Literally meaning timber depot, Kathgodam was a small village in 1901 with a population of 375,[1] though its importance grew rapidly after the railway line was extended here in late 19th century, after it reached Haldwani in 1884.

The advent of the residence of Dan Singh Bist nearby in Beer Bhatti, Jeolikote, and his setting up his major timber depot as the 'Timber King of India'[2] as Chauhan Patta, led to it being called 'Kathgodam'.

From Kathgodam, mountain roads lead to tourist destinations like Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, Binsar, Kausani, Naukuchiyatal and Almora.

Kathgodam is one of the most picturesque locations situated in the Bhabar region, the foothills of Kumaon Himalayas.

Close to Kathgodam are beautiful temples called 'Sheetla devi' and 'Kalichaud' which attract large numbers of devotees from the surrounding region during festivals.