Pauri Garhwal Uttarakhand

Pauri Garhwal, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a lovely place full of history, temples, and amazing nature. It has old roots, growing alongside India for many years. The Katyuri Dynasty first brought Uttarakhand together, building temples and leaving writings. After they fell, the area split into over 64 small states, with Chandrapurgarh becoming important under Kanakpal’s family. By the mid-1400s, Jagatpal (1455–1493 AD) made it strong, and later, Ajaypal joined these states into the Garhwal Kingdom, moving the capital from Chandpur to Devalgarh, then Srinagar (1506–1519 AD). For 300 years, the kingdom faced attacks from Kumaon, Mughals, Sikhs, and Rohillas. The Gorkha invasion in 1803, called “Gorkhayani” for its cruelty, was a tough time. The Gorkhas ruled until 1815, when the British took over, calling the eastern part British Garhwal and Dehradun, while King Sudarshan Shah set up Tehri as the capital of the west. In 1840, Pauri became the district’s main town, and by 1998, after creating Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts, Pauri Garhwal got its current shape. Today, it draws visitors with holy places like Tarkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, history at the Garhwali Museum, and calm spots like Khirsu, offering Himalayan views, oak forests, and a quiet break from city life.

Pauri Garhwal, located in Uttarakhand, is a beautiful destination with amazing sights. Visit Tarkeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Lansdowne, a peaceful Lord Shiva temple surrounded by cedar forests, perfect for spiritual seekers. The Garhwali Museum in Lansdowne shows the region’s military history with old artifacts. Khirsu, a calm hill station at 1,700 meters, offers Himalayan views and oak forests, great for nature lovers. Kaleshwar Temple, 41 km from Kotdwar, is another holy spot with sage samadhis. Kotdwar, the gateway to Pauri Garhwal, has Siddhbali Temple and Durga Devi Temple, drawing visitors for their scenic and spiritual charm.

Pauri Garhwal Uttarakhand

Welcome to Pauri Garhwal, a breathtaking district in Uttarakhand, India, where history, spirituality, and nature come together in the heart of “Dev Bhoomi” (Land of the Gods). Nestled in the Shivalik Hills and along the tranquil Khoh River, Pauri Garhwal is a haven for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and cultural richness. With FeelTourism, your trip to this enchanting region—home to ancient empires, sacred temples, and stunning Himalayan views—will be seamless and unforgettable. From the spiritual vibes of Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple to the scenic charm of Khirsu Hill Station, Pauri Garhwal offers something for everyone. Let’s explore why this destination should be on your travel list!

A Glimpse into Pauri Garhwal’s Rich History

Pauri Garhwal’s story stretches back centuries, shaped by great rulers and empires. The Mauryan Empire under Emperor Ashoka once thrived here, leaving a legacy of wisdom and peace. Later, the Katyuri Kingdom built temples and left inscriptions that still whisper of their glory. In the 15th century, King Ajaypal united small princely states like Chandrapurgarh into the powerful Garhwal Kingdom, moving the capital to Devalgarh and then Srinagar. The region faced invasions from the Gorkhas, who ruled with cruelty from 1804 to 1815, until the British took over, establishing British Garhwal and leaving Tehri under King Sudarshan Shah. Today, Pauri Garhwal is a proud district with Pauri as its headquarters, formed in 1840, and includes newer districts like Chamoli and Rudraprayag, carved out in 1969 and 1998.

Must-Visit Attractions in Pauri Garhwal

Pauri Garhwal is packed with places that captivate the heart. Here’s a rundown of top spots to explore with FeelTourism:

  1. Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple
    Set amidst tall cedar and pine trees in Lansdowne (82 km from Pauri), this Lord Shiva temple is a peaceful retreat. Known as a Siddha Peetha, it draws devotees from across the world, especially during Mahashivratri when special prayers light up the area. The surrounding forests and small waterfalls make it a perfect spot for spiritual and nature lovers.

  2. Khirsu Hill Station
    At 1,700 meters, Khirsu is a serene village turned hill station, surrounded by oak, cedar, and apple orchards. Enjoy panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nandadevi and Chaukhamba, trek to Furkanda Point, or visit the ancient Ghidiyal Devi Temple. It’s a quiet escape from city life, ideal for relaxation.

  3. Garhwali Museum
    Located in Lansdowne, this museum, built by the British in 1888, showcases the heritage of the Garhwal Regiment. See rare animal skins, military artifacts, and a dial pointing to Himalayan peaks like Kamet. It’s a must for history buffs wanting to explore Pauri’s past.

  4. Kaleshwar Temple
    Just 41 km from Kotdwar, this Lord Shiva temple is famous for the samadhis of sages nearby. Its calm setting by the Shivalik Hills makes it a spiritual gem for visitors seeking blessings.

  5. Siddhbali Temple
    In Kotdwar, this Lord Hanuman temple sits on a 40-meter-high rock by the Khoh River. People of all faiths visit for prayers and bhandaras, especially during the annual fair. Its miraculous survival through floods adds to its mystique.

  6. Durga Devi Temple
    Located 13 km from Kotdwar, this temple by the Khoh River has a modern structure and an ancient cave with a Shivling. It’s a hotspot during Navratri and Shravan, with lush forests adding to its beauty.

Fun Things to Do in Pauri Garhwal

With FeelTourism, you can enjoy a range of activities in Pauri Garhwal:

  • Spiritual Visits: Seek blessings at Tarkeshwar Mahadev, Kaleshwar, or Siddhbali Temple.
  • Nature Walks: Stroll by the Khoh River, explore Khirsu’s forests, or enjoy Himalayan views.
  • Trekking: Hike to Furkanda Point in Khirsu for stunning vistas of nearby villages and peaks.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visit the Garhwali Museum or join vibrant fairs during Mahashivratri or Navratri.
  • Local Shopping: Pick up handicrafts, prayer beads, or local sweets like bal mithai in Kotdwar’s markets.

