Page 30 - Seniors Today June2020
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Travel
Walking in the
Himalayas
Kumaon is the ‘God’s Own Country’ of the north, an ideal location for a
holiday in the hills. By Navneet Sahni
In North India there is another claimant took us to Bhimtal – a smaller and much less
to “God’s own country” - Kumaon. Where crowded version of Nainital.
every peak is somehow connected to a The road from here onwards to Ramgarh
Goddess or God, this is the Land of Lord was rewarding as you pass by thick forests
Shiva and Shakti. Blessed with magnificent of tall firs, and Rhododendron trees (the
views of these majestic and revered local name is Buransh – and while you
mountains, Kumaon is the ideal place for are there you must have the tasty Buransh
soaking in solitude, green meadows with juice). Ramgarh is a sleepy small town and is
carpets of wild flowers and cool crisp air. famous for being the epicentre of the “peach
When aunt Jogi and uncle Samar asked for valley” of Kumaon. Wherever you gaze you
recommendations to go for a 10-12 days see lovely fruit orchards against the back
holidays in the hills, I had no hesitation in drop of mesmerizing mountain ranges.
recommending Kumaon. The first views of the mighty peaks you get
A flight to Delhi and a Shatabdi journey to from here is a sight to behold and takes your
Kathgodam, we all were soon driving in the breath away – you pay respects to Nanda
hills for 2 hours to reach Ramgarh. The drive Devi and Nanda Ghunti, Nanda Kot, Trishul
and the Panchchuli range. One can hear the
birds chirping, see the flowers blooming
and feel the gentle rustling of the pines.
The bracing cold air is very refreshing and
clears the lungs of the putrid air we inhale
in the cities. The small boutique hotel had a
beautiful garden and to sit in the garden for
lunch, affording a 180-degree view of the
Bhimtal is a less crowded version of Nainital peaks, is the stuff of dreams.
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