Uttarkashi - Kashi of North
A holy town in the state of Uttarakhand, Uttarkashi features the perfect blend of nature's beauty, divinity and bliss. The district of Uttarkashi was formed in 1960 at the north western part of the state. Spread over 8016 square kilometers, Uttarkashi is a roughed terrain nestled by the Himalayas. In the northern site of this district is Himachal Pradesh and this town is known for its culture and heritage. Just like Varanasi, this town is also situated along River Ganges and has a ghat named Manikarnika similar to Varanasi. Uttarkashi is also a land dedicated to Lord Shiva and aptly called the "Kashi of North".
Uttarkashi in its early days was largely inhabited by hill tribes such as Kiratas and Uttara Kurus. Several sages and saints have found solace and bliss here.
Location - Uttarakhand
Altitude - 150 meters above sea level
Best Time to visit - February to May
Distance from Major Cities
Dharasu Band - 31 km
Dehradun - 412 km
Haridwar - 357 km
Lucknow - 466 km
Nainital - 71 km
How to Reach
By Air - Nearest airport is Jolly Grant at Dehradun around 187 km away
By Rail - The nearest railhead is at Rishikesh, a drive of 170 km. One can also hire a taxi from Kathgodam railway station to Uttarkashi.
By Road - The place is accessible by road from Dehradun, New Delhi and Haridwar. You can plan a complete pilgrimage tour from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Uttarkashi and then Gaumukh-Gangotri.
About Uttarkashi
Over the years, Uttarkashi has drawn Hindu pilgrims and tourists as it has emerged a popular center for spirituality and adventure. The drive from Dehradun to Uttarkashi is around 5 hours and this town is a prominent weekend getaway for tourists coming via Nainital, Delhi and other parts of Uttarakhand. Its hilly terrain along with facilities like trekking and rock climbing, is heaven to adventuruous tourists. This picturesque town is also ideal for angling when the travelers are not exploring the tourist destinations here.
Places in and around Uttarkashi
Govind Wildlife Sanctuary - The Govind Wildlife Sanctuary opened in 1955 and is a well known animal habitat center in the district. It is surrounded by a thick deciduous forest and is home to a variety of Himalayan species of birds and mammals. The beautiful backdrop of the Himalayas also impresses tourists. The park covers an area of 953 square km and the prominent species found here are wild boar, tiger and snow leopard. The best time to visit this park is from March to November.
Vishwanath Temple - Abode of Lord Shiva, the Vishwanath Temple is the most important spiritual center in the district that attracts thousands of followers. It is situated close to the Uttarkashi bus stand. According to local folklores, this shrine was built by Parasuram and was later renovated in the year 1857. The shrine houses a shivling in its sanctum that has a height of 60 cm.
Shakti Temple - Just opposite to the Vishwanath shrine is the temple of shakti, the Trishul has a height of 6 meters. The upper part of the Trishul is made of iron and the lower half is of copper. According to legend, Shakti is a manifestation of Goddess Durga who was created to kill the devils.
Maneri - Around 13 km away from Uttarkashi, Maneri is a beautiful place made famous for the dam. There is also a hydroelectric project built on this dam. Located along the Bhagirathi River, the Tiloth Power Plant is a tourist attraction as well.
Dodital - Situated around 16 km from Uttarkashi, Dodital is a serene lake surrounded by dense woods. Trout fishing is an important activity but you require a permit from the Divisional Forest Officer.
Gangnani - This place falls on the way to Gangotri and is about 37 km drive from Maneri. It is a day's excursion from Uttarkashi district and monsoon is the best time to see the hot water springs located here. You can have a refreshing bath or plan a picnic on its banks.
Kushkal Yan - A beautiful meadow around 28 km from Uttarkashi, Kushkal Yan has an elevation of 3141 meters above sea level. It falls on the way to Gangotri. You need to trek through dense forests and around 20 km away from here is the Sahastra Tal. The journey from Uttarkashi to Kushkal Yan will be a memorable experience.
