Uttarakhand, a state in northern India crossed by the Himalayas, is known for its Hindu pilgrimage sites.
And Guess what, there is no need of Covid negative reports at the border anymore, you just need an e-pass and that is all. If in case your home-stay or hotel requires the report, that's a different thing so need to first check with them before planning out!
Simply Heaven Uttarakhand or Uttaranchal is known for its natural beauty of the Himalayas, the Bhabhar and the Terai grasslands and savannas. The Simply Heaven on earth, Uttarakhand is often referred to as the Devbhumi or Land of the Gods due to the many Hindu temples and pilgrimage centre,
Here is a list of 5 such places in Uttarakhand that are still untouched and want to be explored.
Mandal is ideal for de-stressing, relaxation and invigoration. Away from clutters of the city, this quaint little village lies on the way to Rudranath Temple pilgrimage in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, near Chakrata. Ideal for a laid-back retreat, Mandal is known for complete digital detox holidays as the place has no connection of telephone and internet, hence refrains people from using mobile phones and laptops during their stay.
Major attractions: Anusuya Devi Temple and Atri Muni Ashram
How to reach: Dehradun Railway station (107 kms) is closest to Mandal. From there, drive via Mussorie Road and Chakrata to reach Mandal. Situated at a distance of 130 kms, Jolly Grant is the nearest airport to Mandal.
Verdant forests, sprawling meadows, valleys and snow-laden mountains welcome you at Chopta with open arms. This is a popular stopover, en-route to trekking destinations like Chandrashila and Tungnath and offers breath taking beauty and absolute solace of mind and soul. Chopta is among the most offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand for those in search for a lesser known trekking trail. I visited here back in 2018 and there was no telecom reception or electricity. People were living off the solar panels.
Major attractions: Tungnath, Deoria Tal, Ukhimath, Chandrashila and Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary.
How to reach: Jolly Grant airport is 97 kms and Dehradun railway station is 100 kms from Chopta. Easily connected to roads via Rishikesh, devaprayag, Srinagar and the Kedar highway.
Located midway on Chamba-Mussorie road, Kanatal is one of the finest offbeat places in Uttarakhand known for incredible views and exciting adventure activities. So, for those, who wish to spend some secluded time amid nature or enjoy some super thrilling adventure like camping, trekking, rappelling, rock climbing and valley crossing; Kanatal make a perfect choice.
Major attractions: Surkanda Devi Temple and Kodia Forest.
How to reach: Regular buses and private cabs travel from Dehradun up to Kanatal, which is 77 kms away.
Perched on the banks of Saraswati River, 24 kms away from Indo-Tibet border, Mana Village is another scenic yet absolutely offbeat destination of Uttarakhand. Serene forests, mountain stream and mighty Himalayan ranges all around make the place look outstandingly beautiful. Mana village is located near Badrinath Temple; hence pilgrims on their way to the holy abode, pay a visit to this quaint hamlet. Other than spectacular beauty and spiritual significance, Mana Village is endowed with mythological history and heritage as well. Many sources believe that the great epic Mahabharata was written here by Vyasdev.
Major attractions: Vyas Guha- a pre-historic mountain cave, dated 5000 years ago and Bhim Pul- a wooden bridge on Saraswati River and the famous Hindustan ki akhri chai ki dukaan(You don't wanna miss that feel)
How to reach: Take train up to Haridwar, which is 275 kms away. Then hire a private cab and drive through Badrinath and Joshimath towns to reach Mana Village.
With lush deciduous forests adding more to the scenic charm of this district in Pithoragarh, Abbott Mount is nothing less than a photographer’s dream. Being a perfect spot for bird-watching and having a laid back vacation, this place tops the list of unexplored places in Uttarakhand. You can go for various treks in the region or simply have a relaxing weekend getaway admiring the beauty from the comfort of your accommodation. It is also one of the dark tourism sites in Uttarakhand. Will be writing about it in the upcoming blogs.
Major attractions: Pancheshwar, Lohaghat and Vanasur ka kila
How to reach: The nearest railway stations include Tanakpur and Kathgodam. With a mere 80 kms distance, you can reach Abbott Mount from Tanakpur by hiring a cab from the railway station. You can also book a flight as the nearest airport is Pantnagar airport and from there, you’ll have to rent a cab again.
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