Kanatal – A Serene Hill Station in Uttarakhand

Kanatal is situated at 8,400 fts near Mussoorie & Dhanaulti at a distance of 300 Kms / 8 hrs from Delhi/NCR. Set in the heart of the Indian Himalayas and surrounded by dense, long wooded slopes of Deodar, Oak and Pine forests, Camp Kanatal (Thangdhar) offers tranquility that seems to be straight out of some romantic classic. The beautiful and picturesque 180 degree view of the snow clad Himalayas will fill you with a romantic charm. Kanatal is the chilliest offbeat destination near Delhi. Beautiful and captivating environment will surely make you feel the love and pleasure of lying in Mother Nature’s lap.

1. Location: Kanatal is located at an altitude of approximately 8,500 feet (2,590 meters) above sea level. It is about 78 kilometers (48 miles) from the state capital, Dehradun.
2. Natural Beauty: Kanatal is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green forests, dense pine trees, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
3. Surkhanda Devi Temple: One of the prominent attractions in Kanatal is the Surkhanda Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The temple is located at a height of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) and offers spectacular views of the surrounding region.

4. Tehri Dam: Kanatal is in close proximity to the Tehri Dam, one of the largest dams in Asia. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and enjoy water sports activities in the reservoir.

5. Adventure Activities: Kanatal is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts. You can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, rappelling, rock climbing, and nature walks. The nearby Kodia Jungle is a popular spot for camping.

6. Kaudia Forest: The Kaudia Forest in Kanatal is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It’s an idea Place for bird watching and exploring the wilderness.

Why Kanatal is Famous

• Known for its scenic landscapes and tranquil environment.
• Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and lush valleys.
• A perfect spot for camping, trekking, and adventure activities.
• Surrounded by pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests, making it rich in flora and fauna.

Things to Do in Kanatal

• Trekking & Nature Walks – Enjoy forest trails and mountain treks.
• Camping – Experience overnight stays under the starry sky.
• Adventure Activities – Ziplining, valley crossing, and rock climbing.
• Photography – Capture sunrise, sunset, and Himalayan peaks.
• Apple Orchard Visits – Explore the local orchards and taste fresh produce.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (April – June): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.
• Monsoon (July – September): Green landscapes, though occasional rain.
• Winter (October – February): Snowfall makes it a magical winter wonderland.

Nearby Places to Visit in Kanatal

1. Surkanda Devi Temple (10 km): One of the most revered Shaktipeeths of Uttarakhand, Surkanda Devi Temple is located at an altitude of about 2,757 meters. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the temple is surrounded by dense forests and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayan peaks and Doon Valley. A short trek of around 2 km from Kaddukhal leads you to the temple. It is especially popular during the Ganga Dussehra festival.

Surkanda Devi Temple, Uttarakhand

2. Dhanaulti (15 km): A peaceful hill station near Kanatal, Dhanaulti is known for its Eco Parks (Amber & Dhara), deodar forests, and serene environment. It is a less-crowded alternative to Mussoorie, making it perfect for nature lovers. Adventure enthusiasts can try camping and trekking here. The snow-covered winters of Dhanaulti make it a magical retreat.

3. Tehri Lake & Tehri Dam (35 km): Tehri Lake is a man-made wonder created due to the construction of Tehri Dam on the River Bhagirathi. It is a hub for water sports and adventure activities such as boating, jet skiing, banana rides, and paragliding. The surrounding views of mountains and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit spot for families and adventure seekers.

4. Mussoorie (45 km): Famously known as the “Queen of Hills”, Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations of India. Located just a short drive from Kanatal, it offers attractions like Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Mall Road, and Camel’s Back Road. It is perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and enjoying colonial-era charm.

Mussoorie

5. Chamba (17 km): A small town near Kanatal, Chamba is famous for its apple orchards, pine forests, and peaceful landscapes. The town provides stunning views of the Bhagirathi River Valley and snow-covered Himalayan peaks. It’s a great place for relaxation and village tourism.

Chamba

6. Kodia Jungle (1 km): Just a short distance from Kanatal, Kodia Jungle is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The jungle trail is perfect for trekking, bird watching, and spotting wild animals like barking deer, goral, and wild boar. The dense pine and deodar trees make it a beautiful spot for picnics and photography.