Kichha, India
Region: Uttarakhand
Geographic Coordinates: 28.920000, 79.500000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 35.0°C (59°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 221965
Language: Hindi
Kichha is a small town situated in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, India. It is located on the banks of the river Kali and surrounded by lush green hills. The town has a rich cultural heritage and historical significance as it was once part of the ancient kingdom of Kumaon and ruled by different dynasties over time. One of its major attractions is Jageshwar Dham temple complex, Which has around 124 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva dating back to the 9th century. The architecture reflects a blend of different styles like Nagara, Dravida, And Indo-Aryan.
Another popular attraction is Giri Sarovar Lake, Which offers stunning views of surrounding hills and holds great religious significance for Hindus. Apart from its natural beauty and historical importance, Kichha also boasts several educational institutions like Pantnagar University that attract students from all over India. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year that showcase its rich cultural heritage. One such festival celebrated with great enthusiasm during Navratri is Ramlila where people enact scenes from Ramayana through plays or dramas. Kichha enjoys good connectivity with other parts of Uttarakhand as well as neighboring states via roadways and railways.
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport located around 70 kilometers away. Kichha offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, Rich cultural heritage, Historical significance making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an offbeat experience in India’s history and culture.
- Kichha is a small town located in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand state in India.
- It may not be a well-known tourist destination, but there are several nearby places that visitors can explore.
- These include:
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Nainital Lake
- Bhimtal Lake
- Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
- Ghorakhal Temple
- Mukteshwar Temple
- Sattal Lake
- Almora Bazaar
- It’s important to note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic some of these attractions may be closed or have restricted access for safety reasons.
- Therefore it’s recommended to check before planning your trip.
- Kichha, located in Uttarakhand, India, is a small town with a diverse range of industries and businesses.
- Agriculture is the primary industry in Kichha, with many farmers growing crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane and vegetables.
- The town has several small-scale textile mills that produce fabrics like cotton, silk and woolen garments.
- There are also food processing units that manufacture products like pickles, jams and juices.
- Kichha is famous for its handicrafts made by local artisans using traditional techniques such as woodcarving and weaving.
- Retail trade is also prominent in the town with numerous shops selling a variety of goods ranging from daily essentials to luxury items.
- Transport services play an important role in Kichha’s economy since it serves as a major transportation hub connecting various parts of the state through its well-developed road network.
- The education sector has several schools and colleges catering to students from nearby areas.
- There are also hospitals and clinics providing medical facilities to people living in the region.
- Battle of Tarain: The famous Battle of Tarain between Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori is believed to have taken place in Kichha in 1191 CE.
- Raja Bhoj: According to local legends, Raja Bhoj, a king from the 11th century, visited Kichha and built a temple here.
- Swami Vivekananda: In 1897, Swami Vivekananda visited Kichha during his journey through Uttarakhand.
- Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi also visited Kichha during his travels across India.
- Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama: The Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama was established in Kichha in 1946 by Swami Virajananda Maharaj, a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
- Drona Sagar Lake: Drona Sagar Lake is located near Kichha and is believed to have been created by Dronacharya from the epic Mahabharata.
- Giri Sarovar Bird Sanctuary: The Giri Sarovar Bird Sanctuary near Kichha is home to several migratory birds such as Siberian cranes, bar-headed geese, and ducks during winters.
- Jaspur Wildlife Sanctuary: Jaspur Wildlife Sanctuary located near Kiccha has animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, etc.
- Hariyali Devi Temple: Hariyali Devi Temple situated on top hill at an altitude about 1650 metres above sea level which provides panoramic views.
- Maa Mansa Devi Temple: Maa Mansa Devi Temple is a famous temple located in Kichha which is dedicated to Maa Mansa Devi who is believed to be the goddess of snakes.
- Jageshwar Dham: A group of ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Chitai Golu Devta Temple: A temple dedicated to the deity Golu Devta known for fulfilling wishes.
- Nanda Devi Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess Nanda Devi.
- Baleshwar Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with intricate carvings and architecture.
- Pancheshwar Mahadev Temple: A temple located at the confluence of River Saryu and River Kali.
- Banasur Ka Kila: An ancient fort believed to be built by Banasura, a demon from Hindu mythology.
- Bhimtal Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by hills and forests ideal for boating and picnicking.
- Garjiya Devi Temple: A famous temple located on a hilltop overlooking River Kosi.
- Jim Corbett National Park: One of India’s oldest national parks known for its tigers, elephants, deer, and birdlife.
- Rudradhari Falls & Caves: Waterfalls cascading down into caves with religious significance in Hindu mythology.
- Holi – This festival of colors is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal in Kichha.
- Diwali – Another major festival celebrated with much fanfare in Kichha is the festival of lights.
- Navratri – A nine-day long festival dedicated to Goddess Durga that is widely celebrated in Kichha.
- Eid-ul-Fitr – The Muslim community in Kichha observes this Muslim festival marking the end of Ramadan.
- Makar Sankranti – A popular event in Kichha celebrating the harvest festival.
- Janmashtami – Lord Krishna’s birth anniversary is an important religious event that is celebrated with much fervor in Kichha.
- Basant Panchami – This springtime Hindu festival celebrates the arrival of spring and marks the beginning of preparations for Holi festivities.
- Raksha Bandhan – A Hindu celebration honoring siblings where sisters tie rakhi on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love and protection.
- Kumaoni cuisine:
- Bhatt ki Churkani
- Aloo ke Gutke
- Baadi
- Jhangora ki Kheer
- Chana Bhatura
- Biryanis:
- Chicken biryani
- Vegetable biryani
- Dhabas:
- Parathas with curd or butter
- Dal makhani with rice or naan bread
- Street food stalls:
- Chaat (spicy snacks)
- Samosas (fried pastry filled with spiced vegetables)
- Pakoras (deep-fried snacks)
- The Royal Palace Restaurant
- Hotel Sheetal Palace
- Sagar Ratna Restaurant
- Punjabi Tadka Restaurant
- Hotel Welcome Inn
Note: These are just some examples based on common cultural practices; there may be other local events specific to certain communities or regions within or around Kichha that aren’t mentioned here but are still significant for those involved.
Popular restaurants in Kichha include:
