Bageshwar Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bageshwar, Uttarakhand with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, things to do, local food, culture, and more.


Introduction to Bageshwar

Nestled in the Himalayan North of India, Bageshwar is a scenic town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Known for its natural beauty, ancient temples, and cultural significance, Bageshwar is an ideal destination for travelers seeking solace and adventure. The town is situated at an altitude of 1004m above sea level and its location at the confluence of two rivers, Gomti and Saryu, adds to its charm.

List of Places to Visit in Bageshwar

Bageshwar offers a plethora of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here’s a list of must-visit places in Bageshwar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Baijnath Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Kanda-Kot: An archeological site that dates back to the Mauryan era, showcasing the remnants of an ancient fort and a cluster of temples.
  • Bagnath Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of Saryu river.

Natural Attractions of Bageshwar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pindari Glacier: A popular trekking destination, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
  • Sunderdhunga Glacier: Another trekking destination, known for its picturesque views and lush greenery.
  • Bageshwar Mahadev Temple: A revered temple situated amidst scenic surroundings, offering a serene environment for meditation and introspection.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bageshwar

Bageshwar is a paradise for adventurers, and the town offers numerous opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some popular routes:

  • Bageshwar to Kanda-Kot: A moderate-level hike that takes you through lush forests and scenic trails, leading to the Kanda-Kot archeological site.
  • Bageshwar to Pindari Glacier: A challenging trek, covering a distance of approximately 90km, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
  • Bageshwar to Sunderdhunga Glacier: Another challenging trek, covering approximately 25 km, leading to the gorgeous Sunderdhunga Glacier.

Best Things to Do in Bageshwar: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Bageshwar offers a range of exciting activities for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Bageshwar:

  • Visit the ancient temples: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Bageshwar by visiting the town’s ancient temples.
  • Go camping: Enjoy the serene surroundings and starry nights by camping near the riverside.
  • Trek to Pindari Glacier: Take on the challenge of trekking to the Pindari Glacier and enjoy the stunning views offered along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bageshwar

Day 1: Visit Bagnath Temple and explore the local markets. Day 2: Trek to Kanda-Kot and explore the archeological site. Day 3: Go camping near the riverside and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Day 4: Visit Baijnath Temple and experience its ancient architecture. Day 5: Trek to Pindari Glacier and enjoy the stunning views en route. Day 6: Explore Sunderdhunga Glacier and its serene surroundings. Day 7: Rest day for relaxing and leisure activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Bageshwar

Bageshwar offers a range of local delicacies that are a must-try for food lovers. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Aloo ke Gutke: Spicy potatoes cooked with local herbs and spices.
  • Kafuli: A traditional curry made with spinach and fenugreek.
  • Bal Mithai: A popular dessert made with condensed milk and chocolate.

Local Beverages

  • Bhang ki Chutney: A spicy chutney made with hemp seeds.
  • Chhaang: A traditional millet-based alcoholic beverage.

Where to Stay in Bageshwar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bageshwar offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

  • KMVN Tourist Rest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse with scenic views and basic amenities.
  • Hotel Pine Havens: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local delicacies.
  • The Kumaon: A luxury resort offering stunning views of the Himalayas and luxurious amenities.

What to Buy in Bageshwar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bageshwar offers a range of souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some options:

  • Local woolens and handicrafts: Bageshwar is known for its intricate woolen shawls, blankets, and handicrafts.
  • Herbal Products: The town is home to several Ayurvedic shops selling locally made herbal products.
  • Tea and Spices: Bageshwar is known for its tea and spice plantations, and you can buy fresh tea and spices from local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Bageshwar

Bageshwar has a rich cultural heritage, and the town’s people are known for their warmth and hospitality. The town is home to several ancient temples, and the locals are deeply rooted in traditional beliefs and practices.

Best Time to Visit Bageshwar

The best time to visit Bageshwar is during the summer months between March and June and the post-monsoon season between September and November. The weather during these months remains pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bageshwar

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly while visiting the temples.
  • Carry warm clothes while visiting during the winter months.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment in any way.
  • Don’t disrespect the local religion and beliefs.
  • Don’t enter restricted areas without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bageshwar

Bageshwar is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always advisable to take precautions while exploring the outdoors. Some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always carry a first-aid kit while trekking.
  • Hire a local guide for treks and outdoor activities.
  • Be careful while bathing in rivers or waterfalls.

Health in Bageshwar

Bageshwar has basic medical facilities, and it’s advisable to carry a medical kit and necessary medicines while traveling. You should also be mindful of your water and food intake to avoid any stomach issues.

Getting to Bageshwar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bageshwar is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand.

Airports Near Bageshwar

The nearest airport to Bageshwar is Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 190 km away from the town. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bageshwar.

Bus Stations Near Bageshwar

Bageshwar has its own bus station, which is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand. You can also take a shared taxi or bus from nearby towns such as Almora or Ranikhet.

Other Options

You can also hire a private taxi to reach Bageshwar from nearby cities such as Dehradun or Delhi.

How to Get Around in Bageshwar

Bageshwar is a small town, and most places are easily accessible on foot. However, you can also hire a taxi or a motorbike to explore the town and nearby attractions. Shared taxis and buses are also available for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from Bageshwar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bageshwar is situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, which offers several other scenic destinations for travelers. Some nearby destinations that you can explore are:

  • Almora: A picturesque hill station known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful temples.
  • Nainital: A popular tourist spot known for its beautiful lake and panoramic views.
  • Ranikhet: A scenic town known for its beautiful trekking trails and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Conclusion

Bageshwar is a beautiful destination that offers a range of attractions for travelers seeking adventure and serenity. With its natural beauty, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage, Bageshwar is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Uttarakhand.