If you are looking for a peaceful and picturesque getaway in the lap of nature, Pangot is the perfect destination for you. Pangot is a small hamlet located just 15 km from Nainital, the popular hill station in Uttarakhand. Pangot is surrounded by thick oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. But what makes Pangot truly special is its rich and diverse birdlife. Pangot is home to more than 300 species of birds, including some rare and endangered ones. Whether you are a novice or an expert birdwatcher, you will be amazed by the variety and beauty of the feathered creatures that inhabit this region.
How to Reach Pangot
Pangot is easily accessible from Nainital by road. You can hire a taxi or a bike from Nainital and enjoy the scenic drive through the forested area of Cheena Peak Range via Snow View Point and Kilbury. The road is well-maintained and offers many spots to stop and admire the views. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Nainital to Kilbury, and then trek for about 3 km to reach Pangot. The trek is easy and rewarding, as you will encounter many birds and animals along the way.
Where to Stay in Pangot
Pangot has a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences. You can choose from cozy cottages, eco-friendly lodges, luxury resorts, or camping sites. Some of the popular places to stay in Pangot are:
- Jungle Lore Birding Lodge: This is one of the oldest and most reputed lodges in Pangot, run by a family of avid birdwatchers. The lodge has 10 spacious rooms with attached bathrooms, balconies, and fireplaces. The lodge also has a library, a dining hall, and a garden where you can relax and enjoy bird songs. The lodge organizes guided birding tours, nature walks, and bonfires for its guests.
- Mountain Quail Lodge: This is another charming lodge in Pangot, located on a hilltop overlooking the valley. The lodge has 8 cottages with wooden interiors, comfortable beds, and modern amenities. The lodge also has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine, a lounge area with books and games, and a terrace where you can watch the sunrise and sunset. The lodge arranges activities such as trekking, cycling, fishing, and yoga for its guests.
- Woodside Retreat: This is a boutique resort in Pangot, nestled among pine trees and apple orchards. The resort has 6 elegantly designed rooms with balconies, heaters, and Wi-Fi. The resort also has a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers panoramic views of the mountains, a spa that offers rejuvenating treatments, and a conference hall that can accommodate up to 50 people. The resort organizes adventure sports such as rappelling, rock climbing, zip-lining, and paragliding for its guests.
What to Do in Pangot
Pangot is not just a place to relax and unwind, but also a place to explore and experience. Here are some of the things you can do in Pangot:
Birdwatching
Pangot is a paradise for bird lovers, as you can spot more than 300 species of birds here throughout the year. Some of the common birds you can see are Himalayan griffon, blue-winged minla, spotted forktail, cheer pheasant, sunbird, rufous-bellied woodpecker, rufous-bellied niltava, khalij pheasant, etc. Some of the rare and endangered birds you can see are lammergeier, slaty-backed flycatcher, grey-crowned prinia, white-throated laughing thrush, etc. You can either go on your own or hire a local guide who can help you identify the birds and their calls. You can also visit some of the nearby birding hotspots such as Kilbury, Naina Peak, Corbett National Park, etc.
Trekking
Pangot is also a great place for trekking enthusiasts, as there are many trails that lead to different destinations in the Himalayas. You can choose from easy to moderate to difficult treks depending on your fitness level and interest. Some of the popular treks from Pangot are:
- Pangot to Naina Peak: This is an easy trek of about 6 km that takes you to the highest point in the Nainital district at 2,615 m. The trek offers spectacular views of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges, the Nainital Lake, and the surrounding valleys. The trek takes about 3 hours to complete and is suitable for beginners and families.
- Pangot to Corbett National Park: A moderate trek of about 50 km that takes you to the famous wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand. The trek passes through dense forests, grasslands, rivers, and villages, and gives you a chance to see a variety of flora and fauna. The trek takes about 3 days to complete and is suitable for experienced trekkers and nature lovers.
- Pangot to Kunjkharak: This is a difficult trek of about 70 km that takes you to one of the most remote and pristine areas in the Himalayas. The trek passes through rugged terrain, steep slopes, alpine meadows, and glaciers, and offers breathtaking views of the peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nanda Kot, etc. The trek takes about 5 days to complete and is suitable for adventurous and experienced trekkers.
Camping
Camping is another activity that you can enjoy in Pangot, as there are many sites where you can pitch your tent and spend a night under the stars. Camping in Pangot gives you a chance to connect with nature, listen to the sounds of the forest, and watch the sunrise and sunset over the mountains. You can either bring your own camping gear or rent it from the local operators. Some of the best camping sites in Pangot are:
- Rooftop Cottages: This is a unique camping site in Pangot, where you can stay in cottages that have tents on their rooftops. The cottages are equipped with beds, blankets, pillows, and lanterns, and have attached bathrooms. The tents are spacious and cozy and have mattresses, sleeping bags, and chairs. The site also has a restaurant that serves tasty food, a bonfire area where you can enjoy music and games, and a garden where you can relax and meditate.
- Silver Cloud Resort: This is a luxury camping site in Pangot, where you can stay in Swiss tents that have all the modern amenities. The tents are furnished with king-sized beds, quilts, carpets, and heaters, and have attached bathrooms with a hot water supply. The site also has a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a restaurant that serves continental cuisine. The site also organizes activities such as birdwatching, trekking, fishing, and yoga for its guests.
When to Visit Pangot
Pangot is a year-round destination, as each season has its own charm and attractions. However, the best time to visit Pangot depends on your preference and purpose. Here are some suggestions:
- Spring (March to May): This is the best time to visit Pangot for birdwatching, as many migratory birds arrive during this season. The weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The flowers are in full bloom, adding color and fragrance to the landscape.
- Monsoon (June to September): The best time to visit Pangot for trekking, as the rains make the trails lush and green. The weather is cool and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. The waterfalls are at their best, creating a soothing sound and sight.
- Winter (October to February): This is the best time to visit Pangot for camping, as the nights are clear and starry. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. The snowfall adds a touch of magic to the scenery.
Conclusion
Pangot is a hidden gem in the Himalayas that offers a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Pangot is ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, trekkers, campers, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty and tranquility of the mountains. If you are planning to visit Pangot, make sure you book your accommodation in advance, carry warm clothes, waterproof shoes, binoculars, a camera, and sunscreen, and respect the local culture and environment. Pangot will surely leave you spellbound with its charm and hospitality.
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