Explore Kumaon Like Never Before: A Complete Travel Guide to Uttarakhand’s Underrated Gem
Why Kumaon?
Kumaon is one of those places that quietly outshines every overhyped hill station — but without ever trying. Tucked away in the eastern part of Uttarakhand, this region is an underrated gem that has managed to stay raw, peaceful, and authentic even as other mountain destinations turned into crowds and cafés.
It’s where adventure meets calm — you can spend your mornings hiking through pine forests, your afternoons sitting by a lake, and your evenings watching sunsets from a mountain home that feels like your own. For the spiritually inclined, Kumaon offers centuries-old temples that radiate a sense of stillness you can’t fake. And for couples or families looking for a true getaway, there’s nothing like curling up by a fireplace in Mukteshwar or waking up to snow peaks in Almora.
Kumaon has all the makings of a top travel destination — breathtaking landscapes, culture rooted in simplicity, food that warms your heart, and experiences that linger long after you’ve left.
Best places to visit in Kumaon this New year 2025 with top homestays
If your idea of celebrating the New Year doesn’t involve loud music or crowds but quiet mornings, pine-scented air, and conversations that last till midnight by a fire with your family — trust us, Kumaon is where you need to be.
Each corner here offers a different way to begin your year: calm, connected, and beautifully unhurried.
Here are best places to save for your New Year trip to Kumaon -
1. Mukteshwar – For serene beginningsMukteshwar has a stillness that resets you. It’s the kind of place where mornings begin with mist rolling over apple orchards, and evenings end with golden light spilling across distant peaks. The rhythm of life slows here — and so does your heartbeat. Come for the calm, stay for the peace that seeps into you quietly.
Where to stay? -
At just about 45kms from Nainital and 12kms from Mukteshwar, far away from the maddening crowd of a popular hill station and tucked away somewhere in a quaint little village called Satkhol is a gorgeous 04-Bedroom Farmstay apt for a group of 6 - 12 guests.
A one-bedroom designer studio cabin crafted entirely from locally sourced wood, its warm grains and textures folding seamlessly into the landscape. At Kamet, the entire cabin is yours—whether you arrive as a couple, a small family, or a close-knit group of friends.
2. Nainital – For lakeside charm and soft winter huesIf you love the mix of beauty and bustle, Nainital is your winter postcard. Morning walks around the lake, coffee by the water, and cozy markets — this town keeps the New Year simple but special.
Where to stay?
Hushstay x Fagunia - Hushstay x Fagunia, nestled in the remote, rural hamlet of Faguniakhet near Bajoon (15 km before Nainital), is a bespoke 03 Bedroom mountain retreat where sustainable living and ecological harmony flourish.
3. Ramgarh – For poetry in the hillsKnown as the “Fruit Bowl of Kumaon,” Ramgarh is peaceful, poetic, and full of soul. It’s where writers once came for inspiration, and you’ll understand why — open valleys, quiet homestays, and views that make you pause mid-sentence. If your New Year resolution is to slow down and create, start here.
Where to stay?
For those seeking a deep connection with nature, a stay at Hushstay x The White Peaks, a 02 bedroom home, is not just a retreat but an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary.
4. Jilling – For untouched beauty and endless skiesHidden deep within oak and rhododendron forests, Jilling feels like a secret you accidentally discover. The trails are quiet, the air crisp, and the nights filled with starlight. Ideal for travelers who want an intimate New Year surrounded by nature and nothing else.
Where to stay?
Hushstay x Nanda Stone - The Nanda Stone is your private 03 Bedroom dreamy mountain home tucked away in the primeval forest of Jilling.
5. Binsar – For silence and starlit nightsA sanctuary in every sense, Binsar is for those who crave solitude. Trek through dense forests by day and count constellations by night — no network, no noise, just the sound of your own breath syncing with the mountains.
Where to stay?
Hushstay x House on the slope - The house is made almost entirely of stone bricks that have been meticulously hand-carved out of locally sourced Himalayan Stone, and the structure stretches across multiple terraced fields giving way to a unique layered architecture.
6. Kausani – For Himalayan views that healThe kind of place where every sunrise feels like a new beginning. Kausani gives you uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks and the quiet that cities can’t offer — a perfect start to 2025.
7. Almora – For culture and cozy cornersIf you want your New Year to have a blend of heritage and homeliness, Almora offers both. Ancient temples, cobbled lanes, and that unmistakable Kumaoni warmth — all with a touch of nostalgia.
Where to stay?
Hushstay x Sukoon - At Hushstay x Sukoon Homestay, your day starts with the melodious chirping of birds while the first rays of the sun fall onto the stone walls and slate roofs of your private cottage. Your breakfast consists of local Kumaoni Cuisine.
