Things to do in Kumaon Hills
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kumaon Hills has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Kumaon's heritage through colonial landmarks and ancient ruins that dot the hills.
Gurney House, Nainital
A colonial-era residence that offers a glimpse into the British Raj era and early hill station life.
Kumaon Regiment War Memorial, Ranikhet
A dignified monument honoring soldiers of the Kumaon Regiment with sweeping hill views.
Ranikhet Military Cemetery
A peaceful Commonwealth war cemetery with well-kept grounds and historic graves.
Museums
Discover stories of the hills through small museums and heritage displays.
Jim Corbett Museum, Kaladhungi
The former home of Jim Corbett, offering artifacts and exhibits about his life and wildlife conservation.
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, Ranikhet
Exhibits tracing the history and achievements of Kumaon’s regiments.
Religious Monuments
Kumaon’s spiritual heartbeat is found in ancient temples and sacred sites.
Jageshwar Group of Temples
A serene temple complex featuring intricately carved stone shrines dating back centuries.
Chitai Golu Devta Temple
Beloved temple dedicated to Golu Devta, famous for its bells and sacred hillside setting.
Katarmal Sun Temple
One of the oldest sun temples in the region, showcasing Katyuri-era architecture near Almora.
National & Theme Parks
Kumaon’s outdoors shine in its protected landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries.
Jim Corbett National Park
India’s famed wildlife sanctuary known for tigers, elephants, and lush forests.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
A forest sanctuary offering panoramic valley views and rich flora and fauna.
Nanda Devi National Park
A high-altitude park with dramatic alpine scenery and rare wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in scenic hill towns and explore nearby pockets of Kumaon.
Nainital
A bustling hill station centered around a crescent lake and lively market lanes.
Ranikhet
A tranquil hill town known for its greenery, temples, and sweeping views.
Mukteshwar
A quiet hamlet famed for viewpoints, orchards, and old heritage sites.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the Kumaon breeze with free activities that don't require a ticket.
Stroll around Naini Lake & Mall Road (Nainital)
Take a leisurely circuit around the lake and watch life unfold on Mall Road.
Sunset at Land's End viewpoint (Nainital)
Catch a dramatic sunset over the hills from a popular lookout.
Picnic by Bhimtal Lake
Relax by the water’s edge with mountain views and fresh air.
Gastronomy
Taste Kumaon’s rustic flavors, from simple staples to hearty regional dishes.
Aloo ke Gutke
A seasoned potato dish that’s a Kumaon staple, often paired with millet roti.
Gahat ki Dal
A traditional black gram dal cooked with local herbs, best with rice.
Kumaoni Bhatt ki Churkani
A signature preparation with black beans and seasonal greens.
Nightlife
Evenings in Kumaon are mellow but you can find cozy spots and starlit skies.
Evening strolls along Mall Road in Nainital
Colourful markets glow with twinkling lights and local snacks.
Stargazing atop hill viewpoints
Clear Himalayan skies offer a patchwork of stars after dark.
Local hill-town cafe evenings
Relax with tea and music at small cafes in Kumaon towns.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and performances in the hills.
Folk music performance at a Kumaon village guesthouse
Raw acoustic songs and dances from local artists.
Local theatre or storytelling evenings
Informal shows reflecting hill culture and folklore.
Hotel cultural nights in Nainital
Seasonal performances featuring regional music and dance.
Sports
Active adventures in the hills.
Trekking to viewpoints (Nainital, Mukteshwar)
Short to moderate treks with panoramic hill views.
Bird watching in Pangot
Morning forays to spot Himalayan bird species.
Boating on Naini Lake
Gentle boat rides with the mountains as a backdrop.
Off the Track
Unconventional experiences away from the well-trodden path.
Village homestay experience near Kausani
Live with locals, learn daily rhythms and crafts.
Tea garden tour in Kausani
Walk through scenic tea terraces and sample fresh brews.
Forest walk with a local naturalist in Binsar
Discover flora and fauna on a guided nature walk.