Holidaying – the connotation of the word may vary from person to person. Some people prefer to do it lavishly while for many it should be an escape to a clam & quiet place. But whatever way may it be done, it should be an effort that soothe the soul. If you agree with us, then Uttarakhand is the place that best suits your purpose. Famously known as Devbhumi, or the Land of the Gods, this north Indian state is a land of untouched natural beauty and sublime spirituality.
To relax you away from your busy and hectic schedule of city life, here we are detailing some of its less-known yet attractive destinations, where Nature blooms with its serene beauty.
Binsar :
In the lap of the Himalayas, Binsar is a very beautiful place of Uttarakhand where people go in search of peace and relaxation. Surrounded with luxurious green forests and wrapped in pine, oak, deodar trees, this small town set has a number of tourist attractions including green meadows, temples and the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Perched at an elevation of 2420 metres, the main attraction of Binsar is the 300 kms of majestic and panoramic view of Himalayan peaks from Zero point. This compact hill town’s thick foliage creates a favourable atmoshpere for rare animals, birds and flower species.
Trekking is a much opted activity over here. Located at 30-minute away from Almora, Binsar has got more homestay options than hotels which remains fully booked all through the year. So if you are planning to give a visit to the place and want to live in its Homestay experiences, then it will be better to book for it in advance.
Chakrata :
Known as a picturesque picnic spot, Chakrata in Dehradun District of Uttarakhand State of India is a secluded hill station and is located on top of the Yamuna valley, amidst gorgeous green forests, caves and ancient temples. Chakrata’s placid atmosphere will mesmerise you and if you are fond of adventures, then this place will not disappoint you at all. You can find many hikings and small treks around Chakrata and few famous waterfalls like Tiger waterfall in order to content your adventure desires. During winter, the alpine meadows offers skiing opportunities as well.
As it is a military cantonment area, Foreign tourists are required to obtain a permit from the Commandant 22 Force c/o 56 APO to visit Chakrata. Secondly, if possible, avoid visiting Chakrata in the monsoons season, since the routes can get slippery and the region is prone to unexpected landslides and road blocks.
Chopta :
Seated at the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Chopta is also considered as ‘Mini Switzerland’ of India. This small region’s undulating green meadows and splendid Himalyan peaks have granted such unique title to the place. In winters, this region covers with layers of snow providing a majestic view to the onlookers.
Trekkers here can enjoy nights under the shelter of stars in camps. They can even avail lodges in their mid-ways. After spending a night in Chopta, tourists can proceed to Tungnath Temple – the highest Shiva Shrine in the world situated at an altitude of 3680 meters.
Due to its high altitude, Chopta is mostly covered with snow. Do plan to come here between December to February, and you will get a chance to see various types of animals along with snowfall.
Chaukori :
Chaukori is one of the hidden jewels of Uttarakhand and because of its less tourist activities it remains unspoilt throughout the year. Based at an elevation of 2,010 metres above sea level, this dreamy village exhibits the most beautiful view of dawn and dusk. Even the nights are pleasant over here as one can behold an exquisite view of galaxy.
Kedar Temple, Ghunsare Temple, Kapileeshwar Mahadev Cave Temple are some of the beautiful places to be explored here.
One thing that makes Chaukori distinct is its luscious tea gardens spreading the aroma of the fresh green tea leaves. The tea gardens here were established by the Britishers during the pre-independence period.
Chaukori’s salubrious mountain air, chirping birds and crimson sun rays kissing snow laden Himalayas will make you forget everything.
Khirsu :
Khirsu is Uttarakhand’s one of the offbeat destinations, which has managed to slip under the radar of the popular tourist trail and thus is a loner’s paradise.This quaint town is absolutely rejuvenating and can be an ultimate destination for your vacation away from the daily grind. The charm of this mellow village is gradually being discovered with more and more tourists visiting the small town every year.
This peaceful hill village is located at a distance of 15 km from Pauri Garhwal and can easily accessible by air, rail and road.
