Many of you have heard of pilgrims hiking up to Lohogat in Uttarakhand. But go a little beyond on these mountain paths, and you will come across a hidden perch, which is also touted as the most haunted destination in Uttarakhand. But if you are undeterred by these mystical stories, you should not miss a chance to visit Mount Abbott.
It is a tiny hill-station about 5800 ft from the sea-level, built during the British rule by Mr. John Harold Abbott. As the story goes the bungalow constructed by Mr. Abbott was converted to hospital in 1920’s and that is when the supernatural creatures started to manifest themselves. Locals believe that the spirits of those patients still haunt the place.
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But Mount Abbott has an enchanting beauty that goes way beyond these folktales. Built during the British rule, the Abbott Mount Cottage exudes the charm and cosiness of a cottage in the hills. Flanked by a huge garden and surrounded by flowering trees and shrubs, it is a perfect spot to spend few relaxing days in the mountains.
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Abbott Mount is an ideal place for birding, trekking and photography. The prominent valleys in the Shivalik seen from Abbott Mount are Pithoragarh to its North, Nepal to its East, South-East Champawat, South-West Almora, Chakauri and Gangolihat. Abbott Mount is also the base for the Mahseer fishing in Punchashver.
You should also take a stroll to visit the colonial church and parish, built by the Englishmen. The whole setting seems like a scene from a Victorian novel, and those with romantic inclinations will feel transported to an older landscape.
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The local cuisine is simple and basic. But set against the panorama of the mighty Himalayas, and the various hues that the sky takes on here, it can be an amazing experience.
The best time to visit Mount Abbott is from October to March. Abbott Mount is a remote area but it is well connected by motor able roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand. The nearest railway station is Tanakpur.
So, pack a few novels and your walking shoes to explore the hidden mysteries and the charming wild country at Mount Abbott.
