Uttarakhand is home to many offbeat destinations with magnificent landscapes, towering mountains, and rich cultural diversity. Away from mass tourism, these places allow you to experience untouched natural beauty in its purest form. You can visit destinations such as Khirsu, Lohaghat, and Landour throughout the year, though extra caution should be taken during the monsoon season due to slippery roads. Other than this, follow safe travel practices and respect the local culture and etiquette of each destination.
A land of misty Himalayas, ancient temples, roaring rivers, and many waterfalls, Uttarakhand is the most beautiful state in Northern India. Also known as Dev Bhoomi, Uttarakhand has many highly revered religious places, including Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Patal Bhuvaneshwar, etc. Also, with its Yoga Capital – Rishikesh, the Himalayan ski resort – Auli, the Queen of the Hills – Mussoorie, and the famous valley of flowers, Uttarakhand attracts thousands of tourists every year. In addition, the state has many hidden spots for those who love peace and serenity away from crowded areas. These places tend to be untouched by tourism and provide a chance to experience nature at its best.
About Best Offbeat Travel Places in Uttarakhand
- Recommended itinerary
- 7-10-days
- Top 10 Offbeat Travel Places in Uttarakhand
- Khirsu
- Munsiyari
- Chaukori
- Lohaghat
- Naukuchiatal
- Landour
- Kanatal
- Pangot
- Ramgarh
- Peora
- Useful Information You Must Know
- Clothing Suggestions
- Summer (March to June)
- Monsoon (July to September)
- Winter (October to February)
- Cultural Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for Tourists
- Travel Safety Tips
- Clothing Suggestions
- Getting Around Uttarakhand
- Private Cabs
- Self-Drive
- Shared Jeeps
- State Transport Buses
What Itinerary is Recommended for Uttarakhand?
7–10-Days Itinerary
If you want to cover the best offbeat locations in Uttarakhand, then a 7–10-day itinerary is suitable for you. You can visit offbeat places dotted across the Garhwal and Kumaon regions to minimise backtracking. Choose a popular spot like Dehradun to start your journey.
| Days | Highlights | Overnight Stay |
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Day 1 |
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Kanatal |
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Day 2 |
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Khirsu |
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Day 3 |
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Landour |
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Day 4 |
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Landour |
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Day 5 |
|
Pangot |
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Day 6 |
|
Naukuchiatal |
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Day 7 |
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Ramgarh/Peora |
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Day 8 |
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Chaukori |
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Day 9 |
|
Munsiyari |
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Day 10 |
|
Offbeat Travel Places in Uttarakhand
Here is a list of the top 10 offbeat places that you can include in your Uttarakhand tour packages for a memorable travel experience.
Khirsu
Perched at 1760 meters above sea level, Khirsu is a perfect destination to enjoy an idyllic and offbeat Himalayan vacation. One of the best offbeat places in Uttarakhand, Khirsu, is located in Pauri Garhwal, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchachuli, and Nanda Kot. This quaint hamlet is dotted with lush orchards of apples and dense pine and deodar forests, making it an ideal place for hiking, trekking, and camping. A visit to Khirsu will take you to a dreamy destination from a fairy tale novel. You can visit places like Kalpa Devi Temple, Van Manoranjan Kendra and Farkhunda, and Chaukhambha Viewpoint.
Munsiyari
A beautiful tourist spot situated in the Pithoragarh, Munsiyari, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and serenity to create a destination that you want for complete relaxation of mind and soul. Also known as the Little Kashmir, this offbeat hill station in Uttarakhand is situated at an elevation of 2298 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Panchachuli Peaks- including magnificent peaks of Nanda Kot, Nanda Devi, Rajarambha, and Nepal Himalayas. This beautiful place is also a base for three glaciers, including Ralam, Milam, and Namik. Whether you are a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or adventure lover, you would not want to miss out on this spot.
Chaukori
One of the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, Chaukori, is perched at 2,010 meters above sea level. Situated in Pithoragarh, Chaukori is an idyllic village and a hidden gem of the state. This place is known for its picturesque scenery and temples, which are prime attractions for the tourists who visit Chaukori. It is one of those unexplored places in India that can leave you awestruck with its mesmerizing beauty. Here, you can enjoy a nature walk in the lush forest and capture the stunning snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi with your camera. The best places you can visit in Chaukori are tea gardens, Nakuleshwar Temple, Ghunsera Devi Temple, Nag Mandir, Kali Devi Waterfalls, and more.
