Kumaon, often called the soul of the Indian Himalayas, is one of the two primary administrative divisions of Uttarakhand, with the other being the Garhwal region. Historically known as Manaskhand in the ancient Skanda Purana, the name Kumaon is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Most scholars believe the name is derived from Kurmanchal, which translates to the land of the tortoise. This title honors the Kurmavatar, the second incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have stood in the form of a tortoise on a mountain peak in this region for three years. This spiritual identity is woven into the very fabric of the landscape, making it a destination that resonates with both pilgrims and nature lovers.
The geography of Kumaon is as strategic as it is beautiful. To the north, the region is bordered by the vast plateau of Tibet, while to the east, the Kali River forms a natural boundary with Nepal. To the south lies the state of Uttar Pradesh, and to the west, Kumaon meets the Garhwal region. This unique positioning has made Kumaon a historical crossroads for trans Himalayan trade and cultural exchange for centuries.
Kumaon is composed of six distinct districts, each offering a unique window into the Himalayan way of life:
Almora: Frequently hailed as the cultural capital of Kumaon, Almora is a treasure trove of heritage architecture and spiritual energy. It is famous for the 9th century Katarmal Sun Temple and the mystical Kasar Devi temple, which sits on a geomagnetic field shared with Stonehenge and Machu Picchu. The town offers some of the most expansive panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.
Bageshwar: Known as the Kumaon Ki Kashi, this holy town is situated at the sacred confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers. The skyline is dominated by the ancient Bagnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Tiger Lord. Bageshwar also serves as the primary base for trekkers heading toward the Pindari, Sunderdhunga, and Kafni glaciers.
Champawat: This historic town was the root of Kumaoni culture and the first capital of the mighty Chand Dynasty. It is home to the Baleshwar Temple, a masterpiece of stone carving, and is the setting for the legendary stories of Jim Corbett's first tiger hunt. The region feels untouched by time, offering a raw experience of Kumaoni folklore.
Nainital: The administrative headquarters of the region, Nainital is the iconic Lake District of India. Centered around the emerald green Naini Lake, the town is a blend of colonial British era aesthetics and deep religious significance as one of the 51 Shakti Peeths.
Pithoragarh: Often called the Mini Kashmir of India, Pithoragarh is nestled in the stunning Soar Valley. It serves as the gateway to the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and is renowned for its lush valleys, ancient forts, and proximity to the snow laden peaks of Munsiyari.
Udham Singh Nagar: Known as the gateway to Kumaon, this fertile agricultural district in the Terai region is the food bowl of Uttarakhand. It is a vibrant melting pot of diverse cultures and communities, reflecting the true spirit of unity in diversity within the state.
The history of Kumaon is defined by the resilience of its people and the grandeur of its rulers. The region was historically governed by the Kunindas and the Katyuri Dynasty between the 7th and 11th centuries before the Chand Dynasty took control, ruling until the late 18th century. In 1816, following the defeat of the Gorkhas in the Anglo Nepalese War, the British established Kumaon as an administrative region through the Treaty of Sighauli.
Kumaon is also the proud home of the Indian Army's Kumaon Regiment, one of the most decorated infantry units in the country, with its regimental center located in the quiet hills of Ranikhet. From the intricate Aipan folk art that adorns the doorsteps of Kumaoni homes to the rhythmic sounds of the Chholia dance during local festivals, every corner of this region tells a story of valor, faith, and artistic excellence.
Every road leads to a new tale, let Kurmanchal be your guide.
