Gujrugarhi-The Historical Caves in Uttarakhand

Gujrugarhi located in Patti Gujdu in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand is a very important historical place with huge importance. The whole of Gujrugarhi consists of a complex of temples and historical caves situated on a hilltop which sets up the total ambiance Gujrugarhi-The Historical Caves in Uttarakhand

The History 

The Gujrugarhi is rich in history. It was earlier a complex of Gujru fort which was a complex with 52 other forts in the Garhwal region.  

This ancient temple built at the time of the Garhwal kingdom was of great significance during the Gorkha invasions.  These prehistoric caves were used as shelter by humans and troops too. It served as a good means for defense mechanisms.

Many alterations are done by humans mostly by defense bases to serve their purpose. Few man-made ditches have been found which were possibly done by warriors of the Gorkha period as a defense mechanism.

Many battles were fought here because of its strategic position and location which helped in planning the activity against different clans nearby.

There is a well on top of the summit. It still has water but is not potable as it is not hygienic. However, its existence and sustainability to this date leave the tourists in awe.

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The Legend

In the course of time, Garhi (fortress) served as a spot for hiding during the wars by many Hindu kings, just because of geographical advantages. 

 Gujru Garhi has much diverse nature and geography, for instance, so many long tunnels for many kilometers, deep trenches, and ruins of palaces, public amenities, battle exercise ground, and many more.

Gujru Garhi is blessed by the Goddess Maa Bhagwati, located on the mountaintop & the legend of Gujru Garhi dating back to the Mahabharat period.

According to the Mahabharata epic, Prince Nakul was the son of the legendary King Pandu and the fourth brother of Pandavas, who built this Gujru Garhi place for realizing eternal peace after strenuous war, was fought between Pandavas and Kauravas in Kurukshetra.

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Gujru Garhi Trek

Gurjgugrahi trek starts from Kingorikhal which can be reached after 4 km. Kingorikhal is reached after traveling on the Ramnagar-Sonfkhal-Saraikhat road. It lies at an average altitude of 1840 meters.

Trekking up from Kingorikhal leads you to the extreme end of the Deeba range. This is the highest point on the Patti of Gujdu at an average altitude of 2400 meters.

The area is covered by forests consisting of local species and oaks and Rhododendrons. There are many streams on the way to Gujrugarhi. At the end of the Debba region, there is Gujrugarhi covered with caves.

Best Time To Go

The best time to visit Gujrugarhi is from May to mid-June or from August to October. The temperature here is always moderate as it is situated in the subtropical region of Himalaya and sub-Himalayan regions. 

In the monsoon period and winter, it is best to avoid the trek here. Heavy monsoon and snow males the trek difficult and confusing.

However, after the monsoon, the regions are covered with lush greenery. Also during mild winters little snowfall and bright sunshine make the trek more delightful.

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How To Reach 

The best possible way to reach is from Kingorikhal which is 4 km away. Other major towns that are nearby are Dhumakot at a distance of 20 km and Manila Devi in Almora at a distance of 20 km. easily accessible roads are found.

Transport can be by the medium of buses or other modes of vehicles. However, the journey gets extreme as you start trekking from Kingorikhal.