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Udit Wahie aims his camera at Uttarakhand!
Much of my hill travel in India has been in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state. Uttarakhand, also known as Dev Bhumi, is rightly called so.
Kumaon region has six major districts -- Almora, Bageshwar, Champawat, Nainital, Pithoragarh and UdhamSingh Nagar.
And it has some stunning options for glacier treks: Milam, Panchachuli, Pindari, Kafni and Sundardhunga.
Apart from the most-visited tourist hill stations of this region: Nainital and Ranikhet there is much more magic too witness in Kumaon:
1. Binsar
A wildlife sanctuary which speaks of nothing but divine mountain beauty.
The actual reserve is a complete hill and all small villages around it are collectively called Binsar.
Ideal place to stay is the KMVN on the hilltop of the reserve.
2. Jageshwar
Considered one of the holiest places in Kumaon, Jageshwar is a Jyotirling.
It is a Lord Shiva influenced town that is a nestled in deodar trees of the Almora region.
A peaceful town which will take to back in days with its old world charm.
3. Sitlakhet
Is lesser known and a place which is breathtakingly beautiful.
Approx 40kms from Ranikhet via Manjkhali, this hill town boasts of the majestic sights of Nandadevi, Panchachuli, Nandakhot and other major glaciers in one view.
4. Mukhteshwar
Another less travelled sojourn which is known for organic farming and rich flora and fauna.
The ideal route is via Bhimtal.
A must see for the ones who enjoy solitude and quiet environs.
The meadows and landscapes are heavenly here and beyond compare.
5. Munsiyari
It is a collection of villages on the banks of the Gori river.
Munsiyari is a major stop for serious treks to Milam, Namik and Ralam glaciers and a treat for nature lovers for its pristine beauty.
6. Chaukori
Charming and picturesque, Chaukori is situated in the Pithoragarh district.
It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and particularly magnificent views of Nandadevi and other prominent peaks.
The best place to stay is the KMVN rest house.
7. Kasauni
Unparalleled beauty of Kasauni is sure to bowl you over.
Approx 50 km from Almora, Kasauni is among thick dense forest area.
The snow covered Trishul and Nandadevi stand majestic and weave magic.
8. Dwarahat
About 50 kms from Ranikhet, lies the temple town of Dwarahat.
It is said that the Pandavs during their exile, spent years here in the caves near Dunagiri around Dwarahat.
A breathtakingly beautiful valley, Dwarahat is sure to amaze the offbeat traveller in myriad ways.
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Photographs: Udit Wahie/Rediff.com