Best Places to Visit in Pauri Garhwal

Kotdwar is known as the gateway to Pauri Garhwal. At the entrance to Pauri Garhwal lies the beautiful Shri Sidhbali Dham, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Begin your journey here by seeking blessings before exploring the wonders of Pauri Garhwal. Pauri Garhwal is a gift of nature, adorned with majestic mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, plains, and rivers. The clouds here create a magical atmosphere, often resembling a mystical fire spreading through the valleys. This destination offers a variety of experiences. The natural beauty of Lansdowne.Binsar and Doodhatoli treks, perfect for adventure. The scenic view of Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple which is surrounded by Deodar. The peace of Khirsu. Stunning views from Kandoliya and its surrounding. Pauri Garhwal is ideal for those seeking an offbeat destination filled with landscapes and peaceful surroundings.

1. Shri Sidhbali Dham

The temple of Baba Shri Sidhbali Dham is located in Kotdwar and is a sacred site of devotion. It is believed that devotees whose wishes are fulfilled organize Bhandara (a communal feast) here as an offering. A Bhandara is held daily at this temple, and if you wish to host one, it is essential to book well in advance—often years ahead. The morning and evening aarti at the temple gives you peace and joy. If you are a spiritual person seeking peace, you can spend a few hours meditating in the serene atmosphere of this temple. You can take a train from Delhi for Kotdwar and then hire an e-rickshaw or taxi for the temple. The temple is also accessible from Haridwar and Rishikesh.

2. Khirsu

Khirsu is an offbeat destination. If you love peace, nature, and want to escape the crowds, parties, and markets, this is the place for you. Located 115 kilometers from Rishikesh, it offers tranquility and natural beauty. However, it’s not for those seeking crowds, markets, adventure, or cafes. You can stay at the GMVN resort or the Basa Homestay, which is a popular option in Khirsu. The Kandoliya Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another attraction here. Be cautious of leopards, as the area is surrounded by dense forest.

3. Kandoliya Temple

This temple is the Kuldevta (family deity) of the Dogriyal Negi community. Locals also consider it an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Originally located at a lower elevation, it was moved to a hilltop after a deity appeared in someone’s dream and instructed them to build the temple there. It is linked to Golu Devta, the god of justice in Uttarakhand. Legend says that Golu Devta was brought here and enshrined. The forest path leading to the temple, adorned with bells, and the scenic views are captivating.

4. Chaukhamba Viewpoint

This is an excellent spot for photography and scenic views of the Chaukhamba and nearby Himalayan peaks. Both sunrise and sunset are stunning from this viewpoint.

5. Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Located 36 kilometers from Lansdowne, the drive to this temple takes approximately 2 hours due to narrow and winding roads. The temple, surrounded by dense forest, offers a serene atmosphere. Visitors can stay at an ashram nearby. The temple complex is expansive and peaceful, making it a perfect retreat.

6. Adwani

Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, Adwani is ideal for nature walks and experiencing local culture. It’s an offbeat destination. In Ranigarh, after a long jungle trek, you can visit the Aadeshwar Mahadev Temple. However, avoid trekking alone due to the presence of wild animals. This dense forest area is challenging but rewarding for adventurers.

7. Nag Devta Temple

This temple is dedicated to the snake deity, highly revered in Hinduism. The path to the temple passes through dense forests of oak, deodar, and pine. While it’s safe during the day, the risk of encountering wild animals increases after sunset, so it’s advised not to visit late. According to legend, a child born with a half-human, half-snake body was placed here, leading to the temple's establishment. Devotees believe that members of the Doval dynasty are immune to snake venom due to their faith in the deity. From Delhi, the temple can be accessed via Rishikesh and Shivpuri.

8. Binsar Mahadev Temple

Built by the Pandavas during their exile, this ancient temple has been renovated in the style of Kedarnath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is located near Peethsand. After driving to Peethsand, visitors must trek for 2-3 hours through dense forest to reach the temple. Carry sufficient food and water, as there are no amenities along the way except a natural water source. Avoid traveling alone.

9. Doodhatoli

Doodhatoli, meaning "milk cauldron" in English, is a part of the middle Himalayan range and is known as the Pamir of Uttarakhand. Tourists can drive to Marora or Thalisain and then trek 24 kilometers to Doodhatoli. Starting from Binsar, this trek offers unparalleled views of forests and mountains. It is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Ensure you have a guide and avoid trekking alone.

10. Srinagar

Situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River, Srinagar is a picturesque city in Uttarakhand. The Alaknanda Ghat is worth visiting, though bathing is prohibited due to the strong current. The city features a s uspension bridge and several temples, including the Dhari Devi Temple, located 14 kilometers away. Kamleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Ganga Darshan, 7 kilometers from Srinagar, offer stunning views of the river and surroundings. From Delhi, you can reach Srinagar via Haridwar and Rishikesh.

11. Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple

This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in Pauri. A serene pathway through large trees leads to the temple, offering peace and tranquility amidst the forest, far from city crowds.

12. Jwalpa Devi Temple

A simple yet revered temple, it is believed that Adi Guru Shankaracharya worshipped Maa Durga here. Legend says that Maa Durga appeared in the form of flames, hence the name Jwalpa Temple. The temple is located 75 kilometers from Kotdwar and 30 kilometers from Pauri. Visitors can also hear the melodic sound of the Nyar River nearby.

13. Satpuli

Satpuli is where the eastern and western rivers of Nyar merge with the Ganges. The Jangleshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located here. Satpuli also offers paragliding opportunities and a local market to explore. To reach Satpuli, travel via Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kotdwar.

14. Lansdowne

The main attractions of Lansdowne include Tip N Top, the museum, church, Durga Mandir, Sunset Point, and Bhulla Lake. The area is well-maintained by the army.

15. Kanvashram

Situated on the banks of the Malini River, Kanvashram is considered the birthplace of Bharat, after whom India was named. While it offers scenic views and an annual fair, it may not appeal to everyone. My visit revealed little more than a serene river, a bridge, and a few couples enjoying the view. Visit only if you’re looking for something different and have extra time.

How to Reach Rishikesh

It is 330 km from Delhi via Haridwar, Dehradun
Kotdwar Railway Station is the nearest railhead.
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, 155 km away from Pauri Garhwal.
Altitude: 1,650 meters
Distance from Delhi: 330 km
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest railway station: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun