Kausani – Switzerland of India

The Kausani hill resort is situated in the Kumaon region of Uttaranchal in India. It is at an altitude of 1890 m above sea level. Kausani, originally called as Valna, offers a picturesque view of the dense pine forests and the majestic mountain peaks. This hilly place is referred to as “the Switzerland of India” by the famed poet Sumitra Nandan Pant. This hilly region has its own importance because Mahatma Gandhi, Father of Indian Nation, stayed here for a long period of time in1929.

A panoramic view of the Kumaon Himalayas is the major tourist’s attraction in Kausani. Being a small and peaceful hilly region, Kausani is known for its unspoilt natural beauty and 300 km view of Himalayan snow-peaks. One can enjoy the endless stretch of famous snow-capped peaks like the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and the Nandakot. Kausani has a number of vantage points from where one can capture the majestic view of these peaks. The sunrise and the sunset are picturesque moments for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Anashakti Ashram is the landmark of this hilly region. The ashram is strongly associated with the visit of Mahatma Gandhi. Once a tea estate, this ashram is currently converted into a library and research center. It houses a Gandhi memorial within it where evening prayers are conducted daily.

From Kausani, the hill resorts like Nainital, Almora and Ranikhet are easily accessible. These resorts are excellent excursion options for tourists. Temple towns like Baijnath and Bageshwar pull lots of pilgrims towards them every year. These temples are very close to Kausani. Bird watchers can even visit the bird sanctuary in Binsar.

Trekkers can have good time in Kausani. The densely wooded forests with oak and pine trees and the orchards with various fruits like apple, pear, peaches etc., are very suitable for long walks. Moreover, this hilly resort is a starting point for various treks namely Adi Kailash Trek, Base Kausani Trek and the Bageshwar Sunderdhanga Trek.

Kausani experiences heavy snowfall in the months of December and January. The resort is a retreat in the summer months and thus the place can be visited during April-June and September-November.

The nearest airport to this hill region is at Pantnagar, 180 km away. The nearest railhead to Kausani is in Kathgodam 142 km away from here. Moreover this place is well connected with nearby hill resorts like Nainital, Almora and Binsar through well-laid roads.