Enjoy This New Year’s Night In A Budget Friendly Destination in Dehradun
1. Kanatal – Offbeat Hill-Station Near Mussoorie
Located in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, India, Kanatal is a charming hill station that is a mere 78 km from Dehradun and just 12 km from Chamba. Nestled on the scenic Chamba-Mussoorie road, this hidden gem is approximately 300 km from Delhi, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil and rejuvenating holiday. Renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan views, peaceful ambiance, lush apple orchards, and much more, Kanatal offers the perfect setting for a relaxing retreat. The well-maintained roads make it a safe and easily accessible destination, especially during the monsoon season when the surrounding nature is at its most enchanting. Situated at an elevation of 8,500 feet above sea level, Kanatal is a winter wonderland that sees snowfall and is a popular spot for camping enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. While the stunning landscapes and picturesque views make it a paradise for photographers, the historic Surkanda Devi Temple, located in Kanatal, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visiting this temple, especially during the snowy season, is a must-do experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts may also spot wild boars and goral in the area, adding to the charm of this serene hill station in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Location
Kanatal has good connectivity with major towns and cities in Uttarakhand. Below are detailed instructions on how to reach Kanatal by car, train, or plane –
For those planning to travel to Kanatal by air, the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which has regular flights to major cities like Delhi. Taxis can be hired for a comfortable three-hour journey from the airport to Kanatal.
Kanatal is well linked to significant cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states via roads. State-owned and private buses operate regularly, providing easy access to destinations like Rishikesh, Chamba, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Tehri.
The closest railway stations to Kanatal are Rishikesh and Dehradun, both of which are connected to several major cities. Travelers can opt for cabs or buses to reach Kanatal from these stations.
Things to do
Kanatal is a serene and stunning neighborhood in Mussoorie situated along the Chamba-Mussoorie route. The area is known for its picturesque scenery and abundance of adventurous activities. If you are planning a trip to Kanatal soon, make sure to explore these exciting things to do in the area:
– Take in the various sights while enjoying a sightseeing tour; it is a wonderful experience.
– Trekking is another popular option for tourists looking to immerse themselves in nature.
– Camping under the stars is a great way to experience Kanatal overnight.
– Enjoy a picnic at Chamba, a favorite spot among both visitors and locals. Other nearby places like Shivpuri, Mussoorie, Dehradun, and more may also interest you.
– Visit Surkanda Devi Temple to seek blessings and learn about the area’s rich history.
– Don’t miss the Tehri Dam, a must-visit attraction in Kanatal linked to Tehri Lake in New Tehri. Families, friends, and couples all enjoy visiting this unique spot.
– Explore the Kaudia forest on a nature walk and experience the excitement of a dense jungle. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife and flora; consider taking a jungle safari for a closer look.
– Try the Studded Sky Valley Crossing for an unforgettable experience surrounded by towering greenery.
– Stay in a local home to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of the hills in Kanatal while enjoying the picturesque views.
All of these attractions are among the top neighboring places to visit in Kanatal.
2. Landour:
During the summer holidays, visitors in India enjoy traveling to the hill stations of North India to escape the summer heat. One such hill station is Mussoorie in the state of Uttarakhand, nestled in the Great Himalayas, known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’. However, Mussoorie has lost its charm over the years due to traffic congestion and excessive commercialization, resulting in heavy tourist traffic, increased waste production, noisy roads, numerous shops, deforestation, unauthorized construction, and inflated accommodation prices.
After learning about Mussoorie’s issues, we began seeking quieter and less-traveled destinations near Mussoorie, leading us to discover ‘Greater Mussoorie’ – including the towns of Landour, Barlowganj, and Jharipani. Ultimately, we chose to visit Landour due to its close proximity to Mussoorie.
Getting to Landor Clock Tower is a breeze, as it is conveniently located in the heart of the city. Once you arrive in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, simply head towards Cart Road from Library Chawk and travel 5 km to reach the Clock Tower in Landour. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, a rickshaw ride, or a taxi, reaching the Clock Tower is easy. The nearest railway station and airport are located in Dehradun, just an hour away.
3. Dhanaulti:
Dhanaulti is gaining popularity as a preferred weekend destination for people from Delhi due to its easy accessibility and serene ambiance. In contrast to its more crowded counterpart, Dhanaulti offers a secluded retreat in the hills away from the chaos of city life. The pristine beauty of Dhanaulti serves as a haven for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With Mussoorie becoming overcrowded, many tourists are choosing to escape to Dhanaulti for a more peaceful experience. The pleasant weather, lush green slopes, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas provide a sense of calm and serenity for visitors to Dhanaulti.
4. Mussoorie:
Mussoorie is known for its colonial architecture, including an Anglican church, a library, and various buildings from the British era. The Mall Road is the main shopping area of Mussoorie, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. The Gun Hill point offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and is accessible by a cable car.
Some popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie include Kempty Falls, Camel’s Back Road, Lal Tibba, and Cloud’s End. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities like trekking, paragliding, and camping in the surrounding areas.
Mussoorie experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. The summer months, from March to June, are the busiest time for tourists, while the winter months, from November to February, are perfect for snowfall and winter sports.
Overall, Mussoorie is a charming hill station with a rich history, stunning views, and plenty of attractions to explore, making it a must-visit destination in India.
5. Lal Tibba Scenic Point: Lal Tibba, located at Depot Hill in Landour, is the highest point of the highest peak in Mussoorie and a well-known attraction for tourists and travelers. Visitors are drawn to this spot for its breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain peaks and its picturesque sunrises and sunsets.
Lal Tibba, situated at Depot Hill in Landour, stands as the tallest point on the highest peak in Mussoorie, serving as a popular destination for tourists and travelers. The mesmerizing views of the neighboring mountain peaks and the captivating sunrises and sunsets make it a must-visit spot for visitors.
How To Reach Lal Tibba Mussoorie
Lal Tibba is a popular tourist spot located in Mussoorie, India. To reach Lal Tibba, you can follow these steps:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Lal Tibba is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 61 km away from Mussoorie. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mussoorie, and then travel to Lal Tibba.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Mussoorie is Dehradun Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Mussoorie and then Lal Tibba.
3. By Road: Mussoorie is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. You can drive to Mussoorie by car or hire a taxi from nearby cities. From Mussoorie, you can either hike or hire a taxi to reach Lal Tibba.
Once you reach Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is located at a distance of around 5-6 km from the main city center. You can hire a taxi or take a short hike to reach Lal Tibba and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys.
