Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chakrata is a cantonment town in Uttarakhand's Dehradun. Situated at approximately 2,118 meters, this charming town, about 100 km from the state capital, offers lovely views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and dense deodar forests. Unlike the more commercialised hill stations, Chakrata remains relatively untouched, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and peace seekers. Here's a detailed itinerary to plan your next trip to this beautiful place:
Morning: Arrive in Chakrata. Check into your hotel, such as Hotel Snow View or Deodar Dream Resort, which offer comfortable accommodations with picturesque views. After settling in, head to the local market such as Sadar Bazaar to get a feel for the town. The bustling market provides a variety of local handicrafts, woollens, and organic products. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the local eateries, such as the small cafes near the market that serve delicious parathas and chai.
Afternoon: Begin your exploration with a visit to the famous Tiger Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India. Located about 19 km from the main town, the journey to Tiger Falls offers views of lush greenery and terraced farms. You can either hike to the falls or take a local taxi. Once there, enjoy a picnic lunch by the cascading waters and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool formed at the base.
Evening: Return to the town and take a relaxing stroll through the quiet streets of Chakrata. Visit the sunset point near the Chakrata Forest Check Post, where you can witness sunset over the Himalayan ranges. As night falls, head to a local restaurant such as Anandpuri Restaurant, which offers traditional Garhwali cuisine and North Indian dishes. End your day with a hearty dinner, savouring dishes like Aloo Ke Gutke and Pahadi Chicken Curry.
Morning: Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel. Today's adventure begins with a visit to Deoban, about 13 km from Chakrata. This dense forest area is perfect for nature walks and bird watching. Trek through the lush greenery, and if you're lucky, you might spot some rare bird species, such as the Himalayan Monal and White-Collared Blackbird.
Afternoon: After a morning immersed in nature, head back to Chakrata for a quick lunch. Then, go to the Budher Caves and Miola Caves, about 40 km from Chakrata. These ancient limestone caves are an explorer's delight, filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Ensure you have a flashlight as you navigate through the cave's narrow passages. This adventure will take a few hours, so be prepared for physical activity.
Evening: Return to your hotel to freshen up after your caving expedition. Try local dining options like Hotel Burans, known for its home-cooked meals for dinner. Sample local specialities such as Mandua Ki Roti (finger millet bread) and Jhangora Ki Kheer (barnyard millet pudding). Relax and unwind.
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before exploring the ancient temples around Chakrata. About 94 km from Chakrata, visit the Hanol Temple, dedicated to Mahasu Devta. This temple, set against a backdrop of the Tons River, is an important pilgrimage site and showcases beautiful wooden architecture.
Afternoon: After the spiritual visit, drive back to Chakrata and have lunch at any roadside eatery. Post-lunch, visit Chilmiri Neck, the highest peak in Chakrata. This spot offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and is ideal for a peaceful time away from the crowds. You can spend your afternoon here, capturing some photographs.
Evening: Return to your hotel, and if you're up for more exploration, visit the nearby village of Kanasar, known for its deodar forests and ancient trees. Interact with the locals, learn about their lifestyle, and buy local crafts.
Morning: On your last day, rise early for an adventurous activity like trekking or mountain biking. Chakrata offers several trails suitable for these activities. If you have time, visit the Ram Tal Horticultural Garden, about 15 m from Chakrata. It is a beautiful spot with various plants, flowers, and a small pond, perfect for a relaxing stroll before you leave.
Afternoon: After your morning adventure, return to your hotel, pack up, and check out.
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 100 kilometres away. It has regular flights from major cities. You can hire a taxi from Dehradun or take a bus to Chakrata. The nearest railway station is also in Dehradun, which is connected to major Indian cities. Road travellers can drive from Delhi (about 310 kilometres) via Saharanpur and Dehradun.