Lohaghat
One of the offbeat hill stations in Uttarakhand, Lohaghat, is blessed with pine and oak forests, a serene climate, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. If you have a fascination for historical and mythological aspects, you need to know that this small town is steeped in history. It is said that the area around this small town may have been the capital of the Chand reign, a Rajput clan that governed Kumaon during the 11th and 12th centuries. Nestled at an altitude of 1800 metres on the banks of the Lohawati River, Lohaghat is one of the least explored Himalayan retreats. The places you can visit here are Pancheshwar Mahadev Temple, Banasur Ka Kila, Mayawati Ashram, Abbott Mount, Devidhura Temple, etc.
Naukuchiatal
One of the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand, Naukuchiatal, is a picturesque hill station in Nainital – the city of lakes. Naukuchiatal, or the nine cornered lake, is a small yet beautiful lake village known for tranquillity and calmness beneath the shade of pure nature. This hidden gem tops the list of people on a family vacation, solo travelling, or honeymoon. Apart from this, Naukuchiatal attracts tourists with the famous Escape Festival, celebrated in May every year. This quaint town is situated in a beautiful valley that provides opportunities for outdoor activities like paddling, rowing, yachting, and boating. There are many points of interest in this region, such as Jungliagaon, Bhimtal Lake, Lake Naukuchiatal, etc., helping you enjoy the best holiday experience.
Landour
Located in proximity to Mussoorie, Landour will take you through steep hills and an awe-inspiring valley. One of the most beautiful offbeat locations in Uttarakhand, Landour offers the picturesque views of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Swargarohini, and many other Himalayan peaks. This place is famous for its European touch reflected in the colonial-style architecture and beautiful churches of that era. There are many sightseeing places in and around this small town that you can visit and enjoy several outdoor activities that will make your trip even more pleasant and memorable. Some highlights of this place are the Church of St. Paul, Laal Tibba, and Kellogg's Memorial Church and Language School.
Kanatal
Another place where you can find peace and solitude is Kanatal, a charming hill station named after a lake that once existed there. Perched at an altitude of 8500 feet, Kanatal is one of the most offbeat places in Uttarakhand, offering panoramic sights of the enormous Himalayan range. This place is known for mesmerizing starry nights and providing the best camping experience. Kanatal is close to other major hill stations in Uttarakhand, including Chamba (12 km), Dehradun (78 km), and Mussoorie (33 km). Apart from enjoying the untouched beauty and pleasant weather, you can visit tourist spots available in and around Kanatal. These places are Dhanaulti, New Tehri, Surkanda Devi Temple, and Kodia Jungle.
Pangot
The next on the list of the hidden places in Uttarakhand, Pangot, is a paradise for bird watching experience. Situated just 15 km from Nainital, this small remote Himalayan village is a perfect place to enjoy a serene vacation amid nature and watch several species of birds outnumber humans in the region. Apart from birdwatching, you can enjoy camping under the starry nights and trekking/hiking on adventurous trails taking through lush forests, valleys, and ridges. Do not forget to visit some of the most spectacular places in this region, including Guano Hills, Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Naina Peak, and Pangot Village.
Ramgarh
One of the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand, Ramgarh, is located near Mukteshwar in the Kumaon region. This less-explored hill station boasts an abundance of natural beauty and old-world charm. As the area has verdant orchards of pears, apples, peach, and apricots, the place is also called the fruit bowl of Uttarakhand. The beauty of this idyllic spot lies in its natural exquisiteness and serenity. Perched at the height of 1789 metres above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas, Ramgarh is a place where you can witness the most captivating sunrise and sunset. If you are looking for one of the best offbeat locations in Uttarakhand to get a perfect break from routine life, Ramgarh is an ideal place. Some major attractions here are Orchards, Mukhteshwar Temple, Bhimtal Lake, Inspection Bungalow, and Nathuakhan.
Peora
Nestled amidst the scenic valley of the Kumaon region, Peora is next on the list of the best offbeat places in Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of 6,600 ft, this small village is a heaven for bird watchers and wildlife lovers. Also, if you love outdoor activities, you will be glad to know that the area around Peora has an abundance of trails for treks in Uttarakhand. These striking trekking routes come with many surprises, such as forests, waterfalls, rivers, and temples. Also, Peora is a place that will bring out the adventurer in you. Some major attractions of Peora are Mukteshwar Dham, Gobind Vallabh Pant Museum, Nanda Devi Temple, Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow, Kalika Temple, and Choco-House Chocolatier.
