26 Best Hidden Gems in Uttarakhand for a Peaceful Getaway

Uttarakhand, the beautiful state in India, has several offbeat places that are yet to be crowded by tourists. It has Garhwal region in the north and Kumaon in the south. The Dev Bhoomi boasts of Himalayan peaks and numerous hill stations, pilgrimage sites, lakes, caves, valleys, forests and waterfalls. Cultural ethos, water sports, camping, skiing, and wildlife tours are among the top things to do in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand's offbeat hidden gems offer a retreat from tourist hubs, showcasing untouched beauty and tranquility. From secluded mountain villages to pristine valleys, these destinations promise immersive experiences. Whether seeking solitude, spiritual solace, or adventure, Uttarakhand's lesser-explored corners invite exploration.

How to Reach Uttarakhand

When you are visiting the Himalayan state, how to reach Uttarakhand can be one discussion-worthy question. Roadways are the best way to explore the beautiful hilly land as the road connectivity is available both intrastate and interstate. Uttarakhand also has a few airports and railway stations. To plan your Uttarakhand travel guide read the different routes to reach this mesmerising hill station.

Airways: The primary airport in Uttarakhand is Jolly Grant Airport situated in Dehradun. Another important airport is Pantnagar Airport, located in the Kumaon Region.

Railways: Uttarakhand railways have stations that connect the state with Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi, and several other major cities in India. Haridwar, Kathgodam, Rudrapur, Dehradun, and Pantnagar are the stations that make travelling by train easier.

Roadways: Roadways provide the best connectivity in Uttarakhand. Highways like NH 108, 109, 119, 121, 123 and 72A connect the state with the rest of the country. Uttarakhand state offers superior bus accessibility. Taxis are also operational in most destinations in the state.

26 offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand

The Land of God has many great attractions to its name. Among the hidden and offbeat gems to visit in Uttarakhand include:

Sl no.	Location	Temperatures		Major Attractions
		Summer	Winter
1	Munsiyari	15-25°C	-5 to 10°C	Himalayan views, Milam and Ralam Glaciers
2	Binsar	10-20°C	0 to 10°C	Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Himalayan views
3	Chopta	10-25°C	-5 to 10°C	Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak
4	Khirsu	15-25°C	0 to 15°C	Scenic Himalayan views, tranquility
5	Kanatal	10-25°C	0 to 15°C	Tehri Dam view, apple orchards
6	Jalna	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Serene surroundings, forest trails
7	Gwaldam	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Apple orchards, terraced fields
8	Chaukori	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Tea gardens, Himalayan views
9	Lansdowne	15-25°C	0 to 15°C	Oak and pine forests, Bhulla Lake
10	Ramgarh	10-25°C	0 to 10°C	The fruit bowl of Uttrakhand, Fruit orchards, Himalayan views
11	Mukteshwar	10-25°C	0 to 10°C	Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli Ki Jali
12	Kausani	10-25°C	0 to 15°C	Anashakti Ashram, panoramic Himalayan views
13	Pangot	10-25°C	0 to 10°C	Birdwatching, nature trails
14	Ranikhet	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Golf Course, Jhula Devi Temple
15	Lohaghat	15-30°C	5 to 15°C	Abbott Mount, Mayawati Ashram
16	Chamoli	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers
17	Baijnath	15-30°C	5 to 15°C	Baijnath Temple, Kot Bhramari Temple
18	Chamba	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Tehri Dam, Surkanda Devi Temple
19	Dhanaulti	10-25°C	0 to 10°C	Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple
20	Majkhali	15-25°C	0 to 10°C	Chaubatia Orchards, Majhkhali Village
21	Gairsain	20-30°C	5 to 15°C	Emerging summer capital of Uttarakhand
22	Dayara Bugyal	10-20°C	-5 to 5°C	High altitude meadows, trekking
23	Nag Tibba	10-20°C	-5 to 5°C	Trekking, Nag Tibba Temple
24	Pithoragarh	20-30°C	5 to 15°C	Pithoragarh Fort, Askot Sanctuary
25	Champawat	15-30°C	5 to 15°C	Baleshwar Temple, Lohaghat
26	Kathgodam	20-30°C	5 to 15°C	Starting point for various excursions in Kumaon

So, let's go through each location:

• Munsiyari:

How to Reach: Munsiyari can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 322 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 300 km). The journey takes around 10-12 hours by road.

Places to See: Breathtaking views of the Himalayas, Milam and Ralam Glaciers.

Things to Do: Trekking, nature walks, exploring local culture.

• Binsar:

How to Reach: Binsar is accessible by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 150 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 120 km). The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

Places to See: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Things to Do: Birdwatching, nature walks, wildlife spotting.

• Chopta:

How to Reach: Chopta can be reached by road from Dehradun Airport (about 226 km) or Haridwar Railway Station (about 200 km). The journey takes around 8-10 hours by road.

Places to See: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, meadows and dense forests.

Things to Do: Trekking, camping, photography.

• Khirsu:

How to Reach: Khirsu is accessible by road from Dehradun Airport (about 175 km) or Haridwar Railway Station (about 150 km). The journey takes around 6-7 hours by road.

Places to See: Scenic Himalayan views, tranquility.

Things to Do: Nature walks, exploring local temples, enjoying the serene ambiance.

• Kanatal:

How to Reach: Kanatal is accessible by road from Dehradun Airport (about 92 km) or Haridwar Railway Station (about 77 km). The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

Places to See: Tehri Dam view, apple orchards.

Things to Do: Nature walks, camping, adventure activities.

• Jalna:

How to Reach: Jalna can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 75 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 50 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Serene surroundings, forest trails.

Things to Do: Birdwatching, nature walks, photography.

• Gwaldam:

How to Reach: Gwaldam can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 250 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 210 km). The journey takes around 7-8 hours by road.

Places to See: Apple orchards, terraced fields.

Things to Do: Relaxing amidst nature, exploring nearby villages.

• Chaukori:

How to Reach: Chaukori is accessible by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 230 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 190 km). The journey takes around 8-9 hours by road.

Places to See: Tea gardens, Himalayan views.

Things to Do: Enjoying panoramic views, birdwatching, nature walks.

• Lansdowne:

How to Reach: Lansdowne can be reached by road from Dehradun Airport (about 150 km) or Haridwar Railway Station (about 140 km). The journey takes around 4-5 hours by road.

Places to See: Oak and pine forests, Bhulla Lake.

Things to Do: Boating, nature walks, visiting historical sites.

• Ramgarh:

How to Reach: Ramgarh is accessible by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 75 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 50 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Fruit orchards, Himalayan views.

Things to Do: Fruit picking, nature walks, photography.

• Mukteshwar:

How to Reach: Mukteshwar can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 90 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 60 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli Ki Jali.

Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, exploring caves.

 

• Kausani:

 

How to Reach: Kausani is accessible by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 180 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 140 km). The journey takes around 5-6 hours by road.

Places to See: Anashakti Ashram, panoramic Himalayan views.

Things to Do: Sunrise and sunset views, visiting tea gardens, exploring local culture.

• Pangot:

How to Reach: Pangot can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 60 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 20 km). The journey takes around 1-2 hours by road.

Places to See: Birdwatching, nature trails.

Things to Do: Birdwatching tours, trekking, camping.

• Ranikhet:

How to Reach: Ranikhet is accessible by road from Kathgodam Railway Station (about 80 km). The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

Places to See: Golf Course, Jhula Devi Temple.

Things to Do: Golfing, nature walks, exploring local markets.

• Lohaghat:

How to Reach: Lohaghat can be reached by road from Tanakpur Railway Station (about 50 km). The journey takes around 1-2 hours by road.

Places to See: Abbott Mount, Mayawati Ashram.

Things to Do: Exploring colonial architecture, birdwatching, nature walks.

• Chamoli:

How to Reach: Chamoli is accessible by road from Rishikesh (about 200 km) or Haridwar (about 180 km). The journey takes around 6-7 hours by road.

Places to See: Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers.

Things to Do: Trekking, pilgrimage, exploring alpine meadows.

• Baijnath:

How to Reach: Baijnath can be reached by road from Kathgodam Railway Station (about 150 km). The journey takes around 5-6 hours by road.

Places to See: Baijnath Temple, Kot Bhramari Temple.

Things to Do: Temple visits, exploring ancient architecture, photography.

 

• Chamba:

 

How to Reach: Chamba is accessible by road from Rishikesh (about 60 km) or Haridwar (about 50 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Tehri Dam, Surkanda Devi Temple.

Things to Do: Water sports, trekking, nature walks.

 

• Dhanaulti:

 

How to Reach: Dhanaulti can be reached by road from Dehradun (about 60 km) or Mussoorie (about 30 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple.

Things to Do: Adventure activities, camping, nature walks.

• Majkhali:

How to Reach: Majkhali can be reached by road from Kathgodam Railway Station (about 140 km). The journey takes around 4-5 hours by road.

Places to See: Chaubatia Orchards, Majhkhali Village.

Things to Do: Fruit picking, village walks, photography.

• Gairsain:

How to Reach: Gairsain is accessible by road from Dehradun (about 250 km) or Rishikesh (about 230 km). The journey takes around 7-8 hours by road.

Places to See: Emerging summer capital of Uttarakhand.

Things to Do: Explore local culture, visit nearby temples, enjoy scenic views.

• Dayara Bugyal:

How to Reach: Dayara Bugyal can be reached by road from Uttarkashi (about 50 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: High altitude meadows, panoramic views.

Things to Do: Trekking, camping, nature photography.

• Nag Tibba:

How to Reach: Nag Tibba can be reached by road from Dehradun (about 100 km). The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

Places to See: Nag Tibba Temple, panoramic views.

Things to Do: Trekking, camping, birdwatching.

 

• Pithoragarh:

 

How to Reach: Pithoragarh can be reached by road from Pantnagar Airport (about 230 km) or Kathgodam Railway Station (about 180 km). The journey takes around 8-10 hours by road.

Places to See: Pithoragarh Fort, Askot Sanctuary.

Things to Do: Explore local markets, visit ancient temples, enjoy scenic beauty.

• Champawat:

How to Reach: Champawat can be reached by road from Tanakpur Railway Station (about 50 km). The journey takes around 2-3 hours by road.

Places to See: Baleshwar Temple, Lohaghat.

Things to Do: Pilgrimage, exploring historical sites, nature walks.

• Kathgodam:

How to Reach: Kathgodam is accessible by train from Delhi or by road from Haldwani (about 5 km). The journey takes around 15-20 minutes by road.

Places to See: Starting point for various excursions in Kumaon.

Things to Do: Exploring local markets, visiting nearby attractions, enjoying local cuisine.

Things to Do In Uttarakhand

These offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and adventure, making them ideal for offbeat travellers looking to explore the lesser-known gems of the region.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and Bird Watching:

 

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Almora, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and Himalayan birds. Birdwatchers can spot species like the Himalayan griffon, black eagle, and koklass pheasant.

• Pangot: A quaint village near Nainital, Pangot is renowned for its rich birdlife. Surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests, Pangot is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species recorded here, including the colorful Himalayan monal and cheer pheasant.

• Rajaji National Park: Situated in the Shivalik range, Rajaji National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from elephants, tigers, and leopards, the park is a hotspot for birdwatching, with over 315 bird species, including the great hornbill and crested kingfishers.

Temples to Visit:

 

 

Apart from the famous Chota CharDham Yatra of Uttrakhand, here are some more temples to visit-

• Baijnath Temple: Located in the Katyuri Valley near Bageshwar, Baijnath Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex houses intricately carved stone sculptures and is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene atmosphere for spirituality seekers.

• Jageshwar Temple: Situated amidst dense deodar forests near Almora, Jageshwar Temple is a cluster of over 100 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 9th century, these temples showcase exquisite architecture and are considered sacred by devotees and history buffs alike.

• Baleshwar Temple: Nestled in the quaint town of Champawat, Baleshwar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by deodar forests and set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, this temple is revered for its tranquil ambiance and architectural grandeur.

Trekking:

 

 

• Chopta: Known as the "Mini Switzerland of India," Chopta is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. It serves as the base camp for treks to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila Peak, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

• Munsiyari: Situated in the Pithoragarh district, Munsiyari is a trekker's paradise known for its scenic beauty and Himalayan vistas. Trekkers can embark on the Milam Glacier trek, which takes them through lush valleys, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls.

• Dayara Bugyal: Located near Uttarkashi, Dayara Bugyal is one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. The trek to Dayara Bugyal offers panoramic views of the Gangotri and Bandarpunch peaks, along with an opportunity to camp amidst pristine surroundings

Orchards:

 

 

• Ramgarh: Dubbed as the "Fruit Bowl of Kumaon," Ramgarh is famous for its fruit orchards, including apples, apricots, and peaches. Visitors can indulge in fruit-picking experiences during the harvest season and savor the freshness of the locally grown produce.

• Mukteshwar: Perched atop the Kumaon Hills, Mukteshwar is renowned for its scenic beauty and fruit orchards. The town is dotted with apple, plum, and apricot orchards, offering a tranquil retreat amidst nature's bounty.
  
  

Viewpoints:

 

• Chaukori: Situated in the heart of the Kumaon Himalayas, Chaukori is known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli. The sunrise and sunset views from Chaukori are truly mesmerizing, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

• Champawat: Perched at an altitude of 1,640 meters, Champawat offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and Himalayan peaks. The town is blessed with pristine natural beauty and serves as an ideal getaway for travelers seeking peace and tranquility.
  
  

Adventure Sports:

 

 

• Chopta: Enjoy skiing adventures during the winter months amidst the snow-covered landscapes of Chopta.
• Munsiyari: Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Gori Ganga River amidst the rugged terrain of Munsiyari.
• Dayara Bugyal: Soar through the skies and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while paragliding over the stunning landscapes of Dayara Bugyal.
• Chaukori: Explore the scenic trails and rugged terrains of Chaukori on an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking adventure. Test your skills and conquer the rocky cliffs of Chaukori with thrilling rock climbing expeditions.

These offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and adventure, making them ideal for offbeat travellers looking to explore the lesser-known gems of the region.

Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand

The best time to visit Uttarakhand depends on the specific region and activities you have in mind. Here's a general guideline:

Season	Months	Temperatures	Ideal Activities
Summer	April to June	Mild to Warm	Trekking, Camping, Wildlife Safaris, Sightseeing, Mountain Enthusiast Activities
Monsoon	July to September	Moderate to Cool	Heavy Rainfall, Lush Greenery, Waterfalls, Challenging Travel, Visit to Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib
Autumn	October to November	Cool to Mild	Pleasant Weather, Colorful Landscapes, Trekking, Wildlife Safaris, Cultural Exploration
Winter	December to February	Cold to Very Cold	Snowfall in Higher Altitudes, Winter Sports (Skiing, Snowboarding), Trekking with Winter Gear, Cozy Bonfires

These offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and adventure, making them ideal for offbeat travellers looking to explore the lesser-known gems of the region.