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Best Places to Visit Near Lohaghat Uttarakhand, India
“Why go to Kashmir when heaven is here”
Those were the words of a British naturalist sometime in the mid 19th century. The place he was referring to was a small town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. This town is called Lohaghat in Champawat district, Uttarakhand, India.
The river Lohawati meanders between its rocky banks. During the summers the area around this charming town is draped with a carpet of red as the famed Rhododendrons bloom in all their splendor.
Forests of towering Pines and oaks hug the land. That, in a few words, describes the beauty of Lohaghat which can only be experienced and not described. Lohaghat is a hill station which has a population in thousands and it draws its name from the river that caresses its banks. This sleepy town is a very important place in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, not only owing to its serene beauty and calm but also to the fact that it is a gateway to some of the most amazing places of the region.
Lohaghat History
Lohaghat is a town that is steeped in history. Places nearby find mention in the ancient mythological texts of India.
It is believed that the area around Lohaghat may have been the cultural capital of the Chand dynasty, a Rajput clan who ruled the Kumaon region in the 11th and 12th century. The existence of various ancient temples and the celebration of ancient festivals in the region seems to point in this direction too.
In more recent times, it is said that a British naturalist by the name of Barron was probably one of the first British visitors to Lohagahat sometime in the mid 19th century.
Best Places To Visit Near Lohaghat Uttarakhand
Lohaghat is one of the unexplored destinations of Uttarakhand, India. Or we can say that Lohaghat is one of the lesser known destinations of Uttarakhand. We bring you here some of the Lohaghat local sightseeing places. There are a few attractions in and around Lohaghat hill station. Here are some of the best places to visit near Lohaghat Uttarakhand, India.
Abbott Mount
If you travel about 5 kilometers from the town of Lohaghat, on a serpentine road with sharp curves and cutting across dense forests, you climb a further height of about 357 meters and suddenly you find yourself in the midst of breathtaking Abbott Mount at an elevation of 2,111 meters. Abbott Mount is a hill station whose pristine beauty was discovered by an Englishman called John Abbott who set up house here. The Abbott house still survives today as a shadow of its past, desolate and derelict and reportedly haunted. There is also an old abandoned Church in the midst of the tranquil woods of Abbott Mount.
The serene beauty of the Pine and Deodhar forests combine with the unending chorus of rare Himalayan birds to mesmerize visitors. The icing on the cake is, of course, the magnificent Himalayan peaks that dominate the skyline and rivet the attention of all with their sublime beauty.
Mayawati Ashram
It was towards the end of the 19th century when Swami Vivekananda was in Switzerland and overwhelmed by the sheer natural beauty of the Alps, his thoughts turned to the Himalayas. He thought of establishing an Ashram in the sublime environs of the mountains that would focus on Advaita and would also be a center for cultural exchange between his Indian and Western disciples. Thus was born the Advaita Ashram or Mayawati Ashram as it is sometimes referred to.as in the year 1899 which was established by James and Charlotte Sevier, Swami Vivekananda’s close disciples. Swami Vivekananda himself visited the Ashram and stayed there for a couple of weeks at the time of John Sevier’s death to console his widow Charlotte. The room where he stayed is a library today. One can still feel positive vibes at this place where Swami Vivekananda meditated.
The writings of Swami Vivekananda are published from the Advaita Ashram. The beautiful Advaita Ashram surrounded by hills on three sides and framed by magnificent views of the Himalayas on the fourth is a world that instantly lifts your spirits and makes your soul soar on the wings of spirituality.
Banasur Ka Kila (Fort)
About 7 kilometers from Lohhaghat is situated the ruins of a fascinating fort believed to belong to the medieval ages. The fort is known as Banasura Ka Quila or Banasura Fort or Vanasur ka Kila or Banasur Fort. The fort is perched atop the peak of a hill at a height of about 1859 meters. It is reached by a steep walk of about 1.5 kilometers. A series of steps lead to the only entrance to the fort. It is believed that the fort is named after Banasura, who in Hindu mythology was the son of Bali and was all-powerful with a thousand arms. He was evil incarnate and was vanquished and all but two of his arms severed by Lord Krishna. Banasura was spared at the behest of Lord Shiva by Lord Krishna.
The fort today is in ruins but holds in its bosom the lost stories of its origin. The fort also affords spectacular panoramic views of the valley below and the mountains on the horizon. The river Lohawati also originates from this hill.
Devidhura
About 45 kilometers from Lohaghat is a place called Devidhura which has a beautiful and ancient temple set in the midst of serene and picturesque settings. Every year on the auspicious day of the Indian festival Raksha Bandhan, the serenity of the place is shattered as a unique and somewhat bizarre festival is celebrated. Two groups of singing and dancing crowds pelt stones at each other. They hold huge wooden shields to protect themselves as they hurl stones at the rival group. It is considered auspicious if you get injured in the melee. But what is amazing is the fact that there has never been a recorded fatality because of this festival “celebration”.
Reetha Sahib
The Gurudwara Reetha Sahib is situated about 52 kilometers from Lohaghat. This place – Meetha Reetha Sahib is one of three important pilgrimage centers of Sikhs in Uttarakhand. The other being Nanakmatta and Hemkund Sahib.
Meetha Reetha Sahib is famous as it is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji along with Bhai Mardana Ji had visited the place. It is said that Guru NanakDev Ji had sat under a Reetha (Soapnut) tree and the soapnuts of the tree near where he sat had turned sweet from bitter. A Gurudwara was built around the tree in 1960. Even today the soapnuts from this tree are sweet and serve as Prasad for visitors to the Gurudwara.
These are some of the best places near Lohaghat Champawat in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The Kumaon region is indeed a medley of experiences with its picture-perfect honeymooners’ paradises like Chaukori, Kausani, Nautukchiatal, Ranikhet, and Sitlakhet, mystical and intriguing places like Patal Bhuvaneshwar, and historical and architectural wonders like the Sun temple of Katarmal and the ancient temple at Baijnath.
Lohaghat Map
How to reach Lohaghat
Lohaghat is situated in the Champawat district of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state in the north of India. It lies at an altitude of 1754 meters above sea level.
- Lohaghat distance from Delhi, the capital of India is about 461 kilometers
- The nearest railway station to Lohaghat is Tanakpur which is at a distance of 60 kilometers. Tanakpur is well connected with major destinations of India like Delhi, Lucknow, Agra, and Kolkata.
- The nearest airport to Lohaghat is Pantnagar Airport at a distance of about 160 kilometers
- Lohaghat is well connected from major destinations of Kumaon region
Best Time To Visit Lohaghat
Best time to visit Lohaghat is between March to June, and September to November.
Uttarakhand Tourism
How To Get To Lohaghat Champawat, Uttarakhand, India
Book cheap flights, hotels, bus tickets and cars on rent here.
Where To Stay When Visiting Lohaghat Champawat, Uttarakhand, India
Uttarakhand hotels – If you are planning to visit Lohaghat Uttarakhand, India, then you must be wondering where to stay in Lohaghat, Uttarakhand, India or the best hotels in Lohaghat, Uttarakhand, India. For best accommodation – hotels near Lohaghat, we suggest checking here. Best hotels in Uttarakhand, India can be booked on Booking.com or Skyscanner to save huge and get best deals on booking your stay in Uttarakhand, India.
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Driving around Uttarakhand, India
If you are looking at getting the best deals on car rental in Uttarakhand, India, then look no further. You can rent a car in Delhi to explore and experience amazing Uttarakhand, and in and around areas and embark on a road trip of exploration and discovery of heavenly Uttarakhand. If you have a valid Indian driving license then you could rent a self-drive car from Delhi or Chandigarh.
Have you been to Lohaghat? In case you have already been here, do let us know how was your experience? Did you visit all the places around Lohaghat? Which is your favorite destination in Uttarakhand? Do let us know through our comments section.
Our posts on Uttarakhand, India:
Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand – The Perfect Honeymoon Getaway
An Early Morning Trek to view the Himalayan Ranges at Shitlakhet, Uttarakhand
Discovering The Myths and Mysteries of Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Experiencing Serenity At Nanakmatta Gurudwara, Uttarakhand, India
We were hosted by Uttarakhand Tourism. However, the views and opinions expressed here are our own.
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Heaven indeed guys! Something about those impossibly pristine, clear views, blue skies, mountains and fresh air. I feel I am there with your gorgeous pictures and the overall vibe of the place. Elevated spots are about my favorite place on earth. Something so peaceful about ’em. Rocking post.
Ryan
I would love to see the Rhododendrons in full bloom! What a beautiful place to visit. I would never want to leave! The photos are amazing!
Oh my gosh how beautiful is that?! I have never been to India and I’d love to explore this place. I am definitely going to have to add to my list of places to travel.
