We all know the famous places in Uttarakhand that every other tourist visits on their trip to this hill station. However, there’s more to this place than the common tourist spots. So, instead of exploring the same places repeatedly, it’s time to visit these offbeat places in Uttarakhand that are sure to surprise you. Since these locations are untouched by visitors, you’ll notice how their beauty shines through, and the best part is that there’ll be less crowds around these places. You can take your time soaking in the serenity of these places and enjoying the privacy that the other popular destinations don’t offer. There are just too many perks of exploring these offbeat locations that you can’t miss out on.
Offbeat Places in Uttarakhand: Explore Uttarakhand’s Hidden Gems
If you’re going to Uttarakhand for the hundredth time, then you can’t possibly want to sightsee the same attractions or stroll around on the same streets. Even if you’re vacationing in this hill station for the first time, you should skip the common places and explore the destinations that are off the tourist radar. Why, you might ask. Well, the real beauty and essence of Uttarakhand lies in these hidden gems that are shrouded in an air of mystery.
So, here are the best offbeat places in Uttarakhand
- Peora
- Khurpatal
- Kausani
- Khirsu
- Chaukori
- Binsar
- Jeolikote
- Chakrata
1. Peora: A Quaint Hamlet Tucked in the Himalayan Ranges
When it comes to Peora, this offbeat place is one of the best options to revel in the mountain air, experience the essence of this hill station, and to be close to nature’s wonders. The panoramic views of the Kumaon Himalayan Ranges, the dense pine and deodar forests, including the fruit orchards. It’s an ideal place for relaxing and reveling in the gorgeous views from an altitude of around 6,600 ft. This location is located between Nainital and Almora offering you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of this hill station by interacting with the locals, staying in traditional houses, and savoring the local cuisine.
Best time to visit: September to March
Attractions in Peora: Nanda Devi Temple, Chauli ki Jali, Local Herbal Factory
Adventures in Peora: Hiking, bird watching, nature walks
How to reach:
Air – You can take a flight to Pantnagar Airport, which is approx. 112 km away from Peora
Rail – Board a train to Kathgodam railway station, around 78 km away
Road – Take a car or taxi to Peora from Uttarakhand, located at a distance of approx. 223 km
2. Khurpatal: Enter this Enchanting Land Near Nainital
A lot of people aren’t aware of this mesmerizing location near Nainital. Only around 11 km away from Nainital Lake, this is a must-visit destination. It’s especially famous for its emerald lake, which has an abundance of fish. So, those who are nature lovers and would love to enjoy some peaceful time fishing here must explore this hamlet. The beauty of this place is accentuated by the lush pine and cedar trees surrounding the lake and the entire hamlet. It feels like a haven and a peaceful retreat, away from the city’s hustle and bustle. So, the next time you visit the attractions in Nainital, take a trip to this gorgeous hamlet as well.
Best time to visit: July to September
Attractions in Khurpatal: Kilbury Road, Khurpaa Taal, Sariyatal
Adventures in Khurpatal: Fishing, boating, nature walk
How to reach:
Air – Fly to Pantnagar Airport, around 76 km from Khurpatal
Rail – Take a train to Kathgodam Station, which is approx. 34 km away
Road – Hire a cab or drive there on your own from Uttarakhand (approx. 233 km) or Nainital (around 11 km)
Suggested Read: Adventure Activities to Do in Munsiyari: Exploring the Stunning Pinnacles of Munsiyari
3. Kausani: Escape to this Mystical Land Charmed by Scenic Views
Another location in the list of “places you might not have heard of” in Uttarakhand is this breathtaking beauty. Kausani is a place that embraces nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and solo travelers in its mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. The majestic Nanda Devi and Panchachuli Himalayan peaks are visible from this place, enough to put you into a trance. The panoramic views of these snow-capped mountains paired with a splash of green is the best way to spend your holiday. So, spend a few days in the lap of nature by choosing this as one of the offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand.
Best time to visit: March to June or October to February
Attractions in Kausani: Baijnath Temple, Rudradhari Falls, Kausani Tea Estate and Anasakti Ashram
Adventures in Kausani: Trekking, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, rappelling
How to reach:
Air – Book a flight to Pantnagar airport, approx. 168 km
Rail – Board a train to Kathgodam Station, around 134 km
Road – Drive to Kausani or book a cab to travel approx. 194 km
Suggested Read: Adventure Activities in Uttarakhand: Time to Indulge in Adventurous Escapades
4. Khirsu: Step into a Fairytale-Like Destination
Khirsu is, without a doubt, one of the best hill stations in India because of the iconic views of Garhwal Himalayas. The oak and deodar forests along with apple orchards enhance the beauty of this place, but it’s one of the less popular places here, but you must visit this destination if you want a fairytale vacation. Located at an altitude of around 1,760 m, this hill station enjoys tropical weather all year round. Imagine strolling around this place with the glorious views of the mighty Himalayas, the lush greenery around you, the clear blue sky, and the cool mountain breeze. There’s also an ancient temple here dedicated to Ghandiyal Devi.
Best time to visit: All year round
Attractions in Khirsu: Ghandiyal Devi Temple, Kandoliya Devta temple, Ulka Ghari, Kalpa Devi Temple, Farkhunda Viewpoint and Chaukhambha Viewpoint, Van Manoranjan Kendra
Adventures in Khirsu: Trekking, nature walk, bird watching, camping
How to reach:
Air – Take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport to reach Khirsu in around 146 km
Rail – Board a train to Kotdwar Station, approx. 115 km
Road – Take a cab or drive there from Uttarakhand, around 46 km
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5. Chaukori: The Bowl-Shaped Hill Station
The name of this hill station and its bowl-like shape is quite unique, which is why this is among the favorite offbeat tourist places in Uttarakhand that you must visit. Set at an altitude of around 2,010 m, you get to witness picturesque views of the Kumaon Himalayas, specifically the Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachulu peaks. This is reason enough to explore this place, but if you want more, then the diverse and vibrant flora here brightens up this hill station, making it look nothing less than a paradise. This destination looks right out of a book with its oh-so perfect views and scenic beauty.
