Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Attractions of Kumaon (Uttarakhand)

Nainital
This lake town, situated in the hilly region of Kumaon, is built around the lake Naini. The city is surrounded by seven mountains, Sapta Shring. Nainital was the summer capital of Uttar Pradesh for many years during British rule and also after independence. According to mythology, when Lord Shiva was carrying the body of Sati, her eyes fell at this place and it came to be known as Naini Tal. Nearby places of interests are BhimTal and Sat Tal.

Almora
This hill district is in the central Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is a beautiful scenic place situated at an altitude of 5900 ft. There is a cave where Swami Vivekananda meditated and was enlightened. Almora was captured by British from Gorkhas, who have left their mark on this town. Nanda Devi festival is celebrated here, during which devotees from all over India visit this place.

Kausani
Nesting amongst thick, dense pine forests, atop a narrow ridge and separated from the towering montains of the Nanda Devi range by low, medium mountains; at Kausani the grandeur of the Himalayan scenery comes alive. The view of the snow covered Trishul and Nanda Devi is so clear that one gets a feeling of the snow being within touching distance.

Ranikhet
Ranikhet is the place which mirrors the best of the heavenly Himalayas; lush green forests, majestic mountains, delivate plant life and attractive wild life. To view nature and its elements in full harmony, the right place is Ranikhet.

At an altitude of 1829 mts above sea level, ths hill resort is undoubtedly a tourist's paradise. The scented mountain breeze, fresh and pure, the singing of birds, the panoramic view of the Himalayas- the sights, sounds and smell leave the onlooker spellbound. Being a cantonment (the place was selected as a hill staion for British troops and accordingly the cantonment was established in 1869), the Kumaon regimental Centre, Museum and Memorial are the jewels of Ranikhet.

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