How stunning! I need to get to India one day. Your photos are incredible.
Lohaghat looks like a beautiful place to explore. I love all of your photos. Everything is so pretty.
I have never heard of Lohaghat. Looks like a beautiful place to visit. Need to read up more about this place
Oh my this area looks so beautiful and green! The gardens are so lush with beautiful flowers. Since I have never been to that part of the world, I love seeing it through others posts.
These photos are unreal. What a magical place you’ve highlighted. Hopefully life will take me in this direction.
It looks like those are all good suggestions to see if in the area. There’s so much color in the sky, surrounding trees and even the architecture.
it looks so nice and very peaceful place a clean and fresh air perfect for the relaxing and stress relief ..
Wow! Imagine going here and just spending a few days without worrying about the world! I think it’s such a nice escape, so relaxing and peaceful!
These photos are beautiful. These all look like great places to see in the area.
I love the place, it’s just so beautiful. I also appreciate the fact that you can rent a car if you want so you can explore as much as you can without worrying about your transportation.
Nice post. but i have never heard about Lohaghat. Looks like a beautiful place to visit. I am soon going to visit this place, thanks for sharing this post.
I have a ton of Indian friends that say India is an amazing country to visit. By your photos alone I am craving a nice trip there. Incredibly beautiful
It looks beautiful out there! You are blessed with such a heavenly country!
I love hidden gems and Lohaghat seems to be an exceptional one, Sandy and Vyjay. Reading your post whetted my appetite and inspired me to add Lohaghat to my bucket list!
Lohaghat really seems like a piece of paradise, Sandy and Vyjay. This place would be my perfect weekend getaway. I’m adding it to my bucket list thanks to your post!
This is the first time I heard about this place but it looks nice. I would love to visit Mayawati Ashram. I think it is about time we explore India.
The place really looks like paradise. I have never been to Uttarakhand or even Kashmir, though I’d love to. I have heard of Kasol, Spiti valley and many places, but this is the first time i read about Lohaghat. Thanks for introducing people to this hidden gem.
I don’t live near any mountains so it’s a real treat to see your photos. What a gorgeous place to visit. I have India on my bucket list after my son took a trip there.
This looks like an awesome place to visit. I honestly have never even heard of Uttarakhand but am certainly intrigued.
This land is beautiful. I love flowers so that’s what I am drawn too. I want to see this place in person one day!
Amazing grenery in your pics, did you visit during the monsoons ? Lohaghat I always heard of but now after reading this post I am convinced this is an amazing destination . Which is the nearest train station to this place?
Wow Lohaghat is absolutely stunning, I can imagine myself admiring those views. India is one country that’s so fascinating for its landscapes and stories, and I’d love to visit one day. The temples are interesting in structure, and these ashrams are unique too. Lovely photos too!
This looks like an incredibly peaceful place. I have not yet been to India and I think it will be quite some years before I make it there but this is the type of place I like to go-surrounded by nature and peace and with possibility for more intimate dealings with locals. It is in this type of place where you can have uninterrupted conversations and hear a person’s life story 🙂
Never Heard of Lohaghat but seems to be a very beautiful place full of greenery. For me as a lover of flowers it is now a must visit place. Indeed it is a peaceful and beautiful place.
Never even heard of Lohaghat town. But after this, I would love to see those river meanders you describe and bed of flowers in blossom.
The Abbott Mount looks fascinating, I can only imagine the view from those 2,111 meters! I know I’d love the place in person! 🙂
I love reading your posts as I always learn about another place in India that I haven’t been. And of course India is so big that Lohaghat is at least 17 hours away from Delhi! The forests look idyllic, and I would love to go to the Mayawati Ashram it does like gardens in Switzerland. Great detailed post.
Lohaghat reminds me of the landscape found in Bali, lush and green with stunning views. I’m currently planning an itinerary to India in 2019 and this is really helpful snapshot of what to expect. Thank You!
This looks like a fantastic destination. I love your photo and the forest and flowers look so inviting. I’d like to get the train from New Delhi to Tanakpur, do you know how long that takes? Also, how would you get from Tanakpur to Lohaghat?
Another place I would love to check out whilst in India. With your other post I read earlier – An Early Morning Trek to view the Himalayan Ranges at Shitlakhet, Uttarakhand – the two places look very close together so could do a few days in this area and explore its natural and man made beauty. 🙂
Wow, what a beautiful place! I wish I’d known about it during my visit to India… I guess I’ll just have to go back 😉 Thanks for sharing!
