October 15th, 2018 by OYO Team

Snuggled in the snow-capped Himalayas, Uttarakhand is a popular destination among the travellers. From lofty peaks to ice-laden slopes and pristine lakes to roaring rivers, Uttarakhand is awe-inspiring at every mile you travel. Nainital, Mussoorie, Dehradun, Jim Corbett National Park and Rishikesh are some of its most popular tourist destinations.

Owing to Uttarakhand’s growing fame, travellers are now looking for destinations, which are less crowded and more peaceful. So, if you too are planning a trip to any offbeat place in Uttarakhand, here’s a guide to help you out.

Check out the top 11 offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand with the things to do there.

1. Abbott Mount

Named after John Arnold Abbott, Abbott Mount is a quiet hill station located one kilometre away from the main city of Lohaghat. One of the most peaceful places in Uttarakhand, it offers a majestic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. Apart from the natural beauty, there are various adventure activities to explore here. A serene and picturesque destination, Mount Abbott is an easy weekend escape in Uttarakhand.

Things to do: Trekking, birdwatching, fishing and photography.

 

2. Lohaghat

Barron (supposedly the first European visitor to Lohaghat) on his visit to this place said, “Why go to Kashmir, if there is heaven in the world, so it’s in Lohaghat”. A small hill station away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lohaghat is lush with flora. The rhododendron flowers, and deodar and pine trees decorate the roads of Lohaghat. A weekend getaway, Lohaghat is an ultimate offbeat destination.

Things to do: Explore historical and religious insights at the temples and enjoy the scenic views.

 

  1. Naukuchiatal

The lake with nine corners, Naukuchiatal, commonly known as ‘Nauki’ is just a few kilometres away from the popular yet crowded Nainital. With cottages and resorts hidden in the hill tracts, Naukuchiatal is a favourable getaway. You can also spot rare butterflies and birds in this quaint hill station.

Things to do: Birdwatching, boating and trekking.

 

  1. Kausani

One of the least explored regions in Uttarakhand, Kausani is often wrongly interpreted as Kasauli. This little town sits on top of a mountain offering alluring views of the Himalayan peaks and tall pine trees. Named as ‘Switzerland in India’ by Mahatma Gandhi, Kausani is blessed with a blissful ambience. Ideal for a weekend break, it is a must-visit destination.

Things to do: Village walks, birdwatching and photography.

 

  1. Mandal

Another offbeat destination of Uttarakhand, Mandal is a laid-back retreat. With no network connectivity, it detaches you completely from the addictions of city life, letting you soak in its peaceful aura completely. You can relax and invigorate at this place without having to worry about checking your mobile and laptop.

Things to do: Temple visit

 

  1. Landour

Wrapped in the hills of Mussoorie, but having a completely contrasting aura from the bustling hill station, Landour is a quiet, little cantonment town perfect for a quick getaway. Established by the Britishers, Landour is better recognised as Ruskin Bond’s homeland. From the churches to the cottages, you can feel a colonial charm all across the town. One can only reach Landour after a little trekking (from Mussoorie) since the roads are extremely narrow.

Things to do: Adore the pictorial beauty of the place. Try visiting Ruskin Bond’s home.

 

  1. Siya Kempti

Located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Siya Kempti is a small village which had a population of 940 (as per Census 2011). The verdant landscape and the hilly trails set the right mood for a relaxing holiday. Let your senses calm while you soak in the natural beauty of Siya Kempti.

Things to do: Visit Kempty Falls

 

  1. Binsar

Once the hilltop summer capital of the Chand kings, the present-day Binsar remains an offbeat destination of Uttarakhand. Full of flora and fauna, it is a must-visit place. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of preserving 200 bird species. You might also get lucky to spot a leopard on its way. You can get the view of the Himalayan peaks around from the ‘Zero Point’.

Things to do: Birdwatching, wildlife photography, jeep safari and trekking.

 

  1. Khirsu

If greenery is what soothes you, head to Khirsu without a second thought. From deodar and oak forests to apple orchards, the place is lush all across. Situated in the lap of the Himalayas, Khirsu is 19km away from the town of Pauri. Though you can indulge in various activities here, simply the view of the mighty Himalayas is enough to make your day.

Things to do: Temple tours and nature walks.

 

  1. Pithoragarh

Sharing boundaries with Tibet and Nepal, Pithoragarh is an enchanting hill station located in the Soar Valley of Uttarakhand. Owing to its captivating beauty, it is dubbed as ‘Mini Kashmir’. It is also the place from where devotees begin their journey to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Things to do: Trekking, paragliding and sightseeing (temple visit and village tour).

 

  1. Peora

Another offbeat destination of Uttarakhand, Peora is located between Almora and Nainital. Famous for its orchards of apples and plums, it is also known as the “Fruit Bowl of Uttarakhand”. Offering complete rejuvenation from the fatigue of city life, this small town is a perfect mix of beauty and peace.

Things to do: Birdwatching, photography and sightseeing.

Now with this curated list, you can skip the touristy places and head to these beautiful offbeat destinations.

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About OYO Team

We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there. Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!