Where to Stay in Pauri Garhwal

Pauri Garhwal offers cozy and budget-friendly stays:

  • Rest Houses: Try Kanwashram Rest House or Paniyali Rest House in Kotdwar for affordable comfort.
  • Guest Houses: PWD or Forest Department guest houses offer simple stays with local charm.
  • Hotels: Stay at places like Devyani, Paradise, or Raj in Kotdwar or Lansdowne for a cozy experience.
    FeelTourism can book your stay to ensure a hassle-free trip.

How to Reach Pauri Garhwal

Getting to Pauri Garhwal gui is easy:

  • By Road: Kotdwar is 250 km from Delhi (5–6 hours, ₹500–₹1,500 by bus/taxi) and 75 km from Haridwar (1.5–2 hours, ₹300–₹600). Pauri city is 82 km from Kotdwar.
  • By Train: Kotdwar railway station, by the Khoh River, connects to Delhi and Haridwar.
  • By Air: Fly to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (110 km from Kotdwar), then take a taxi (₹2,000–₹3,000).
    FeelTourism can arrange your transport for a smooth journey.

Best Time to Visit Pauri Garhwal

Pauri Garhwal is welcoming year-round, but here’s a quick guide:

  • Summer (March–June): Pleasant (15–30°C), perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and temple visits.
  • Monsoon (July–August): Lush but rainy; avoid due to landslide risks in hilly areas.
  • Winter (September–February): Cool (5–20°C), ideal for fairs like Mahashivratri and crisp Himalayan views.

Travel Tips for Pauri Garhwal

  • Pack Smart: Bring comfy clothes, sturdy shoes for trekking, and a jacket for winter evenings.
  • Respect Local Customs: Wear modest attire at temples and remove shoes before entering.
  • Stay Eco-Friendly: Avoid littering near the Khoh River or forests to keep Pauri Garhwal green.
  • Try Local Food: Enjoy puri sabzi, bal mithai, or kachoris at local stalls for a taste of Uttarakhand.
  • Plan Ahead: Book stays or transport early, especially for festivals like Navratri or summer trips.

Why Choose FeelTourism for Pauri Garhwal?

FeelTourism makes your Pauri Garhwal adventure easy and fun with:

  • Tailored Packages: Affordable plans for families, couples, or solo travelers.
  • Expert Guides: Learn about Pauri’s history and culture from local experts.
  • Hassle-Free Booking: Reserve your trip at feeltourism.com or contact us directly.
  • Safe Travel: Enjoy comfy stays and reliable transport for a worry-free experience.

Why Pauri Garhwal Steals Your Heart

Pauri Garhwal is a magical blend of ancient history, spiritual serenity, and natural wonders. Whether you’re praying at Tarkeshwar Mahadev, soaking in Himalayan views at Khirsu, or exploring the Garhwali Museum, every moment feels special. The Shivalik Hills, vibrant fairs, and warm local culture make this district a perfect escape from city life. With FeelTourism, your journey to Pauri Garhwal will be filled with joy, peace, and memories to cherish.

Book your Pauri Garhwal adventure with FeelTourism at feeltourism.com today! 

FAQ's: Pauri Garhwal Uttarakhand

What is the historical importance of Pauri Garhwal?

Pauri Garhwal has a rich history, ruled by the Katyuri Dynasty, Chandrapurgarh under Kanakpal’s descendants, and later the Garhwal Kingdom under Ajaypal. It faced Gorkha and British rule, with Pauri becoming the district headquarters in 1840.

What are the top places to visit in Pauri Garhwal?

Key spots include Tarkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, Kaleshwar Temple, Garhwali Museum, and the scenic Khirsu hill station, known for Himalayan views and forests.

What can I do in Pauri Garhwal?

Visit temples like Tarkeshwar Mahadev, explore the Garhwali Museum, trek to Furkanda Point in Khirsu, enjoy Himalayan views, or relax in oak and cedar forests.

Is Pauri Garhwal good for families or couples?

Yes! Families love the temples and museums, while couples enjoy the peaceful hill stations like Khirsu and scenic views for a relaxing getaway.

When is the best time to visit Pauri Garhwal?

Visit from March–June or September–October for pleasant weather. Winters are cold, and monsoons (July–August) should be avoided due to landslide risks.

How can I reach Pauri Garhwal?

Travel by road (Pauri is 130 km from Haridwar, 280 km from Delhi), train (nearest station is Kotdwar, 108 km from Pauri), or air (Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 150 km).

What kind of accommodation is available in Pauri Garhwal?

Stay at budget rest houses like GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guest houses in Pauri or Khirsu, or choose private hotels in Lansdowne or Pauri for comfort.

What makes Khirsu a special place in Pauri Garhwal?

Khirsu, a hill station at 1,700 meters, offers stunning Himalayan views, oak and cedar forests, apple orchards, and the Ghidiyal Devi Temple, perfect for nature and peace lovers.

What should I pack for a Pauri Garhwal trip?

Pack comfy clothes, sturdy shoes for trekking, a jacket for winters, light woolens for evenings, and modest attire for temples. Bring a raincoat for summer visits.

What festivals or events can I experience in Pauri Garhwal?

Join Mahashivratri celebrations at Tarkeshwar Mahadev Mandir or Kaleshwar Temple, where special poojas and fairs attract devotees, offering a vibrant cultural experience.