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Uttarakhand, India’s Land of the Gods or Dev Bhoomi as we know it, is steeped in surreal natural beauty. The mighty and misty Himalayas, roaring rivers, tranquil temples and surreal forests inhabit rare flora and fauna. Hidden within the dramatic terrains are offbeat places in Uttarakhand that offer solace to travellers looking for an escape from their life’s daily hustle.
There are plenty of places to go in Uttarakhand, and each destination will reward you with something unique the state boasts of. But there are a few unexplored places in Uttarakhand, away from the limelight because they’re snuggled deep within popular tourist destinations.
If you have the time to explore these hidden gems of Uttarakhand, here are the top 7:
1. Khirsu
Among the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand, Khirsu is located about 20 kilometres from Pauri. It is a picturesque hamlet nestled in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas. Steeped in tranquillity, the small town is encircled by dense oak and deodar forests on one side and aromatic apple orchards on the other. A paradise destination for spiritual and adventure seekers alike, you can indulge in nature trails and trekking expeditions and visit the famous Ghandiyal and Kandoliya temples in the area. The best time to visit Khirsu is in June.
2. Munsiyari
Looking for offbeat places in India for your next holiday? Check out Munsiyari, a scenic retreat in the hills of Uttarakhand. Munsiyari is encompassed by mighty mountains, lush forests and a mesmerisingly scenic setting. A base camp for popular treks of Khalia Top, Ramalam, Kalika Pass, Chiplajot Bugyal, Milam and Namik trek, Munsiyari is one of the top 10 places to visit in Uttarakhand. You can explore the Birthi Falls, Kalamuni top, Panchachuli peak and Maheshwari Kund during your stay in the area.
3. Chaukori
Chaukori, the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand, is a kaleidoscopic village that looks right out of a fairytale. Surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks and dense forests, Chaukori is perched at a dizzying elevation of 2,010 metres above sea level. From the quaint village, you can spot the gorgeous peaks of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and Panchachuli. Home to the dense foliage of pine, oaks and rhododendrons, soak in the crisp mountain air as you stroll along the lanes of this offbeat village admiring nature’s grandeur and eating the Best Sweet Dishes To Try In Uttarakhand.
4. Lohaghat
One of the hidden places in Uttarakhand, Lohaghat is a quiet hill station doused in mystical stories of its own. Tucked along the banks of the Lohawati river, the hill station is only about 7 kilometres from Mount Abbott and has maintained its raw natural beauty for centuries. Among the least explored Himalayan retreats, Lohaghat, amidst its towering pine trees, will reward you with a calm environment to meditate and practice yoga as you become one with nature.
5. Naukuchiatal
Among the top offbeat places in Uttarakhand, Naukuchiatal is located near the scenic hill station of Nainital on the Kumaon hills. Naukuchiatal, meaning nine corners of the lake, is surrounded by captivating natural beauty on all sides. A destination earning the title of heaven on earth, Naukuchiatal has something for every kind of tourist. Stroll along the lake, where you can bask under the warm sun and gorge on delicious pizza at local eateries. Attend Escape, an annual music festival, that will awaken the nocturnal animal within you. Or relax and soak in the beauty as you photograph rare flowers like the Brahma Kamal: National Flower Of Uttarakhand, and birds and animal species in the area.
6. Kanatal
Among the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand is the offbeat destination of Kanatal. Located midway on the Chamba-Mussoorie route, Kanata offers thrilling views and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities away from the bustling city crowd. Enjoy secluded time amid nature as you indulge in camping, trekking, rock climbing, rappelling and more at this action-packed destination. When in Kanatal, visit the Surkanda Devi temple for a spiritually enlightening end to your trip.
There are plenty of Places To Visit In Mussoorie too. You can take a week off to explore the offbeat trails of Uttrakhand.
7. Peora
Are you looking for places to go in Uttarakhand to beat the city crowd? Plan a trip to Peora. A beautiful hamlet located between Almora and Nainital, this offbeat hilly destination is a breath of fresh air. Perched at 6,600 feet, Peora is known for its panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayan ranges, sprawling fruit orchards, serene forest trails and photographic settings. The ideal example of eco-tourism, Peora offers the epitome of rejuvenation and relaxation to all who visit the land.
Another stunning destination like Peora is Landour. A quaint town near the queen of hills, Mussoorie, there are plenty of Things To Do In Landour that will quench your thirst for adventure, peace and fabulous food.
There are a plethora of beautiful places in Uttarakhand. But for a change, skip the popular touristy spots and venture into the unknown trails of these seven unexplored destinations in the state. After a rustic experience in the hills, check into one of the Luxury Hotels And Resorts In Uttarakhand for a bespoke getaway of pampering and pristine beauty away from the crowd.
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