Why Visit Kanatal? Uttarakhand’s Underrated Hill Station Near Mussoorie

 

  Kanatal: Uttarakhand’s Hidden Paradise You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner!

Perched at an altitude of 8,500 feet, Kanatal is a charming hill station in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, just a few hours’ drive from Mussoorie. Known for its apple orchards, peaceful ambiance, and adventure-filled camping experiences, Kanatal is a perfect offbeat getaway for those seeking calm amidst the clouds.

✨ Why Visit Kanatal?

If you are a quirky destinations enthusiast where nature continues to have its untouched charm, then Kanatal awaits you. Here you can camp under starry nights, trek in pine woods, and soak in the serenity of Himalayan life.

Peaceful Retreat: Removed from the crowds of Mussoorie or Dhanaulti, Kanatal offers tranquility and solitude.

Adventure Camping: Bonfires, ziplining, valley crossing, and nature walks are in store for you.

Apple Orchards: Walk through vibrant orchards and taste fresh Himalayan apples.

Himalayan Views: Enjoy thrilling views of snow-clad peaks like Bandarpoonch and Trishul.

👉 Popular Places in and around Kanatal

1. Surkanda Devi Temple 

📍Location: 8 km from Kanatal

This ancient Parvati temple is situated at 2,700 meters and offers 360° Himalayan views. The 2 km trek, which is worthwhile for both trekkers and devotees, is a bargain.

2. Tehri Dam

📍Location: 35 km from Kanatal

The world's second-tallest dam, **Tehri Dam** is an engineering marvel lined with turquoise water. Boat ride, jet skiing, and other water sports are a pleasure here.

 3. Kodia Jungle

1 km away from Kanatal

A dense jungle suitable for nature walks, photography, and spotting wild animals like musk deer or barking deer. Jeep safaris or short treks can be undertaken as well.

4. New Tehri Town

📍Where: 40 km away from Kanatal

A planned hill town overlooking the Tehri Lake — ideal for a day outing to enjoy the quiet and some local shopping.

👉 Must-try Foods in Kanatal

Kanatal offers authentic Garhwali and Kumaoni dishes that are simple and flavorful. Nearly all local dhabas and homestays employ locally grown ingredients to prepare their dishes.

Gahat (Kulath) Dal – A classic lentil curry that is full of protein and intense earthy flavor.

Mandua Roti – Finger millet bread served accompanied by ghee and chutney as a traditional flatbread.

Aloo ke Gutke – Hill-style spiced potatoes, a good option with roti.

Kafuli – Thick, green leafy green curry prepared using spinach and fenugreek.

Bhang ki Chutney– Spicy, nutty chutney made using hemp seeds and served as a side.

👉 Best Time to Visit Kanatal

Summer (March–June): Perfect weather for camping and sightseeing.

Monsoon (July–September): Green scenery and misty climate, but sudden landslides cannot be excluded.

October–February (Winter): Best for snow lovers — Kanatal gets light snowfall frequently!

👉 How to Reach Kanatal

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (92 km) is the nearest airport.

By Train: The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (75 km) and Dehradun (85 km).

By Road: Kanatal can also be reached by road via Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Chamba. You can take a local bus or cab.

👉 Where to Stay in Kanatal

Luxury Camps & Eco-Resorts: deal for adventure and nature lovers (top recommendations: Kanatal Adventure Camp, Camp Carnival).

Homestays: Cozy, local accommodations with Garhwali food.

Cottages & Guesthouses: Peaceful retreats amidst pine trees and apple orchards.

Final Thoughts

If you are dreaming of a hill station holiday that is peaceful, picturesque, and filled with adventure, Kanatal is your dream getaway. It offers you the tranquility of nature, the warmth of locals, and the thrill of the Himalayas – all at one location.

So next time you visit Uttarakhand, skip the tourist spots and let Kanatal charm you with its peaceful beauty and soul-rejuvenating magic.