Tucked away in the picturesque Kumaon Hills, Pangot Hill Station is a lovely hamlet just 17 km from its famous cousin, Nainital. A paradise for nature lovers, Pangot is best known for its rich biodiversity and birdwatching tourism. It boasts over 300 bird species, including the vibrant Himalayan Monal. The village is named after its betel leaf/heart shape. Exploring Pangot means walking through dense oak and rhododendron forests, crossing charming streams, and experiencing an eco-friendly village with warm hospitality. Summers here are lush and green, while winters transform the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland. Among the best things to do in Pangot are birdwatching, trekking, and soaking in the breathtaking Himalayan views. Whether you're an avid birder, a photographer, or simply seeking tranquillity, Pangot promises an unforgettable retreat near Nainital.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT PANGOT
Region
North India
State
Uttarakhand
District
Nainital District
Elevation
1,984 m (6,510 ft)
Spoken Languages
Kumaoni, Hindi & English
Best Time to Visit
October to June
Population
A few hundred residents, reason being that it is a very small hamlet that houses more birds than humans.
Destination Type
Hill station
Famous for
Birdwatching and Camping
Nearest Railway Station
Kathgodam (approx. 50kms)
Nearest Airport
Pantnagar (approx. 85kms)
Snowfall
From December to January, every year
Popular Tourism Attractions
Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Pangot Waterfalls, Pangot Nala, Woodpecker Point
Best Places to Visit Nearby
Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, Guano Hills
BEST TIME TO VISIT PANGOT
SUMMER (MARCH-JUNE): The temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C with abundant greenery while providing optimal conditions for birdwatching, trekking along with nature walks, hence attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers during this time.
MONSOON (JULY-SEPTEMBER): Monsoon makes Pangot alive with both fresh green surroundings and its panoramic views. The heavy rain may disrupt transportation, but it creates an atmosphere of peaceful solitude along with misty landscapes and beautiful scenery.
AUTUMN (October-November): After monsoon, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C in Pangot. Autumn features ideal conditions for photography as well as trekking. Tourists can enjoy panoramic Himalayan vistas because of its clear skies in this period.
WINTER (December-February): Snow-covered landscapes with temperatures dropping to 0°C–10°C, offering a serene retreat, breathtaking views, and a magical experience in Pangot for those who enjoy snowfall and chilly mountain weather.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN PANGOT
01
PANGOT VILLAGE
Near Nainital exists the hidden gem of Pangot that provides a perfect setting for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The peaceful hamlet exists within dense oak and pine forests and provide tourists with serene mountain views that blend with quaint cottages in a relaxing natural atmosphere.
02
CHEER POINT
Named after the rare Cheer Pheasant, Cheer Point is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts. The scenic viewpoint provides breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges while allowing nature enthusiast alongside photographers to observe exotic birds in its verdant natural environment.
03
PANGOT WATERFALLS
Tucked away in the wilderness, Pangot Waterfalls is a mesmerizing sight, where crystal-clear waters cascade down rocky cliffs. Pangot Waterfalls offers tourists a peaceful setting where they can relax and enjoy the sound of cascading water with the untouched natural beauty in the backdrop.
04
WOODPECKER POINT
A paradise for bird watchers, Woodpecker Point is one of the best places to explore in Pangot. Home to various woodpecker species thriving in the dense forests, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe vibrant birds in their pristine Himalayan habitat.
05
PANGOT NALA
A serene stream flowing through the verdant landscapes, Pangot Nala is a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of nature. For bird watchers and photographers, this spot is the perfect choice for their activities while nature lovers can relax within the untouched Himalayan landscapes.
06
KILBURY BIRD SANCTUARY
Renowned as a popular tourist attraction in Pangot, Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is home to over 580 species of birds, including the Himalayan Griffon and Blue-winged Minla. Surrounded by dense oak and rhododendron forests, it is a must-visit for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers.
07
HIMALAYAN VIEWPOINT
One of the top tourist destinations in Pangot, Himalayan Viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Visitors can witness breathtaking golden sunrises and misty cloud movements, making it an unforgettable experience.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN PANGOT
CAMPING
The wilderness of Pangot offers camping opportunities to tourists. Sleeping under stars while being enveloped by oak and pine forests is just a surreal experience. Take part in bonfires, storytelling activities and enjoy natural sounds of the nature, creating a perfect wilderness experience at Pangot.
PICNIC
Escape into nature’s lap with a peaceful picnic by a bubbling stream or amidst lush meadows. Pangot Hill Station offers a refreshing atmosphere enchanted with birds chirping sound and stunning natural scenery that makes it ideal for spending time with loved ones.
TREKKING
Discover hidden trails, scenic viewpoints, and mesmerizing landscapes while trekking through Pangot’s rugged terrains. The Naina Peak trek among other popular treks allows trekkers with stunning views and wildlife encounters as well as diverse Himalayan plant and animal species.
