u/Interesting_Pain_507

Took the train from Delhi to Kathgodam and hopped on a rented NTORQ 125 for a high-intensity 2-day Kumaon sprint. Covered ~280 km across the lake district and high ridges.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Kathgodam → Bhimtal → Sattal → Bhowali → Kainchi Dham → Nainital (Stay)

Day 2: Naina Peak → Kilbury → Pangot → Mukteshwar → Ramgarh → Dhanachuli → Kathgodam

The Experience:

Most of the route was pure bliss, but the NTORQ really had to grunt on the steep climb to Pangot and the narrow broken patches near Dhanachuli. Doing this in 2 days was a total hustle, but the empty roads near Sattal and the Nanda Devi views from Mukteshwar made the saddle soreness worth it. Much more peaceful than the crowded Nainital Mall Road.

Approximate Costs:

Scooty Rent (NTORQ): ₹500–600/day

Stay (1 night): ₹250 (Nainital Youth hostel)

Food: ₹500/day

Total Distance: ~285 km

Mileage: ~35-40 km/l (uphill climbs take a toll!)

Short, sharp, and soaked in mountain air. That NTORQ is a beast for scooty touring!