Cradled on the banks of Gaula River, the town of Kathgodam is studded like a precious gem in the Himalayan necklace of Uttarakhand. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, this toy town is perched at an average elevation of 554 meters about 1,817 feet above sea level.
The name of this place means ‘timber depot’ in English and it is one of the most important collection centers for the forest products in Uttarakhand that are obtained from the Himalayas in Kumaon.
Best Time To Visit Kathgodam
The weather in Kathgodam remains moderate most of the year however, between July and November is the best time to visit Kathgodam. This place in Nainital is well-connected with airways, railway, and roadways and hence, reaching here is fairly easy.
History of Kathgodam
In the late 19th century, the railway line was extended here and it became famous. Bamori Ghati and Chauhan Patta are the old names of this place. On April 24, 1884, it was renamed as Kathgodam when it was made a terminal station of Kumaon and Rohilkhand Railways.
What To Expect At Kathgodam
Serving as an important hub for trade and commerce in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the pristine hamlet of Kathgodam exhibits its profound beauty. Kalichaud temple, Sheetla Devi temple, Haidakhan Ashram, and the Corbett Falls are some of the popular tourist attractions that can be easily accessed that this minion village features. Many migratory birds flock during winters that can be witnessed at the huge dam erected on the tranquil Gola River.
Places To Visit Near Kathgodam
1. Sheetla Devi Temple and Kalichaud Temple
The two most eminents sites of Kathgodam are Sheetla Devi Temple and Kalichaud Temple. Devoted to the prominent Hindu gods and goddesses of Uttarakhand, these temples are not much famed but during the festival period in India, these temples draw numerous visitors that are devoted to these temples.
2. Sat Tal
Located just 23 kilometers away from Kathgodam, Sat Tal is the assortment of seven intermingled lakes. A haven for copious migratory bird species that flock at these freshwater lakes during the phase of their migration, it is surrounded by oaks and pines. With the cluster of the lakes and chirping birds, this place is a perfect escape in nature that is sure to take all your exhaustion away. Ram Tal, Purna Tal, Sita Tal, Sukh Tal, Garud Tal, Lakshman Tal, and Nal Damyanti Tal are the seven assorted lakes here. Sat Tal is also referred to as one of the pristine lakes in India that are still untainted and unpolluted.
3. Hanuman Garhi
A famed stopover for those travelling around Nainital, Hanuman Garhi is situated at a distance of 21 kilometers away from Kathgodam. Devoted to Lord Hanuman, this picturesque temple was constructed by Baba Neem Karoli. With the mesmerizing beauty and charming sky colors during dusk time, Hanuman Garhi is one of the most popular sunset points in Uttarakhand.
4. NaukuchiaTal
A quaint tourist attraction situated just 26 kilometers away from Kathgodam, Naukuchiatal actually means nine-sided lake. To lose oneself in the profound beauty of the Himalayas, it is an amazing location that surrounds your senses with the sweet tweeting of birds all around. Ponder on its lure or wander around this pretty lake, this lake will make you feel like a part of the authentic luxury that the Himalayas offer. For those who love lakes, snow-clad mountains, flora and fauna, Naukuchiatal is an idyllic destination. Everything here is at its abundant perfection!
Things To Do In Kathgodam
Nature Walk
Perched on the foothills of the Himalayas of Kumaon, Kathgodam is a perfect destination to explore various nature walks in and around the hill-town. Visitors enjoy taking leisurely walks early in the morning and evening in a calm and serene environment.
Picnic - Along the banks of Gaula River, tourists prefer to picnic with their closed ones. Another popular destination in Kathgodam is a barrage built on Gaula River.
How To Reach Kathgodam
Kathgodam is situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, which is well-connected with the other major towns and cities of the state. There are several modes of transportation like road, flight, and train to reach here. Here’s how to reach Kathgodam.
- Nearest metropolitan city. Delhi
- Nearest airbase. Pantnagar Airport.
- Nearest railhead. Kathgodam Railway Station
- Distance from Delhi. 297 Kms
By Air
Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airbase to Kathgodam. Frequent flights ply to this airport from Delhi every week. Private cabs are available just outside the airport to cover the remaining distance.
- Distance from Pantnagar Airport. 33 Kms
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available To Reach Kathgodam
By Rail
There is a dedicated railhead in Kathgodam making traveling via train the most convenient option to reach here. It is the gateway to the Kumaon region and hence, trains from every corner of the country make their way to this hill-town. Taxis are easily accessible just outside the Kathgodam railway station to take you to the major destinations in Uttarakhand.
- Distance from Kathgodam Railway Station. 1 Km
By Road
Kathgodam has an excellent network of roads that connect this hill-town with other major cities and towns because it is the gateway to the Kumaon hills. From ISBT Anand Vigar, Delhi, regular state-run and private buses are available.
- Distance from Dehradun. 267 Kms
