Tour Highlights
The Manaskhand Yatra is a deeply spiritual and cultural circuit that takes travelers through the ancient and relatively untouched Kumaon region of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Unlike the Garhwal region (which is famous for the Char Dham Yatra), the Manaskhand circuit focuses on mystical cave temples, ancient stone architecture, and serene spiritual ashrams set against the backdrop of thick oak forests and panoramic Himalayan views.
Day-wise Itinerary
Meet at the Kathgodam Railway Station in the morning. Begin the journey with a short, scenic drive up to the lake districts. Visit the sacred Naina Devi Temple (one of the 51 Shakti Peethas) situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake. Check into your hotel in Nainital or Bhimtal for a relaxing evening by the water.
After breakfast, drive towards the cultural capital of Kumaon, Almora. En route, make a highly anticipated stop at Kainchi Dham, the tranquil ashram of Neem Karoli Baba. Continue to Almora and visit the Katarmal Sun Temple—the second most important sun temple in India after Konark. Overnight stay in Almora.
Begin the day by visiting the Chitai Golu Devta Temple, famous for the thousands of brass bells hung by devotees whose wishes were fulfilled. Proceed to the magnificent Jageshwar Dham to witness its ancient architecture. Later, drive up to the scenic hill station of Chaukori, known for its sprawling tea gardens and majestic views of the Panchachuli peaks. Overnight in Chaukori.
Depart early for an excursion to Patal Bhuvaneshwar. Descend into the deep limestone cave to witness naturally formed rock stalactites representing Hindu mythology. Afterward, visit the powerful Haat Kalika Temple in Gangolihat before continuing the scenic drive to the historical town of Lohaghat. Overnight in Lohaghat.
Spend the day exploring the spiritual heritage of the Champawat district. Visit the serene Mayawati Ashram (Advaita Ashrama) nestled in dense forests, an ideal spot for meditation. Head to the ancient Baleshwar Mahadev Temple, famous for its intricate stone carvings linked to the Pandavas. Overnight in Lohaghat or Champawat.
Begin the descent towards the plains. Arrive in Tanakpur, situated on the banks of the Sharda River. In the afternoon, visit the highly revered Mata Purnagiri Temple (a prominent Shakti Peetha). In the evening, attend the beautiful Aarti and Bhajan sessions at the Sharda River Ghat. Overnight in Tanakpur.
After breakfast, drive back along the foothills to Kathgodam or Haldwani. The tour concludes with a drop-off at the railway station for your onward journey back home.
Inclusions
- Transportation: A dedicated AC vehicle (Innova, Tempo Traveller, or Mini Coach depending on group size) for the entire 7-day circuit starting and ending at Kathgodam.
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star or 4-star equivalent hotel and resort stays on a twin/triple sharing basis across all locations (Nainital, Almora, Chaukori, Lohaghat, Tanakpur).
- Meals: Daily pure vegetarian Breakfast and Dinner (MAP Plan). Kumaoni local cuisine is often featured to enhance the cultural experience.
- Sightseeing & Assistance: Comprehensive coverage of all temples and heritage sites mentioned in the itinerary, driven by a local driver-cum-guide who understands the regional history.
- Toll & Parking: All state taxes, toll taxes, parking fees, and driver allowances.
Exclusions
- Travel to Kathgodam: Any train or flight tickets from your home city to Kathgodam.
- Taxes: 5% GST on the total package cost.
- Lunch: Afternoon meals are generally kept open so travelers can sample local food or eat at dhabas while on the move.
- Entry & Ritual Fees: Any entrance tickets for caves, museums, or boating in Nainital/Bhimtal, as well as voluntary temple donations (dakshina) and VIP darshan tickets.
- Personal Expenses: Room heater charges (often extra in budget hill hotels), laundry, tips, bottled water, or travel insurance.
Registration
- Fill up Booking Form with your details
- Scan & upload passport copy
- Send documents via email
- Transfer booking amount
- Pay remaining 15 days before yatra
- Receive final confirmation