Travelling through the offbeat is not about rushing from one spot to another; it is about feeling the land of Dev Bhoomi, listening to the mountain silence, and experiencing the hill station on its peak beauty. Whenever you think about Uttarakhand, what comes first to your mind — a busy hill station? Crowded viewpoints and popular pilgrimage towns? Offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand offer way beyond this, where morning begins with mist drifting over valleys, afternoon passes with warm conversations sitting at Ghats, and evening ends breathing under the skies filled with stars.
In this guide, we will take you through some of the hidden gems that you can visit while you are going on your Uttarakhand tour package, from snow-covered mountains, quiet lakes, waterfalls, and valleys to lush greenery attractions. These attractions provide you with complete tranquillity, refreshment, and a peaceful vibe, you should not want to miss at any cost.
Here’s a List of 21 Offbeat Places In Uttarakhand For the Thrill-Seekers
With so many spots offering pure happiness and tranquillity, tourists are spoilt for choice in a paradise like Uttarakhand. So here's a list of some undiscovered gems to help you plan your next vacation!
1. Peora
Peora, located between Almora and Nainital, is a magnificent jewel and one of Uttarakhand's lesser-known locations. Perched at a height of 6600 feet, this region is noted for its majestic Kumaon Himalayan range forests and expansive apple and plum orchards. This small hamlet, perfect for eco-tourism, is another offbeat destination in Uttarakhand that provides total relaxation and refreshment to everybody.
Key Attractions: Orchards, village walks
How to Reach: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam. Taxis and cabs are easily available from here via Mukteshwar to Peora.
Best Time to Visit: April-June, September.
2. Binsar
Binsar is among the most unique and spiritual spots in Uttarakhand. Binsar, located in the Jhandi Dhar Hills, is a haven for environmental lovers, animal and bird enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquillity. Binsar is another offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand for sheer paradise in the lap of the Kumaon region, with breathtaking vistas of four stunning Himalayan peaks: Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Shivling, and Trishul.
Key Attractions: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point, and forest trekking trails.
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station is the closest. A 4-hour road journey through Almora brings you to Binsar.
Best Time to Visit: March–June, October–November
3. Kausani
Kausani is one of the quietest and offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, providing the ideal escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Famous for its broad panoramic view of the snow-clad Himalayan mountains such as Nanda Devi and Panchachuli and many things to do in Kausani, this place is located in the Bageshwar district is a piece of heaven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, trekkers, travelers, and honeymooners. Summers are mild and pleasant in Kausani, but if you want to see the panoramic views of the snow clad, nothing beats the attractiveness of Kausani.
Key Attractions: Himalayan viewpoints, sunrise points, tea gardens
How to Reach: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead. From there, taxis take around 5–6 hours via Almora.
Best Time to Visit: March–June, October–February
4. Khirsu
Khirsu is a great destination for individuals who are seeking quiet and peace of mind. Surrounded by lush green oaks and deodar woods and apple orchards, this lovely hamlet is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. Khirsu, located 19 kilometers from Pauri, is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and independent travelers. Visitors may enjoy breathtaking views, temple excursions, and natural hikes. It is one of the top spots to visit in Uttarakhand during the month of June.
Key Attractions: Apple orchards, forest trails, ancient temples
How to Reach: The nearest railway station is Kotdwar. From there, a 4–5 hour drive takes you to Khirsu.
Best Time to Visit: April–June
5. Chakrata
Chakrata Hill Station, one of the hidden gems in Uttarakhand, offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility. It is an extremely picture-perfect yet offbeat place in Uttarakhand. Chakrata is widely popular for hiking, rafting, skiing, and cave trips, and it never ceases to amaze visitors with its charm and beauty. Located at a height of 7000 feet and overlooking the Yamuna Valley, this scenic hamlet contains dense trees as well as a few historic Uttarakhand temples and caves.
Key Attractions: Tiger Falls, Budher Caves, trekking routes
How to Reach: Dehradun railway station is the closest. Chakrata is about a 3-hour drive from there.
Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November
6. Munsiyari
Munsiyari, a magnificent hill retreat and one of the underrated places in Uttarakhand. The spot is famous among trekkers and adventure lovers and serves as a base camp for the Milam, Khalia Top, Ramalam, Khalika Pass, Chiplakot Bugyal, and Namik treks. Encircled by stunning mountains and lush woods, this location's clean and quiet environment outshines all others in Uttarakhand.
Key Attractions: Panchachuli peaks, trekking trails, village walks
How to Reach: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station. The road journey takes around 8–9 hours via Pithoragarh.
Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–October
7. Mandal
Mandal is another hidden gem of Uttarakhand that is perfect for de-stressing, soothing, and rejuvenating. This lovely tiny town on the road to the Rudranath Temple pilgrimage in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, near Gopeshwar, is away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Mandal is ideal for a laid-back getaway and is recognized for total digital detox vacations because there is no phone or internet connection, therefore visitors are prohibited from using mobile phones or laptop computers throughout their stay.
Key Attractions: Forest walks, birdwatching, peaceful stays
How to Reach: Haridwar railway station is the closest. Mandal is reachable via road through Chamoli.
Best Time to Visit: April–June
8. Bhimtal
Not as popular as Nainital and Dehradun, nor as secluded as Chaukori and Peora, Bhimtal is one of the unexplored places in Uttarakhand, offering you most picturesque offbeat destinations. With a shimmering Bhimtal lake in the centre named after Bhima from the Mahabharata, this small but picturesque spot is between Kathgodam and Nainital and is usually visited by solitary travelers and honeymoon couples seeking peace, isolation, and tranquility.
Key Attractions: Bhimtal Lake, Island Aquarium
How to Reach: Kathgodam is just 30 km away. Regular taxis and buses are available.
Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November
9. Kanatal
Kanatal, located in the middle of the Chamba-Mussoorie route, is one of Uttarakhand's best off-the-beaten-path destinations, famous for breathtaking scenery and thrilling adventure activities. So, for people who want to spend some quiet time in nature or have some thrilling adventure such as camping, trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, and valley crossing, Kanatal is an excellent alternative.
Key Attractions: Camping sites, adventure activities, forest walks
How to Reach: Dehradun railway station is the nearest. Kanatal is a 3–4 hour drive from there.
Best Time to Visit: April–June, October
10. Chaukori
Chaukori, one of the greatest unusual locations to visit in Uttarakhand, is known for its fragrant tea gardens, lush deodar and alpine forests, and fruit orchards. With the picturesque backdrop of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli peaks, Chaukori is an offbeat place to visit in Uttarakhand that offers unforgettable views.
Key Attractions: Tea gardens, mountain viewpoints
How to Reach: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead, followed by a long but scenic road journey.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
11. Khati Village
Khati Village, located in Uttarakhand's Bageshwar district, is one of the greatest off-the-beaten-path attractions. This pristine and lovely town, located on the banks of the Pindara River, is surrounded by lush oak and rhododendron trees. Furthermore, because this is the final populated region before the Pindari Glacier, it is not commercialized and is considered one of Uttarakhand's most unique tourist destinations.
Key Attractions: River walks, village culture, trekking base
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station, followed by road travel to Bageshwar and a short trek.
Best Time to Visit: April–June
12. Gwaldam
Gwaldam, one of the most offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, is located in the Chamoli district of the tranquil state of Uttarakhand and has stunning green surroundings that will leave you wanting more. There's absolutely nothing like a nature walk through the tea plantations here, and a short 3-kilometre trek will take you to Talwari to see the bright birds of the Himalayan region.
Key Attractions: Tea plantations, birdwatching trails
How to Reach: Kathgodam or Haridwar railway stations, followed by road travel.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
13. Chopta
Chopta Hill Station welcomes you with open arms, offering verdant woods, wide-ranging meadows, valleys, and snow-capped mountains. This is a popular stopover on the way to trekking sites like Chandrashila and Tungnath, and it provides stunning scenery as well as complete mental and spiritual tranquility. Chopta is one of the must-explore hidden places in Uttarakhand for those looking for a lesser-known hiking track & trekking trails.
Key Attractions: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila trek
How to Reach: Haridwar railway station, followed by road via Ukhimath.
Best Time to Visit: April–June, September
14. Mana Village
Mana Village, located on the banks of the Saraswati River and 24 kilometers from the Indo-Tibet border, is another picturesque yet completely offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand. Serene forests, mountain streams, and massive Himalayan mountains all around make the area breathtakingly magnificent. Mana village is located near the Badrinath Temple, therefore pilgrims passing by make a visit to this picturesque hamlet. In addition to its magnificent beauty and spiritual value, Mana Village has a rich legendary history and legacy.
Key Attractions: Saraswati River, mythological sites
How to Reach: Haridwar railway station, followed by road travel to Badrinath and Mana.
Best Time to Visit: May–October
15. Pangot
Pangot, located near Nainital but not as popular, is an offbeat name on the list of places to visit in Uttarakhand. This is a new mountain destination that boasts fantastic views of powerful Himalayan mountains such as Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It's sheer delight to wake up to the lovely singing of birds, feel the fresh wind, and recharge your mind and body. If you dislike busy places and want to spend a few days in peace and isolation, this is one of the best tourist spots.
