The Switzerland of India
Window to the snow-clad Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nandakot and Panchchulli, there are very few place in the Himalayas that can be compared to the beauty of Kausani- a picturesque hill station famous for its scenic splendor and its spectacular 300kms- wide panoramic view of the Himalayas. With a total area of 5.2sq.kms, situated a height of 1890 mtrs above sea level, 51kms north of Almora, Kausani is the birthplace of famous Hindi poet Sumitra Nandan Pant, who wrote some of his memorable poems in praise of this paradise on earth. In 1929, Mahatma Gandhi stayed here for 14 days at the Anasakti Ashram while scripting his book titled ‘Anansakti Yoga’ and was greatly impressed by its environs.
The town is accessible all year round. For those who wish to avoid the cold, the best season is between April to June and again between September to November. Summer month will require light woollen clothing and winter- heavy woollen clothes.
What to see
Kausani is a calm and idyllic resort, far from the maddening crowd. Just walk down the hills amidst dence forests. Trek around to reach the highest points of the hills, Pinnath (5kms), Burapinnath (5.5kms) and Bhatkot (12kms). Enjoy a relaxing day and get wonderstruck by the starry nights.
Anasakti Ashram: Refresh the memories of 1929, when Mahatma Gandhi, spent here 14 days while writing his book on ‘Anasakti Yoga’. His spinning wheel (chrkha) and other memorable are kept
here. There is also a study with a small library where one can find books on Gandhian p
hilosophy. Ashram can accommodate 300 people and every evening prayer is conducted in the main hall. One can enjoy mesmerizing sunset and sunrise from the Ashram premises.
Pant Museum: Named after the famous Indian poet, Sumitra Nandan Pant, who was born in Kausani. Museum has the articles of his daily use, drafts of his poems, letters, his awards etc. This Museum is at short distance from the Kakusani bus terminal.
Kumaon Shawl Emporium: A fabulous collection of high quality woollen shawls, exquisitely designed by the weavers.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Pant Nagar, (178kms). One can hire a taxi from Pant Nagar to reach Kausani.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (141kms), from there one starts the climb to Kausani via Almora. An eqully beautiful route is via Ranikhet (163kms).
Road: Kausani is linked to several other hill stations by road. Some of the major road distances are: Almora-51kms, Ranikhet-60kms, Pithoragarh-107kms, Gwaldam-39kms, and Nainial-117kms. From Delhi it is 431 kms away.
Where to Stay
- KMVN Tourist Rest House
- Krishna Mount View
- Sun’N’Snow
- Staywell Resort
- Hotel Sagar
- Trishul Rest House
- Zila Panchayat Dak Bunglow