Introduction:
Nestled in India’s Uttarakhand state, the little settlement of Kanatal offers a charming Hill Station stay. Kanatal is located 38 kilometres from Mussoorie, 18 km from Chamba, and 78 km from Dehradun, the state capital of Uttarakhand. It is located about 300 kilometres from Delhi on the Chamba-Mussoorie road. The campsite is surrounded by verdant mountains, apple orchards, and greenery at a height of 2600 meters above sea level, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. This location provides a tranquil atmosphere away from the bustle of the city. Here, one can go for outdoor sports, photography, sunrises and sunsets, or just unwind and take in the beauty of nature. Adventure activities such as Sky Bridge, Valley Crossing, Flying Fox, Sky Walk, Commando Net, Rope Ladder, etc. are also available to us.
Exploring Kanatal:
Natural Attractions:
Kanatal is located near the mountains and the environment of this region is very unique and beautiful. There are many interesting things to see in this area.
There are many places to explore in Kanatal, each lively and wonderfully beautiful in its own unique way. These areas include brightly coloured residences, pristine lakes and rivers, holy sites, and hill stations. Kanatal, a small village in the state of Uttarakhand, offers everyone enjoyable scenery, a variety of adventurous activities, and places to unwind.
Does Kanatal Have a Lake?
Yes, The lake is situated in Kanatal. The name of the lake is Tehri Lake.
Tehri Lake is a man-made reservoir that was constructed next to the Tehri Dam to redirect water from the Bhagirathi River in Kanatal. The reservoir is gently flowing at an elevation of 1700 meters. Tehri Lake is an exciting destination for thrill-seekers due to its adrenaline-pumping water and airborne activities, in addition to its stunning scenery.
The lake is hopping with sports from kayaking to boating, water skiing to scuba diving, and even some unusual ones like canoeing, water zorbing, paragliding, and hot air balloon excursions, all in an effort to promote tourism. Don’t worry if you’re not an aquatic enthusiast—the charming lake will nonetheless make you smile.
Tehri was a tiny town in Uttarakhand that was located where the Bhagirathi and Bhilangna Rivers met. The settlement of Old Tehri became The Tehri Lake, Asia’s largest artificial lake when it was submerged under water, creating a sizable catchment area.
Which River is in Kanatal?
The Bhagirathi and Bilangana rivers are located in Kanatal. The Bhagirathi and Bhilangana Rivers combine to create the artificial Tehri Lake Reservoir, which is stunning to see in its green hue. The city is full of temples, including the Chandrabadni and Sem Mukhem Temples.
- One of the two headstreams of the Ganges, the main river in Northern India and a sacred river in Hinduism is the Bhāgīrathī, a raging Himalayan river in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. According to Hindu history, religion, and culture, the Bhagirathi is the Ganges’ original watercourse. But because of its length and discharge, the other headstream, the Alaknanda, is regarded as the source stream in hydrology. After joining Devprayag in Garhwal, the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda became known as the Ganges.
- The main tributary of the Bhagirathi River, the Indian Ganges River’s source stream, is the Himalayan Hilangnya River, located in Uttarakhand. Bhilangana is a blend of Ganga and Bhil.
Traditionally regarded as the source of the Ganges and Bhagirathi, the mainstem Bhilangna rises at the base of the Khatling Glacier, 3,717 m (12,195 ft) approximately 50 km (31 mi) south of the ice cave at Gaumukh and empties into the Bhagirathi at Old Tehri, the location of the Tehri dam. At Ghansali, it merges with the Bal Ganga, its principal tributary.
Which Mountain Ranges Are Visible from Kanatal?
Himalayan Mountain Ranges Are Visible from Kanatal.
Description of the mountain ranges visible from Kanatal:
The Himalayan is the mountain close to Kanatal’s source. Dhanaulti is a stunning mountain hideaway with the Garhwal Himalayas and a breathtaking view of the Shivalik and Himalayan peaks. It has a great deal of charm and deep forests.
