Kausani is the very picture of idyll. The geology of the Kumaon has three distinct components. Intermittent with a multitude of deodar-fringed trails you would be happy to get lost in, Ranikhet sits at an elevation of 1,869 metres. Almora: The picturesque hill station of Almora, at an altitude of 1650 m, is one of the few hill stations not created by the British. At the top, there are powerful binoculars for a close-up view of Nanda Devi, situated 7817 m above sea level. Top experiences: If you plan on extending the trip, trek up to the Milam and Ralam glaciers; head to the village of Darkot and load up on pashmina shawls and locally-grown herbs; stop for pictures along the road from Darkot – Madkot – Jaulijibi that runs along the pristine Gori Ganga river; keep a few hours aside to visit the shimmering Birthi Falls. two regions and administrative divisions of Uttarakhand, the 27th state of the Union of India carved out Kumaon, with an area of 21,035 sq km, is situated in the north Indian state of Uttaranchal (formerly part of Uttar Pradesh). Our journey starts from Delhi. The intricately carved doors and panels have been removed to the National Museum in Delhi as a protective measure after the 10th-century idol of the presiding deity was stolen. The submontane strips were up to 1850 an almost impenetrable forest, given up to wild animals; but after 1850 the numerous clearings attracted a large population from the hills, who cultivated the rich soil during the hot and cold seasons, returning to the hills in the rains. It is an important army town and the headquarters of the Kumaon regiment. After seven hours and 305 kilometres, we reach Uttarakhand's village of Pangot. Where to stay: Neemrana's Bungalows and Keiths Riverside Cottages. The greater Himalayas is mainly composed of granites. Mukteshwar presents a panoramic view of the snow-clad Himalayas in early summer and autumn. Where to stay: Ojaswi Resort and Chestnut Grove. We head to the town of Almora next and after an hour or so, arrive in the pristine valley of Binsar via the NH309A. Its ethereal sunrise and a 300-km-wide view of the Himalayan range have attracted thousands of visitors to this place time and again. Uttarayani Mela is held at a number of places including Bageshwar, Rameshwar, Salt Mahadev, Chitrashila (Ranibagh), Pancheshwar, etc., on Uttarayani day. Though not developed as a tourist center, Ranikhet is a delightful place to spend some time. Boulders and shingles are found closer to the hills while clay and sand are transported to larger distances. The Kumaon Hills came under British rule after the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–16). On a hilltop facing east (opposite Almora), is the temple of Katarmal. There are good views and spectacular sunsets over the plains from Hanuman temple, 3 km south of Tallital. The region extends from the northern end of the Gangetic plains right up to Tibet. This is a suggested route for the Kumaon region road trip: Delhi – Pangot – Almora – Binsar – Sheraghat – Berinaag – Munsiyari – Chaukori – Kausani – Mukteshwar – Ranikhet – Delhi. You'll drive through, and leave behind pine forests, trees camouflaged by moss, mooing cattle and a multitude of century-old Kumaoni homes that have now been transformed into heritage hotels and resorts. For more options, check here. Childless couples also come here in large numbers to evoke blessings for the gift of a child.