2024… the heat wave in North India is unrelenting with temperatures hitting a new high. 46, 47, 48 degrees centigrade has become the order of the day. At one point it even touched 50 at some places. Delhi also bore the brunt as it clocked 51 degrees at one point of time.

People were flocking to the mountains. Horror stories through insta reels, fb, news channels started to stream in showing chaotic scenes. Unending lines of cabs, private vehicles, buses, bikes choking the serpentine roads of Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Shimla, and other famous tourist spots.

I detest crowds. And with the burgeoning population of India, its hard to find a place which is relatively less crowded. I was frantically looking for an escape haven where I can dash off with my family members. Moreover, being a nature lover myself, I was also surfing through reams of pages to find a place where I can find solace, solitude, away from the hustle & bustle of Nainital, Mussoorie.

It was when I read about this real Queen of Hills – PANGOT.  A little curiosity pushed me to check out this place and boy- it left me impressed.

Lovely picturesque place with a sea of green. Quaint, secretive, less crowded, with a smattering of Victorian styled cottages cocooned in the woods. It piqued my interest.

15 Kms from Nainital, nestled among a beautiful valley, sits the small, foggy, windy, cloudy town called PANGOT. While travelling to PANGOT, the roads only got a little narrow and a little worn out at places.

The thrill of witnessing the unseen, the unknown, and the mysteries ahead eclipsed any fear of narrow and treacherous roads.

We journeyed to our stunning cottages (ROOFTOP COTTAGES, Ghuggu Kham) 4 star, cloaked in lush shades of green, transforming them into a breathtaking, grand, and luxurious retreat.

Five enchanting cottages, crafted entirely from wood, greeted us warmly. Lavishly appointed with every amenity, each cottage featured a charming staircase leading to a cozy loft, meticulously designed for honeymooners. This intimate hideaway, nestled within the room, offered the perfect vantage point to watch the passing clouds while cuddling with your beloved.

We quickly freshened up and eagerly indulged in the lavish feast prepared for us, savoring every delightful bite.

As evening descended and darkness enveloped the landscape, we were cautioned not to venture far, as leopards prowled the night, posing a threat. So, we stayed close to our cottages, reveling in the majestic sight of clouds gently caressing the verdant mountains. I must admit, it felt as though we were in Switzerland.

Next day we took out our itinerary and closed on a couple of locations. We were told that Pangot is a paradise for Bird Lovers and is famous for its snow-covered mountains and rich flora & fauna.

Pangot & Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

Here are some highlights of what makes this sanctuary special:

1.Rich Avifauna

Bird Species: The sanctuary is home to over 580 bird species, including rare and endangered ones. Common sightings include the Forktails, Collared Grosbeaks, White-throated Laughing Thrushes, Brown Wood-Owls, Cheer Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, and various species of woodpeckers, thrushes, and eagles.

Migratory Birds: It serves as a significant site for migratory birds, especially during the winter season.

2.Diverse Ecosystems

Habitat Variety: The sanctuary’s diverse habitats range from dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests to open grasslands. This variety supports a wide range of flora and fauna.

Floral Diversity: The region is also rich in plant species, including several medicinal plants and beautiful wildflowers.

3.Scenic Beauty

Picturesque Landscapes: The sanctuary offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and lush green valleys, making it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts.

Tranquil Environment: Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat into nature.

4.Adventure and Recreation

Trekking and Hiking: There are several trekking trails and hiking paths in and around the sanctuary, suitable for all levels of experience.

Camping: The area offers excellent camping spots where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

5.Accessibility

Proximity to Nainital: Located just 15 km from Nainital, the sanctuary is easily accessible, making it a convenient getaway for tourists visiting the popular hill station.

6.Photography Opportunities

Bird Photography: The rich birdlife and scenic landscapes provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs.

Macro Photography: The variety of insects, plants, and flowers makes it an ideal spot for macro photography as well.

7.Local Culture and Hospitality

Friendly Locals: The local community is known for its warm hospitality, and visitors can experience the rich culture and traditions of the region.

Homestays and Lodges: There are numerous accommodation options ranging from cozy homestays to comfortable lodges, often run by local families.

After taking a zillion pictures of dense forests, green hillocks, locals, a dog which became our friend our trip concluded.

After visiting Nainital, Mussourie, Lansdowne … Pangot remains my favorite. Just can’t get enough of it.