Things to Do in Uttarkashi
Roughly translating to ‘Kashi of the North’, Uttarkashi is a quaint holy town located next to the sacred river Bhagirathi in Uttarakhand. The ancient town bears its name by being similar to the city of Kashi (Varanasi), that is also situated next to the Ganges river. The picturesque Uttarkashi is well-known for being home to a diversity of flora and fauna, and you will come across a variety of Fur, Deodar and Pine forests within its vicinity. While tourists are often drawn to Uttarkashi for its postcard-like appeal and sweeping, panoramic views, the town also allures several Hindu devotees who visit for a glimpse of the divine within its aashrams and temples. Visiting these temples is one of the best things to do in Uttarkashi.
Uttarkashi’s famous temples and dharamshalas have tourists flocking every single year, as ancient mythology claims that the town was once a meditational ground for learned sages and hermits. Visitors often prefer making a trip to the holy Gangotri (the temple of river Ganga) from Uttarkashi, which is hardly a hundred kilometres down the road.
Apart from being a spiritual hot-spot, Uttarkashi is a playground for adventure seekers who find solace at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. The landscaping views of Uttarkashi are also a favourite of many-a-hikers and trekkers, who wish to set off on a nature trail within the thickets of this town. Besides this, you may even find numerous smaller rivers that run through the town, along with a few holy tributaries of the Ganges river. The old-world charm of Uttarkashi allures devotees, thrill-seekers and backpackers alike, and has been gaining immense popularity as a tourist destination year after year. Planning a trip to this endearing town will acquaint you to nature in all its glory. Whether you’re making a fleeting visit or planning to extend your stay. Here’s a list of best things to do in Uttarkashi:
A little ascend will take you to the Darwa Top, 4450 meters from where the mighty Swargarohini, Bandarpunch seem so close that you will feel that you can touch them with the stretch of a hand.
The route was originally used by local Gujjar shepherd who brought their cattle for grazing. The route was also occasionally used by sadhus to travel between the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples.
Best season: May - October
Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 4150 m
Dodital, also known as Dodi Lake, is situated at a height of 3,024 meters north of Uttarkashi. The Dodi Lake is believed to be a sacred lake as it is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. The trek will take you through vast lands covered by rhododendrons and oak trees. Although a long walk, but the trek to Dodital is pretty easy.
The pristine waters are flanked by thick rhododendrons, deodar, pine and oak woods. The lake is famous for rare species of fish such as the Golden Trout called Dodi in the local language. You will also find a small Ganesha temple near the lake. It is an ideal place for taking rest and organizing recreational activities such as bird watching, boating and angling.
The Darwa top is situated at a distance of 5km from Dodital and the elevation is 13,300 feet. The trek from Dodital to the Darwa top is an uphill climb which will take you through thick birch forests and open meadows. However, on reaching the top, the panoramic view of the Bandarpunch and Swargarohini ranges will take your breath away.
The trek to Hanumanchatti from Dodital through Darwa top can be completed in two days. This is followed by an ascent towards yamunotri via the upper stretches of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. During the trek to yamunotri from Dodital, the trekkers encounter dense virgin forests and high reaching grasslands.
Best season: May - October
Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 4150 m
Counted among the most beautiful meadows in the country, the vibrant meadow of Dayara Bugyal has attained cult status among hikers. During the wintry months, the milky slopes are perfect for some alpine skiing. The Bhagirathi peaks, Kala Nag, Bandarpoonch are among scores of other peaks that loom around the meadow, and trekkers are particularly taken by many emerald lakes strewn across Dayara Bugyal. Another first-timer trek on the list, the best months to visit are between May to November, although experienced trekkers find the meadow laden with snow in winters irresistible.
Distance from Delhi: 425 Kilometres approximately
Nearest Railhead: Haridwar Railway Station
Dodital trek is a short trek and must to do when you are on trekking in Uttaranchal tour. Difficulty ranges from easy to moderate through thick forests and across majestic Himalayas landscapes, large meadows and stream crossings.
The trek begins from Sangamchatti (kalyani) road near Uttarkashi and completes at the Hanumanchatti. From Dodital Lake, you will need to trek uphill to reach the Darwa pass, also called as Bakaria Khaga pass. The alpine meadows of Kanasar are an ideal place for camping.
Best season: May - October
Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 4150 m
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Uttarkashi Things To Do FAQs
What are the best adventure activities to do in Uttarkashi?
Uttarkashi is a land of opportunities for those who wish to try a hand at adventure activities. Here are a few you can spare your time for during your stay:
- Mountain biking: Get acquainted with the rugged topography of Uttarkashi with an exciting bike ride. There are several routes that you can pick according to your level of expertise.
- Trekking: Many tourists visit Uttarkashi for a long walk amidst the forests. Pick your trek according to your time and convenience for a memorable experience.
- Mountaineering: Mountaineering is a sport that simply cannot be missed out on during your stay in Uttarkashi. You may take professional training from NIM (Nehru Institute of Mountaineering) for a better insight into the sport.
- Camping: Put up a tent, sit back and admire a blanket of stars on a clear night in Uttarkashi. Several visitors prefer camping amidst the woods, and Uttarkashi boasts of a picturesque backdrop.
Which are the best wildlife experiences in Uttarkashi?
Globetrotters from every corner visit Uttarkashi for a glimpse of the untouched fauna that thrives within its forests. Here are a few national parks within the vicinity that you can plan an excursion to:
Govind Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, which is not only rich in wildlife, but it is also well known for its mythological significance. The national park is also fondly referred to as the ‘White Leopard Park’ for the whopping white leopard population homed within the sanctuary.
Nanda Devi National park: Deemed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, the breathtaking Nanda Devi National park is surrounded with a ring of staggering peaks and a stunning valley of flowers. The national park is also home to a diverse variety of flora with around 312 species of trees and shrubs.
Gangotri National park: Praised for its blanket of coniferous forests, you can spot several charismatic species such as the snow leopard, brown bear, musk deer and blue sheep within the walls of Gangotri National park.
Which are the best places to go for trekking in Uttarkashi?
Trekking in Uttarkashi will take you through some scenic and awe-inspiring routes. Shutterbugs can find plenty of opportunities to snap a panoramic view of the mountains within their camera. Based on your level of expertise, here are a few treks you can consider during your stay:
- Dayara Bugyal Trek
- Dodital Trek
- Gaumukh Tapovan
- Har ki Dun
- Kedarkanth
Which are the best routes to do biking in Uttarkashi?
Mountain biking is one of the fastest ways to get around in Uttarkashi. Pedal through the hilly terrain and ride into nature for thrilling experience that you will remember all your life. However, keep in mind that not all the routes are best suited for those who are starting out. Here are some that you can add onto your list:
- Uttarkashi to Bhatwari, 25 kilometers
- Uttarkashi to Gangotri, 99 kilometeres
Which are the best places for village safari in Uttarkashi?
A visit to Uttarkashi is incomplete without stopping by at a neighbouring village. Walk through the sprawling meadows and lush greenery to arrive at a quaint, untouched village not too far from Uttarkashi. If you’re planning a day’s excursion, here are a few must-visit villages that you should consider on your way:
- Barsu village, 37 kilometers
- Kuflon village, 12 kilometers
- Mukhwa village, 2 kilometers
Which are the pilgrimage sites which are a must visit in Uttarkashi?
Uttarkashi is one of the most sought after destination for devotees who’ve embarked on the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage. Known as the holy land, Uttarkashi has a lot to offer in terms of scenic as well as spiritual beauty to those who visit.
- Vishwanath Temple: This temple is considered as one of the most important as well as ancient shrines of the region. It draws a huge number of visitors from India throughout the year.
- Gangotri Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the temple is one of the most visited temples in India. It symbolises purity and claims to wash away your sins.
- Bhairav Temple: Located on the banks of River Bhagirathi, this temple too holds spiritual significance in Hindu mythology and allures several devotees during pilgrimage.
Which are the best locations for rafting in Uttarkashi? What are the charges?
The icy heights of the Himalayas often releases turbulent rivers down Garhwal and Uttarakhand. Uttarkashi, too, is blessed with an intricate network of rivers and tributaries to provide an ideal destination for an adventurous rafting trip. One can drive down to the rafting hotspot. Rishikesh or simply stay back and enjoy the ride aboard River Bhagirathi. An ideal river rafting package would cost anywhere around Rs. 750 to Rs. 2,000 pr person depending on the length of the stretch.
Where can go for bungee jumping in Uttarkashi?
Being surrounded by lush foliage and mesmerising mountain tops makes Uttarkashi a favourite for thrill-seekers from around the globe. There are several activity operators that conduct tours for tourists wishing to indulge in bungee jumping. You can also drive to Rishikesh to experience the thrill of Mohanchatti, India’s most preferred bungee jumping destination. A bungee jumping activity will cost from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3,000 per person. You may even enquire about the same within your hotel, or book one that provides an all-inclusive package for your visit.