Forest Rest Houses (FRHs) in Kumaon are serene government-run accommodations nestled deep in Uttarakhand's lush forests, often located in wildlife sanctuaries, near rivers, or on scenic hilltops. They offer a rustic yet charming way to explore untouched natural beauty. Here's a list of some notable FRHs in the Kumaon region:

🌲 Popular Forest Rest Houses in Kumaon

1. Kilbury Forest Rest House (Nainital District)

• Location: Near Pangot, in the Naina Devi Bird Sanctuary
• Altitude: ~2,200 m
• Highlights: Exceptional birdwatching, forest trails, sunrise views
• Tip: Combine with a stay in Pangot for extended birding trips

2. Dhikala Forest Rest House (Corbett National Park)

• Location: Core zone of Corbett Tiger Reserve
• Highlights: Elephant grasslands, tiger spotting, Ramganga reservoir
• Note: Booking through Corbett official website is mandatory and fills up early

3. Lohachaur FRH (Corbett Buffer Zone)

• Location: Along the Ramganga River
• Vibe: Remote and peaceful with high chances of spotting wildlife
• Access: Entry via Durgadevi gate

4. Mukteshwar FRH

• Location: On a forested ridge near Mukteshwar town
• Views: Panoramic Himalayan views, apple orchards
• Nearby: IVRI campus, ancient Shiva temple

5. Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary FRH

• Location: Askot, near Pithoragarh
• Specialty: Rare Himalayan musk deer habitat, rhododendron forests
• Adventure: Ideal for treks toward Darma or Johar Valleys

6. Binsar Forest Rest House (Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary)

• Location: Inside the sanctuary near Zero Point
• Elevation: ~2,420 m
• Unique: Old British-era rest house, 300° views of snow-capped peaks
• Access: Must pay sanctuary entry fee and stay inside the park

7. Chaukori FRH

• Location: Tea garden zone, overlooking Himalayan ranges
• Known for: Tranquil sunsets, forests and views of Nanda Devi

8. Ranikhet FRH

• Location: In pine forests above the town
• Vibe: Colonial charm, accessible yet tucked away
• Nearby: Jhula Devi temple, Chaubatia orchards

📝 Booking Tips

• Official Portal: Most forest rest houses are booked via the Uttarakhand Forest Department – https://forest.uk.gov.in
• Offline: Some require contacting the DFO (Divisional Forest Officer) of the area
• Essentials: Carry your ID, some FRHs have no meal services (bring dry food/snacks)

Details of other FRH’s are mentioned below..