Kausani Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get around in Kausani, a charming town in the Himalayan North of India.


Introduction to Kausani

Nestled in the Kumaon region of the Himalayan North in India, Kausani is a quaint hill station surrounded by breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountain peaks, lush green valleys, and glistening streams. Famous for its serene ambiance and pristine natural beauty, Kausani attracts a vast number of tourists throughout the year who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Kausani

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Anasakti Ashram - A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and his teachings.
  2. Lakshmi Ashram - A center for women empowerment and education, founded by Sarla Behen.
  3. Kausani Tea Estate - A must-visit for tea lovers to witness the tea-making process and savour a cup of freshly brewed tea.

Natural Attractions of Kausani: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rudradhari Falls and Caves - A stunning waterfall and naturally formed caves surrounded by lush green trees and scenic mountain views.
  2. Baijnath Temple - A 13th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with intricate carvings and historical significance.
  3. Kausani Planetarium - A fascinating place to explore the mysteries of the universe and learn about astronomy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kausani

  1. Kausani to Baijnath Temple Trek - A scenic trek from Kausani to Baijnath Temple through dense forests and traditional villages.
  2. Kausani to Bageshwar Cycle Route - A breathtaking cycling route from Kausani to Bageshwar with views of the Gomti River and traditional village life.

Best Things to Do in Kausani: Activities and Tours

  1. Yoga and Meditation Retreats - Experience the tranquil atmosphere of Kausani and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with yoga and meditation retreats.
  2. Paragliding - Soar above the mountains and enjoy the scenic views of Kausani through paragliding.
  3. Nature Walks and Birdwatching - Explore the natural beauty of Kausani with nature walks and birdwatching tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kausani

Day Activity
1 Visit Anasakti Ashram and Lakshmi Ashram
2 Explore Rudradhari Falls and Caves
3 Visit Kausani Tea Estate and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea
4 Trek from Kausani to Baijnath Temple
5 Experience Yoga and meditation retreats
6 Paragliding and birdwatching tours
7 Relax and explore the local markets for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Kausani

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bhang ki Chutney - A unique chutney made from hemp seeds and local spices.
  2. Bal Mithai - A sweet made with khoya, coated with sugar balls and a hint of cardamom.
  3. Aloo Ke Gutke - Spicy and tangy potatoes cooked in local spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Kumaoni Herbal Tea - A refreshing tea made with local herbs and spices.
  2. Rhododendron Juice - A refreshing drink made from the flowers of the rhododendron tree, known for its medicinal properties.

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

  1. Sun n Snow Inn - A fabulous property with scenic views of the mountains and a perfect location to explore nearby attractions.
  2. Chevron Eco Lodge - An eco-friendly lodge surrounded by serene nature and offering comfortable accommodation to its guests.
  3. Himalayan Village Resort - A picturesque resort nestled amidst the lush green trees, offering panoramic views of valleys and peaks.

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

  1. Local Handicrafts and Textiles - Kumaoni shawls, caps, and blankets made with the finest wool.
  2. Organic Honey - Kausani’s pure organic honey, extracted from the mountain flowers and bees.
  3. Spices and Local Herbs - The locally grown spices and herbs are of excellent quality and add a unique flavor to any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of Kausani

Kausani is famous for its vibrant culture, which reflects in its festivals, fairs, and local customs. The people here celebrate various festivals with great enthusiasm and participate in traditional dance forms such as the Bikhauti Mela, Nanda Devi Mela, and Harela. The Kumaoni culture is simple, yet elegant and has a deep-rooted connection with nature.

Best Time to Visit Kausani

The best time to visit Kausani is between March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kausani

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Carry suitable warm clothing if visiting during winters.
  3. Try the local Kumaoni cuisine and indulge in local activities.

Don’t:

  1. Disturb the wildlife or litter in the natural surroundings.
  2. Wear revealing clothing, especially near the religious places.
  3. Drink alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kausani

Kausani is a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate. However, tourists are advised to be vigilant and take necessary precautions, especially when traveling alone at night.

Health in Kausani

Kausani is a high-altitude destination, and tourists are advised to carry necessary medicines and consult medical professionals before embarking on their journey, especially those with chronic health issues.

Getting to Kausani: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kausani

The nearest airport to Kausani is the Pantnagar airport, 178 km away.

Bus Stations Near Kausani

Kausani has well-connected bus services that connect it with major cities and towns like Delhi, Nainital, and Kathgodam.

Other Options

Tourists can also hire taxis or self-drive cars to reach Kausani from nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Kausani

Tourists can get around Kausani by hiring a taxi, self-drive car, or by taking local transportation like shared jeeps and buses.

Where to Go Next from Kausani: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Ranikhet - A scenic hill station, famous for golfing, trekking, and panoramic views.
  2. Almora - Another stunning hill station, famous for its rich culture and beautiful temples.
  3. Binsar - A wildlife sanctuary, known for its vibrant flora and fauna, offering a mesmerizing scenic view of the Himalayan snow-capped peaks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kausani is a spectacular destination amidst the Himalayan North of India, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and serene ambiance. With this comprehensive tour guide, tourists can experience the best of Kausani, from exploring museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and scenic views, making it an unforgettable experience.