Key Attractions: Birdwatching, forest views
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station, then a short drive from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
16. Abbott Mount
Abbott Mount is a photographer's paradise, with thick deciduous woods contributing to the picturesque beauty of this Pithoragarh area. This location is at the top of the list of offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand since it is ideal for bird viewing and a relaxing holiday. You can go on several excursions in the area or simply spend a leisurely weekend away appreciating the scenery from the comfort of your lodging.
Key Attractions: Scenic viewpoints, nature walks
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station, followed by road travel via Lohaghat.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
17. Dharchula
Dharchula, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, scenic valleys, and forests, is one of the offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand. This little mountainous hideaway, located along the Kailash, Manas Sarovar, and Chhota Kailash routes, is great for trekking and is home to the Kumaoni and Shauna tribal people. Nestled on the banks of the Kali River, the place's extraordinary beauty and tranquility will leave you stunned and fascinated. The stunning sight of Panchachuli Peak from Dharchula draws and delights all travelers.
Key Attractions: Panchachuli views, riverside walks
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station, followed by a long but scenic road journey.
Best Time to Visit: April–June
18. Mukteshwar
If you are seeking for lesser-known tourist spots to visit or the most offbeat places in Uttarakhand, please consider Mukteshwar. The small hill village is ideal for a holiday in the Alps. With the different places to visit in Mukteshwar, you can explore its holy temples, secret waterfalls, apple orchards, and verdant surroundings. You need to spend a couple of days in this location for an unforgettable experience. Always remember to spend time stargazing.
Key Attractions: Mukteshwar Temple, waterfalls, viewpoints
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station, then a 2–3 hour drive.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
19. Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal Lake is a little lake near Bhimtal that is quite popular among visitors. While its natural beauty is unparalleled, visitors may also enjoy a variety of water sports such as boating and kayaking. There are numerous great cafés surrounding the lake where you can soak up the atmosphere while eating delicious pizza and drinking amazing coffee. There is even a pond filled with many lotus blooms. It seems genuinely magical.
Key Attractions: Lake activities, cafés, lotus pond
How to Reach: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest one, and it is just a need short drive to reach here.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
20. Ranikhet
Ranikhet is one of Uttarakhand's lesser-known destinations because few visitors visit it. As a result, you have a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of this location uninterrupted. Did you know that the British administration intended to make Ranikhet its capital rather than Shimla? Why not, given the numerous reasons? Ranikhet offers stunning views of the Himalayas, flowering apricot orchards, and pleasant weather.
Key Attractions: Golf course, nature trails
How to Reach: Reach the Kathgodam railway station first, and then start the road journey towards the destination.
Best Time to Visit: March–June
21. Dhanaulti
If you ever want to camp in the mountains, visit one of the eco-camps in Dhanaulti. Spend the night in these beautiful tents, where you may dance around a bonfire and play games with your loved ones or company. Dhanaulti, located on the route to Mussoorie, is a popular camping destination in Uttarakhand. The weather changes every five minutes, leaving you awestruck and amazed. There are several adventurous activities prepared for the tourists at these camps. Make sure you participate.
Key Attractions: Eco-camps, adventure activities
How to Reach: Dehradun railway station, followed by a scenic drive.
Best Time to Visit: April–June
Conclusion
The state itself is an endless supply of offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand that provide more than simply natural beauty and allow you to reconnect with nature, discover pristine landscapes, and find calm away from the main tourist pathways. Whether you're an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply searching for quiet, these hidden treasures in Uttarakhand provide something for everyone. So, pack your luggage, follow the less-trafficked path, and immerse yourself in Uttarakhand's calm and untouched natural beauty. Your next exciting experience awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are some unique places to visit in Uttarakhand?
Some unique spots to visit in Uttarakhand are Chopta (India's little Switzerland), Munsiyari (the Little Kashmir), Khirsu (a gorgeous village), Abbott Mount (colonial charm), and Lohaghat (renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty).
2. When is the best time to explore unusual locations in Uttarakhand?
The best time to explore offbeat locations in Uttarakhand is between March and June (spring and summer) or September and November (autumn), when the weather is favorable and suitable for discovering the region's natural splendor.
3. Which place is known as Mini Kashmir in Uttarakhand?
Pithoragarh is known as the mini Kashmir in Uttarakhand, situated in the lap of the Himalaya. The destination offers you a unique landscape, a centuries-old temple, and a breathtaking view of Serene Valley.
4. Where is Mini Switzerland in Uttarakhand?
Chopta is standing at a high altitude in the region of the Garhwal Himalaya is known as the mini Switzerland in Uttarakhand. Famous for its velvety green bugyals, dense pine forest, and amazing view of snow-capped peaks.
View on Map
(+91) 9310660016
