Duration: 5N/6D
Pangot
Best Season: October to June
Tour Code: #836Destinations: Pangot, Naina Peak, Kilbury, Pangot
Duration: 05 Nights and 06 Days
Nature of Trek: Moderate (Children below 8 years are not encouraged for this trek.)
Tour Code: #836
This immersive Himalayan trek from Pangot to Naina Peak via Kilbury Forest is a perfect blend of nature, culture, birdwatching, and high-altitude adventure. Set in the pristine oak and rhododendron forests near Nainital, the journey takes you through remote mountain villages, historic forest trails, and rich wildlife habitats.
Beginning in the quiet birding hamlet of Pangot, the trek unfolds across diverse landscapes—mist-covered meadows, deep monsoon-carved ravines, natural water springs, and dense Himalayan forests. Along the way, you experience authentic Kumaoni village life, learn about the region’s history linked to Jim Corbett, and explore traditional forest routes once used by traders.
The highlight of the journey is reaching Naina Peak (2311 m), the highest point in Nainital, offering sweeping panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas and the iconic Nainital Lake. With excellent birding opportunities, chances of spotting Himalayan wildlife, and peaceful evenings by a bonfire, this trek is ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers, and slow-travel enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection with the mountains.
Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival at Pangot – Acclimatisation & Orientation
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Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Jungle Lore Birding LodgeArrive at Kathgodam / Pantnagar and drive to Pangot. On arrival, check into the lodge and spend the rest of the day acclimatising to the altitude and forest environment.
In the evening, enjoy a short orientation walk around the lodge area and nearby forest edges, offering the first introduction to Himalayan birdlife. Dinner and a briefing about the trek ahead.
Overnight stay at lodge
- Day 02: Pangot – Pangot Village – Dhamdhamiya–Akhorwadi (Trek Begins)
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: CampsiteStart the day early with tea or coffee at the dining deck, which also serves as a natural bird-feeding area. After breakfast, begin the trek from Pangot.
Walk through Pangot Village, observing local life and traditional Kumaoni culture. Pause near scenic viewpoints overlooking Corbett National Park, Kotabagh, and Pawalgarh—historically associated with Jim Corbett.
Continue trekking through forest trails to Dhamdhamiya, a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic views of surrounding villages and Himalayan ridges. Proceed onwards to Akhorwadi, a historic resting place once used by traders and known for its walnut trees and rich birdlife. Expect sightings of Himalayan and Fulvous-breasted Woodpeckers, Brown-fronted Woodpecker, Common Kestrel, and Crested Serpent Eagle.
Set up camp at Akhorwadi. Evening at leisure with bird calls echoing through the forest.
Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
- Day 03: Akhorwadi – Ghorgatti – Salimdhar – Naina Peak (High Point)
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: CampsiteAfter an early breakfast at the campsite, continue trekking through diverse landscapes shaped by monsoons—deep ravines, oak forests, and small spring-fed streams. Stop at Ghorgatti, a narrow natural spring frequented by wildlife.
Pass through Salimdhar, an open grassland area named after a local grass species. When mist settles here, the landscape takes on an ethereal, cloud-like appearance.
By midday, reach Naina Peak (2,311 m / 8,622 ft), the highest point of the trek and home to the Forest Department’s wireless station powered by solar energy. From here, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges through a telescope. A short walk further down offers a breathtaking view of Nainital town and its lake.
Enjoy a packed lunch near the summit.
Set up camp near Naina Peak / designated forest camping zone.
Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
- Day 04: Naina Peak – Kilbury Forest – Kilbury Rest House
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Forest Rest House / CampsiteBegin the descent after breakfast, trekking through the dense oak and rhododendron forests of Kilbury. This stretch is particularly rewarding for birding, with chances to spot Koklass and Kalij Pheasants, Grey-winged Blackbird, Black Redstart, and Bar-tailed Treecreeper.
The forest is also home to mammals such as the leopard, the Himalayan black bear, civets, porcupines, sambar, barking deer, and wild boar. You may encounter local villagers collecting fodder and firewood, adding a cultural element to the journey.
Arrive at the Kilbury Forest Rest House by afternoon. Relax and freshen up after the trek.
Dinner and overnight stay at the forest rest house/campsite.
- Day 05: Kilbury – Pangot (Return Trek)
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Jungle Lore Birding LodgeAfter breakfast, continue trekking downhill through forest-lined trails and shaded main roads towards Pangot. The walk is gentler today, allowing time for photography, birdwatching, and soaking in the forest ambience.
Arrive back at Pangot by afternoon. You will be welcomed with refreshments and warm towels. The rest of the day is at leisure.
In the evening, gather around a bonfire to share experiences, sightings, and stories from the trek.
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
- Day 06: Pangot – Departure
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Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: NoneEnjoy a final early morning tea or coffee and some last-minute birdwatching around the lodge.
After breakfast, check out and drive to Kathgodam / Pantnagar for an onward journey, concluding a memorable Himalayan trekking and birding expedition.
