Pangot in Uttarakhand is a haven for those who like nature and birdwatching

A little diversion from the main Ramnagar-Nainital route alters the viewpoint entirely. Traffic is lessening and there are stunning vistas of the mountains as you make your way to Pangot, the more sedate relative of bustling Nainital. The din of honking automobiles is replaced by the peaceful sound of wind moving between towering pine trees and birds singing. Pangot, just 15 km from Nainital, is an ideal retreat for people who like to avoid busy hill stations and a birdwatcher’s heaven.

Pangot is above 6,000 feet and is a charming, undiscovered place. Although it’s the ideal site for a leisurely vacation where you may wake up to the sounds of rare birds singing from your window sill and conclude the day by watching the red sun set over the valley below, there are plenty of other surrounding attractions that can make up for all the must-dos and activities.

There are resorts and homestays in the middle of the wilderness with plenty of open areas where visitors may enjoy the sun. Pangot offers a variety of walking trails and village tours that facilitate introspection and dream-reflection.

The vibrant rhododendrons, riotous wildflowers, and fidgety Drongo birds like something from an Enid Blyton novel. Here, some of the fields are verdant with pea-filled tendrils, while others are heavily planted with lentils. While males are mostly employed in the fields, women stroll purposefully through this area carrying wood for the cooking fire. The schoolchildren running, jumping, and strolling back from school along the little paths between the grain fields is a beautiful sight.

Whistling thrush in blue
Their infectious enthusiasm and carefree demeanor are evident in their voice. The majority of the time, locals have no problem hosting guests for a cup of tea and some small talk. They are always telling stories. Trekkers with a spirit of adventure may ascend to Kilbury, which offers breathtaking views of the valley below and the mountains above.

Even though the majority of the hotels in this area offer excellent Wi-Fi, this is a terrific spot to disconnect both technologically and emotionally. The sky is filled with a variety of woodpecker species, Common Hoopoe, Kingfisher, Parakeet, Jungle Babbler, and Eurasian Jay. The Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over 200 kinds of birds, is about 10 miles away. There are also a lot of migrating birds throughout the winter.

Nainital may be reached with a short drive for those who want activity. It might be therapeutic to just take a stroll down Mall Road and sometimes stop at a café, or to simply sit by the lake and have a cup of tea or some steaming corn in the cool autumn air. In addition, Pangot lies near the Corbett National Park; if one has an extra day, a jungle safari there is a great draw.