Chakrata In Uttarakhand

Located at an altitude of about 7000 ft above the sea level, Chakrata in Dehradun District of Uttarakhand State of India is a hill station and a famed tourist destination ideal for mount climbing, trekking and skiing. The town was known earlier as Jaunsar bawar, a small hamlet of Jaunsari tribe. Yamuna valley is located down the hilly town. Chakrata was developed by the British rulers and was a summer retreat for the high executives of English East India Company. Presently Chakrata encloses military cantonment and the access is restricted here for civilian travelers.

Kharamba peak is the highest mount in Chakrata with an altitude of about 10,000 ft. Nature lovers, Trekkers, bird watchers and wild life enthusiasts can spend days together here in the lap of Chakrata exploiting the nature’s hidden treasures and beauties. The forest around Chakrata is habitat to an amazing flora and fauna including panther, spotted deer and wild fowls.laces in the vicinity of Chakrata

Chakrata In Uttarakhand

Chakrata, a peaceful hill station in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district, is a lesser-known retreat at 2,118 meters above sea level. Surrounded by dense coniferous forests, waterfalls, and Himalayan peaks like Jaunsar-Bawar, Chakrata offers a quiet escape from crowded tourist spots. Once a British cantonment, this charming town blends colonial history with natural beauty, featuring oak and pine forests, apple orchards, and tribal culture of the Jaunsari community. Ideal for weekend getaways from Delhi (320 km) or Dehradun (90 km), Chakrata is perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking tranquility. This guide covers Chakrata tourist places, adventure activities, best time to visit, hotels, and travel tips for your Chakrata tour.

Why Visit Chakrata?

Chakrata stands out for its untouched beauty and serene vibe, making it one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets. Unlike bustling hill stations like Mussoorie, Chakrata offers a calm retreat with clean air, scenic waterfalls, and panoramic Himalayan views. Its cantonment area, managed by the Indian Army, adds a disciplined charm, while attractions like Tiger Falls and Budher Caves draw adventure seekers. Chakrata is a hub for trekking, camping, and birdwatching, with opportunities to explore Jaunsari culture. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing Chakrata tour or a nature-filled weekend getaway.

Top Chakrata Tourist Places

Chakrata offers a mix of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural gems. Here are the must-visit Chakrata tourist places:

  1. Tiger Falls (Chakrata) One of Uttarakhand’s highest waterfalls at 312 meters, Tiger Falls is 15 km from Chakrata. A 5-km trek through forests leads to this stunning cascade, perfect for picnics and photography, making it a top Chakrata tourist place.

  2. Budher Caves (Chakrata) Also called Miola Caves, these limestone caves at 2,600 meters are 30 km from Chakrata. A moderate trek reveals stalactite formations and Himalayan views, ideal for adventurers exploring Chakrata tourist places.

  3. Deoban (Chakrata) At 2,800 meters, Deoban (God’s Forest) offers 360-degree views of Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpunch. A 10-km drive or trek from Chakrata, it’s a serene Chakrata tourist place for birdwatching and nature walks.

  4. Chilmiri Neck (Chakrata) The highest point in Chakrata, this cantonment viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of Himalayan ranges and sunsets. It’s a peaceful Chakrata tourist place for relaxation and photography.

  5. Kanasar (Near Chakrata) Located 27 km from Chakrata, Kanasar is a scenic spot with pine forests and one of Asia’s oldest deodar trees (over 1,000 years old). Ideal for camping, it’s a hidden Chakrata tourist place.

  6. Lakhamandal Temple (Near Chakrata) A 55-km drive from Chakrata, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is tied to the Mahabharata’s Lakshagriha story. Its archaeological ruins and kund make it a spiritual Chakrata tourist place.

  7. Mundali (Near Chakrata) At 2,800 meters, 35 km from Chakrata, Mundali is a meadow offering skiing in winter and trekking in summer. Its snowy slopes and Himalayan views make it an offbeat Chakrata tourist place.

  8. Kimona Falls (Chakrata) A lesser-known waterfall 15 km from Chakrata, Kimona Falls is reached via a short trek through forests. Its quiet beauty is a gem among Chakrata tourist places.

Adventure Activities in Chakrata

Chakrata is a haven for adventure activities, set against its lush forests and Himalayan backdrop:

  • Trekking: Explore trails to Tiger Falls (5 km), Budher Caves, or Mundali, offering scenic Himalayan views and moderate challenges.

  • Camping: Pitch tents at Kanasar, Deoban, or Mundali for stargazing and a true hill station experience.

  • Birdwatching: Spot Himalayan birds like monals, woodpeckers, and eagles in Deoban or Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (nearby).

  • Skiing: In winter (December–February), try skiing in Mundali, a quieter alternative to Auli, with basic facilities.

  • Rappelling and Rock Climbing: Test your skills on Chakrata’s rocky terrains, organized by local adventure groups.

  • Nature Walks: Stroll through pine and oak forests or visit Jaunsari villages to experience local culture.

These adventure activities make Chakrata a vibrant destination for thrill-seekers.

Best Time to Visit Chakrata

The best time to visit Chakrata depends on your preferences:

  • March to June: Summers (15–30°C) are pleasant for trekking, camping, and sightseeing, with clear Himalayan views and blooming rhododendrons.

  • September to November: Autumn offers crisp weather (10–25°C) and vibrant greenery, ideal for trekking to Tiger Falls or Deoban.

  • December to February: Winters (0–15°C) bring snowfall, especially in Mundali, perfect for skiing and snowy treks. January is peak snowfall season.

  • July to August: Monsoons bring lush scenery but heavy rain and landslides make trekking risky. Avoid unless staying in hotels.

March to June and September to November are ideal for most activities, while winter suits snow lovers.

How to Reach Chakrata

Chakrata is accessible from major cities, making it a great weekend getaway:

  • By Road: Chakrata is 320 km from Delhi (7–8 hours) via NH707 through Saharanpur and Vikasnagar. Buses or taxis from Dehradun (90 km, 3 hours) or Mussoorie (60 km) are available. The Yamuna Bridge route is scenic but narrow.

  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun (90 km), with trains like Shatabdi Express from Delhi. Taxis or buses connect to Chakrata via Vikasnagar.

  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (115 km) is the closest, with daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Hire a taxi or bus to Chakrata.

Note: Foreign nationals need a permit to enter Chakrata due to its cantonment status, obtainable at Vikasnagar. Check road conditions in winter for snowfall.

Chakrata Hotels and Travel Tips

Chakrata hotels are limited due to its offbeat nature. Options include budget guesthouses (₹1,000–₹2,000), GMVN rest houses (from ₹1,500), and campsites in Kanasar or Mundali (₹2,000+). Vikasnagar or Dehradun offer more choices. Book early for winters. Travel tips include:

  • Pack warm clothes for winters, trekking shoes, and rain gear for monsoons.

  • Carry cash, as ATMs are scarce; the nearest is in Vikasnagar.

  • Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen for treks; snow boots are needed in winter.

  • Try Jaunsari and Garhwali dishes like Kafuli, Phaanu, and Bal Mithai at local dhabas in Chakrata or Vikasnagar.

  • Respect cantonment rules; photography is restricted in military areas.

  • Hire local guides for treks to Budher Caves or Tiger Falls for safety.

  • Check permit requirements if you’re a foreign traveler.

FAQ's: Chakrata In Uttarakhand

Why is Chakrata a unique hill station?

Chakrata offers untouched beauty, Himalayan views, and a quiet vibe, with waterfalls, trekking, and Jaunsari culture, unlike crowded hill stations.

What are the top Chakrata tourist places?

Must-visit Chakrata tourist places include Tiger Falls, Budher Caves, Deoban, Chilmiri Neck, Kanasar, Lakhamandal Temple, Mundali, and Kimona Falls.

When is the best time to visit Chakrata?

March–June and September–November for trekking and pleasant weather; December–February for snowfall and skiing. Avoid monsoons (July–August) due to landslides.

What adventure activities can I do in Chakrata?

Enjoy trekking, camping, birdwatching, skiing in Mundali, rappelling, rock climbing, and nature walks in Chakrata.

How do I reach Chakrata by road?

Drive 320 km from Delhi via Saharanpur and Vikasnagar (7–8 hours), or take buses/taxis from Dehradun (90 km) or Mussoorie (60 km).

What’s the nearest railway station to Chakrata?

Dehradun (90 km), with trains like Shatabdi Express from Delhi, followed by a taxi or bus to Chakrata.

Does Chakrata have snowfall?

Yes, snowfall occurs from December to February, especially in Mundali, ideal for skiing and snow trekking.

Where can I stay in Chakrata?

Stay in budget guesthouses, GMVN rest houses, or camps in Kanasar or Mundali (₹1,000–₹2,000). Book early for winter.

Do I need a permit for Chakrata?

Foreign nationals need a permit for Chakrata’s cantonment area, obtainable at Vikasnagar. Indian citizens face no restrictions.

Is Chakrata safe for trekking?

Yes, trekking is safe with guides, proper gear, and group travel. Avoid monsoons and check weather for winter treks.