If I was only looking at the pictures, I would have actually thought this is Kashmir! I had no idea such a lovely place existed in Uttrakhand which goes to show how underrated that state is. Abbott Mount looks amazing, I am embarrassed to admit I’ve never heard of it!
Lohaghat looks beautiful I was a bit bemused by the Swiss Chalet style house till I read your story. I’d love to visit for myself!
You are really saying it is an excellent base from which to see temples, forts, and pilgrimage centers. But just having the beautiful scenes of rivers and rhodies would nourish my soul!
A great find with u parallel beauty as you stated nothing less then Kashmir. Never expected something like this in Uttarakhand. The gurudwara is beautiful and a must stop if I was there. Great natural beauty enriched in history. Thanks for sharing.
The landscapes look just heavenly – especially the tea fields. Also Gurudwara Reetha Sahib looks really interesting. So yet another part of India I need to visit when I finally make it there.
Another place in India that I would love to visit! Stunning floral and landscapes – all the elements that would make a pleasant exploration experience! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Wow this place looks gorgeous! Those tea fields looked amazing and the whole place just looks peaceful. I had never heard of Lohaghat before but will definitely put it on my list for when I visit India!
I have heard so many beautiful things about Kumaon. This small place Lohaghat looks like a heaven and it is surely a hidden gem in the Himalayan range. Look those florae and fauna of this place, they are in full bloom. I would love to visit Mayawati ashram in peaceful locations. Thanks for introducing a beautiful place named Lohaghat which is really nature’s wonder.
Great post! Lohaghat looks like a beautiful and peaceful place, that would be a nice place to visit, especially after spending time in one of the larger cities. Thank you for giving some useful transportation suggestions as well!
Thanks for introducing Uttarakhand, India. Yet another amazing place with a great deal of nature. I am always pleasantly surprised about the places in the country with so much green and historic sights. @ knycx.journeying
I had no idea about this place! Thanks for sharing this post and some mythology facts, very well written with great photos!
I have been to Uttarakhand many times but never heard of this place. This place indeed looks like a hidden gem. Will seek this place on my next trip to Uttarakhand. Thanks for introducing.
I love that the idea of an Ashram came while visiting the Switzerland’s Alps. Sometimes we have our best ideas when in another environment.
You just exposed me to something completely new! Lohaghat sounds like an amazing destination, a blending of ancient history and gorgeous landscape. Fantastic photos by the way and a great guide to visiting. Hope to make it here one day!
I have heard a lot about Lohaghat. Uttarakhand is blessed with a lot of unexplored / less known places with rich history. The scenery of those layered hills and the breathtaking views are quite inviting. Its a great read. I am including it for my next trip.
First time reading about Lohaghat. This place is really beautiful! I always thought India was about food, and temples and hot weather. I never associated it with a lot of greens and flowers! This is awesome! I have to be in India soon!
I’ve never heard of Lohaghat, but it looks like a dream location! I had no idea that there were rhododendrons in India – one of my favorite flowers! I would love to take in the views of the mountains and want to go when the wildflowers are blooming for sure! Great post!
I want to revisit Uttarakhand in the monsoons, everything in your photos looks so lush and green. Never heard of Lohaghat until now, making a mental note for whenever we go to the hills next. I would love to visit Moubt Abott.
I’ve not visited Uttarakhand yet. There are many naturally beautiful places in Uttarakhand. Good to know first time all about Lohaghat, more historical one.
I have never heard of Lohaghat, and the scenery and historical sites are very captivating! I’d want to see all the places you mentioned, as they all sound great. Thanks for such a detailed post!
I had never heard of it, but this sounds absolutely lovely! Great pictures as well. Something to remember dor the future 🙂
Wow! What a lovely getaway in the lap of untainted nature. Lohaghat is bestowed with heavenly beauty. The greenery around is simply a treat to the eyes. Uttarakhand has a lot of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. I love the pristine beauty of Abbot Mount. Mayavati Ashram sounds like a must visit place considering the tranquil vibes of Swami Vivekananda’s meditation one can still feel. Banasura Ka Quila looks fascinating with interesting history associated with it.
I have been to Uttrakhand many times but never even heard of this beautiful place. The views are incredib;e! Will definitely visit on my next trip to Uttrakhand.