ABBOTT MOUNT

At an altitude of 7000 feet, there lies the tiny hamlet of Abbott Mount from where one could witness the snowcapped cliffs of the mighty Himalayas in its full glory. This momentous hilly resort on the eastern side of the Kumaon Hills unravels a passable vision of the massive peaks from the Gangotri cliff to Dhaulagiri range.

Like all other hilly resorts, this hill station is also a noble venture of the progressive English men, especially John Harold Abbott, who wants a retreat from the tiresome life of the plains. Though this is established during the early part of the 20th century, it succeeded to keep its identity till now.

Abbott Mount has spectacular trails and walkways that make the picnicker spell bound. Picturesque and serene surroundings of deodar and pine forest are a haven of exotic Himalayan birds whose twittering and chirping creates a melodious environ. It would be a perfect quixotic location for young couples and honeymooners.

Abbott Mount encompasses a cluster of thirteen Cottages set in the midst of five acres of marvelous woods. On its pictorial ambiance, this hamlet holds a lovely church, which provides an ethereal appeal to its magnificence. You can opt for a tour to this hilly resort at any time of the year. If you prefer slower and easy paced vacation, you choose the summers when the entire surroundings would be filled with the diaphanous shades of large variety of butterflies. Those who prefer some thrilling expeditions can try out some fishing and other allied adventures.

The hill station Abbott Mount has a pleasant cool climate all through year.

Summers (March to June) are very pleasant with temperatures touching down to 10°C during nights and reaching a maximum of 20°C during day times. Tourist would like to explore the natural beauty during this season.

Monsoons (July to September) offers intermittent showers and cooler than summers. The place looks marvelous during showers.

Winters (November to February) are chilly with temperature touching down freezing levels. Many tourists avoid venturing outdoors during freezing period of December - January.

Best time to visit Abbott Mount is March to November.

March to June is perfect for sightseeing and outings. April and May are good season for fishing in the surrounding Rivers. July to October is majestic with monsoon showers and is deal for sight seeing with majestic lusting greeneries.
November to February suits for those like chilly climate.

Lohaghat

Lohaghat, located on the shores of the Lohawati River at an altitude of 1706 metres, is only 7 km from Abbott Mount. Mayawati Ashram or Advaita Ashram, some 9 km from Lohaghat is a pilgrimage for many devotees.

Lohaghat serves as the hub to many nearby tourist spots like Shyamla Taal, Gurudwara Ritha Sahib and Devidhura. Varansur Fort, which is 7 km from Lohaghat can also be visited. The sleepy town of Lohaghat becomes busy during Raksha Bandhan because the Bagwal fight carnival is held in Devidhura during this time.

Pancheshwar Snapshot

Pancheshwar is located at the border of Nepal and India, some 47 km from Abbott Mount at the converging point on the Rivers Saryu and Kali. Its Chaumu Temple and annual fair are well renowned.

A dip in these rivers is believed to be sacred. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva, who appears here in the form of protector of animals. Pancheshwar is also popular as an angling spot.

Mayawati Ashram Snapshot

Mayawati’s Advait Ashram is located in the Old Tea Estate, at an elevation of 1940 metres, 16 km from Abbott Mount. With the Himalayas as a part of this ashram, this place has become a hub for pilgrims from India and foreign countries. With boarding and lodging facilities, a small museum and a library is also present in this ashram, which impressed Swami Vivekanada in 1898.

Vanasur Ka Kila

Vanasur ka Kila is 25 km from Abbott Mount via Lohaghat. In this journey, nearly 2 km has to be travelled by foot to arrive at Vanasur ka Kila. This place, which is considered to be demon Vanasur’s capital that Lord Krishna defeated in a battle, is situated 1,859 metres above sea level.