Gangolihat
A Himalayan hill town of Uttarakhand, Gangolihat is located in the Pithoragarh district. This small hill station is famous for Shakti Peethas of Hat Kalika of Goddess Kali. The name of this town is derived from Gangoli which is the local name of the prangana and Hat.
The nearby underground caves at Pata Bhuvaneshwar are a major tourist attraction and tourists visit these caves from all across the country. Pithoragarh, which is the nearest tourism destination to Gangolihat, is 82 kms away. Other famous tourist spots include Mount Abbot, Binsar, Chaukori and Berinag.
The average elevation of Gangolihat is 1760 meters above sea level. The rivers Sarayu and Ramganga surround this hill town. These rivers finally meet at Ghat at the foothills of this region. These two rivers seem to form a garland around the shoulders of the mighty Himalayas and it is these rivers that give name to the Gangawali region (meaning, river and garland in local language). This region later came to be known as Gangoli and Hat was the central location for gatherings and markets in the past. Hence the name Gangolihat was given to this town.
Gangolihat is located at the point of intersection of the old Pithoragarh-Almora foot path and the new Ghat Bhageshwar motor road. According to ancient scriptures, Gangolihat lies between the rivers Sarayu and Ramganga.
Located in the laps of the majestic Himalayas, Gangolihat is a historical town and a town of religious significance. With the impeccable sceneries and breath taking landscapes, a trip to this town will stay in your memory forever. The gushing stream, the deep ravines and the beautiful valleys surrounded by the magnificent Himalayas are enough to win over anyone’s heart. Gangolihat looks amazingly vibrant and full of life.
Climate
Being located in a valley, Gangolihat is relatively warm during summers and cool during winters. High locations of the mountain ranges receive snowfall during January and the average monthly temperature ranges from 5.5 degree Celsius to 8 degree Celsius. Due to the high altitude gradient, there is high variation in temperature in this district. Temperature starts rising in the summer months of March and continues to rise till mid June. The region that lies above 3500 meters is permanently covered with snow. The regions that lie between 3000 and 3500 meters of height become snow clad for four to six months each year. Temperature may go up to 40 degree Celsius at some points like the river gorges. The Gangolihat district receives average annual rainfall of 36.7 cm and monsoon showers are received after June. The livestock move to lower warmer regions during winters.
- Winter season or cold weather lasts from December to March.
- Summers or hot weather extends from March to June.
- Monsoon or rainy season is a result of the North West monsoon and lasts from mid June to mid September.
- September to November is the season of retreating monsoon in the Gangolihat region.
Things to do
Worshiping
Gangolihat is famous for the ancient temples and underground caves. Some famous temples include Ambika Dewaal, Vaishnavi Mandir, Haat Kaalika and Chamunda Mandir.
Sightseeing
Historical monuments made during the 8th to 11th century are located near the ancient temples. These sites have been preserved by the Archeological Survey of India. These monuments have the ability to transcend the viewer into the past. These are artistic creations that are worth viewing and they will surely captivate you.
Picnics
Lankeshwar, the highest peak in the region is a great picnic spot. The lush green valleys of Kumaun Himalayas give a breath taking view and have a therapeutic effect on people.
Attractions
Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Located 14 km away from from Gangolihat, Patal Bhuvaneshwar where the ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is located. Goddess Kali is the Mother Deity of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. The Bhuvaneshwar village is located at a distance of 8 km from Gangolihat and this is where the beautiful underground cave of Patal Bhuvaneshwar is situated. The limestone rock formations here are spectacular.
Chaukori
This is the perfect spot for the full 360 degree view of the beautiful snow cover mountain peaks. It is located at a height of 2010 m at a distance of 42 km from Gangolihat.
Munsiyari
This region is 124 km away from Gangolihat and is covered with snow throughout the year. Munsiyari is situated at the foot of the Himalayas and is connected to many glaciers.
Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary
Spreading across an area of 599.93 square kilometers, this sanctuary is located near Askot.
Dharchula
This is a lush valley surrounded by mountains. The view from here is spectacular.
Madkot
This place is famous for its hot water springs that are known to cure arthritis, rheumatism and also skin diseases.
Adi-Kailash (Chhota Kailash)
This is located on the indo Tibet border in the high Himalayas. This is an ideal location for trekking.
Kailash Mansarover Yatra
This famous annual Hindu pilgrimage passes through this district.
Berinag
This small town is popular for its tea gardens and sprawling beauty at an altitude of 2010m. This region also has a number of nag or snake temples.
Jhaltola
This erstwhile tea estate has an old Shiva temple on a mountain top known as Lankeshwar Mahadev. This is rapidly becoming a popular off beat tourist destination for people who are interested in nature and scenic beauty.
Shopping
With no major markets or shops, this place is not ideal for shopping.
Accommodations
Few private hotels as well as tourist rest houses are available for travelers.
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport is Naini Saini which is in the Pithoragarh district.
By Rail
The closest major railway station is Kathgodam which is 181 km away from Gangolihat. Tanakpur has the nearest railhead.
By Road
Regular bus service connects Gangolihat to the nearby regions.
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