Nestled amidst sun-kissed Himalayan peaks, Kanatal is a beautiful, offbeat hill station in Uttarakhand. The name Kanatal is a combination of two words: ‘Kana’, meaning one-eyed, and ‘Tal’, meaning lake, derived from the dried lake of the same name. Kanatal, with its tranquil and laid-back lifestyle, offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the modern, fast-paced urban world, providing much-needed mental peace.
Located at an elevation of 2600 meters, the lush green landscape of Kanatal transforms it into a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Alongside its natural beauty, Kanatal offers a range of adventurous activities that keep you engaged every moment. Overall, Kanatal has all the ingredients to create a recipe for a happy vacation. To further ease your planning, we have compiled a comprehensive Kanatal travel guide, including the best time to visit, how to reach, things to do, places to visit, and recommended accommodations. So, grab a cup of coffee and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Kanatal –
Why visit Kanatal?
There are multiple reasons that make Kanatal a perfect weekend getaway –
- Accessibility – Kanatal, despite being an offbeat destination, enjoys excellent connectivity to major places in North India, such as Rishikesh (78 KM), Mussoorie (48 KM), Delhi (338 KM), and Dehradun (72 KM), making it easily accessible from various locations.
- Ideal Year Around weather – The weather in Kanatal is delightful throughout the year. During summer, the town experiences a cool and misty climate with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. In contrast, winters bring extreme cold and frequent snowfall, with temperatures fluctuating between -5 and 10 degrees Celsius. Whether you seek respite from the scorching heat of the plains or revel in the beauty of snowfall, Kanatal offers it all.
- Amazing Accommodation -Kanatal boasts an array of accommodations, including hotels, homestays, resorts, and campsites. The campsites provide an opportunity to bask in breathtaking valley views during the day and gaze at the twinkling stars at night, offering an unforgettable experience.
What is Kanatal Famous for?
Kanatal is famous for its tranquil surroundings, amazing views, pleasant climate, camping, apple orchids, trekking, hiking and laid-back lifestyle.
Best Time to visit Kanatal
The best time to visit Kanatal depends on individuals’ preferences. If you love snowfall, then the period from November to March is perfect. On the other hand, if you prefer a lush green landscape, fresh mountain breeze, and clear skies, then April to June would be ideal. Additionally, the autumn season (September to October) offers a picturesque experience in Kanatal, as the lush green surroundings transform into a golden vista with yellow leaves from oak and deodar trees.
- Summer (April to June) – Ideal for clear skies, lush green surroundings and outdoor activities
- Autumn (September and October) – Clear skies, pleasant weather and picturesque landscape
- Winter (November to March) – Low temperature and frequent snowfalls.
Places to Visit in Kanatal
Surkanda Devi Temple
Surkanda Devi Temple, situated at an altitude of 2756 meters, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. It holds great religious significance among pilgrims as it is part of the 51 Shaktipeeth Temples. Surrounded by dense forests, the temple provides a peaceful ambiance and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.
The temple has a fascinating legend associated with it – according to the legends, the location of the temple is where the head of the goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her body to Kailash.
For those planning a visit, reaching the temple involves a 3 KM trek from the base point known as Kaddukhal, where visitors are required to park their vehicles.
- Location – Chamba-Mussoorie road, Saklana range
Kodia Jungle
For someone like me who adores hiking, natural beauty, and stunning valley views, the Kodia Jungle in Kanatal is a must-visit. Situated approximately 5 KM from Kanatal, Kodia Jungle stands out as a renowned picnic spot. The 6 KM trek to the jungle treats you to breathtaking mountain views across the deep valley, while the route itself offers stunning glimpses of natural springs.
In addition to trekking, visitors can opt for a jungle safari to catch glimpses of a wide range of animals, such as wild boar, musk deer, kakar, and ghoral.
Tehri Dam Reservoir
The Tehri Dam, constructed on the Bhagirathi River, is not only the highest dam in India but also the 4th highest dam globally and the 10th tallest dam worldwide, standing at an impressive height of almost 260 meters and stretching across 592 meters. This monumental structure serves as an integral component of the Tehri Dam & Hydro Power Project. For visitors eager to take in the breathtaking sight, a viewing point near the Bhagirathipuram bus stop offers an exceptional vantage to admire the entirety of the dam.
- Location – 35 KM from Kanatal
- Things to do – Jet ski, kayaking, canoeing, banana rides, and boating.
New Tehri – Mini Maldives of India
New Tehri, the first planned city in Uttarakhand, overlooks the stunning Tehri Dam and serves as the headquarters for the Garhwal region. Situated at 5500 feet above sea level, this town is renowned as the Mini Maldives of India, owing to its floating huts on the Tehri lake. Encircled by the majestic Himalayan mountain range, these rooms offer not just a place to stay, but also a complete vacation experience, with a wide range of activities including kayaking, banana rides, boating, jet skiing, badminton, volleyball, and various indoor and outdoor games.
