It may not be as famous but it surely is one of the best. Less crowded Garhwal jewel, Kanatal is a quiet hill town that is blessed with fresh mountain air, dense forests, pleasant weather, and a serene vibe. There’s a calmness that’s hard to come by; Kanatal offers a Himalayan experience that’s both refreshing and restorative. There is oЫeat adventure, solitude, scenic escape, and a peaceful break from the mundane city life; there is something for everyone, here in Kanatal.
Kanatal is best for solo hikers, photographers, peace seekers in the lap of nature, couples longing for some quiet time to unwind in each other’s company, and families who want their kids to connect with nature and indulge in outdoor activities like trekking, which is otherwise impossible in the city. It is also a good place to learn about the culture of a small town and understand their ways of living.
Kanatal is Just a Scenic Drive Away from Delhi
About 340 kms away from the capital city Delhi, Kanatal is a great option for a long-weekend getaway. The drive takes roughly 7 to 8 hours, via Rishikesh or Dehradun. Both the routes get equally picturesque with every bend as you ascend towards the hills. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport. You could take a taxi from there to cover a 92 kms distance to reach Kanatal. Dehradun and Rishikesh Junctions are the closest railway stations from where local buses and taxis run regularly to ferry travellers to Kanatal.
Things to Do in Kanatal
- Adventure sports like boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing.
- Bonfire, camping, and stargazing near the lake or forest edge.
- Trekking trails for immersive forest experience and moderate-level hiking.
- Jungle safaris to spot native wildlife and enjoy the calm of the forest.
- Photography to capture the beauty of Himalayan landscapes at sunrise and sunset.
- Cultural visits during the Surkanda Devi fair or village walks, which offer an insight into Garhwali life and traditions.
Top Places to Visit in Kanatal and Around
Kanatal is a place surrounded by spots that add a different colour to your travel palette.
- Tehri Lake: For water sports junkies, this wide man-made lake formed by the Tehri Dam is a paradise. You can indulge in jet skiing, banana rides, kayaking, speed boating, and parasailing.
- Surkanda Devi Temple: A sacred spot dedicated to Goddess Parvati, it is visited by devotees and trekkers. Nearly 2800 metres above sea level, this temple can be reached through a short uphill trek, which is scenic and breath-taking, with panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas.
- Kodia (Kaudia) Jungle: Covered with oak and pine trees, this natural green expanse is home to rich birdlife. Ideal spot for walking trails, photography, and forest exploration.
- Dhanaulti Eco Park: Popular for adventure sports like forest walks and ziplining, this Eco Park is situated 45 mins away from Kanatal. The open green spaces are great for picnics making it a family-friendly destination.
- Chamba and New Tehri: If you want an urban experience with stunning lake vistas, New Tehri should be your pick, whereas if the heavenly views of the Himalayan ranges and Bhagirathi River fascinate you, then Chamba is where you should be. Both the spots are not more than an hour’s drive away.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Kanatal
- The Hermitage Kanatal offers mountain views, gardens, and open spaces for kids to play.
- Club Mahindra Kanatal offers adventure activities and a kid-friendly environment.
- The Terraces Resort offers luxury with spa services, fine dining, and quiet views.
- The Deodar Stays offers a curated, rustic experience in a boutique resort with a strong local touch.
- Dev Bhoomi Resort offers a pet-friendly environment along with casual activities.
Most resorts and homestays in Kanatal organise nature walks, adventure activities, and evening bonfires. If you want a more local experience opt for a homestay. Homestays offer a closer look at local life, with traditional meals and warm hospitality. They’re ideal for budget-conscious travellers and cultural enthusiasts.
Local Food and Shopping in Kanatal
Though North Indian, Chinese, and Continental options are available at most resorts and cafes, having a taste of the local cuisine is a must for those looking for variety. Regional recipes are a must try if you are in Kanatal. Since, food in Kanatal is strongly rooted in
Garhwali traditions, several homestays and cafes offer dishes made from local produce. If few of them are as follows:
- Kafuli: A wholesome curry made from spinach or other leafy greens.
- Phaanu and Chainsoo: Extremely flavourful and rich in nutrients, lentil-based dishes.
- Aloo ke Gutke: Made from local herbs, this spiced potato preparation is served with chutneys.
Kanatal’s shopping streets are small, colourful, and full of character. Handicrafis made locally and carved wooden items are very popular. Being a hill station, hand-knit woollens can also be bought, which will make thoughtful souvenirs and gifis while supporting local artisans. Other options are organic jams, spices, and pulses.
Best Time to Visit
March to June is a pleasant time to visit Kanatal. Spring, early summer, and winter (October to December) are all great seasons to witness Kanatal in its full glory. While during spring and summer the daytime temperatures remain comfortable between 10°C and 25°C, winter season offers a chance to witness snowfall. Kanatal’s beauty in monsoon is exceptional but the terrain requires a lot of caution.
Conclusion
Kanatal may not be on every travel influencer’s profile, travel magazine article, or a location advertised by travel agents but it surely is a great place to be at because of its offbeat and untouched quality. Kanatal strikes a fine balance between thrill and stillness. Here, the experience is unhurried and the beauty is unfiltered. It is a place you can travel to at your convenience and explore locally. Whether it’s the thrill of water sports on Tehri Lake, the spiritual stillness at Surkanda Devi, or the quiet joy of a forest walk, Kanatal offers a deeply personal connection to the Himalayas.
By: Anushka Singhal