A “Land of the Gods” or the “Devbhoomi,” as it’s also known, Uttarakhand is a famous mountainous northern state of India. The region is famed for its sublime Himalayan vistas, sacred places of pilgrimage and vibrant cultural heritage. Uttarakhand’s most famous hotspots like Nainital, Mussoorie, Haridwar and Rishikesh are highly visited by considerable crowds. There’s much that is authentic to Uttarakhand that can’t be seen within its popular venues, the not-so-famed locations, and hidden gems that ensure a remarkable experience.

Off-the-beaten tracks lie untouched valleys, otherworldly temples covered in mystery and lookout spots that offer lonely contemplation over the grand peaks. These undiscovered beauties are a refuge from the crowds, allowing tourists to form a stronger connection with nature and religion. Discovering these secret spots is a fulfilling journey that presents a new, peaceful, untouched, and very captivating aspect of Uttarakhand.

Why should you discover the hidden side of Uttarakhand?

Discovering the untouched part of any region brings a lot of advantages. To begin with, it provides the chance for travellers to experience the actual peace and silence. You can become lost in the soothing grasp of nature far from the crowded tourist spots, where the only noises are the gentle hum of streams, the swishing of leaves and the chirping birds. It gives you a much-needed respite from the commotion of the city.

Secondly, these off-the-beaten-track areas are often untouched natural beauty that has not been sullied by over-tourism. For those willing to go off the usual track, there are lush valleys, virgin forests, sparkling rivers and wide vistas of white-tipped mountains. The scenery is awe-inspiringly stunning in its untouched magnificence, the air is fresher, and the water is crystal clear.

A more authentic cultural experience is facilitated by discovering the unseen beauty. You may have a chance to interact with the natives, observe their traditions and celebrations and even participate in them. It offers a deeper insight and appreciation of the rich heritage of Uttarakhand. Discovering these places promotes a sense of adventure and discovery. Let yourself immerse in the pure beauty of nature, and create your unique travel narrative outside of the conventional tourist trails.

5 Hidden Gems of Uttarakhand:

Kakrighat –

The small, serene village of Kakrighat, along the banks of the Kosi River, is popular for its serene environment and spiritual value. Travellers who are devotees of Neem Karoli Baba visit here even though the saint does not have a big tourist site there. Its calmness is also enhanced by the belief that Swami Vivekananda meditated there. The tranquillity of Kakrighat and the peaceful Kosi River are its prime attractions. The ashram provides a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and meditation. The setting is ideal for individuals seeking serenity and spiritual isolation due to its natural environment. It’s a site to relax, seek inner peace and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Patal Bhuvaneshwar –

One of the most interesting undiscovered gems of Uttarakhand is the mystical limestone cave temple of Patal Bhuvaneshwar. The travellers must go down for 90 feet via a narrow, winding path to access the central temple, nestled of this ancient temple, nestled deep inside a network of underground caves. Patal Bhuvaneshwar is the mythological gateway to hell and the dwelling place of Lord Shiva. Stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations fill the cave, believed to illustrate diverse Hindu gods and goddesses, mythological creatures, and descriptions from Hindu mythology.

Chaukori –

Chaukori is another hidden treasure, in a small hill station offering breathtaking, wide-ranging views of the Himalayas without the crowds of more popular vantage points. Chaukori possesses spectacular views of prominent attractions like Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli peaks from an altitude of approximately 2010 meters. It is haracterized by its lush green tea gardens, offering a striking green hue to the entire region. With its majestic Himalayas at the backdrop and rolling hills blanketed with tea plantations, the region is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Lohaghat –

The Champawat region has the serene, tiny village of Lohaghat, surrounded by pine and oak woods is a calm place on the Lohawati River’s banks. The Mayawati Ashram, a religious retreat linked to Swami Vivekananda, is one among the several places of significance in Lohaghat. Abbott Mount is a nearby hill station boasting colonial-era bungalows and a church, and Banasur ka Kila, a medieval fort, enhance the town further. Lohaghat is an interesting hidden destination since it weaves together history, spirituality, and natural scenery in a tranquil environment.

Khirsu Pauri –

Khirsu is a secluded village in the Pauri Garhwal area that offers breathtaking views of the mighty Himalayan range, with a clear view of the Nanda Devi summit. Khirsu is located at around 1800 meters above sea level, surrounded by apple orchards and lush deodar and oak forests. The peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled natural splendour of Khirsu are its primary attractions. You can break away from the crowds and get lost in the tranquillity and solitude of the mountains there.

Wrapping up:

The lesser-known destinations in Uttarakhand offer a more captivating alternative to the state’s better-known places of travellers interest. The state’s natural beauty, spiritual heritage and cultural genuineness can be enjoyed in a more secluded and peaceful environment.