Kumaon Mountain Views

Mountain View

Best resorts in Himalayas always strive to give its guests panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges visible from this part of India. A number of majestic Himalayan ranges are visible from our boutique resort Kalmatia Sangam. The guest cottages are built with the aim to give a spectacular view of the snow clad peaks. Because of the elevation where Kalmatia Sangam is situated the weather remains mild even during the height of summers. Also you will be surrounded by thick forest which is typical to this region.


Our cottages open out to veranda and sun terrace with great view of the mountain and you can catch the sun rise and set casting beautiful golden hue over the distant peaks. The Himalayan region covers a span of 2400Km long arc from west to east bordering India and a number of countries in the north. A part of this is visible from our resort providing a remarkable spectacle for the guests. The great Nanda Devi range visible from Kumaon region is the second highest range in India with an elevation of 7816m from the sea level.

View of the Nanda Devi from the resort

The most visible range from Kalmatia Sangam is the Trishul mountain with the elevation of 7120m. It is a group of three great Himalayan peaks in this region. These three peaks together form a trident like view, a weapon of Lord Shiva. Another great Himalayan peak in this region is Panchachuli with an elevation of 6905m. It is great to use this part for base camp for trekking.

Nanda Kot with an elevation of 6861m lies in the Kumaon Himalayas. The name Nanda Kot means ‘Nanda’s Fortress’. It is known to be the home of Goddess Parvati.

The visitors to this part of India can enjoy the rare treat of catching the terrific view of the majestic Himalayas provided by best resorts in Himalayas like Kalmatia Sangam.

The Birds of Himalayas

The city dwellers often think of places to visit which are far away from the pollution, traffic and fast paced lifestyle. Himalaya tour is often an answer to their wishes to get away from it all. A popular place around this region is Almora in Kumaon District in Uttarakhand.

Himalayan Magpie

KalmatiaSangam, in Almora, a resort in the middle of tropical vegetation is a great place to unwind and indulge in activities which are pleasant to the body and mind. Some travelers also take a great deal of interest in bird watching as this region is famous for large number of native as well as migratory birds.

Our cottages are also named after the many birds that are found in this region. For a bird watcher it will be good to know a little about some of the birds found here. Himalayan Magpie or Red Billed Blue Magpie as the name suggests is a blue colored bird with a bright orange red bill. You can spot this bird in the thick foliage surrounding our property, hunting for small invertebrates, fruits and seeds.

The biggest and the most spacious cottage in KalmatiaSangam is Eagle’s Nest named after the Golden Eagle which frequent this area. They are dark brown in color with golden brown plumage on their napes. They like to nest in high elevation and can fly at a very high level.

Hoopoe

Hoopoe is an attractive bird found in this region. They are unmistakable with their erect crest, long curved bill, pinkish or buff colored body plumage and black and white striped tail.

The bird found in pheasant family in this region is Himalayan Monal. The males of this species are more attractive with multicolored plumage and green crest. They are endangered and their hunting is banned.

The Blue Whistling Thrush are dark violet blue in color. They are known for their loud humanlike whistling at dawn and dusk.  Another song bird found in this region is Great Grey Shrike.

A difficult to spot species of bird is the Bar Tailed Tree Creeper. This bird has striped feather patterned usually in black, brown, white or red. Because of their color they blend in well with the foliage.



The Scaly Breasted Munia found in this area is a small sparrow sized bird. It is brown in color with dark conical bill. They build domed shaped nests and eat berries, seeds and small insects.
The area along the Himalaya tour is scenic and beautiful with natural glory at its best.

A Walk Through The Himalayan Forests

The northern most part of India is characterized by elevated landscape owing to the slopes of the mighty Himalayas. Nestled among the luxurious flora typical to this region is a small township, Almora, located in the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. The city dwellers are attracted to this area for its natural beauty in form of remarkable view of the peaks of the Himalayan ranges and abundance of the native flora of the region. KlamatiaSangam, our Himalayan resort offers to give the visitors a pleasant stay among the natural beauty of the region.

View from the resort

This Himalayan resort is situated seven Kilometers above the Almora town which is at the foothills of the Himalayas.The region is covered with forest belonging to sub-tropical type comprising mostly of deciduous variety of trees and some of sub-temperate forest mostly with evergreen vegetation. While walking to visit the Chitai bell temple or going for treks and picnics you will have to go through these forests. The region is inhabited by almost four thousand species of trees due to its great range of elevation as well as temperature and precipitation.

Chir Pine Forest

The forest cover of this region consists of mainly Sal and Chir/ Pine. Sal is a deciduous type of plant whereas Chir/ Pine are evergreens. Other type of vegetation consists of Vijayasar, Ramal and Faliyal Oak. Another type of forest found in abundance here is Rhododendron with profusion of colorful flowers from its branches. At a slightly higher elevation you can come across Deodar, Horse Chestnut and few categories of Oak trees.

This zone is famous for remarkable variety of birds with magnificent and colorful plumage. The commonly seen bird species are Brown fronted Woodpecker, Bar tailed tree creeper, Scaly breasted Munia, Red beaked blue Magpie, Partridge, Grey Shrike, Himalayan whistling Thrush, Pheasants, Grey headed Flycatcher, Himalayan Woodpecker, Hoopoe, Eurasian Jay, Black headed Jay, Owl, Eagle, Himalayan Cuckoo etc. Area around our Himalayan resort is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Walk through the jungle 

The surrounding region is also home to a number of animals. You will see different types of Monkeys, Langur, Leopard, Kakar, Goral, Fox, Chital etc.

Seasons in Kumaon

Seasons in Kumaon are every bit as beautiful in Summer as they are in Winter, the Kumaon has five very distinct seasons, Monsoon being one of them.

Kalmatia Sangam located in the heart of Kumaon region offers year round trails, treks, getaways and relaxation options from Spring - when it all beings, to Winter - the "Grand Finale".

Spring & Summer

Rainy Day at Kalmatia Sangam

Escape from the furnace of the plains to be greeted by cool, pine scented breezes, the song of birds and a variety of butterflies.

Spring
Blue skies, tender green leaves, blossoming fruit trees, the forests ablaze with rhododendron flowers and magnificent views of the snowy peaks.

Summer
Refreshing rain storms now and then, providing a lucky split in the cloud cover with slight glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. Gardens blooming with wild lilies and sweet scented roses.

Monsoon
With no incessant rains, as in other hill stations, Kumaon is fresh and pleasant. Lush, deep green and with a riot of colours from the many varieties of wild flowers and mushrooms - both edible (Chanterelle) and non-edible.

Chances of sudden, dramatic views of the Himalaya.  A paradise of wild herbs.

Autumn
Lazy, golden days with clear skies and usually crisp, clear Himalayan views.

Snow Covered cottages at Kalmatia Sangam

Wild cherry trees loaded with gorgeous pink and white blossom and the village houses a pretty sight with fat, yellow pumpkins and red chillies drying on the roof tops.

Ideal days for hikes and cosy evenings in front of the "bukhari" wood stove, toasting one's feet to keep out the chill.

Winter
300 km of unhampered Himalayan views; Clear, crisp air as intoxicating as champagne!

Early mornings at Kalmatia Sangam; An island surrounded by an ocean of mists which slowly disperse with the warmth of the rising sun.

Accommodation in Kalmatia Sangam

Almora- a small town in Kumaon district in Uttarakhand is a scenic destination in the foothills of Himalayas. With the majestic mountain ranges surrounding the town, Almora has some of the best resorts in Himalayas. Kalmatia Sangam, a 14 acres property is one of the best places to stay in while you are visiting this region. It is seven kilometers away from the town and is surrounded by lush green flora.

The accommodation in our resort consists of ten cottages spread around the property which are tastefully decorated and provides all types of comforts that you expect in any other premiere establishment. Each cottage has a stunning view of the surrounding mountain ranges. This region is famous for number of exotic bird species, therefore all cottages in our resort is named after birds.

Bedroom, Eagle's Nest Cottage 

If you are coming with a family of four or in a large group, Eagle’s Nest would be the most suitable for your requirement. It is a duplex cottage with a sitting room and a large bedroom. A separate sleeping area is provided for the children. If you have a larger group you can always ask for extra bedding. This cottage is named after various types of eagles which are native to this region.

Another species of bird which frequent this region is Himalayan Magpie. Our octagonal cottage constructed out of stone is named after this bird species. This is one of our small cottages built for a newlywed couple or a small family.

The next cottage is named after a common variety of bird which is found in this region called Himalayan Cuckoo. It has more space and the bedroom is quite spacious to accommodate a family of four. There is a separate living area too. The bedroom is attached to a large sun terrace which gives you a spectacular view of the mountains.

The next cottage is called Hoopoe which is another common bird species found here. It is situated below Cuckoo and is also quite spacious to accommodate a family with children. It has a bedroom with double bedding and a small sitting area. Extra bedding can be provided if you ask for it.

Sitting Area, Scarlet Minivet Cottage 

Two common varieties of birds in this region are Pheasant and Patridge. Two of our cottages are names after these. They are built with two level accommodations with a view to accommodate bigger groups or family. They have balconies with mountain view.

Our more compact cottage is called Owl which is a common species in this area. This cottage is set on a lower level nearer to the reception. This is ideal for elderly or a single person. This cottage provides twin bedding and a small sitting area. There is a veranda with sitting arrangement.