Dhanaulti Eco Park
Dhanaulti Eco Park, a must-visit place near Kanatal, is a paradise for all nature lovers. Developed by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and locals, the park boasts an abundance of oak and deodar trees that entice tourists from all around. Visitors can revel in the serene natural beauty, soak in the stunning vistas of the Himalayas, and indulge in an invigorating nature walk. With its perfect setting, the park is an ideal destination for a memorable outing with kids and family.
Dhanaulti
Nestled amidst the serene Himalayan surroundings along the Mussoorie Chamba road, Dhanaulti is an offbeat destination in Uttarakhand. Its laid-back lifestyle, scanty crowds, peaceful ambiance, and picturesque natural beauty make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Its proximity to Delhi NCR and the variety of activities available also make it an ideal weekend getaway.
- Best time to visit – Dhanaulti is a year-round destination however winter and summer are the best seasons to visit. In winter Dhanaulti gets covered by a white blanket of snow.
- Things to do – Camping, trekking, hiking, nature walks and rock climbing.
Chamba
Nestled amidst dense pine and deodar trees, with the backdrop of the mighty Himalayan peaks, Chamba is a breathtaking offbeat destination situated in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The town’s main attractions include its tranquilizing natural surroundings and the stunning panoramic views of the mountains.
As you stroll through the town, the symphony of nature serenades your senses, while the crisp mountain breeze invigorates your soul. The spectacle of sunrise and sunset is truly awe-inspiring, as the golden rays of the sun delicately paint the white peaks in a mesmerizing shade of yellow. Moreover, the night sky offers an unparalleled view of the Milky Way, making it an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Things to do in Kanatal
Camping
Kanatal, a haven for camping enthusiasts, offers a perfect setting to relish stunning mountain vistas and a glistening night sky. With its picturesque Himalayan peaks and an array of exhilarating outdoor activities, Kanatal serves as an ideal weekend retreat for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
Furthermore, the abundance of campsites in Kanatal caters to various preferences, ranging from high-altitude scenic tents to adventure camps, providing a myriad of options for visitors. In addition to the breathtaking locations, these campsites offer a range of amenities, including delectable dinner options, lively bonfires, and a host of other leisure services.
Just envision the experience of slumbering beneath the grandeur of the Himalayan night sky and awakening to a breathtaking sunrise; this encapsulates the essence of camping in Kanatal.
Trekking & Hiking
Kanatal, being a Himalayan destination, is the perfect place for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. Additionally, as an offbeat destination, Kanatal boasts unspoiled natural beauty.
- Treks in Kanatal – Surkanda Devi Trek (2 KM), and Kodia Jungle Trek (6 KM)
Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Kanatal’s mountain terrain offers ample opportunities for adventure lovers to try their hand at rock climbing and rappelling. These activities not only provide thrills but also serve as a great test of your physical and mental strength. Therefore, Kanatal attracts adventure junkies from Delhi NCR for a weekend trip. The camps in the area arrange these activities as part of a complete camping package.
Sky Bridge
Kanatal’s sky bridge is the perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. This hanging bridge, constructed with wires and bamboo, will provide the adrenaline rush that every adventure lover craves. Walking on this bridge, which connects the mountains, will make you feel like you’re walking in the air. The exhilaration amplifies as the bridge sways with every step. Plan a visit to Kanatal this weekend and embark on this thrilling experience.
How to Reach Kanatal
There are 3 ways to reach Kanatal –
- By Flight: The nearest airport to Kanatal is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, situated 80 KM away. The distance from the airport to Kanatal can be easily covered by road in approximately 3 hours. Jolly Grant Airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Pune, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.
- By Train: Rishikesh houses the nearest railway station to Kanatal, located approximately 75 KM away. From the station, you can easily find a taxi that will drop you at Kanatal in 2 to 3 hours. Rishikesh railway station has direct trains from several nearby cities such as Delhi, Ajmer, Haridwar, and Gurgaon.
- By Road: Kanatal boasts excellent connectivity by road to neighboring cities like Mussoorie, Chamba, Delhi, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. You can find direct buses from Delhi ISBT to Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Haridwar, Dehradun, and others. After reaching any of these locations, you can hire a taxi to reach your final destination, Kanatal.
Kanatal Frequently Asked Questions
How is the road from Delhi to Kanatal?
Kanatal is located around 340 KM from Delhi and the road conditions are excellent. But no matter how is the road or how good you are at driving, you need to drive cautiously and slowly in the hilly regions.
Is it safe to visit Kanatal?
Yes, Kanatal is a very safe place to visit even if you’re traveling solo. The locals here are very welcoming and friendly.
How to reach Kanatal to Delhi via road?
There are two ways to reach Kanatal from Delhi. One option is to travel via Rishikesh and Haridwar, while the other is to take the route via Dehradun and Mussoorie. Both routes are excellent, with good road conditions. However, if you are traveling during the monsoon season, it is advisable to choose the Dehradun route, as the road conditions on the Rishikesh route deteriorate significantly during rainfall.
- Delhi to Kanatal via Haridwar – Delhi -> Roorkee -> Haridwar -> Rishikesh -> Narendranagar -> Chamba -> Kanatal
- Delhi to Kanatal via Dehradun – Delhi -> Dehradun -> Mussoorie -> Dhanaulti -> Kanatal