Best Offbeat Destinations in Uttarakhand to Visit This Winter 2021.

Best Offbeat Destinations to Visit Uttarakhand this winter 2021

 

The best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand are not only hidden but also offer some of the best views of the Himalayas. Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, a state tucked in the Himalayas has always captivated travelers with its raw and green beauty. From the Valley of Flowers coming alive in spring to pilgrims walking all the way to Kedarnath, Uttarakhand has a myriad of destinations. While tourists throng popular destinations like Nainital, Haridwar, and Mussourie, Uttarakhand also has a side unexplored by many. The recent years have seen a rise in popularity of such offbeat places, be it the beautiful hamlet of Khirsu or the delightful hill station of Lohaghat.

For travelers looking for the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand, here are the best places to visit this winter-

• Khirsu-

Khirsu is one such offbeat destination in Uttarakhand which travelers have to visit at least once in their lifetime. Situated at an altitude of 1700 m, Khirsu is a picturesque little village far away from the din of the city. Offering panoramic views of snow-clad peaks, Khirsu seems like a destination straight out of a fairytale. The nearby Ghandiyal Devi temple and the Jwalpa Devi temple are also some of the tourist attractions travelers can visit here. While Khirsu can be visited all around the year, the hamlet also promises chances of snowfall during winter. With temperatures hovering near zero, Khirsu in winter is a must-visit offbeat destination in Uttarakhand.

 

• Mandal-

The Garhwal circuit in Uttarakhand is a hotspot for major tourist destinations such as Haridwar, Pauri, and Rudra Prayag. Lying in the Chamoli district of Garhwal, Mandal is a little-known place and one of the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand. Located at a height of 1700 m, the quaint little village has a mere population of 452, thus providing travelers a rare chance to soak themselves in the raw and unfiltered beauty of the Himalayas. Surrounded by pine and oak trees and green valleys, Mandal is a sight to behold during the winters. With snow covering the pines and the oaks, Mandal in Uttarakhand has been blessed with plenty by Mother Nature.

 

• Binsar-

One of the offbeat destinations in the Kumaon circuit of Uttarakhand, Binsar is every traveler’s dream. Not only does Binsar provide a glimpse into history as it was once made the summer capital by the Chand Dynasty rulers, but Binsar also hypnotizes travelers with its mesmerizing scenery. The majestic Panchachuli and Nanda Devi peaks are also clearly visible from Binsar. Come winter and you will witness a totally different side of Binsar as the landscape often turns into a snowy paradise.

 

 

• Chopta-

If one has to talk about offbeat places in Uttarakhand, one cannot just miss the Chopta valley. With its rise in popularity over the years, tourists are thronging Chopta in large numbers. Sprawling meadows, dense pine forests have captivated the imagination of every traveler, and Chopta has only made it possible for such a beautiful dream to turn into reality. While Chopta may not remain an offbeat destination for long, now is the perfect time to pack your bags and leave for Chopta. In case you are planning to visit Chopta in winter, be prepared to be amazed by the white wonderland that Chopta transforms into.

 

• Chaukori-

Located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, Chaukori is another offbeat destination to visit this winter. Blessed with an exquisite landscape, Chaukori has to be one of the most stunning hill stations in the Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of 2010 m, Chaukori also offers gorgeous views of the Panchachuli peaks that turn glowing red during sunset. Lush green valleys, fruit orchards, and tea gardens are also in plenty and tourists can stroll through several of these trails, exploring the beauty of Chaukori.

 

 

• Pangot-

While it is Nainital that is the most preferred destination in the Kumaon region, there lies another place only a few kilometers away from lake city. Pangot, near Nainital, has emerged as one of the best offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand. Away from the crowds, Pangot’s natural beauty is to be marveled at. Also a favorite destination among birdwatchers, photographers can be often seen here trying to catch a glimpse of the colorful birds. Winters are also an ideal time for tourists wanting to visit Pangot as there are only a few tourists and the scenery is to die for.

 

 

• Peora-

 

Situated only at a distance of 59 km from Nainital, Uttarakhand’s Peora is a beautiful offbeat destination to lose yourself in. While looking for offbeat places, we want to find the perfect destination that is not only cut off from the hustle-bustle of the city but also offers stunning views of the region.  Peora in Uttarakhand is one such place that has both. A charming sleepy town tucked in the Himalayas, Peora will mesmerize you with its natural beauty and scenery. One can also have a taste of the local life and the Kumaoni cuisine while in Peora, making your stay a memorable and worthwhile experience.

 

 

• Naukuchiatal-

Nestled in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, Naukuchiatal is shrouded in mystery. An offbeat destination to visit in Uttarakhand, Naukuchiatal not only offers splendid views but also has religious significance attached to it. With a lake that is 175 feet deep, it is said that if a person sees the 9 corners of the lake, they are supposed to attain moksha. Surrounded by mountains across all sides, Naukuchiatal is the perfect offbeat destination in Uttarakhand to visit with your family this coming winter.