The town of Kathgodam, as the name literally suggests ‘timber depot’,is nestled on the banks of Gaula River. This town is located at an average altitude of 554 metres about 1,817 feet above sea level in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the important collection centres for the forest products, obtained from the Kumaon region of the state of Uttarakhand. Kathgodam was only a small village and it became popular when it was brought on the Railway Map of India by theBritish. It, being the last railroad extension of the region, offers an entry point to the Kumaon region especially popular destinations like Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, Almora, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh. Kathgodam forms a part of Haldwani-Kathgodam Municipal council which was established in 1942. This is now the second largest municipal council of the state.
Kathgodam propels immense simplicity and exuberance at the same time. It serves as an important hub for the trade and commerce in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The town-village features some of the famous tourist attractions that can be easily accessed from here such as the Sheetla Devi temple, Hedakhan Ashram, Kalichaud temple and the Corbett Falls.
One can also visit the huge dam erected on the tranquil Gola River, which is a home to several migratory birds during their seasonal visits. Kathgodam is located in the proximity of Nainital, the tourists can explore places like the Mall Road, Snow View, Astronomical Observatory, and Hanuman Garhi or enjoy a shopping spree at The Flats. One can also go for picnics and short excursions to the nearby places like Sattal and Bhimtal from Kathgodam.