Best time to visit: April to June
Attractions in Chaukori: Kali Devi Waterfalls, Patal Bhubaneshwar, Mukteshwar temple, Ashok Sanctuary, Dharampur, Berinag, Musk Deer Park
Adventures in Chaukori: Trekking, nature walks, interacting with locals
How to reach:
Air – Fly to Pantnagar Airport, which is approx. 233 km away from Chaukori
Rail – Take a train to Kathgodam Station, around 189 km
Road – Hire a taxi or take a car to cover approx. 244 km
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6. Binsar: Breathe in the Fresh Mountain Air
Binsar, which means “new morning” in Garhwali is a nature lover’s heaven because of the lush greenery and natural beauty wherever you go. Set your sights on the magnificent peaks of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Shivling and Trishul from an altitude of around 2,412 m. Visiting this village should be on your list of things to do in Almora because it’s approximately 33 km away from Binsar. Transport yourself to nature’s abode, where green is the new black and take in the breathtaking views it offers. There aren’t many captivating, offbeat places in Uttarakhand like this one, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this place.
Best time to visit: March to April or October to November
Attractions in Binsar: Zero Point, Golu Devta temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Binsar Sanctuary Museum, Binsar Mahadev Temple
Adventures in Binsar: Jeep safari, trekking, bird watching
How to reach:
Air – Book a flight to Pantnagar airport, approx. 139 km
Rail – Take a train to Kathgodam Station, around 105 km
Road – Drive to Binsar or take a cab from Uttarakhand (around 238 km) or Almora (around 24 km)
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7. Jeolikote: Where the Clouds are a Touch Away
You can never go wrong with this tranquil and alluring hamlet, which is famous for its floriculture. This hill station is one of the most underrated places to visit in Uttarakhand because its beauty and glory is unknown to people around the world. However, those who do acquaint themselves with this place tend to fall in love with it. Even though this hill station is located at an elevation of around 1,219 m, the temperature here is at a higher side. During winters also this place receives ample sunshine, so you can explore this place throughout the year. There’s also a belief that this hill station is guarded by ghosts, so do explore this place and unravel this mystery.
Best time to visit: March to June
Attractions in Jeolikote: Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Kaladhungi, Naukuchiatal, Sattal, Butterfly Museum
Adventures in Jeolikote: Paragliding
How to reach:
Air – Take a flight to Pantnagar airport, around 120 km from Jeolikote
Rail – Board a train to Kathgodam Station, approx. 20 km
Road – Hire a taxi or drive there from Uttarakhand (around 251 km)
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8. Chakrata: Soothe Your Wandering Soul at this Haven
Last on our list is one of the most scenic places to travel in India with its lush greenery, captivating sunset, and picture-perfect views. The charm this place exudes makes your experience here even more memorable. Where the popular attractions in Uttarakhand are bustling with people, this hill station is the polar opposite of it. It’s where you’ll find peace and serenity, so get ready for a soul stirring journey to this destination at an altitude of around 2,118 m. Every traveler would find this perfect location for satisfying their soul, be it an adventurer, nature lover, or spiritual person.
Best time to visit: All year round
Attractions in Chakrata: Tiger Falls, Deoban, Budher Caves and Chilmiri Neck, Kanasar
Adventures in Chakrata: Bird watching, hiking
How to reach:
Air – Take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport, approx. 114 km
Rail – Take a train to Dehradun Station, which is around 87 km away from Chakrata
Road – Drive there or hire a taxi from Uttarakhand, approx. 287 km
Suggested Read: Fun Things to Do in Bhutan: Tap into the Country’s Adventurous Side
Trust me when I say this, these offbeat places in Uttarakhand would offer you far more than the popular ones. You can explore these uncharted territories for a peaceful retreat, away from the crowded streets. Here, everything’s more serene and unspoiled due to the absence of numerous people. As you wander these destinations, you’ll feel at peace and your soul will be gratified by the memorable experience here. So, choose our Uttarakhand tour packages today and ditch the common tourist spots this time.
FAQs
Kausani is one of the calmest places in Uttarakhand because of the smaller number of tourists. This hidden gem isn’t as popular among the tourists as the other destinations, which is why it maintains its peaceful environment.
Khurpatal is the remotest village in Uttarakhand, surrounded by pine and cedar trees. It’s approximately 11 km away from Nainital and is a quaint little hamlet that you must explore.
Some of the offbeat places in Uttarakhand include Binsar, Kausani, Peora, Chakrata, etc. These places are away from the tourist’s eyes till now, which makes it the perfect spot for vacationing.
March to April or September to October is the best time to visit Uttarakhand. The cold winter months are perfect for exploring the cities here and summers also experience pleasant weather.
Binsar in Uttarakhand includes some of the most gorgeous tourist attractions. These include Zero Point, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Golu Devta temple, Binsar Sanctuary Museum, and Binsar Mahadev Temple.
You must indulge in trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, rappelling, and other such adventures. These activities would make your trip more exciting and memorable.
2 to 3 days are enough to spend in Chakrata. This period would give you enough time to sightsee the attractions here and to try all the adventure activities here.
Dehradun is around 51 km away from Haridwar. You can drive there on your own or take a cab.
