Chakrata

Chakrata is known for its pristine and unparallel beauty. It is situated at an altitude of 2270 m and is only 98 km from Dehradun and 73 km form Mussoorie. Chakrata comes under cantonment area for the Indian Army. The northern part of Chakrata attracts the trekkers and nature lovers with its beautiful landscape, virgin forests of conifers, rhododendrons and oaks and attractive villages of the Jaunsari tribe. The area also includes the 3084 m high peak of Kharamba. On its northern slopes is situated Mundali, one of the popular destination for skiing during December to March months.

The town lies above the Yamuna Valley in the Garhwal Himalaya and is approached from Dehradun either via Mussoorie or Kalsi. The latter is the commonly used one, but the road surface is pretty atrocious. Once you make it to Kalsi, you have to be lucky enough to make it through the barrier there on time. Barrier, you ask? Indeed. The Kalsi Army Checkpost allows only Indians to drive through to Chakrata, where there’s a toll of Rs 21. But it’s also single-lane traffic from here on to Chakrata, since the road is pretty narrow. It’s better to take the Dehradun-Mussoorie route, which is about 20-odd km longer but is a newer road, barrier-free and very picturesque.

Places to see near Chakrata

Tiger Fall: After a breathtaking 8km trek from Chakrata lies Tiger Fall a water ballad with unparalleled beauty, falling gracefully from a height of 50 m. Tiger fall creates a small pond, which renders an enchanting effect to the picturesque surroundings.

Deoban: 20 kms away from Chakrata this place is surrounded by dense forests. Situated at an altitude of 2200 m, Deoban provides a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. The views along this stretch are grand. The entire Greater Himalayan Range lies stretched along the horizon. You might as well keep your eyes firmly fixed on the peaks as one look down will give you a serious attack of vertigo. As you travel upwards, you enter a deep, dark deodar forest, which finally clears to reveal a vast green meadow

Lakhamandal: At a distance of 60 k, from Chakrata, this area has mythological significance due to its associateion with the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Kauravas built “Lakshagraha” (House of Lac) to burn alive the Pandavas here. Many ancient temples of Lord Shiva and Parashuram are scattered around this area.

Ram Tal: Kids will enjoy a visit to the Ram Tal Horticultural Garden, 10 km away on the Mussoorie Road, with its apple garden and natural pond.

Kanasar: 30 km from Chakrata and 128 km from Dehradun, Kanasar is perched on the Chakrata-Tuni motorable road. Backdrop of the towering peaks and dense forests cuts out Kanasar as the idyllic retreat. The night halts are facilitated by the equally picturesque Forest Rest House.

Mundali: Mundali is situated in 129 km from Dehradun via Chakrata. From Chakrata to Mundali is 36 km unmetalled jeepable road. Mundali offers an unforgettable view of the snow capped Himalayas. The place has vast ski slopes on which professionals can enjoy skiing. As accommodation facility is only available at Forest Rest House, therefore one has to ensure accommodation through the Forest Department.

Kalsi: Approximately 5 kms from Dakpathar, is an Ashoka Pillar Rock Edict, built in 450 B.C., which represents the post-warfare era when king Ashoka converted himself to the Buddhist faith. The edicts ever aimed at the moral elevation of his people. One such edict at Kalsi is made of quartz which is 10ft long and 8ft broad. ‘Gajottam’ meaning ‘the most excellent elephant’ is inscribed on the right side of the rock and is engraved in Brahmi script in the eatern dialect of Magadhi, the then official language. The National Archaeological Department has taken the responsibility of preserving the edict having a high historical significance. The scenic beauty around Kalsi is picturesque. From the Yamuna upto Kalsi the land on the western bank of the river is formed in tow successive ledges, each about 30 metres high. Near the foot of the upper ledge is the Kalso stone containing one of Ashoka's Edicts.

How to Reach

Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport , Dehradun , 124 kms

Rail: The nearest railhead is Dehradun, 98 km. Taxis and busses are easily available outside the Dehradun Railway Station

Road: Buses ply to all the major tourist centres in the region. Uttarakhand and other State Transport Corporations ply deluxe and super fast buses to Delhi.