Located just 15 kilometres away from Nainital; Pangot,
located in the Kosiyakutoli tehsil of the Nainital district of Uttarakhand is a
small and picturesque hamlet. The village is at the height of 6,300 feet above
the sea level and is well known all across the nation for its rich and exotic
bird life and abundance in other natural treasures. The place seems to have
sprung up right out of a beautiful novel- with its greenery, flowers and birds.
The area also becomes a hub for photography when hundreds of different species
of birds flock here during the harsh winters in the upper Himalayas and settle
down here temporarily. A step into the wilderness of Pangot, and you will find
yourself in the midst of a remote Himalayan village.
The entire drive that reaches up to this marvellous area
passes through the forested areas of Chenna Peak Range via Snow View Point and
Kilbury, both of which are famous and excellent habitats for birding. A myriad
of bird species can be seen along the way to Pangot. Some of these include
Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Spotted & Slaty-backed Forktail, Himalayan
Griffon and Khalij pheasant. Spotting mammals like Yellow-throated Himalayan
Marten, Sambhar, Himalayan Goral, Leopard Cat, Serow, Wild Boar, Red Fox etc.
is also not uncommon. The famous Corbett National Park is situated just 80
kilometres from Pangot.
Thick oak, pine and Rhododendron can be found dominating
the vegetation of Pangot and nearby areas. The streams that pass by further
enhance the aesthetic appeal of this breathtakingly fantastic sight.
Undoubtedly, Pangot is the apt place for a small vacation with your partner, or
the entire family, wherein you can simply lay back and relax.
Bird Watching In Pangot
Of the different activities that Pangot offers, bird
watching is no doubt the most preferred one. More than 580 birds have been
recorded to dwell in this area in peaceful existence. These include the
numerous birds that migrate here during winters. No wonder then that Pangot is
a paradise for bird watchers. One can avail excellent birding opportunities in
the Jungle Lodge itself. Walks through the thickly wooded oak forests are
equally rewarding. Some of these exotic bird species include Lammergeier,
Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Blue-winged Minla, Spotted & Slaty-backed
Forktail, Himalayan Griffon, Rufous-bellied Niltava and Khalij pheasant.
Other Activities In Pangot
Other can bird watching; you can indulge in camping,
trekking and sightseeing while in the beautiful Pangot.
1. Trekking in Pangot: A few hiking and trekking trails
lead adventure enthusiasts through lush green forests. The most popular
trekking trails include the one from Pangot to the Naina Peak and from Pangot
to Corbett National Park.
2. Camping at Pangot: Camping at Pangot is a unique
experience altogether. What can be a better way to spend the night than camping
under the stars and enjoying a bonfire?
3. Places to visit in Pangot: For those who want to set
out to explore more, Chenna Peak, Kilbury and Snow View Point are major popular
attractions in and around the town.
4. Fauna of Pangot: Animal lovers should not miss the
chance to witness the majestic species of animals that roam about freely here
in the jungles. You can easily spot animals like Sambhar, Yellow-throated Himalayan
Marten, Himalayan Goral, Barking Deer, Leopard, Civets, Yellow-bellied
Himalayan Weasel, Leopard Cat, Serow, Wild Boar, Red Fox etc.
5. Must try food items of Pangot: Food lovers should try
out their local Garhwali and Kumauni cuisines. Aloo ka gutka, gahat, chainsoo
and kaapa are must-try dishes.
Best time to visit Pangot
Anytime during the year is a good opportunity to visit
Pangot. The summer months from April to June are calm and pleasant and are a
good time for birding. The place looks heavenly during this period, while with
the advent of winters, the area dons a cold yet very romantic aura to it. These
winter months of October to March are a great season for mountain views. One
might, however, want to avoid the monsoons for a more convenient vacation.
How to Reach Pangot
If you are travelling by air, the nearest airport is Pant
Nagar Airport, which is just 58 kilometres away from Pangot. The nearest
railhead is Kathgodam, about 20 kilometres away from Pangot.
From the airport/ railhead, you can easily book a cab or
catch a bus to reach the destination. Pangot is also well connected to all
parts of the state by motorable roads. Privately run as well as public buses
frequently ply between Pangot and nearby famous towns and cities.
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