The world’s tallest mountain ranges, the Himalayas have deep valleys, canyons, glaciers, and the highest peaks. Over the Indian subcontinent, the Himalayan mountain range’s sections create an arc with a width that varies from 400 km in Kashmir to 150 km in Arunachal Pradesh and 2,400 km.
How to Visit Kanatal?
Different modes of transportation to reach Kanatal:
Visit Kanatal By Road
It takes seven hours to travel from Delhi to Kanatal via Haridwar and the Dehradun Valley. To go to Kanatal from Delhi, one just needs to take the Mussoorie way from Roorkee and then the Chamba route through the forest, passing by Dhanaulti. Delhi is located 300 km away, Rishikesh is 75 km away, Dehradun is 70 km away, and Haridwar is 100 km away from the town of Kanatal.
Visit Kanatal By Air
You can get to Kanatal by plane as well. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, from whence you can travel by road to Kanatal. From the Jolly Grant Airport, taxis to Kanatal are readily available. Jolly Grant Airport has regular flights to Delhi, making it well-connected.
Visit Kanatal By Rail
Dehradun and Rishikesh are the two closest train stations to Kanatal. Dehradun is located 85 kilometres away from Kanatal, while Rishikesh is 75 km away from Kanatal. From these locations, there are taxis and buses that go to Kanatal. Kanatal has good motorway connectivity to both of these locations.
Can We Go to Kanatal by Car?
Kanatal is 80 kilometres from Dehradun; a car ride there takes around 3 hours, and a bus ride takes about 4-5 hours. Taxis can be booked from Dehradun to Kanatal, and there are several local buses that travel from the ISBT in Dehradun to Kanatal. The Dehradun-Mussoorie route should be taken as Kanatal is approximately 38 kilometres away from Mussoorie.
Set off on a 22-kilometer journey to Jharipani from Rajpur Road and Mussoorie Road. Once you get to the New Bypass Road, go straight ahead for the next 14 kilometres to Mussoorie. Take the Tehri Road, which leads to Dhanaulti, about 13 kilometres from Mussoorie, in the direction of Suakholi. You can either continue on the same route towards Kanatal for an additional 18 kilometres, till you eventually reach your objective, or you can stop for a quick rest and supplies at Dhanaulti, where a variety of shops line the streets.
How Many Days Are Enough for Kanatal?
One of the beautiful states of Uttarakhand’s less visited and underappreciated yet worthwhile locations is Kanatal. Thus, spend 2 – 3 days away from the city and visit Kanatal.
The natural splendour of Kanatal, its picture-perfect vistas, and beautiful valleys will not only purify your lungs but your mind too. Thus, take a little vacation from your hectic schedule and spend three days exploring the picturesque valleys of Kanatal with your family.
We will walk you through all the must-see locations, exhilarating activities, hotels in Kanatal, and much more in this trip guide.
Suggested itinerary for a trip:
Kanatal is a perfect place to visit during summer vacations for 2 to 3 days to spend quality time with family. So below is a list of places worth visiting in these two to three days…….
- New Tehri
- Surkanda Devi Temple
- Tehri Dam
- Dhanaulti
- Tehri Lake
- Kaudia Forest
Things to Do in Kanatal:
Is There Any Trek in Kanatal?
Kanatal is famous for trekking. Trekking arrangements are available in most places. A great weekend trip in Uttarakhand, North India, is the Trek to Kanatal. Since Kanatal is not too crowded, it would be a fantastic choice for a happy weekend getaway if you’re hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time in the lap of Mother Nature.
Trek to Devi Surkanda:
Surkunda Take a tour of Kanatal to begin your vacation. About 5 km from the city centre is the Surkanda Devi Temple, which you can visit. It is devoted to the god Sati and is reachable after a pleasant two-kilometre hike. Another well-liked tourist destination near Kanatal is the Tehri Dam. The second portion of your day should be devoted to touring the neighbouring areas of other wintertime destinations in Uttarakhand, such as Chamba and Dhanaulti, which offer stunning scenery. Never pass up the sunset!
