Situated in the serene Garhwal Hills of Uttarakhand, Kanatal is a hidden gem that guarantees a peaceful escape from city life. Famous for its unadulterated natural beauty, rich forests, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, Kanatal is the place, travelers looking for an offbeat vacation. This charming village, which is 8,500 feet high above sea level, is perfect for nature enthusiasts, spirituality seekers, and peace seekers. Let’s see Kanatal places and understand why this unconventional destination in Uttarakhand cannot be avoided for your vacation.
1.Surkanda Devi Temple: A Spiritual AbodeA
One of the best attractions in Kanatal is the Surkanda Devi Temple, a holy site located in the reverence of Goddess Sati. 8 km from Kanatal at an altitude of 3,750 meters, this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths that are said to be where the head of Sati fell, mythologically speaking. The temple offers stunning 360-degree views of white Himalayan peaks, and it’s a spiritual and scenic place to visit Kanatal. The temple has a 2 km trek, which is not challenging for most visitors. It is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM with no entry charge. Visit during Navratri or Ganga Dussehra (May-June) and experience colorful celebrations.
2.Kaudia Forest: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For nature enthusiasts seeking to surround themselves with nature, Kaudia Forest comes at the top of Kanatal. Only 1 km away from Kanatal, the thick forest is ideal for trekking, birdwatching, and photography. The 5-6 km trekking trail in Kaudia unfolds greenery, natural springs of water, and wildlife such as musk deer, wild boar, and barking deer. It’s a peaceful place for a picnic with family and friends with breathtaking scenery of hills and valleys. The forest is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at an entry charge of INR 20 per person. Walking inside this forest provides you with the opportunity to see the natural beauty of Kanatal tourist destinations closely.
3.Tehri Lake and Dam: Scenic Beauty and Adventure
Tehri Lake and Dam, 29 km from Kanatal, is one of Kanatal. The tallest dam in the world, the Tehri Dam, is an engineering masterpiece located on the Bhagirathi River. The greenish-blue Tehri Lake, situated at an altitude of 1,700 meters, is a spot for exciting water sports such as kayaking, boating, water skiing, and even paragliding. Best suited for adventure seekers and people who want to see the beauty of Kanatal’s landscape. It is open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM during summer (7:00 AM to 5:00 PM during winter) without the sightseeing entrance fee, though activities cost extra. Don’t miss the temples nearby for a dose of culture.
4.Dhanaulti: A Peaceful Hill Station Closeby
Only 16 km drive from Kanatal, Dhanaulti is a scenic hill station under Kanatal. Known for its peaceful surroundings, Dhanaulti is full of deodar and oak woods, providing the ideal escape to relax. Dhanaulti Eco Park, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (admission fee: INR 15 adults and INR 10 children), is the ideal place for a walk and to absorb nature. You can also plant a sapling in someone’s memory, providing a personal experience to your tour. The misty hills and empty trails of Dhanaulti make it a nice place to halt and visit Kanatal and the nearby areas.
5.Chamba: A Quiet Day Out
Chamba, at a distance of 15 km from Kanatal, is a quiet hill station veiled in Kanatal. Situated at an altitude of 1,676 meters, Chamba presents breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and Bhagirathi Valley. Chamba is a peaceful offbeat destination of Uttarakhand in contrast to popular spots like Mussoorie. The region of Chamba is covered by pine and deodar forests. Go to the Laxmi Narayan Temple to appreciate its structure, or go to bazaars of the location to buy shawls and handicrafts made locally. It’s perfect for a picnic or a peaceful walk in the midst of scenic beauty. It’s free to enter, and it is open during the day, so it is a smooth fit in your plans for visiting Kanatal.
Why visit Kanatal in June?
Kanatal is best enjoyed in June with pleasant weather (15-25°C) that is ideal for outdoor activities. The vegetation is dense, but light rain might fall, so kindly bring appropriate shades. This unusual Uttarakhand spot is perfect for a weekend getaway, located at only 78 km from Dehradun and 33 km from Mussoorie. Bring trekking shoes that are comfortable to walk in, woolens for the chill night skies, and a camcorder to treasure the breathtaking views. Adventure, spiritualism, or a peaceful retreat – Kanatal tourist spots have something for all. Plan your stay now and uncover the hidden charm of this Himalayan haven!
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