Offbeat Mountain Places in Uttarakhand: Where Wildlife Meets the Mountains

Uttarakhand, a region adorned with misty Himalayan peaks, roaring rivers, tranquil forests, and ancient temples, has always held a special place in my heart. While renowned destinations like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Nainital, Mussoorie, Haridwar, and Rishikesh draw countless visitors, my recent journey took me to lesser-known, yet equally enchanting, Offbeat Mountain Places in Uttarakhand.

These Offbeat Mountain Places in Uttarakhand left me utterly mesmerized, and I owe my incredible experience to Uttarakhand Tourism.

In this post, I’ll introduce you to nine truly amazing Offbeat Mountain Places in Uttarakhand that I explored and highly recommend for your future adventures.

1. Naukuchiatal:

Nestled just 27 km from Nainital, Naukuchiatal is a serene haven. The main attraction here is the nine-cornered Naukuchia Lake. During our stay at the government Tourist Rest House, we enjoyed the picturesque surroundings.

2. Kakrighat: Kakrighat is renowned for the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, located on the banks of the Kosi River. Swami Vivekananda himself meditated at this serene spot. It’s a perfect place to take a break when en route to Ranikhet, savoring a cup of chai while soaking in the moment.

3. Shitlakhet:

Located about 20 km from Ranikhet, Shitlakhet offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s an ideal destination for a digital detox, and you can also visit the famous Katarmal Sun Temple, just 18 km from this quaint village.

4. Kausani:

Kausani is a perfect place to savor the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas and witness stunning sunsets and sunrises. We were fortunate to stay in a Tourist Rest House with breathtaking views of Nanda Devi peaks, Trishul Parbat, and other mountain ranges. The visit to Sumitra Nandan Pant’s home, Anasakti Ashram, and the ancient Baijnath Temple is a must when in Kausani.

5. Chaukori:

Chaukori is like a village plucked from a fairytale, offering kaleidoscopic views of the mountains. Surrounded by Himalayan peaks and dense forests, this place is a true gem. And the Tourist Rest House here is a visual treat.

6. Patal Bhuvneshwar:

Patal Bhuvneshwar is an ancient sacred temple where you descend 90 feet to reach the caves. It’s an incredible experience to explore this temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and housing 33 crore Hindu Gods. Photography is now allowed, thanks to a recent change in rules.

7. Lohaghat:

Lohaghat is known for its haunted stories, particularly Mount Abbott, where Dr. Morris Hospital is located. Though I’ll delve into the tales in another blog post, a visit to Mount Abbott and Lohaghat promises peaceful moments and breathtaking views.

8. Shyamlatal:

Shyamlatal may not have been on my radar until I arrived at the lake. While it may not be meticulously maintained, it’s an excellent spot for a day picnic. During our visit, we enjoyed lunch by the lakeside, creating a unique and memorable experience.

9. Tanakpur:

Tanakpur, not a typical hill station, stands out due to its location near the India-Nepal border. With only one bridge connecting the two countries, we casually strolled into Nepal, visited the first village, Brahmdev, and returned. Crossing a country’s border so effortlessly was an enriching experience. You can also spend quality time by the river, gazing at the mountains on the opposite bank.

Conclusion

Uttarakhand’s hidden treasures offer a world of exploration beyond the usual tourist trails. These nine Offbeat Mountain Places in Uttarakhand revealed a side of the state that’s not often seen, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to embark on your own adventure to discover the magic of Uttarakhand’s lesser-known wonders.