NATURE WALKING
Immerse yourself in Pangot’s untouched beauty with a peaceful nature walk. Stroll through dense forests, listen to melodious bird calls, and breathe in the refreshing mountain air for a truly rejuvenating experience.
WHAT TO EAT IN RANIKHET?
Ranikhet offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Kumaoni flavors and popular North Indian dishes. From hearty local fare like Aloo Ke Gutke and Bhatt Ki Churkani to warm, comforting sweets, the town’s simple yet flavorful cuisine reflects the rich culture and warmth of the hills.
Aloo Ke Gutke
his traditional Kumaoni dish is prepared with perfectly spiced potatoes, flavored with mustard seeds and red chilies. It is a favorite comfort food in the region, often served with chutney or Madua Roti. You can find it at small, local eateries across Ranikhet.
Bal Mithai
Ranikhet demonstrates its cultural excellence through its finely carved wooden products. Traditional home furniture made from top-quality wood together with decorative boxes and intricate figurines create a rustic atmosphere in houses. The cultural energy of Uttarakhand becomes visible through these professionally carved items.
Singori
This distinctive sweet is made by wrapping a mixture of khoya and coconut in a Maalu leaf, imparting a refreshing, earthy aroma. It’s a traditional delicacy of Uttarakhand and is said to be best in Almora, which is a short distance away from Ranikhet.
Kumaoni Raita
A cooling accompaniment made with fresh curd, grated cucumber, turmeric and a hint of mustard seeds, Kumaoni Raita enhances the flavor of any meal. Many restaurants in Ranikhet serve this tangy dish alongside local staples for an authentic dining experience.
Madua Roti
This, a nutritious flatbread made from finger millet, is a staple in Kumaoni households and is served with a dollop of ghee. Known for its distinct earthy flavor, it pairs perfectly with lai saag and Bhatt Ki Churkani. It is both wholesome and satisfying, widely available in local dhabas.
Bhatt Ki Churkani
This hearty black soybean curry is slow-cooked with spices to create a rich and earthy flavor. It’s a favorite among those seeking authentic Kumaoni cuisine and is best enjoyed with steamed rice or Madua Roti at local eateries.
Local Tea and Snacks
When visiting the best places to explore in Ranikhet, enjoy a steaming cup of locally brewed tea with crispy pakoras or samosas. Tea stalls scattered across Ranikhet provide a cozy setting to relax and savor these delightful snacks.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT NEAR PANGOT
NAINITAL
'The Lake City' stands as a charming hill station that features Naini Lake, The Mall Road and Snow View among various other attractions. Situated at 2,084 meters above sea level, Nainital provides boating services, vibrant shopping experience along with breathtaking Himalayan vistas which appeal to any kind of tourist type.
SATTAL
A hidden gem near Pangot, Sattal is a cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes surrounded by dense forests. Birdwatchers, nature along with adventure enthusiasts, declared this spot to be their paradise. Enjoy joyful boat rides and nature walks amongst chirping sound of birds and also get the chance to click scenic photos of an untouched natural environment.
BHIMTAL
Bhimtal stands out for its peaceful Bhimtal Lake together with its charming island aquarium while providing tourists with multiple boating opportunities alongside scenic landscapes in a laid-back atmosphere. Bhimtal provides tourists with a peaceful and quiet environment as compared to other nearby places and makes for an excellent choice for those seeking a natural escape.
MUKTESHWAR
Mukteshwar rests at 2,285 meters above sea level, a peaceful settlement to admire the Himalayas, apple orchards and the ancient 350-year-old Mukteshwar Temple. With activities like Rock climbing and Rappelling, adventure junkies also get drawn to this humble place alongside nature enthusiast, who come to relax in the peaceful natural environment.
CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
India’s oldest tiger reserve, Jim Corbett National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. The area of the park stretches across dense forests and grasslands to provide exhilarating jeep safaris that enable tourists to observe Royal Bengal Tigers, Elephants and Leopards alongside various bird species in their native environment.
ECO CAVES
A unique attraction, the Eco Caves are a series of interconnected caves that provide a fun and educational experience. Visitors can explore narrow passages and witness different rock formations while enjoying a glimpse of the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
GUANO HILLS
A paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, Guano Hills in Pangot boast lush oak and bamboo forests. Tourists can spot rare Himalayan birds during their walk through the peaceful trails which makes this location a perfect spot for both birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.
NAINA PEAK
just a few kms away from Pangot is the highest point in Nainital, Naina Peak (also known as Cheena Peak) offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and Nainital town. Trekkers particularly love this scenic location because it offers unique sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities.
Popular Uttarakhand Tour Packages
Explore the best tour packages for Uttarakhand, including wildlife tours, family tours, honeymoon tours, and hill station holiday packages for an unforgettable vacation in the lap of the Himalayas.
