Exploring KANATAL (Uttarakhand) A Beautiful Hill Station
Kanatal is a serene and picturesque hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Nestled in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kanatal is a lesser-explored gem, ideal for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and peace seekers. Here’s a detailed guide to help you explore Kanatal:
Getting to Kanatal
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), approximately 92 km away.
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station, around 80 km away.
- By Road: Kanatal is well-connected to nearby cities like Mussoorie (33 km), Dehradun (78 km), Rishikesh (75 km), 18 km from Chamba. It is on the Chamba-Mussoorie road and nearly 300 km from Delhi. Roads are scenic but winding, so prepare for a beautiful drive!
Key Attractions in Kanatal
- Surkanda Devi Temple
- Located at an altitude of 2,757 meters, this sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati.
- A short trek of 2 km through dense forest leads to the temple, offering breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks.
- Kodai Jungle
- Famous for its dense pine, deodar, and oak forests, the jungle is perfect for trekking, nature walks, and bird watching.
- You might spot wildlife like barking deer, wild boars, and Himalayan langurs.
- Tehri Dam
- Just a short drive from Kanatal, the Tehri Dam is an architectural marvel.
- Height: The Tehri Dam is the 13th tallest dam in the world and the tallest in India, standing at 260.5 meters (855 feet).
- Location: The dam is situated in New Tehri, Tehri Garhwal district, on the Bhagirathi River.
- Activities: Water sports such as speed boating, jet skiing, banana boat rides, rafting and boating are popular at the dam. On the nearby Tehri Lake, you can also stay in houseboats or floating huts.
- Other attractions: Other adventure sports including rock climbing, mountain biking, and trekking are available in the surrounding area.
- Nearby towns: Rishikesh is 75 miles away from New Tehri, Mussoorie is 70 km away, and the old Tehri is 16 km away.
- Festival: Every year in February, the government hosts the Tehri Lake Festival.
- New Tehri
- The modern town near the dam, offering panoramic views of the dam reservoir and the surrounding mountains.
- Adventure Camps
- Kanatal is known for its camping spots, where you can enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and adventure activities like rock climbing and valley crossing.
- Apple Orchards
- Walk through the beautiful apple orchards and experience the charm of a rural Himalayan lifestyle.
Activities to Try
- Trekking and Hiking: Various trails in and around Kanatal offer adventure with splendid views.
- Photography: The snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and quaint surroundings are a paradise for photographers.
- Camping: Several operators offer tented stays with all amenities amidst nature.
- Bird Watching: Kanatal’s rich biodiversity attracts bird enthusiasts from across the region.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (April to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Winter (December to February): Perfect for snow lovers, with the region often covered in a white blanket.
- Monsoon (July to September): The greenery is at its peak, though landslides may pose challenges.
Where to Stay
- Luxury Resorts: The Terraces, Kanatal Heights
- Budget Hotels: Classic Hill Top Resort, Camp Carnival
- Homestays: Experience the warmth of local hospitality by staying with local families.
Travel Tips
- Carry warm clothing even in summer, as temperatures drop at night.
- Wear sturdy shoes for trekking and forest walks.
- Keep cash handy; ATMs are limited in the area.
- Respect the environment and avoid littering.
