Pangot is a picturesque mountain hamlet in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India — located roughly 13‑15 km from Nainital town, at an elevation of around ~2,100 m (6,900 ft) above sea level. It is best known today as a bird‑watching haven, nestled in oak‑, pine‑ and rhododendron‑dominated forests, with numerous nature trails, forest streams and surrounding wildlife.
Bird‑Watching Here is Special
- The region around Pangot and the adjoining Kilbury Bird Sanctuary supports 250 + recorded bird species (some sources mention up to 300‑350+).
- Because of its elevation, forest cover and mix of resident + migratory birds, it offers sightings of Himalayan / hill‑zone species as well as valley/woodland birds.
- The setting is less tourist‑commercial than many hill stations: quiet village lanes, forest walks, streams, and a relaxed pace, which makes the bird‑watching experience quite immersive.
Key Birding Spots & Trails
Woodpecker Point (Pokhra Dhar) - About a 2 km walk from Pangot on a gentle trail (old British bridle path + main road). It features a shallow pool (“Pokhar”) beside which birds gather. Species such as brown‑fronted and grey‑hooded woodpeckers, maroon oriole, verditer flycatcher are reliably seen.
Pangot Nala - A small stream that flows year‑round, about 1 km from the village on the route towards Kilbury. Walk along the stream and you’ll find spots for picnic or bird‑watching (spotted forktails, long‑billed thrushes, brown wood owls).
Forest walks toward Cheena Peak, Timla Pani, Ggughu Khan, and the Kilbury forest rest house. These trails offer birding opportunities deep in the woods.
Birds You Might See
Some of the notable birds include.
- Raptors & vultures : Himalayan griffon, bearded vulture (lammergeier) – especially in winter.
- Pheasants & partridges : Kalij pheasant, Koklass pheasant in historical records.
- Woodpeckers : Rufous‑bellied woodpecker, Himalayan woodpecker, brown‑fronted woodpecker.
- Warblers / flycatchers / thrushes: Ultramarine flycatcher is known from the region.
- Stream‑side birds : Spotted forktail along the Nala.
- More than 250 species overall, with lists mentioning 300‑350+, and some claims up to 580 bird species (though that may include broader area).
Best Time to Visit
- The prime season is October to June, when birds (including residents and migrants) are active.
- December‑January : Great for upper‑Himalayan species and crisp cold weather.
- April‑May : Breeding season, bird activity high, greenery fresh.
- Monsoon (July–September) : The forest is lush, but heavy rains may hamper trails / bird‑watching.
How to Reach & Stay
- Nearest Major Railway : Kathgodam (~34 km) from Pangot.
- Nearest airport : Pantnagar Airport (~70 km) from Nainital/Pangot.
- From Nainital (13–15 km) by road. The drive itself passes through forested slopes via Snow View Point and Cheena Peak range.
- Accommodation : Eco‑lodges, birding lodges (for example the well‑known Jungle Lore Birding Lodge) in Pangot, which cater especially to birders with guided walks.
Practical Tips for Bird‑Watchers
- Carry good binoculars / telephoto camera lens : Many species are in forest canopy or along streams.
- Go early in the morning (dawn to mid‑morning) when bird activity is highest.
- Wear suitable clothing : neutral colours (khaki, olive), sturdy walking shoes. In cooler months, warm layers
- Hire a local birding guide (available at lodges) – they know the trails, birds and behaviour.
- Respect the forest : stay on trails, avoid loud noise, no littering.
- Weather check : early summer is pleasant; winters get cold. Monsoon might bring rain/mud.
- Stay sufficiently powered : mobile signal may be patchy in deep forest; carry water, snacks, insect repellent.
- Timing : If you also want mountain views (Himalayan peaks) along with birds, aim for clearer months (spring or autumn).
- If staying overnight : choose a lodge with easy access to trails, and ideally some bird‑activities offered.
Activities & places
- Early‑morning nature walks/trails through oak/pine forest, terrace fields, streams.
- Specific birding spots : Woodpecker Point, Pangot Nala, trails to Kilbury, Timla Pani, Cheena Peak.
- Photography Bird photography, forest/stream scenes, Himalayan views.
- Trekking & nature exploration : Gentle to moderate walks; some longer treks connect to forest rest houses.
- Relaxation : Enjoy peace, village strolls, local hamlet life, forest ambience.
