Hidden amidst the verdant folds of the Garhwal Himalayas, Chakrata hill station offbeat travel destination travel guide is a serene retreat far from the madding crowd. Navigate through this guide to discover the myriad things to do in Chakrata scenic beauty, from witnessing majestic waterfalls to exploring ancient caves. Revel in the untouched splendor of this tranquil haven, where nature and culture weave a tale of timeless beauty in Uttarakhand’s picturesque landscapes.
Given the hilly terrain around Chakrata, it is highly recommended to book an Innova cab from Dehradun to explore this quaint little hill-station comfortably.
Chakrata is a small hill town near Dehradun in Uttarakhand, located at a height of 6948 feet known for its coniferous forest, treks, caves and ancient temples.
Chakrata
With mountain climbing as one of the popular activities in Chakrata, it is also becoming a popular destination for camping. With some of the beautiful waterfalls, especially Tiger Falls, Chakrata is a backpacker’s paradise and an ideal location for people seeking offbeat tranquil destinations. The highest peak in the Hilltown is Kharamba Peak, located at an altitude of 10,000 ft surrounded by dense forests and nature’s bounties. The forests of Chakrata is home to diverse wildlife like wild fowls, panther and spotted deer.
Once a small hamlet of Jaunsari tribe called Jaunsar Bawar, Chakrata looks down upon the Yamuna valley. The place was developed by the executives of the East India Company, and it also encloses a military cantonment making the access restricted for civilian travellers
There are numerious caves and ancient temples located near chakrata. Hano Mahasu Temple and Lakhamandal which are located on the bank of Yamuna. Chakrata Ditted by coniferous forests and a longer delight as it far away from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Chakrata is a picturesque location with natural Bounteousness and panoramic vistas of nature. best place for nature lover, Bird Watchers, Adventure lovers, celebrate Christmas and New Year.
About Chakrata
Nestled within the hills of Uttarakhand, on the westernmost border, is the cantonment town of Chakrata. The scenic Himalayan mountains, replete with the beauty of conifers, rhododendrons and oak trees, looming over the hills, is a sensory delight for every traveller. The breathtaking views, the serene atmosphere, and the pleasant climate make Chakrata a charming and quaint hill retreat.
With our Chakrata travel guide, you can discover this cosy mountain retreat on your way and experience an offbeat mountain destination.
Chakrata has a highest mountain is Kharamba preak with an altitude of 10,000 feet. Climbing the peak is wonderful and adventurous task. The Towering Mountains ranges of Chakrata offered several adventure activities. Find in Chakrata the Sun Kissed Himalayans. Forest around the Chakrata has present Rich Flora ans funa, many wildlife species found here like Panther and Spotted dear.
History
Chakrata became prominent during the colonial days, established as a cantonment zone for the British Indian Army, in 1869. The area is known as Jaunsar – Bawar, which includes Chakrata and some neighbouring villages. In 1901, the district of Chakrata, including the main town, and Kalsi were taken under the administration of the United Provinces (present-day UP, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand).
Things to do in Chakrata
Places to visit in Chakrata
The exquisite natural landscape and history of the place offer a host of attractions for you to see and explore. Check out these popular tourist places in Chakrata for a fun trip –
- Tiger Falls – The highest falls one of the highest of Uttarakhand, this natural cascade sits at 312 ft. Nestled within woods of pine and cedar, this locale is best for picnics and day treks. Entry Fee- Free
- Deoban – Sitting at 7500+ ft, Deoban is a picturesque, restricted forest area on the hills surrounded by dense woods of deodar. This spot is also known for birdwatching in late winter and spring. Entry Fee– NA
- Chilmiri Neck – This is a popular sunset point, a few miles from the main town, known for gorgeous views of the setting sun. Entry Fee– NA
- Ram Tal Horticultural Garden – A local farm with a pond and varieties of climbers, conifers, lichen, ferns, rhododendrons, apples, plums, and other fruiting and flowering trees, perfect for picnics and nature walks. Entry Fee– Free
- Budher Caves – Also known as Miola caves, the Budher Caves is a network of naturally-formed limestone caves, highlighted by stalactite and stalagmite formations, popular for spelunking. Entry Fee– Free
- Bairat Khai Pass – This high mountain pass, sitting at 6500+ feet, offers 180-degree views of the snow-clad Himalayas. Visit during winters or just before spring for the best experience.
Places to visit nearby.
Apart from your basic sightseeing, you can also visit other scenic locales nearby. Check out these nearby hill stations.
- Kanasar – A quaint hill station near Chakrata scenic beauty, ideal for nature walks, rock climbing,
- Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary – One of the oldest wildlife conservatories of Himachal Pradesh, Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is home to Himalayan fauna like leopards, samber, spotted deer, barking deer, jackal, hare, jungle cat, palm civet, porcupine, blue jay, black partridge, drongo, etc. Entry Fee– Free
- Lakhamandal Temple – An ancient temple complex located at 100KM from Chakrata scenic beauty, this temple is dedicated to Shiva and has a connection to the Pandavas from the time of Mahabharata. Entry Fee– NA
- waterfall rappelling, river rafting, and other outdoor adventures. Entry Fee– INR 1000 onward
- Mussoorie – An old colonial town and Dehradun’s sister town, Mussoorie is famous for Kempty Waterfall, Sir George Everest Mansion, Christ Church, Lal Tibba, and more. Entry Fee– NA
- Dehradun – The state capital, known for the history, art, culture, and beauty of Garhwal Himalayas. Visit the Mindrolling Monastery, Robber’s Cave, Malsi Deer Park, Har Ki Dun Valley, and Mall Road. Entry Fee- NA
Location
Chakrata is located in the travel guide Dehradun district, about 98KM from the state capital, Dehradun, and 73KM from Mussoorie, and Tehri Garhwal on the east. The cantonment town lies on the westernmost corner of Uttarakhand, on the border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Weather
The weather of Chakrata can be defined as typically mountain weather. The summers are warm but pleasant while winters are chilly and cold, with occasional snowfall. The time from spring to summer sees the most foliage and fresh greenery in the region with orchards and flowering plants in full bloom. The monsoon period is also beautiful, but the upper reaches of the mountain often flood in heavy rains.
Places to eat in Chakrata
Sample the local flavours at these top-rated eateries in Chakrata –
- Mehta Restaurant and Fast Food
- Devna Restaurant
- Oxygen Café and Restaurant
- Chandna’s The Food Court
- Hot Bite Grill Restaurant
Interesting Facts
Besides the visiting places in Chakrata, a few fun facts make this hill station interesting –
- During the time of Ashoka in the 2nd century BC, one of those nearby villages of Kalsi became the site for one of the major rock edicts set up by Ashoka during his propagation of dhamma. This edict was discovered in 1860.
- Therefore, Chakrata serves as the permanent garrison Chakrata travel guide of the elite and discreet Special Frontier Force (Establishment 22), which is the only ethnic Tibetan unit of the Indian army.
How to Reach Chakrata
By Train
After that There is no direct rail connectivity. The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, about 87KM away. Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to the rest of the state and nearby major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Shimla, Kalka etc. and other metros of India. From Dehradun, you can book a local taxi, rent a car or take the local bus to travel to Chakrata.
By Road
Chakrata is well-connected to the rest of Uttarakhand, Chakrata scenic beauty travel guide Himachal Pradesh, and other major neighbouring cities and towns via the Dehradun-Rishikesh National Highway and SH 1. There are regular state-run and private buses from Dehradun, Rishikesh, Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, Kalka, Herbertpur, Ambala etc. to Chakrata. The best way to travel to Chakrata offbeat travel destination is to book a cab or rent an outstation car and do a road trip.
By Flight
Most Importantly, There is no flight service. The nearest airport is in Dehradun, at Jolly Grant Airport, about 113KM away. You can take a flight from any major city/town in India to Dehradun and from there you can get an airport taxi to reach Chakrata by road.
Best time to Visit Chakrata
After that sits on the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas and thus, Chakrata offbeat travel destination travel guide experiences classic mountain weather. Summers and spring months, between March and May. Fourthly Make for the best period to explore this quaint and charming hill station. Because This is the time when nature is in its full glory. And you can also explore the outdoors without any difficulty. Alternatively, you can also travel in peak winter, during snowfall for winter sports and experience the snow-clad Himalayan retreat. However, always check for snowfall time before travelling, since it varies every year.
Geography
Firstly Chakrata is tucked in the lush valleys of the Garhwal Himalayas, between the Tons and Yamuna Rivers. Secondly The town sits at an altitude of 7000 feet. Similarly With the highest point of elevation at Kharamba Peak, at 10000 feet. Because of less commercial intervention, still rich in its biodiversity. However, The forests of the regions are home to some rare and endangered species of mountain flora and fauna. With red rhododendrons, rare varieties of deodar/cedar, and pines. And if you are lucky, you could spot wildlife like panthers, spotted deer, wild fowls.