Useful Information You Must Know
Clothing Suggestions
Summer (March to June)
Uttarakhand has pleasant weather during the summer months. The average temperature ranges between 20 and 35 degrees Celsius. So, you can carry comfortable clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the evening.
Monsoon (July to September)
Most regions of Uttarakhand receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with average temperatures ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. You should carry appropriate clothes, like a waterproof jacket, raincoat, and quick-dry t-shirts. Do not forget to carry an umbrella to avoid getting drenched.
Winter (October to February)
The temperature in some regions of Uttarakhand drops below zero degrees. In the plain regions, the maximum temperature reaches 15 degrees Celsius. So, depending upon your travel plans, carry sweaters, jackets, and warm clothing.
Cultural Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for Tourists
- Uttarakhand has a deep-rooted culture and traditions. It is important to respect locals and follow local customs.
- It is best to wear appropriate attire that is acceptable at the destination. If you are travelling to spiritual sites in Uttarakhand, then it is recommended to dress modestly.
- Uttarakhand is known as Devbhoomi. The spiritual spots in the state have special rituals. You must respect the local practices when you visit such places.
Travel Safety Tips
- You should check the weather forecast before travelling to Uttarakhand. It helps in travel planning and packing.
- Whether you are travelling to popular or offbeat tourist places in Uttarakhand, booking accommodation in advance is a good call.
- Carry essential medications, cash, and clothing layers for a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Getting Around Uttarakhand
Private Cabs
You can hire a private cab from major hubs like Dehradun, Kathgodam, or Pantnagar. It is the most convenient way to explore offbeat hill stations in Uttarakhand.
Self-Drive
Self-driving is a good option if you are an experienced driver. However, mountain roads are narrow, so you should follow safe driving practices.
Shared Jeeps
Shared jeeps are available in remote areas of Kumaon and Garhwal. They are a budget-friendly option, but you must enquire about schedules.
State Transport Buses
Government buses connect major popular and offbeat locations in Uttarakhand. You can visit the official website of Uttarakhand Transport Corporation to enquire about bus frequency to the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand.
Now that you are ready with the list of the most offbeat places in Uttarakhand, go ahead and plan your trip to this mystical land of exquisite landscapes and exhilarating adventure.
FAQs
Q1. Is Uttarakhand worth visiting?
Yes, Uttarakhand is a destination that’s absolutely worth the visit. The place has a unique blend of culture, adventure, and nature. Whether its popular spiritual centres like Rishikesh and Haridwar or offbeat tourist places like Landour and Khirsu, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure junkies, and spiritual people.
Q2. How many days are enough for Uttarakhand?
If you want to explore hidden gems in Uttarakhand, then a 7–10-day itinerary is best for you. It is sufficient to cover the best offbeat places like Munsiyari, Lohaghat, and Pangot in Uttarakhand. You can explore the unexplored part of the state and experience the diverse culture, tradition, and natural beauty. If time is at a premium, then go for a 3-4 day extended weekend itinerary to explore a few offbeat destinations.
Q3. Is Uttarakhand safe for solo travellers?
Yes, Uttarakhand is a safe destination for solo travellers, including women. A large number of solo travellers visit Uttarakhand every year to enjoy the natural beauty and try adventurous activities. You can explore popular as well as offbeat hill stations in Uttarakhand without any hassle. However, you should follow safe travel practices, such as staying in a well-reviewed hotel, following local guidelines, and avoiding isolated areas at night.
Q4. What is Uttarakhand famous for?
Uttarakhand is famous for its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, sacred pilgrimage sites, and thrilling adventure experiences. Beyond popular destinations, it offers serene offbeat gems like Kanatal, Ramgarh, and Peora. Spiritual hubs such as Haridwar and Rishikesh, along with scenic favourites like Nainital and Auli, cater to every kind of traveller. With its rich Garhwali and Kumaoni culture, the state offers an authentic glimpse into peaceful mountain life.
Q5. When should I avoid visiting Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand is a year-round destination with distinct seasons, including summer, monsoon, and winter. Summer is the best time to visit Uttarakhand as you can cover different sightseeing places. However, you should avoid travelling during the peak monsoon season, from July to early September. Most parts of Uttarakhand receive heavy rainfall during this season, so it can affect your travel itinerary.
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