Scarlet Minivet is a tropical bird with a black and scarlet body. Our next cottage is named after this bird species. The stone cottage bearing the name of this bird is similarly built like owl.

Kalmatia Sangam, one of the best Himalayan resorts, provides you with a comfortable accommodation and makes your stay a memorable one.

A Visit To The Binsar Wildlife Santuary

The Kumaon region in Uttarakhand is famous for its natural beauty, fresh clean air and snow capped Himalayan peaks. Among such scenic surrounding Kalmatia Sangam offers you a holiday which will refresh your body and mind. It is a destination resort which is set on a hill top 10 KMs away from Almora town. The clean mountain air and the scenic beauty will rejuvenate you and help you appreciate the view of great peaks of Himalayas and the flora and fauna found in this region. The drive from Kathgodam to the resort is a wonderful experience when you get the first sight of the Himalayan peaks and look down upon the green valleys and rippling river below, while you head towards the resort.

We, at this destination resort aspire to spoil you with a comfortable stay with proper amenities and tasty food. We plan out some activities for you so that you are able to enjoy all the things that this place has to offer. A trip to Binsar Wild Life Sanctuary is worth a visit while you are holidaying with us.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is set in the deep forest, 33 Km from Almora. It is a home for many birds, out of which number of them are migratory. So if you are a bird watcher or interested in wildlife Binsar Sanctuary is the place which will hold your interest. The sanctuary is also meant to conserve and protect the broad leaf Oak forest which is an endangered species. There are about 200 species of bird found in this region like Laughing Thrush, Forktail, Nuthatches, Blackbirds, Parakeets, Monal, types of Pheasant, Magpies, and Woodpeckers etc.

Situated on the slopes of the mountain Binsar Sanctuary has Rhododendron and Oak forest at the higher level and a vast expanse of Pine forest at the lower level. The place is thriving with alpine flora, hanging moss, ferns and wild flowers. The serene atmosphere will allow you to enjoy the gifts the nature has to offer among their natural surroundings. The view of the Himalayan peaks from the sanctuary is spectacular.

The sanctuary is the home of many animals like Leopard, Musk Deer, Chital, Black Bear, Pine Marten, Langur, Fox, Monkeys, Porcupine, Ghoral etc. You will find a wide range of butterflies flitting in the forest as well as many reptiles and invertebrates.

Spend the day in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary walking through the Rhododendron forest along the gushing streams and enjoy the hearing the sounds of birds singing among the tranquility of the surroundings.

A Soul Inspiring Visit- Kalmatia Sangam

Nestled in the foothills of Himalayas, amongst variety of lush green flora, rests the town of Almora. This tiny town of Himalaya has inspired many a famous personalities. Its peaceful surroundings encouraged philosopher like Swami Vivekanand to come here for meditation and peace. The mighty Himalayas act as a backdrop for the travelers who want to come here for a holiday getaway. In spite of its size the city has to offer a lot in terms of tourism.

Chitai Bell Temple

If you are looking for resorts in Himalayas, Kalmatia Sangam near Almora is the place! Spread over 14 acres this resort rests on a hilltop enjoying great view of the mountain. We at Kalmatia Sangam strive to provide a comfortable and stress free holiday with delectable food and interesting activities.

Most of the resorts in Himalyas appeal to your spiritual experience and we at Kalmatia Sangam offer you the same with a visit to the many ancient temples that exists in this part of the country. The temple visit is one of our most interesting activities that we organize for the guests.

 Kasar Devi Temple

The walk to Chitai Bell temple will take you through beautiful green vegetation of fur and pine forests. It is the temple of Golu Devta, the God of justice. People who come here can make a wish by writing on stamp paper or letters to the God. Once their wish is fulfilled a brass bell is hung as an offering for the fulfillment of the wish of the devotee. This temple is characterized by thousands of brass bells hanging on its premises.

The other temple which is within easy reach of the resort is the Kasar Devi temple. It is one of oldest temple here dating back to 2^nd century. The deity who is worshiped here is Kasar Devi. This temple is situated at the gateway of Kasar village and approach to the temple is a walk through Deodar and Pine forest. The area affords us a view of the majestic peaks of the Himalayas too.

Jageshwar Temples

Jageshwar temples are not very far from the resort and can be visited easily. This actually is a cluster of 150 temples built between 8^th and 16^th century. The temples are magnificent and have beautiful carvings. The most important among the 150 are Mritunjaya and Jyotirlinga.  The Dandeshwar temple complex is also nearby for you to visit.

Another temple which is worth visiting is Katarmal Sun temple. This temple is around 800 years old. It is built in such a way that the first rays of the sun falls on the shiva lingam within the temple. The temple is made of stone with pillars with beautiful carvings on them. There are 45 small temples surrounding the main temple.

The temple walk is one of our main activities that we recommend to our guests. These walks are refreshing and soul inspiring.