Are you already planning a trip to Lohaghat or Abbott Mount in Uttarakhand? This detailed travel guide will help you plan a memorable trip to this offbeat place near Delhi in Kumaon – Uttarakhand.
Lohaghat, a tiny hamlet perched on the banks of Lohawati river, offers serenity, wonderfully mild climate, lush greenery by way of pine and oak tree forests. With beauty aplenty, it is truly a surprise that this place is one of the least explored regions of Himalayas. During summers, the place turns red thanks to the Rhododendrons spread over the entire area.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
About Lohaghat
Lohaghat has an important and integral place in the historical and mythological landscape of India. It is believed that this region was the cultural capital of the Chand Dynasty, dating back to the 11th Century. Thus, ancient festivals are celebrated with a lot of pomp and circumstance in this region. This offbeat place in Uttarakhand will definitely catch your fancy and take you places.
Location
Located at the height of 1745 meters in Champawat, Kumaon; Lohaghat is a serene place perched in the hills. Blessed with bountiful nature, you’ll surely be mesmerized by the picturesque vistas and exquisiteness. Some compare it with Kashmir; some consider it a perfect escape – Lohaghat is a must-visit for those seeking peace and tranquillity.
Weather
Lohaghat is a beautifully comfortable place to be in year-round. Weather is always accommodating and clear for the most part. November onwards till February, there’s usually a chance of snowfall. And, it rains from July till August in the region. In summer months, a breezy 18 degrees Celsius awaits you!
Best time to visit
The weather is pleasant year-round in Lohaghat. My only suggestion would be to avoid the monsoon season. Other than that, choose any season you may fancy!
How to reach Lohaghat
Lohaghat is situated at a distance of 432 km from Delhi. As there are multiple ways to reach the hill station – so take your pick from below:
By air
The nearest Airport to Lohaghat is Pantnagar, which lies approximately 160 km from Lohaghat. There are 4 round trip flights per week from Delhi as of 2019. You can easily fetch a cab from Pantnagar Airport for Lohaghat.
By Rail
The nearest railhead is Tanakpur Railway Station, which lies at a distance of 60 km from Lohaghat. Of course, taxis and buses are both easily available at the railway station. Tanakpur is well connected to major Indian cities, including Delhi.
By Road
Well connected by major road routes, Lohaghat can be reached by catching a bus from ISBT, Delhi, or by driving to Lohaghat. Here it is worthy of noting, direct bus from Delhi to Lohaghat is not available. However, one can catch a bus heading to Tanakpur and hire a cab from there. If you’re driving on your own, from Delhi, Lohaghat will take you 10 hours of driving time.
Suggested Itinerary
While one may choose to spend a longer duration here, I suggest a two-day excursion for enjoying Lohaghat. Lohaghat is a perfect long weekend getaway when life in the cities takes its toll. Here’s what I suggest you do –
Day 0 – Leave from Delhi
Head towards Lohaghat by your chosen mode of travel. Try reaching as early in the morning the next day as possible, to fully utilize your time when in Lohaghat.
Day 1- Explore the nature around Lohaghat
By reaching early in the morning, you assure two things –
- You have plenty of time to soak in the beauty and nature around you
- You’re rested enough to not feel the burden of long-distance travel and can take your adventures at your own pace.
Today is a day to take it easy. I suggest you visit the Mayawati Ashram and go on a meditation and relaxation spree! You can also pick a trail in the surrounding forest and explore the mountains!
Day 2 – Explore nearby places
There’s a tonne to do around Lohaghat, and all the quaint locations are situated nearby itself. Start your day early by climbing to the ruins of Banasur Ka Kila. After a beautiful morning in the place, head on back to your hotel and relax for the afternoon. In the evening you can visit Abbott Mount.
Day 3 – End of Trip
Day to head back to the reality of your normal life with a rejuvenated soul!
Nearby places
While Lohaghat is a tiny hamlet, don’t be fooled by its size. There is plenty to do nearby to keep you engrossed fully
Abbott Mount
Located about 7 km from Abbott Mount is a MUST VISIT. The road leading up to the place will take you through a lot of twists and turns, and you’ll be climbing a gradual height through dense forests. The ride is worth it, and the views are mesmerizing.
Abbott Mount was discovered by an Englishman, John Abbott, who set up his cottage there. The house has since lost its sheen and glory of yesteryear. However, it still stands tall as a ghost of his past. Reportedly, the place is now considered haunted. There is also an old abandoned church in Abbott Mount.
Mayawati Ashram
Another serene place nearby Lohaghat is Mayawati Ashram. The distance from Lohaghat to Mayawati Ashram is only 4.5 km from Lohaghat. The Ashram was set up by Swami Vivekananda’s disciples James and Charlotte Servier.
After returning from Switzerland, Swami Vivekananda visited the Ashram. His room has been converted into a library now. It is a wonderful place to go and meditate and connect with your soul.
Banasur ka Kila
My favorite place for sure near Lohaghat is Banasur ka Kila with its spectacular views. This place also lies around 7 KMs from Lohaghat. The ruins of the fort are captivating. You’ll have to climb a steep slope for about 1.5 KMs to reach the top.
And, the views are spectacular, and the river Lohawati also emerges from this hill itself. While the Fort might have lost its historical glory – the stories are plenty to keep its charm.
Devidhura
A unique place with a unique culture, Devidhura is situated around 45 KMs from Lohaghat and has a beautiful temple that has important significance on Raksha Bandhan. Also, it is quite a casual affair wherein two groups of singing and dancing folks throw stones at each other while holding wooden shields. It is, for some reason, considered auspicious if you get hurt in this process.
Where to stay
There are a few options when it comes to staying in Lohaghat. However, I would strongly urge you to go camping when in Lohaghat. The location is fantastic, and the night skies sing melodies like no other place.
However, for this, you’ll need to carry your camping gear. Homestays such as Kalptaru will definitely please you with its views and hospitality. Hotel Ranjeet Palace is also a decent stay option and has access to all attractions. Of course, the town has the trusty KMVN.
If looking for a little more luxury, Abbott Mount is located just 7 km away.
Where to eat
Roadside dhabas are where it’s at! Being a tiny town, it is only natural that there are not many establish restaurants, etc. And, to top it all off, these roadside dhabas serve lip-smacking indo-Chinese and typical north Indian food. Also, in-house restaurants at hotels will prepare meals as per your liking.
Conclusion
Meditate, relax and reconnect with your inner self when you’re in Lohaghat. Such requirements are often imperative when wanting to unwind. Lohaghat has the views, the temperament, and the understanding to let you chill. Also, while it is sometimes necessary to enjoy some activity – that is also aplenty in and near Lohaghat.
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Have you been to Lohaghat before? Share your experiences below and we will surely add them up in the relevant sections to help share the knowledge!
2 Comments
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Wow. I am definitely going share this with a few of my friends. Very cool information.
Thanks Ray! Hope you get to visit as well 🙂