As monsoon clouds sweep across Uttarakhand, the Kumaon hills come alive with colors. Forests become green, trails are shrouded in mist, waterfalls thunder, and picturesque villages dot the landscape, making this heaven on earth a dream destination. Some of its Nainital’s Hidden Gems are the villages of Seetla Gaon, Nathuwakhan, Bhawali, Pangot, Ghughukham, and Ramgarh—each providing unparalleled peace, greeneries, and genuine Kumaoni hospitality.
Whether you need forest strolls, bird-watching, mountain air, or relief from urban mayhem, these places guarantee a rejuvenating experience.
1.Seetla Gaon
Why Visit: A peaceful haven in the middle of orchards and pine forests, Seetla Gaon is ideal for those seeking to unplug.
Monsoon Charm: Gently rolling clouds, singing birds, and the smell of wet earth when it rains make it enchanting.
Things to do: Forest treks, bird-watching, and basking in village life.
Tip: Live in a traditional homestay and taste homemade plum or apricot jam.
Where to Stay: Opt for rustic homestays, guesthouses run by families, or eco-cottages amidst apple and plum orchards. Most provide home-cooked meals and views of the misty hills.
2.Nathuwakhan
Why Visit: A picturesque village between Mukteshwar and Ramgarh, perfect for offbeat travelers
Monsoon Charm: Chilling waterfalls, hills covered in mist, and green orchards make it otherworldly.
Activities: Trekking, nature photography, and cultural experience.
Tip: Explore the ancient temple and talk to friendly locals.
Where to Stay: There are farm stays ranging from hillsides to secluded retreats with wooden decor and gardens. Most have a forest hideaway location with privacy and stunning views.
Must Read: 5 Essential Monsoon Treks in Uttarakhand That You Should Know About
3.Bhawali
Why Visit: A tiny town renowned for its fruit market and serene ambiance.
Monsoon Charm: Green landscapes and foggy roads provide ideal road-trip experiences.
Activities: See the Golu Devta Temple, walk through nearby tea gardens, and do some fresh fruit shopping.
Tip: Perfect stopover on the way to Nainital or Mukteshwar.
Where to Stay: Comfortable budget hotels and homestays are numerous, with many of them situated on the hillside with valley views and easy access to the main road.
4.Pangot
Why Visit: A birder’s paradise, Pangot is only 15 km from Nainital but lives in a different world.
Monsoon Charm: Waterfalls and oak forests turn into vibrant splashes with monsoon showers.
Activities: Birdwatching (more than 250 species!), trekking, and wildlife photography.
Tip: Experience a jungle lodge stay and hear the rhythmic monsoon bird calls.
Where to Stay: Wooden cottages and warm hospitality at forest lodges and nature camps are ideal for those who yearn for proximity to nature.
5.Ghughukham
Why Visit: Unspoiled village with 180-degree panorama of the Himalayas and treks into deep forests.
Monsoon Charm: A canopy of green, and an eerie silence, soul-calming.
Activities: Lounging, short treks, reading, and meditating in nature.
Tip: Perfect for single travelers or painters who want to find inspiration.
Where to Stay: Quaint family homestays and hilltop cottages with basic facilities, quietude, and breathtaking vistas of the fog-shrouded valleys.
Must Read: Discover Kausani: Nature Enthusiast’s Paradise in Uttarakhand!
6.Ramgarh
Why Go: The “Fruit Bowl of Kumaon,” Ramgarh is studded with orchards of apples, peaches, and apricots.
Monsoon Magic: Foggy mornings, walks through orchards, and snug cafés characterize its monsoon atmosphere.
Things to Do: Picking fruits, heritage stay options, and visits to Tagore’s old palace
Tip: Stop by Mahadevi Verma’s old bungalow nearby to experience literary heritage.
Where to Stay: Heritage bungalows and boutique accommodations offer a mixture of comfort and history, with gardens and faraway Himalayan views.
Getting There
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (40–60 km depending on the location)
By Road: Well linked by road from Delhi (roughly 300–350 km, 8–10 hours’ drive)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (roughly 70–100 km)
Local Transport: Taxis and local buses from Nainital, Bhowali, or Mukteshwar.
Best Time to Visit
Monsoon Season (July to September) is ideal to see these spots in their full bloom.
Pack rain clothes, waterproof boots, and a light sweater.
Must Read: Kedar Tal Trek (Uttarakhand) – Witness the Glacial Majesty of Thalay Sagar
If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic retreat during the rainy season, these off-the-beaten-path hill stations near Nainital provide a soulful respite. From rolling green valleys to hot local food and crisp, misty wind—Seetla Gaon, Nathuwakhan, Bhawali, Pangot, Ghughukham, and Ramgarh assure the monsoon magic you’ve always dreamed of.
