If you are looking for an offbeat destination away from the crowds that throng Nainital, then Peora is the perfect place to enjoy solitude and bliss. Cradled in the lap of the Himalayas, the village of Peora in the Nainital district is perched at 2,011 metres above sea level. The small Kumaoni hamlet is sparsely scattered on the slopes of contoured valleys, and is surrounded by dense pine forests. The lush green surroundings combined with the picture-perfect views of the snow-clad Himalayas are a treat to the senses.
Peora can be visited all year round, with the summers providing a respite from the heat and the winters being ideal to see snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Here’s what you can expect from a visit there.
Step into Peora, and you will find British-era bungalows interspersed with the villagers' traditional roofs. As you walk the narrow alleys and pathways, you will see life here is deeply interwoven with the land. The scenic beauty of the snow-capped mountains, juicy fruit-laden trees, and green meadows in the spring and summer make Peora a hidden gem of Uttarakhand.
Furthermore, the village's rich biodiversity attracts a number of nature lovers. Animals such as wild boar, deer, nilgai, jackals and foxes live alongside birds like the Himalayan bulbul, red junglefowl, the kalij pheasant, blue magpies and black francolins. The trees here are primarily sal, pine, oak, kaphal and buransh. Peora’s fertile land bears pears, plums, peaches and apples, making it a colourful feast for birds and humans during harvesting season.
The forests and woods of Peora make it perfect for hiking adventures. Just ask any local about their favourite trails and follow them. While trekking, you will be able to experience the splendid views of the majestic Shivalik ranges and keep an ear out for the birds, who are particularly sonorous in the sunnier months. You can consider traversing the 20-kilometre route from Peora to Mukteshwar which passes through lush forests, or trek to the Syahi Devi Temple of Shitlakhet, 31 kilometres away. Those who like a slower pace of life can consider a relaxing stroll through the woods and village.
The picturesque beauty of Peora makes it a great place to have a picnic. Buy seasonal produce in the village market and check with your accommodation provider about their favourite picnicking spots and you’re good to go.
Since Peora is replete with orchards, one of the top things to do in the village is collecting fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, apricots, pomegranates and plums with the farmers' permission. You can even indulge in mushroom picking but have an expert at hand to help you distinguish the edible from the poisonous ones.
Just 10 kilometres from Peora is the Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, one of the top places to visit near Peora. It is believed to be thousands of years old and was built by the Katyuri dynasty (circa 1st century BCE). This temple of Lord Shiva is built on the confluence of the Shakuni and Fadka rivers, and its picturesque location fills people with a deep sense of bliss and contentment.
Lying 20 kilometres from Peora, the hill station of Mukteshwar is a sight for sore eyes. Rich in natural beauty and enchanting scenic surroundings, the village is located at an altitude of 2,171 metres and derives its name from the popular Mukteshwar Temple. The town offers panoramic views of the mighty Nanda Devi Peak and other mountains in the Himalayas. The charm of visiting this place lies in enjoying nature, listening to the wind passing through deodar forests, birdwatching and meditative activities.
Situated 21 kilometres from Peora is Almora, a spiritual place thanks to its many notable temples, including Kasar Devi, Nanda Devi, Doli Daana, Shyayi Devi, Khakmara, Asht Bhairav, Jakhandevi and more. It, too, is surrounded by thick forests of pine, deodar and fir trees, with the Koshi and Suyal rivers flowing alongside it. Almora was the seat of Chand kings that ruled over the Kumaon Kingdom and is considered the cultural heart of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
Book accommodation at the five-star Orchard at Peora Estates, the Mer Homestay, the Blue Magpie Homestay, Meraki Living, the Dak Bungalow and the Dhara Homestay.
Take the train to Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM) or a flight to Pantnagar Airport (PGH). From these places, take a bus or taxi to Peora.
