Pithoragarh, the eastern most district of Kumaon, is bordered by Tibet on the north and Nepal on the east. The town is situated in a small valley 2 Km by 5 Km. Popularly known as the Soar Valley, it lies at the centre of four hills - Chandak, Dhwaj, Thal Kedar and Kundar. This lesser known part of Kumaon is very picturesque and often referred to as ‘Mini Kashmir’. 

Pithoragarh was once a stronghold of the Chand Rajas, and the temples and ruined fort bear witness to their rule. The town lay on the old trade route to Tibet and is still en route the sacred trail to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.