9 Unexplored destinations in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has a plethora of gorgeous locations that are great for getting away from the sweltering summer heat and the commotion of city life. Apart from the well-known tourist destinations, Uttarakhand has several quirky goals that promise tranquillity and spectacular vistas. Uttarakhand is known for tranquil woods, raging rivers, and old temples. Though the famed Mussoorie, Nainital, Rishikesh, and others are among Uttarakhand's most well-known attractions, here we are exploring the state's hidden gems.

These unusual nine destinations we discuss here feature waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, valleys, lakes, and lush green forests, giving complete tranquillity, rejuvenation, and peace of mind. There is a high demand for these lesser-known areas in Uttarakhand that several are now becoming tourist destinations. Many sites in Uttarakhand are off-limits to the general public, so we are checking out this list of secret Uttarakhand destinations and adding them to your wish to visit list.

1. PEORA –

Peora is a beautiful gem and one of Uttarakhand's eccentric locations. This destination is between Almora and Nainital, and the elevation is around 6600 feet.

• This small hamlet, ideal for eco-tourism, offers complete relaxation and refreshment to all.
• Peora is 23 kilometres from Almora and is easily accessible from Kathgodam, the nearest rail station. If you plan to visit Uttarakhand, this should be your must-visit place.
• Here you can see the magnificent Kumaon Himalayan peaks, woodlands and expansive apple and plum orchards.
• The best part of this place is the majestic view. You can have a wonderful nature walk with your partner and witness a variety of birds.

2. PATAL BHUVNESHWAR –

Patal Bhuvaneshwar is one of Uttarakhand's most mysterious villages. Patal Bhuvneshwar is an ancient save temple with caves that require rappeling down to at least 90 feet. Visiting this temple is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for tourists, so it is significant.

• This is Lord Shiva's temple. Previously photography was not permitted here, but the government has now allowed photography due to a sudden change in rules, so it is another opportunity to visit here.
• It is a 90-meter-deep limestone cave with a small corridor dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's an ancient cave temple as old as the earth itself.
• The cave's mysterious atmosphere will pique your interest—this offbeat place is located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttrakhand.

3. KAUSANI –

Kausani is an ideal location for watching the sunset and sunrise in the lap of the Himalayas. From Kausani, Trishul Parbat, Nanda Devi peaks, and other Himalayan summits are visible. However, this place is Uttarakhand's most quiet and offbeat destination, providing a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

• This location is a piece of heaven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, hikers, travellers, and honeymoon couples.
• Summers in Kausani are calm and pleasant, but nothing beats the allure of Kausani in the winter when it comes to beautiful snowfall, so if you are not yet visiting Kausani, then it should be your first on the must-visit list.
• The nearest rail station to Kausani is Kathgodam. To go to Kausani, take a bus or hire a cab from there. The closest airport near Kausani is Pantnagar.
• Don't forget to stop by Sumitra Nandan Pant's house, the old Baijnath Temple and Anasakti Ashram while you're in Kausani.
• Kausani Tea Estate is the main attraction here. In Kausani, you can enjoy trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, and rappelling are some of the activities available in addition to sightseeing.

4. KHIRSU –

Khirsu is the most fantastic location if you're looking for tranquilly and peace of mind. Khirsu is an eccentric spot or treasure in Uttarakhand's Garhwal region and features an exciting mix of deodar and oak trees. This is a tranquil hill station where you can stay in solitude at a resort of your choice and commune with nature.

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, 145 kilometres from Khisru and the nearest railhead is Kotdwar.
• People frequently come here hoping for a bit of nature, as it is an unconventional attraction. Enjoy your vacation in this location with nature taking care of you as forests open up and create beautiful picnic sites.
• If you're visiting Uttarakhand in June, this is one of the best spots to go. The little town of Khirsu is 92 kilometres from Uttarakhand's state capital.
• This scenic hamlet is one of Uttarakhand's best unusual spots to visit, which provides travellers and tourists with a great view of the Himalaya Mountain Ranges.
• From Khirsu, you may obtain a panoramic view of the magnificent Himalayan Range. Some of the summits are well-known, while others are unknown and unidentified.

5. NAUKUCHIATAL –

Naukuchiatal is a small lake near Bhimtal, a popular tourist destination. If you're looking for a temper summer escape, Naukuchiatal is the place to go; it also offers a variety of water sports such as kayaking. Naukuchiatal is a lovely spot around 27 kilometres up the road from Nainital.

• It is a small hill station in Uttarakhand's Nainital district known as the lake of nine corners.
• There are several fantastic cafes surrounding the lake where you can relax and enjoy the scenery while eating delicious pizzas and sipping excellent coffee.
• The Naukuchia lake, which has nine corners, is the primary attraction of this location. Naukuchiatal is known for its natural beauty and pleasant atmosphere.
• From Bhimtal, you can take a shared cab to reach this place. It is Nainital's deepest lake, with plenty of opportunities for boating, parasailing and paragliding.

6. BINSAR –

Binsar is on the list of Uttarakhand's greatest offbeat and spiritual sites, a haven for nature lovers, serenity seekers, and animal and bird enthusiasts. It's an excellent site for birdwatchers because it's home to over 200 different species of birds.

• There are vehicle safaris and forest excursions available and opportunities to see endangered species and birds.
• The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place if you are in Uttrakhand. From Binsar's Zero Point, you can see some of the Himalayan peaks, including Trisul, Kedarnath Peak, and Nanda Devi.
• To get here, you can drive from Kathgodam, the nearest railhead.

7. PANGOT –

Pangot is an eccentric name on the list of places to visit in Uttarakhand, as it is close to Nainital but not as touristic. This new mountain retreat offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. If you don't like crowded places and want to spend a few days in peace, this is the place for you.

• Pangot is a small and charming hamlet that is a relatively undiscovered yet attractive area, located just 15 kilometres from Nainital.
• Hundreds of different species of birds fly to Pangot during the severe winters in the upper Himalayas and temporarily reside here, making it a photography hotspot.
• Pangot and its environs are home to 250 different bird species, according to ornithologists.
• Bird watching camps are offered regularly to help amateur birders improve their skills. Kathgodam is 50 kilometres from Pangot, so you can easily avail the place if you are in Uttrakhand.

8. LOHAGHAT –

This location is claimed as haunted. You could come here to become closer to divinity because of the many temples strewn across this mountainous hamlet.

• Lohaghat is situated on the banks of the Lohawati River in Uttarakhand's Champawat district. It's yet another location in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region.
• Lohaghat, about 7 kilometres from Abbott Mount, has excellent weather and is one of the Hills' least-explored areas.
• This is also an ideal location for meditation and yoga. Take a day trip to Lohaghat while you're here.
• At Lohaghat's haunted attractions, you'll find the perfect balance of peace and thrill.

9. CHAUKORI –

Chaukori is a lovely little hill station in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district. This settlement is described as something out of a fantasy. Chaukori is almost 2000 metres above sea level and gives spectacular views of the Nanda Devi and Panchachuli Ranges.

• Chaukori is a lovely colourful village where you may take in the scenery of the mountains. In Chaukori, you can see aromatic tea gardens, lush deodar and alpine forests.
• Chaukori adorns the western Himalayan Range in Uttarakhand, with a stunning location.
• Chaukori is a sight to behold and has fantastic sunrise and sunset views. So, if you are in Uttrakhand, this is a must-visit place book a pleasant resort and take in the sights of Kumaon's lovely hill station.
• If you are travelling by train, get out at Kathgodam, or fly to Pantnagar Airport to reach this place.