Tehri, nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, is a destination that beautifully blends nature’s tranquility with human ingenuity. Known for the Tehri Dam, one of the tallest dams in the world, this picturesque town offers breathtaking views of the vast reservoir that stretches out like a shimmering blue carpet amidst the towering Himalayas. The town’s serene environment makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and a deeper connection with nature. Whether it’s the mist-covered mountains, the crisp mountain air, or the gentle lapping of the reservoir’s waters, Tehri provides a serene escape that soothes the soul and invigorates the spirit.1.
1. Tehri Dam
Tehri, nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, is a destination that beautifully blends nature’s tranquility with human ingenuity. Known for the Tehri Dam, one of the tallest dams in the world, this picturesque town offers breathtaking views of the vast reservoir that stretches out like a shimmering blue carpet amidst the towering Himalayas. The town’s serene environment makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and a deeper connection with nature. Whether it’s the mist-covered mountains, the crisp mountain air, or the gentle lapping of the reservoir’s waters, Tehri provides a serene escape that soothes the soul and invigorates the spirit.
Distance :14kms
2. Kanatal
Kanatal, a serene hill station in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a hidden gem offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Perched at an elevation of around 8,500 feet, this tranquil destination is surrounded by dense forests, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The cool, crisp mountain air and the pristine beauty of Kanatal make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Whether you’re exploring the scenic trails, visiting the ancient Surkanda Devi Temple, or simply soaking in the stunning sunsets, Kanatal offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility.
Distance :25kms
3. Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti, a quaint hill station nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, is a perfect destination for those who crave solitude and unspoiled natural beauty. Located at an altitude of around 7,500 feet, this serene retreat is surrounded by dense deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots nearby. The misty landscapes, cool mountain air, and panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks make Dhanaulti a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the peaceful Eco Park, taking a leisurely walk through the forest trails, or simply enjoying the calm atmosphere, Dhanaulti is a place where time slows down, and nature’s charm is at its best.
Distance :40kms
4. New Tehri
New Tehri, the modern town that emerged from the waters of the Tehri Dam, is a fascinating blend of resilience and progress, standing as a testament to human ingenuity in the face of natural challenges. Perched at an altitude of about 1,550 meters, New Tehri offers breathtaking panoramic views of the massive Tehri Lake and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The town, with its well-planned layout and modern infrastructure, serves as a gateway to numerous adventure activities, including boating, trekking, and camping. Beyond its scenic beauty, New Tehri is a symbol of rebirth, where the past and present coexist, offering visitors a unique experience of both natural splendor and human achievement.
Distance :7kms
5. Chamba
Chamba, a charming hill town in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district, is a peaceful retreat known for its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, Chamba is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the Bhagirathi River valley. The town’s serene environment, combined with its pleasant climate, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to unwind and connect with nature. Chamba’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Mussoorie and New Tehri, adds to its allure, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.
Distance :11kms
6. Surkanda Devi Temple
Surkanda Devi Temple, perched at an altitude of around 2,757 meters, is a revered Hindu shrine nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. Located near Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. The journey to the temple involves a short yet invigorating trek through dense forests, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the lush green valleys below. Once at the top, devotees are rewarded with not only spiritual solace but also panoramic vistas that stretch across the majestic Himalayan range. The temple, steeped in mythological significance and natural beauty, is a spiritual haven and a must-visit for those seeking both divine blessings and a profound connection with nature.
Distance : 33kms
7. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Kunjapuri Devi Temple, perched at an altitude of approximately 1,645 meters, is a sacred Hindu site located near Rishikesh in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. This revered temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and holds deep spiritual significance. The temple is accessible via a scenic trek that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Bandarpunch and Swargarohini ranges. Visitors often reach the temple early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise, which illuminates the surrounding landscape with a golden glow. Kunjapuri Devi Temple is not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike.
Distance :51kms
8. Chandrabadni Temple
Chandrabadni Temple, situated at an elevation of about 2,277 meters, is a revered Hindu shrine located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Goddess Sati, this ancient temple is one of the most significant Shakti Peethas in the region. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, making it a spiritually enriching and visually captivating destination. The path to the temple involves a scenic trek that passes through serene landscapes, adding a sense of adventure to the pilgrimage. Chandrabadni Temple is not only a place of deep religious importance but also a serene spot where devotees and travelers can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Himalayas and seek spiritual solace.
Distance :56kms
9. Budha Kedar
Budha Kedar, a tranquil village in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district, is renowned for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters, this serene spot is nestled amidst lush green landscapes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Budha Kedar Temple, believed to date back to the 8th century, is an important pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings from Shiva. The village’s peaceful ambiance, combined with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore traditional spirituality in a picturesque setting. The journey to Budha Kedar involves a scenic trek through the forested hills, adding an element of adventure to the spiritual experience.
Distance :83kms
10. Gangi Village
Gangi Village, often referred to as the “Last Village of Tehri,” is a picturesque and remote settlement perched high in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Located at an elevation of around 1,800 meters, this charming village offers a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life and is known for its stunning natural surroundings. Gangi is surrounded by lush terraced fields, dense forests, and majestic views of the Himalayan peaks, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. The village’s isolation has preserved its unique cultural heritage, and its traditional stone houses and simple way of life provide a stark contrast to the bustling modern world. Visitors to Gangi can enjoy the serene atmosphere, explore local customs, and embark on scenic treks, experiencing the tranquil beauty of this remote corner of the Himalayas.
Distance :99kms
11. Mussoorie
Mussoorie, often dubbed the “Queen of the Hills,” is a charming hill station located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. Perched at an altitude of about 2,005 meters, this popular destination is renowned for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant climate. The town offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and the Doon Valley, along with a range of attractions, from the bustling Mall Road to the tranquil Kempty Falls. Mussoorie’s historical charm is evident in its well-preserved British-era buildings and elegant churches. Whether you’re strolling through its lush gardens, exploring nearby hiking trails, or simply relaxing with a view, Mussoorie provides a perfect blend of natural splendor and historical allure, making it a favorite getaway for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Distance :72kms
12. Dobra Chanti Bridge
Dobra Chanti Bridge, located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is a marvel of engineering and a striking feature of the region’s landscape. Spanning the Bhagirathi River, this cable-stayed bridge connects the villages of Dobra and Chanti and stands as one of the longest suspension bridges in India. Its construction, which took several years, is a testament to modern engineering and has significantly improved connectivity in this remote area. The bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the river below, making it a notable spot for both travelers and photography enthusiasts. Dobra Chanti Bridge is not only a crucial infrastructural link but also a symbol of progress and development in the region.
Distance :35kms
13. Sem Mukhem Temple
Sem Mukhem Temple, situated in the picturesque Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is a significant religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled in the serene surroundings of the Himalayan foothills, the temple is renowned for its tranquil setting and spiritual ambiance. The journey to Sem Mukhem Temple involves a scenic trek through lush forests and hilly terrain, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the region’s natural beauty. The temple itself is a modest yet sacred place, attracting devotees and pilgrims seeking divine blessings and a moment of reflection away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The combination of spiritual significance and natural splendor makes Sem Mukhem Temple a unique destination for those interested in both religious and outdoor experiences.
Distance :89kms
12 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
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 sha
