Pithoragarh city is one of the beautiful cities of Kumaun region, often regarded as the ‘Mini Kashmir’ of Uttarakhand. People from across the country admire the majestic beauty of Pithoragarh, attracting numerous tourists from afar. Besides its enchanting and lush green views, Pithoragarh is renowned for its revered temples. Among these, Gangolihat's Mahakali Temple, Mostamanu, Kamakhya Temple, Ulka Devi Temple and others are prominent, often thronged by a large number of devotees. The City offers a breathtaking view of Panchachuli Peaks, a group of five snow-covered peaks, making it a lifetime view.
Situated approximately 486 km from Dehradun, this place is well connected with the motorable road. It can be reached easily by road, rail and air services. The nearest railhead connected with the major rail route is in Tanakpur and the nearest airport is in Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar. However, the city also has its own airport known as Naina Saini Airport but it does not provide regular commercial passenger service. The city was ruled by many dynasties whose remains can be identified from the ruined forts.
Among these dynasties Pals who are known to be the branch of Katyuri ruled here for three generations and extended their reign from Pithoragarh to Askot. The Bam and Chand dynasty also ruled the region until it was captured by the British in 1815. Two native tribes of Pithoragarh are Van Rawats and Shaukas. The Van Rawats are hunter gatherers and Shaukas are used to be known as traders.
The Shaukas are divided further into two main tribes; such as Johari Shaukas and Rung Shaukas. Johari Shauka usually lived in Munsiyari while Rung Shuakas lived in Darma, Chaundas, and Byans region. The Kangdali festival is one of the major festivals among the tribe of Chaundas valley, which they often celebrate once in 12 years.
Kumauni is the prominent language that is spoken by the locals, however visitors and other communities used Hindi as their first language. Other prominent attractions in the city include London fort, Thal Kedar, Jhulghat, Askot Sanctuary, Nakuleshwar Temple, Kapileshwar Temple and more. Being the last district that connects with Tibet, Pithoragarh holds strategic importance in terms of security. Apart from religious and other tourist places, Pithoragarh also attracts trekkers from far and wide. The Milam glacier, Ralam glacier and Namik glacier are some prominent trekking destinations.
Contrary to all this, Pithoragarh’s Culture and heritage are immense, and can be easily witnessed during Harela, Nanda Devi Fair, Chipla Jaat, Chaitol, and Hiljatra celebrated by the local community on special occasions. Their indigenous Aipan art of Pithoragarh is quite famous in the region, which can be easily found in the local market. It is an enroute to Hindu renowned pilgrims site Kailash Mansarovar, which is organised by the Indian government annually.
The city weather is relatively warmer during summer and cold during winters. During peak winter it also receives heavy snowfall in the higher region. There are some prominent international passes in Pithoragarh frequented by many adventurous travellers such as Lipu Lekah pass, Kungri Bingri Pass, Lampiya Dhura, Lowe Dhura, etc.
