Pangot: This charming Kumaoni village is a tranquil haven

If you ask me what I love the most about the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, I will not be able to come up with an answer. That’s because it's not possible to find anything that is not desirable. Is it geography? Is it the culture? Yes to all, and more. For me, however, one destination sits closer to my heart, and that’s Pangot.

Pangot is a charming village nestled in the Kumaon region, and I can say that this slice of heaven is untouched and is far from the hustle and bustle. As a birder, I have found Pangot perfect for times when you don’t want to do anything strenuous and just sit out and let birds come to you. The silence is beautiful here and the weather even better.

Pangot is located just 15 km away from the bustling town of Nainital. This pristine hamlet sits at an altitude of 6,300 feet. The drive from Nainital to Pangot is a short one but also one of the prettiest. There is no dearth of cosy stays (most of them are cottages and cabins). The roads in Pangot look like they have not been taken in a long time, and that, to someone who is looking for raw and natural experiences, is beautiful.


Here’s a photo of an old car lying by the roadside, reclaimed by nature and not some scrap metal dealer.

Pangot, a birding destination

This village has made a name for itself when it comes to birding. Birders from all over India and abroad know about Pangot and what’s in store in terms of avian residents. The dense oak and rhododendron forests surrounding this village are a safe home for many species of birds. If reports are to go by, there are around 250 species of birds.

Also read: Best of Uttarakhand's national parks & reserves

Here, you will find the Himalayan Griffon, Lammergeier, blue-winged minla, koklass pheasant, cheer pheasant, chukar partridge and more. For serious birdwatching, try the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary.

Pangot, a naturally beautiful destination

This village does not require extra beautification. Nature has taken care of that. Everywhere you look, there are rolling hills that are adorned with vibrant flowers. I don’t know how that works, but wherever you are, if you stay quiet enough, you will hear nothing but the sound of crickets, birds chirping, the sound of not-so-distant streams and the million leaves rustling along with the gentle breeze.

Also read: What makes Uttarakhand’s Chopta a nature lover’s paradise?

When in Pangot, navigate the winding forest trails and breathe in the crisp mountain air. These things are hard to come by.

1. Why is Pangot a popular destination for birdwatching?
   Pangot's rich biodiversity and proximity to Corbett National Park make it a hotspot for birdwatchers, offering a chance to spot rare and exotic avian species.
2. How do I reach Pangot, and when is the best time to visit?
   Pangot is easily accessible from Delhi, located 15 km from Nainital, Uttarakhand. The best times to visit are March to June and September to November, enjoying pleasant weather and optimal birdwatching conditions.
3. What accommodation options are available in Pangot?
   Pangot provides a range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to nature resorts. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak birdwatching seasons, for a comfortable stay amidst the picturesque surroundings.