8. Pithoragarh – For the thrill of the unknown
The adventurer’s Kumaon. Glacial treks, mountain roads, monasteries, and untouched views — Pithoragarh is rugged, raw, and unforgettable.
Spiritual Checklists to Tick Off in Kumaon
1. Jageshwar Dham – Where Time Stands Still
Hidden among dense deodar forests, Jageshwar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and home to over 100 ancient stone temples.
2. Kasar Devi Temple – The Cosmic Hilltop
Perched above Almora, this temple is known for its magnetic field, said to match that of Stonehenge and Machu Picchu. But beyond the science, there’s a strange calm here. The view stretches endlessly, and the silence carries a hum of energy.
3. Chitai Golu Devta Temple – The Temple of Justice
A temple unlike any other. Thousands of brass bells hang from its ceiling and trees — each tied by someone who came here with a wish or a plea. Locals believe Golu Devta grants justice, and even if you don’t come seeking answers, the faith around you feels humbling.
4. Baijnath Temple – Serenity by the River
Built on the banks of the Gomti River, Baijnath is small, simple, and profoundly peaceful. The stone carvings here date back centuries, and the sound of the flowing river becomes a soft mantra.
5. Dunagiri Temple – The Divine Peak of Shakti
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, Dunagiri is perched on a mountain that feels alive. Locals say Hanuman once carried a piece of this hill while searching for the Sanjeevani herb.
6. Patal Bhuvaneshwar – The Underground Mystery
For the curious and the brave, Patal Bhuvaneshwar near Gangolihat is a cave-temple that’s more myth than place. Believed to house forms of gods and symbols from ancient texts, the descent into the limestone cave feels like entering another world.
Local Cafes to must visit in Kumaon -
1. Café Chica, NainitalHoused inside a charming old cottage, Café Chica is ideal for a quiet brunch. Their breakfast platters and baked goods are local favorites, best enjoyed with a cup of mountain coffee.
Tucked away in the heart of Satoli, Little Oak Tree Café at Hushstay x Woodhouse Farm isn’t just about good coffee and peaceful views—it’s also home to a tiny shop filled with the most charming finds.
3. Cafe Lakeside, NainitalA cozy restaurant on the mall road in Nainital overlooking beautiful naini lake! From local delicacies to global flavors and refreshing mocktails, everything here hits the spot.
4. iHeart Café, Mehragaon (Near Nainital) A warm, cheerful café run by a local family — great coffee, homely food, and a friendly vibe that instantly makes you feel like a regular.
Best Time to Visit Kumaon
Kumaon has a charm that changes with every season — and the best time to visit really depends on what you’re seeking.
Winter (December to February):Expect snow-dusted peaks and chilly nights. A cozy season to stay in mountain homes with bonfires and endless cups of chai. Especially beautiful in higher regions like Mukteshwar, Binsar, and Munsiyari.
Spring (March to May):The hills come alive with blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery. Days are pleasantly warm, perfect for treks, nature walks, and exploring towns like Almora and Mukteshwar.
Monsoon (June to September):A quieter, moodier Kumaon. The rains bring out a raw, untouched beauty — misty forests, waterfalls, and emerald valleys. Ideal for slow travellers and those seeking solitude, though landslides can occasionally interrupt travel.
Autumn (October to November):Crisp air, clear skies, and golden landscapes — this is arguably Kumaon’s most picturesque time. Great for photography, hiking, and soaking in those Himalayan views without the crowds.
How to Reach Kumaon from Delhi
By Road
Kumaon is around 320–400 km from Delhi, depending on where you’re headed (Nainital, Mukteshwar, Almora, etc.). The drive takes about 8–10 hours, passing through places like Moradabad, Rampur, and Haldwani. Roads are well-maintained, making it a popular weekend getaway route. If you’re someone who loves long drives, start early in the morning — the sunrise over the foothills is worth it.
By Train:Trains from Delhi to Kathgodam (the nearest major railway station for most Kumaon destinations) are frequent. The Ranikhet Express and Shatabdi Express are among the most convenient options. From Kathgodam, you can easily hire a cab to reach Nainital, Mukteshwar, Ramgarh, or Almora in 1–3 hours.
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, roughly 70 km from Nainital. Direct flights from Delhi take about 1 hour, after which you can take a taxi to your chosen destination in Kumaon.
By Bus:
Several overnight buses operate from Delhi ISBT Anand Vihar to Nainital, Haldwani, and Almora. Opt for an AC Volvo or private coach for comfort. It’s a budget-friendly option and saves you a night’s stay if you travel overnight.