Amidst the tranquillity of the Uttarakhand mountains lies Purola, a small village in the Uttarkashi district. Purola is set at an altitude of more than 1500 metres above sea level and offers a majestic view of the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. The picturesque views and serene location are untouched by any commercial activity, making Purola more desirable.
Trek To Har Ki Doon
Every year the most crowd Purola sees is due to Har Ki Doon, one of the best trekking destinations in the state. This 52-kilometre trek can take up to four days of climbing, going through remote parts of the state like the trails of Sankari, all the way to Taluka and Seema. Eventually, you will sight jaw-dropping views of Himalayan peaks such as the Kala Nag, Banderpoonch, Swargrohini, etc. Since Purola has been popularised as the gateway to this trek, you will also find enough homestays for a night's comfortable sleep.
Detour To Govind Wildlife Sanctuary
The village is also very close to the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. People coming in for the trek often visit it. A wide variety of animal species live here, and bird watching is bliss, with birds like the Gold Eagle, etc. There is a fascinating array of wildflowers around the sanctuary, and the best season to view them is spring, which is March/April onwards.
A Medley Of Many Moods
Purola encapsulates all kinds of moods, from riding a scooter around lush vegetation and experiencing a cool breeze to enjoying a hot cup of tea while viewing the landscape. The nights can turn magical while sharing a cup of tea with the strong, hardworking, and simple people from the village and gazing at the stars. Add to it the bass sounds of the fast-flowing Kamal River, which is better than any night out in a city.
Go Local
If walking down the streets and exploring the local markets are your thing, you are in for a treat. While strolling in and around Purola, you will come across hills covered with pine trees, streams turning into mini-waterfalls in valleys, and warm and welcoming people. They are ready to offer help and support before you can ask. What's more, even in the village, you can spot the rare Siberian Stonechat the visit to the sanctuary can come later.
The Information
Best time to visit October to February
How to get there
By air Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, is 169 kilometres from Purola.
By rail Dehradun railway station is well connected through most cities in the state and is 140 kilometres from Purola.
By road The village is well connected with major destinations in the state and New Delhi. Public and private buses/taxis are available from cities such as Dehradun, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Uttarkashi etc., making road travel very convenient.
Top tips Try the bhaang ki chutney and kachori for sure it's a Garhwal special.
For more information, check the website.
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