Trek to Kodai Jungle:
The Kodai Jungle in Kanatal is a great location for nature hikes and trekking. One of the more daring activities in Kanatal is to trek for five or six kilometres along the Chamba path. The dense vegetation and wild orchids that call the jungle trails home are complemented by breathtaking views of the nearby hills and valleys. Animal enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the Kodai jungle. Visit us to observe an extensive variety of avian and terrestrial fauna, encompassing species such as musk deer, ghoral, wild boar, and kakar.
What is Kanatal Famous For?
It gets its name from the now-gone Kanatal Lake and boasts a broad number of attractions that provide anything from adventure sports to temple expeditions. The Tehri Dam, regarded as one of the highest dams in the world, sits at the top of the list.
Unique attractions and activities in Kanatal:
Trekking:
Kanatal is surrounded by numerous mountain ranges, hikers will adore the chance to travel through the Kodai jungle and follow the Chamba path. The location is perfect for hiking or leisurely strolls in the natural environment. This trip will reward you with breathtaking views as well as a wealth of species to see, including a variety of birds and mammals. The jungle is lush, with a lot of greenery and dense flora. Furthermore, the Kanatal site offers multiple hiking routes, the highest of which is the Surkanda Devi Temple walk, which ascends hikers to a height of 10,000 feet.
Valley Crossing:
Adventure seekers also highly prize Valley Crossing as a sport. One of the hardest tasks is valley crossing, which puts your physical fitness to the test. Valley crossing in Kanatal is an exhilarating adventure activity that takes place in the Doon Valley, in the foothills of the Himalayas. During this exercise, participants must pull a rope and use all of their muscles to cross an 80-foot-deep valley like a commando. The performer is tethered on the rope far above the ground, guaranteeing that he or she experiences all the thrills of valley crossing, even though this action is closely supervised by professionals.
Jungle Safari:
Another exhilarating activity that is equally thrilling and enjoyable but does not involve any physical pursuit is jungle safari, which is held in Kanatal’s Kaudia Range’s Kodia Jungle. While enjoying the Jeep Safari, wildlife enthusiasts will undoubtedly be in for a treat. The lush forest region, which stretches from Swarg Yogini to Neelkanth, is home to a magnificent array of flora and animals. Here, you might be fortunate enough to see several uncommon bird and animal species, such as musk deer, barking deer, nilgai, and wild boars.
Local culture and traditions:
Panchami Basant:
The month of January to February is when Basant Panchami is observed annually. According to the Hindu calendar, this month, known as Magh (January–February), is the second to last of the year. People adore the goddess Saraswati and don yellow clothing during this holiday.
Makar Sankranti:
One of the most well-known Hindu holidays, Makar Sankranti, also known as Ghugutia, is enthusiastically observed in Uttarakhand. The sun moves from the sign of Cancer into the sign of Capricorn on this day, according to Hindu scriptures. The sun’s Uttarayan, or northward transit, occurs on this day. As the seasons shift, the migratory birds likewise head back to the hills. On Makar Sankranti, people donate Khichdi to charity and bathe in sacred waters like Ranibagh (Gaula) and Kumaon Bageshwar (Saryu and Gomti Sangam). In addition, they take part in the Uttarayani festivals, which commemorate the Ghughutia (also called Kale Kauva) celebration.
Ganga Dussehra:
Uttarakhand celebrates Ganga Dussehra with great fervour. According to the Hindu calendar, this event begins on the tenth day of Jaishtha, which falls in May or June. It starts on the night of the Amavasya (black moon) and lasts till the ninth phase of the moon or Dashami tithi. Thousands of people come to Kanatal to witness the “Aarti.” People worship the River Ganges for ten days during the Ganga Dussehra or Dasar festival. People bathe in the holy Ganges River during this time to purge themselves of all their sins from both the past and the present.
Is It Worth Visiting Kanatal?
Of course! Kanatal is a charming place whose stunning natural surroundings make it worthwhile to visit. When visiting Kanatal, think about booking a room at The Terraces, a magnificent hotel that will make your stay even more enjoyable with its amazing amenities and stunning views. This quaint hill station is sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Also read: 10 Reasons Why The Rosly Offers the Best Private Cottage Experience in Kanatal
What makes Kanatal a worthwhile destination:
Here are the top 5 reasons to visit Kanatal, which are included in the list below.
Scenic Beauty: Kanatal, Uttarakhand, is a nature lover’s heaven with its jaw-dropping views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Pleasant Climate: Kanatal offers year-round cool, pleasant weather, with snowy winters adding to the area’s allure.
Adventure Activities: For those who love the great outdoors, Kanatal has exhilarating activities including hiking, camping, and rappelling.
Experience Culture: When you visit Kanatal, get fully immersed in the customs and culture of the Garhwali community.
Calm Retreat: Kanatal is the perfect place to unwind if you want to get away from the bustle of the city and find peace and quiet.
Nearby Destinations:
Which Hill Station is Closest to Kanatal?
Kanatal, near the more well-known Mussoorie, provides an opportunity to live off the grid and in close proximity to nature. Surrounded by apple orchards, the charming hill station features a number of homestays that provide organic food and an insight into the rustic way of life.
Information about nearby hill stations:
One of the nation’s most well-liked hill stations is Mussoorie, sometimes referred to as Queen of the Hills. When Captain Frederick Young, a British official, ascended the hill from the Doon Valley in 1827, they discovered that this ridge provided excellent vistas and a healthy environment. The basis for this magnificent mountaintop station was laid by this visit.
It’s a great summer resort, a mesmerizing sanctuary for honeymooners and leisure travellers alike. Situated at an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level, Mussoorie stretches across a 15-kilometer horseshoe-shaped ridge with the majestic Himalayas serving as a backdrop. It provides picturesque views of the Western Garhwal Himalayan peaks from this vantage point.
Comparison with Kanatal:
Kanatal and Mussoorie are not far from one another. Staying in Kanatal is preferable because it is more tranquil and away from the bustle. Travel from Kanatal to Mussoorie. Budget-friendly homestays may be found in Kanatal.
Climate and Best Time to Visit :
What is the Minimum Temperature in Kanatal?
Kanatal, located at a height of 2590 meters above sea level, enjoys an ideal year-round climate. This place experiences summer highs of up to 30 °C and winter lows of 7 °C to -5 °C.
Climate details and seasonal variations:
Kanatal offers great weather all year round, making it a great weekend escape from the sweltering heat, muggy air, and smog-filled atmosphere of the big cities. In the summer, the temperature in this area ranges from 10 to 20 °C. The temperature is between 5 and 10 degrees throughout the winter, and the grounds and trees are covered with snow, creating a breathtaking scene.
1. Summer season:
Summer is jointly hosted by April, May, and June. During this time, the average minimum temperature is 25°C, and the maximum temperature is 38°C. To defend yourself from the unexpectedly wet breezes, you would still need to wear some light winter clothing. It might get really cold at night.
2. Monsoon season:
In this location, the monsoon only affects the months of July and August. Numerous intense downpours could obstruct visibility and interfere with tourism. Thus, tourists usually steer clear of coming here during the monsoon season.
3. Winter Season:
October marks the arrival of winter in Kanatal, which ends in February. The maximum temperature is fifteen degrees Celsius, but it frequently drops to one degree. Good snowfall could occur at this time.
What is the Best Time to Visit Kanatal?
Kanatal is best visited in the summer, as is the case with most of Uttarakhand. During this season, which has temperatures between 25 to 38°C, visibility is good and evenings are nice with a wind. Even in the warmest season of the year, this location retains a comparatively temperate climate, making it the ideal summer getaway. You may enjoy all outdoor activities throughout this season, including hiking, camping, and exploring.
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The best months to visit:
The ideal time to visit Kanatal is from April to October. It receives snow from December to February.
Background Information:
The lakes in the North Indian state of Uttarakhand, which have now dried up but were previously abundantly bountiful, are the source of the names Kanatal, Kana (meaning one-eyed), and Tal/Tal (meaning the Lake).
Conclusion:
Kanatal is well known for its unspoiled, unspoiled beauty. This charming hill station, with its verdant forests and snow-capped summits, radiates beauty and tranquillity from every angle. The expansive vistas of the neighbouring Himalayan range are incredibly captivating, especially at dawn and dusk.
