A former summer retreat for the British, Chakrata in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district continues to be a nature lover’s dream even today. This town is an ideal escape for anyone wanting to skip the metropolis’ hubbub for a few days. A trip here is perfect for adventurous travellers who love to explore new sights and seek out places for mountain climbing, skiing, and trekking. By Angira Kar
Where to go?
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Just 26 kilometres away from Chakrata is Koti-Kanasar, a picturesque camping or picnicking location. Many private establishments offer luxury camping experiences here, so you don’t have to worry about carrying camping equipment while living a backpacker’s dream amidst the beautiful sceneries. When here, visit the roaring Tiger Falls that cascade down the Kanaser Range to form a glassy pond at the bottom surrounded by lush vegetation. To savour the majestic aura of the waterfall, consider rappelling down the waters.
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Next, go on an exploration trip to the Budher Caves that are famous for stalactites and stalagmites; or pay a visit to Deoban, a mountain surrounded by deodar forests, to enjoy rock climbing and watching endemic bird species. End your day’s expedition by gazing at a stunning sunset at Chilmiri Neck.
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Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in thrilling water sports like rappelling, river crossing, swimming and bridge slithering at the beautiful Yamuna Adventure Park; go for horse riding at the Chakrata Forest Check Post, or cycle through the Makhti Pokhari Village to learn about the lives of the locals. You can also visit Mundali near Chakrata during winter, which is one of the most popular skiing destinations in India. Mundali has a skiing school too for beginners that’ll help you prep for your first skiing experience. Set a day aside to visit the Lakhamandal temple, which holds huge mythological, religious and archaeological importance with its notable mention in the Mahābhārata.
Where to stay?
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Consider glamping in Chakrata. Luxury camps are available in and around the town, each with gorgeous rustic interiors and great room service. Alternatively, you can stay in luxurious hotels and resorts such as Waterfall Hill Resort, Hotel Snow View, Oxygen Resort, Himalayan Eco Lodges, etc. These hotels and resorts come with in-house restaurants, free parking, and even swimming pools in some cases.
You can even book a stay at the Ramtal Resort, Chakrata that comes with Swiss cottage-style luxury tents coupled with all the amenities and comforts that you can think of. When here, you can stroll through the Ramtal garden, watch birds, and absorb nature’s serenity every morning before starting your adventure-filled day.
How to reach?
You can take a train till Dehradun station or fly to the Jolly Grant airport, and continue onwards via cabs to reach Chakrata. The road journey takes you through spellbinding valleys surrounded by mountains further embellished by golden sunlight and luxuriant forests.
Related: Discover The Secrets Of Chharabra — A Quaint Little Village Near Shimla
Written By
Bayar Jain
Senior Content ManagerEquipped with a degree in Sociology (Honours) from the University of Delhi and a postgraduate diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, Bayar enjoys sharing stories of people, places, and different cultures. When not typing her travel tales, you can catch the hobbyist photographer capturing ..Read More
