culture, and natural grandeur — making it a paradise for travelers seeking offbeat, soulful, and scenic experiences.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top tourist places in Kumaon that should be on every traveler's bucket list.

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1. Nainital – The Lake District of India

A jewel in Kumaon’s crown, Nainital is famous for its pear-shaped Naini Lake, colonial-era architecture, and panoramic hill views. Take a boat ride on the lake, ride the ropeway to Snow View Point, or simply stroll on the vibrant Mall Road.

📍 Must-see:

Naini Lake
Naina Devi Temple
Tiffin Top
The Governor’s House (Raj Bhawan)

🧘 2. Almora – Cultural Capital of Kumaon

Rich in tradition, craft, and history, Almora is known for its scenic ridges and ancient temples. It’s the birthplace of Govind Ballabh Pant and the place where Swami Vivekananda meditated.

📍 Must-see:

Kasar Devi Temple (favored by spiritual seekers & hippies)
Bright End Corner
Chitai Golu Devta Temple
Lala Bazaar for local handicrafts

🏔️ 3. Mukteshwar – Peace, Peaks & Apples.

A serene hill station known for its panoramic views of the Nanda Devi range, Mukteshwar offers peace, nature trails, and adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling.

📍 Must-see:

Mukteshwar Dham Temple
Chauli Ki Jali (cliffside views)
Bhalu Gaad Waterfall

🐆 4. Jim Corbett National Park – For the Wild at Heart.

Asia’s oldest national park, Jim Corbett in Ramnagar is a haven for wildlife lovers and photographers. Take a jeep safari and you might just spot a Royal Bengal tiger.

📍 Must-see:

Dhikala Zone Safari
Garjiya Devi Temple
Corbett Museum

🏘️ 5. Ranikhet – Queen’s Meadow

Once developed by the British as a summer retreat, Ranikhet offers lush meadows, pine forests, and colonial charm. It's also home to the Kumaon Regiment.

📍 Must-see:

Jhula Devi Temple
Chaubatia Orchards
Golf Ground
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

⛰️ 6. Pithoragarh – The Mini Kashmir of Uttarakhand

Located near the Indo-Nepal border, Pithoragarh is known for its Himalayan views, adventure trekking routes, and as a base for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

📍 Must-see:

Pithoragarh Fort
Askot Wildlife Sanctuary
Dhwaj Temple

🧗 7. Munsiyari – Gateway to the Johar Valley

A true gem for trekkers and explorers, Munsiyari offers breathtaking views of the Panchachuli peaks and serves as the starting point for numerous high-altitude treks.

📍 Must-see:

Khaliya Top Trek
Birthi Falls
Tribal Heritage Museum

🌼 8. Kausani – The Switzerland of India

Perched on a ridge, Kausani offers 360-degree views of Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. Ideal for nature lovers and poets.

📍 Must-see: