Kanatal, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is a tranquil retreat that offers a perfect escape from the noise and stress of everyday life. With its panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and lush valleys, this serene hill station is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re trekking through the Kodia Jungle, visiting the ancient Surkanda Devi Temple, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, Kanatal provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a hidden gem in the Himalayas, ideal for those seeking a quiet and refreshing getaway
1. Dhanaulti Eco Park: Celebrate Nature at its Best
Located in the scenic town of Dhanaulti, Dhanaulti Eco Park is an idyllic natural retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With a wealth of variety of flora and fauna, Dhanaulti Eco Park features exotic plant species like deodar trees, Rhododendron, oak trees including extravagant avian species. You can even spot some Himalayan animals like Himalayan Black bear, Leopard, Langur, etc. The park also offers numerous activities for the visitors like Burma Bridge, Flying Fox, Commando Net, and Sky Walk and engage yourself in unlimited fun in the Dhanaulti park, one of the best places to visit near Kanatal. Traverse the scenic trails and go on nature walks to discover the majesty of Himalayan landscapes.
Location: C6FX+86C, Chamba – Mussoorie Rd, Dhanolti, Kempty Range, Uttarakhand 248009
Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Famous for: Natural beauty
2. Tehri Lake: Go on a Scenic Boat Ride
Teri Lake or Tehri Dam Reservoir is considered the largest artificial reservoir, perched on the Bhagirathi River at an altitude of 1700 meters. Often considered one of , Tehri Lake is an ideal spot for scenic boat rides where you can soak in the majestic views of the majestic Bhagirathi River. Moreover, it has become a must-visit destination for weekend escape and surrender yourself to the lap of nature. If you are adventure freak, you can try other activities apart from boating like rafting, kayaking, water zorbing, canoeing, scuba diving, speedboat rides, jet skiing, water skiing, motorboat rides, etc., for a soul-stirring experience.
Location: Bhagirathi River, New Tehri
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Famous for: Natural beauty
3. Chandrabadni Temple: Visit the Holy Hindu Shrine
Located at an elevation of 2277 meters, Chandrabadni Temple lies on the border of Devaprayag and Pratapnagar which also offers scenic views. It derived its name for being nestled on Chandrabadni mountains, the temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Sati which holds a significant place in Hindu mythology as one of the Shakti Peeths. You can find the spot where it is believed that the torso of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her away after self-destruction, which makes it one of the best places to see in Kanatal. Millions of people visit this temple from different parts of the country to seek blessings for their well-being. Moreover, you will fall in love with its tranquil and divine atmosphere.
Location: About 10 km north of Kandi Khal, 35 km from Devprayag and 109 km from Narendra Nagar
Opening Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Famous for: Shrine of Goddess Sati
4. Chamba: Take in the Scenic Views of Bhagirathi River
Nestled within the majestic lap of Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Chamba is a picturesque hamlet and is one of the best places to go in India for an ideal getaway. Being covered by the dense forests of pine trees and deodar forests, Chamba is endowed with aesthetic natural beauty which you can witness while going on a ride through the winding roads. You can visit Chamba throughout the year as the weather conditions remain favorable, making it ideal for tourists for a new adventure. Moreover, one of the major highlights to cover while visiting this scenic village is its local Garhwal cuisine, best known for its enticing flavors. You can also take up some treks, discover some scenic trails to witness its unparallel beauty.
Location: New Tehri City, Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, India
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ideal Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Famous for: Natural beauty & Cultural heritage
5. Kodia Jungle: Traverse the Wilderness
One of the best places to visit in Kanatal is Kodia Jungle, which is engulfed by dense forests and scenic trails leading to a vast expanse of undulating hills and valleys. While traversing the wilderness, you can spot some rippling natural springs which will lure you with their soothing natural sounds. Moreover, you can undertake a jeep safari and spot exotic animals all along the way. If you are a true adventure freak, you can hike up the scenic trails and spot extravagant avian species. It is an ideal spot for photographers to capture some scenic moments of Kodia Jungle.
Location: Kanatal, Kaudia Range, Uttarakhand 249130
Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Famous for: Natural beauty, Adventure activities
6. Surkanda Devi Temple: Discover the Architectural Marvel
The holy Hindu shrine Surkanda Devi Temple is situated in the village of Kaddukhal, located at an altitude of about 3750 meters, close to the town of Kanatal in Uttarakhand, India. Dedicated to Goddess Sati and is one of India’s 51 Shaktipeeths, Surkananda Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination and taking up a trek to this holy shrine is one of The Surkanda Devi Temple draws many followers, particularly during the yearly festivals of Navratri, a nine-night celebration honoring Goddess Durga, which is normally held in September or October, and Ganga Dussehra, which usually occurs in May or June, making it one of the best tourist attractions.
Location: Kaddukhal surkanda hike start, Chamba, Saklana Range, Uttarakhand 249145
Opening Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Famous for: Natural beauty
7. New Tehri: Feel the Adrenaline Rush
Located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, New Tehri has become a popular tourist destination, best known for its lake’s recreational options for boating and other water sports. Trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers are also drawn to the hills around the area to discover scenic trails and majestic landscapes. Since the town itself is a gateway to adjacent pilgrimage sites in the Garhwal Himalayas, New Tehri encounters plenty of visitors throughout the year, making it one of the best places to visit in Kanatal to explore the offbeat destinations. Symbolizing the intricacies of contemporary infrastructure developments in ecologically sensitive places, New Tehri is a representation of both development and environmental effect today.
Location: Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Famous for: Natural beauty & Adventure activities
8. Jai Seim Kaaliya Nagraja Temple: Gateway to Peace & Solace
The Hindu Jai Seem Kaaliya Nagraja Temple, also called the Jai Sim Kaliya Nagara Temple, is situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand’s town of New Tehri. The devotion of Kaaliya Nagraja, a snake god from Hindu mythology, is the highlight of this temple. The temple holds a significant place among snake deity believers. In many regions of India, worshiping serpents is a custom, and Kaaliya Nagraja is considered one of the most important serpent deities. Since Uttarakhand is best known for hiking through the scenic trails and discovering this holy gem, seeking blessings from God is a phenomenal experience for visitors who are into spirituality, religion, and adventure.
Location: 2M7F+RFF, Kasimpur, Bhatoli, Meerut, Uttarakhand 250001
Opening Hours: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (during summer)
7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (during winter)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Famous for: Natural beauty & holy shrine
Shopping In Uttarakhand: Famous Shopping Items
If you are wondering Uttarakhand is famous for what, then here is a list of a few indigenous items which you will in all the popular towns of Uttarakhand, but only in Dev Bhoomi. Do not miss buying these items while shopping in Uttarakhand.
1. Jams & Pickles
One of the famous things to buy while shopping in Uttarakhand is the fresh jam. It is way more delicious and fresh than the ones you buy from those shelves in supermarts. Once you taste these jams, you will feel like you are actually eating fruit. The variety of jams is galore too. You have mixed fruit, apple, strawberry, blueberries, mango, etc. You can even buy fresh pickles in Uttarakhand. Some of the best pickles to buy are mushrooms, lotus stem, and mixed pickle.
2. Honey
Honey is another thing you should buy while shopping in Uttarakhand. Why not when Uttarakhand has a lot of beekeeping farms. Taste the freshness and sweetness in every drop of that natural honey. The best part is that it is organic. There is no adulteration or additives added into honey which is why it stays perishable for years. You will find a variety of flavors too, like litchi flavored honey.
3. Woolen Clothing
One of the best things to buy from any hill station is woolen clothing. Buy hand-knitted scarfs, socks, sweaters, and shawls from the handicraft bazaars of Uttarakhand. These woolen items will keep you safe from the harsh winters on the hill station. There is no other way. Also, you will remember for years how you bought that sweater or scarf on your trip to Uttarakhand. These woolen items also make nice souvenirs to gift to your loved ones.
4. Handicrafts
Uttarakhand is famous for its handicrafts too. These handicraft items have well preserved the Kumaoni and Garhwali culture of Uttarakhand. Each district in Uttarakhand is famous for one thing or another. Aipan is a traditional local art in which intricate white color designs are made against block red background. The paste is made from rice flour and this art form belongs typically to the Kumaon region. You will also find a variety of natural fibers like Raambaan, Jute, and Ringaal. Copperware and wooden craft of Uttarakhand are equally famous too. Almora is famous for its Angora and pashmina items.
5. Ringaal Handicraft
One of the things Uttarakhand is famous for is bamboo handicrafts made by Ringaal people in the Kumaon region. These beautiful bamboo art pieces are 100% eco-friendly and last long. You will find bags, purses, lampshades, furniture, and what not, all spun out of bamboo. Everything is crafted so well that you will not be able to help yourself from buying. There are kitchen utility items, carpets, and even cute baskets made from bamboo. Get one of these for yourself on your next vacation.
6. Rambaans Handicraft
Local people in Uttarakhand are very talented. Who would have thought that they would weave something out of jute and hemp? Rambaans is a local art form made using hemp and jute fiber. You will find bags, purses, wall hangings, and showpieces hanging at the shops in various markets in Uttarakhand. Again, these items are more sustainable and upcycled products. So, buying them will make you feel good, and using them will make you happier.
7. Angora & Pashmina
One of the things that you should buy while shopping in Uttarakhand is Angora or pashmina shawls. Angora and pashmina fabrics are woven from the hair of mountain goats and these fabrics are the warmest clothing you can have. You will find beautiful shawls with intricate embroidery at various shops in Uttarakhand. To test whether it is real pashmina or not, pass the fabric through your ring. If it does, it is real.
8. Wooden Crafts
There is one thing that you will find in abundance in Uttarakhand and that is a wooden craft. In fact, the Himalayan state excels in the art of woodwork. The Gunjyal tribe is known for its excellent craftsmanship and they can create anything out of wood. Buy walking sticks, jewelry boxes, animal figurines and other useful items made from the wood of mountain trees.
16 Dishes From kanatal Cuisine
Uttarakhand is famous for its views and for the food it offers. From main course items to sweet dish, each and every dish of Uttarakhand speaks for itself. Let’s discuss the famous food of Uttarakhand which remains as enchanting as the state itself is looked at.
1. Kafuli – Mouthwatering Dish
Taste the famous blend of green leafy vegetables in the form of Kafuli which is the most traditional food of Uttarakhand from the Pahari cuisine. It is offered to all guests and is loved by the Pahari inhabitants as much as travellers seeking to taste something unique. It is an amalgamation of green leafy vegetables which is a rich source of healthy nutrients. Two main ingredients which are essentially required to prepare such dishes are Spinach and Fenugreek Leaves. Both are added together and cooked in the pot followed by salt and spices. Kafuli is popularly known as the State Food of Uttarakhand. It is served with the gravy made out of the paste of rice or wheat and water.
Main Ingredients: Spinach Leaves, Fenugreek Leaves, Spices, Rice Powder, Curd, Water and Salt.
Rich Source Of: Protein, Fiber, Vitamin A,C,E and other minerals.
2. Bhang Ki Chutney – Flavorful Experience
As Uttarakhand is mainly a mountainous region, a mixture of different food tastes is available here. Any cuisine of Uttarakhand will easily reflect and carry a pinch of some tangy flavours commonly liked by the locals. One such dish named Bhang Ki Chutney delivers the tangy tamarind taste. It remains a famous food of Uttarakhand to be tasted as recommended to the travellers by the locals. It is served as a sauce made from different spices and condiments. This lip-smacking savoury is served with the Pahadi food creating a spell on our taste buds.
Main Ingredients: Bhang seeds, Cumin Seeds, Hemp Seeds, Lemon, Red Chillies, Tamarind.
Rich Source Of: Vitamin C
3. Phaanu – Lip-smacking Delicious
Considered another most popular food of Uttarakhand, Phaanu is the complex of different varieties of lentils. It is prepared by mixing lentils soaked overnight in water. It appears to be as a type of soupy meal. It is consumed primarily with rice. Phaanu will definitely create a spell on your taste buds.
Main Ingredients: Lentils (Arhar, Gahat), Oil, Spices, Turmeric, Water.
Rich Source Of: Protein.
4. Baadi – Traditional Food
Baadi remains the most popular food of Uttarakhand. It is not only famous for its delicious taste but also it carries all the nutritional elements essential for the human body. Indeed, it is a combination of taste and nutrition and so is it considered as best traditional Food of Garhwal region in Uttarakhand. Prepared from the black coloured kwada ka aata, it is best served with Phaanu.
Main Ingredients: Kwada Ka Aata, Water, Ghee
Rich Source Of: Vitamin B12, Vitamin A
5. Aaloo Tamatar Ka Jhol – Taste And Nutrition
Aaloo Tamatar Ka Jhol is one of the clear attention grabbers amongst all the palatable dishes from the popular cuisine of Uttarakhand. A highly tempting blend of incredible aroma and mouth-watering flavours, it can be prepared in the least time which is the unique speciality of this tremendous dish. It is as easy as the people of Uttarakhand simple yet awesome. You just need to steam some potatoes. Curry of tomatoes along with onions is prepared separately. This famous food of Uttarakhand will for sure make you feel fresh after the tough excursion of the whole day.
Main Ingredients: Potato, Tomato, Onions
Rich Source Of: Vitamin C, Carbohydrates
6. Kandalee Ka Saag – Must Try Dish
Uttarakhand Cuisine meticulously chooses the delights taste buds to make the most use of the available resources in the state. What if you are getting splendid flavours and all essential nutrients in the same delicacy! Yes, Kandalee Ka Saag offers altogether the piquant aromatic spices and proper vitamins essential for your immune system. Major ingredients of it impart the taste and flavour to almost all food items of the Uttarakhand that include the leafy vegetable and major local spices. Kandalee Ka Saag is a green leafy veggie prepared just like other green vegetable dishes. However, its main ingredient Bichhu Ghas makes it different from the rest similar dishes.
Major Ingredients: Bicchu ka Ghas, Onions, Ghee, Spices.
Rich Source Of: Vitamin A
7. Chainsoo – Delicious
One of the most popular recipes in the Garhwal region namely Chainsoo is prepared from the Urad Dal. A popular Uttarakhand Cuisine will definitely contain the bulk of protein and essential nutrients. Chainsoo due to its higher protein content might take some time to digest but still, this delicious savour deserves a try! Toasting the lentils initially and then making a fine paste out of it is a foremost step to prepare this delicacy. You enjoy the aromatic flavour of this famous food of Uttarakhand especially because of its unique cooking method of keeping that in an iron kadai on slow flame.
Major Ingredient: Urad Dal, Ghee, Spices
Rich Source Of: Protein
8. Dubuk – Tasty Meal
If you have to pick the tastiest meal out of all the delicious dishes and the perfect state food of Uttarakhand, then give a try to Dubuk. Enjoying the title of one of this most popular food Of the Uttarakhand, Dubuk is helpful for your stomach and can be easily assimilated. It is ideally served with rice and Bhang Ki Chutney making it subtle in taste and carrying a twist of Tang too. To prepare it, Bhat Ki Dal or Arhar Ki Dal is converted into fine paste followed by its slow cooking in a kadhai. It is commendable, especially during wintertime. Dubuk lovers reap the benefits of its mesmerising taste throughout the year.
Major Ingredients: Arhar (Bhaat Ki Dal), Spices, Onions
Rich Source Of: Protein and other nutrients
9. Aloo Gutook – Excite Your Palate
Aaloo Gutook is a purely mesmerising recipe from the famous cuisine of Uttarakhand similar to its people—simple yet incredible one. It is specially made on all occasions like birthdays and family functions. This popular food of uttarakhand entices everyone just to savour it. Undoubtedly, it can be declared as a regional food of Kumaon yet becomes the food for the heart when served with the Bhang ki chutney, Pooris and famous Kumaon Raita. Every house in Uttarakhand has its own way to make it yet all of them maintain amazing delicacy. Prepared with the steamed potatoes and garnished by red chillies and coriander leaves, this dish at least deserves a try during a trip to this state.
Major Ingredients: Potatoes, Onions, Coriander, Red Chillies
Rich Source Of: Vitamins and carbohydrates
10. Jhangora Ki Kheer – Tasty Dessert
Indians are habitual of having some sweet after the square meals and Garhwali cuisine too practice that tradition. Taste the regional yet unique sweet namely Jhangora Ki Kheer whose aroma is awesome. A famous recipe of the state, its main ingredient Millet makes it distinct. Milk acting as the main ingredient makes it rich in texture and nutrition.
Major Ingredient: Milk, Millets, Sugar
11. Thhatwani – Nutritious And Flavorful
Make sure you taste one of the tastiest recipes from the Uttarakhand Cuisine namely Rus or Thhatwani which is a blend of lentils and spices.It is highly rich in the nutrients and remains a famous food of Uttarakhand to try at least once.
Major Ingredients: Lentils
Rich Source Of: Protein
12. Garhwal Ka Fannah – Protein Rich Dish
This dish is considered as a staple diet in Mussoorie. The dish is not only delicious but is also appealing enough to feast your eyes. Be it any small occasion or a large gathering of people or a restaurant on every nook and corner; this dish will find its place in the menu. It is a famous dish of Uttarakhand and will leave you asking for more.
Main ingredient: Kulad dal
Rich source of: Protein
13. Kumaoni Raita – Beat The Heat
Just like Bhang ki Chutney accompanies every dish of Uttarakhand cuisine, Kumaoni Raita is also found with every dish in Uttarakhand. Prepared with curd, turmeric, and cucumber; Kumaoni raita is a dish that you will relish and ask for more. While ingredients play their role in maintaining health, the divine taste keeps the mouth watering.
Main ingredient: Curd and cucumber
Rich source of: Protein
14. Gulgula – Sweet Affair
Gulgula is a delectable sweet which is popular not only amongst the locals but tourists as well. The dish can either be consumed as a snack or a dessert. It is made using very basic ingredients, primarily jaggery. Gulgula is now famous in many parts of North India as a delicious dessert.
Main ingredient: Wheat flour, sugar, fennel seeds
Rich source of: Calories
15. Arsa – Sweet Tooth
Arsa is a sweet dish that has made its place in every household in Uttarakhand. It is a famous dish of Uttarakhand. This sweet dish of Uttarakhand cuisine is delicious and low on calories which makes it popular amongst the diet-conscious generation as well. There is no occasion or festival that is complete without the presence of Arsa in the food menu.
Main ingredient: Rice
Rich source of: Potassium
16. Singori – Sweet DelicacyÂ
Locally also called Singodi or Singauri, this is considered a sweet dish in Uttarakhand which is made of Khoa. The unique thing about this sweet dish is that it is wrapped and served in a Maalu leaf. It can be found in Almora which is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
Main Ingredients: Khoa (dairy product of thickened milk)
Rich Source Of: Protein and Carbohydrates
