Mukteshwar, an ecological heaven for nature lovers

Post 2023-05-14 14:38:54 |

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By Vishal Lall, Joint Secretary, Green Circle, Dwarka

My recent visit to Mukteshwar was a life-time experience indeed. Situated at about 7500 feet above the sea level in District Almora and 52 KM away from Nainital is still a untouched scenic location in the Himalayas. Mukteshwar gets its name from a 350-year-old Shiva temple called Mukteshwar Dham, situated atop the highest point in the town. I stayed with my friends in a resort called Neelkanth resorts which is little away from the village and is one of the finest resorts, highly environmentally conscious. Interestingly, the locals here are very much conscious of the plastic usage and are leading eco-friendly life. One can see, ‘No Poly Bag’ slogans everywhere. Even at the temple prasad is given in cloth bags. Still the locals are following the ethnic ways of eating food, sitting on the floor. One can have a clear view of Himalayas, especially India’s second highest peak Nanda Devi can be seen from Mukteshwar. The average temperature never crosses 24 degree, though occasionally the same had been recorded at 31 degrees maximum. Best period for visiting is March to June, in my opinion.  We have beautiful bird life as I experienced. At times I clicked beautiful birds in my smart phone and referred to my friends to know the names. Some of the wonderful birds I saw were Great barbet, Himalayan bulbul and striated laughing thrush. I felt like knowing more about birds. Besides the temple, one can think of visiting the 60 feet Bhalu Gaad Waterfall which is called the Rainbow Waterfall by the locals. The gorgeous view from the Chauli Ki Jaali is another unforgettable experience. Located on a cliff behind the Mukteshwar temple, the revitalizing panoramic view of the enthralling valleys of the Kumaon region will make you feel that you have reached the heaven on earth. It is a favourite trekking spot for adventurers.In a nutshell, I will put my trip to Mukteshwar as one of the unforgettable life time experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Otherwise a sleeping village, Mukteshwar Is God’s own abode on earth, I believe.