Historic Places of Uttarakhand

travelxp- Holidays | 2024-02-29 | Ishan Sharma

Discover Uttarakhand's Rich Heritage Through Its Historic Sites, From The Ancient Temples Of Kedarnath To The Colonial Charm Of Landour. Each Landmark Tells A Story Of Culture, Spirituality, And The Passage Of Time

13 Historical Places in Uttarakhand You Must Visit in 2024

You must have heard about Uttarakhand to be known as Dev Bhoomi – the land of gods. Along with the ancient shrines and alluring nature, some astounding historical places in Uttarakhand are supposedly lesser-known or hidden away in the glamour and the beauty of nature.

The history of the state goes back as long as the 2nd century BC when Uttarakhand was supposedly the refuge of the Kols tribe, few used the place for meditation to achieve enlightenment and a significant route for trading salt with Tibet. Also, were you aware that the Chand and Katyuri dynasties in Uttarakhand made significant contributions to the history of the state?

So, the next time you are visiting Uttarakhand, ditch that conventional tourist attraction for the historical places to visit in town.

Ghuddauda, Almora District

Ghuddauda in the Almora district, unlike other historical Monuments in Uttarakhand, lacks a distinctive monument. The town is thought to have been named after a horse race that took place there during the British Raj. Locals say that the race used to be held in a large field with a lot of glitz and glamour.

The race was also said to be exceptional in its own way because the winner could choose the prize of his desire. This small town in the Almora district is a prime example of people’s enthusiasm for adventure sports and visited by people from all over the country. Today, Ghuddauda is a lovely sleepy town that can be an excellent offbeat destination in India.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Ghuddauda is between October to March.

Katarmal Sun Temple, Almora District

This 800-year-old temple is the country’s second-largest Sun Temple, with devotees flocking here all year. Katarmal Sun Temple one of the famous monuments in Uttarakhand is surrounded by plenty of smaller temples, a total of 45 in all, making it one of the region’s holiest sites. The temple is by default the most prominent monument in Uttarakhand due to its excellence.

This temple is a living reminder of architectural dignity and an ancient era’s wealth. Hundreds of thousands of people visit each day and across the year to catch a glimpse of it. Devotees at Katarmal Sun Temple Uttarakhand also worship the deities of Lord Siva, Parvathi, and Vishnu in addition to the Sun God’s idols.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Sun Temple is between March to November.

Dwarahat, Almora District

Dwarahat, about 34 kilometres from Ranikhet, is a small town that was once the capital of the Katyuri Kingdom. The ancient temples of Dwarahat, which literally means “Way to Heaven,” are well-known.

The Gurjari School of Art has left its mark on the temples, making them a must-see monument of Uttarakhand. Dwarahat is a small town that can be explored in a day, even though there are 55 temples to see.

The Katyuri kingdom/dynasty, which is credited with the construction of temples in Dwarahat, is thought to be the most powerful ruler in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon area. Katyuris made a significant contribution to the architectural splendour of the Garhwal region before their defeat at the hands of the Chand rulers.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Dwarahat is between October to March.

Chaukhutia, Almora District

Famous as Rangilo Gewar, Chaukhutia is a sleepy town in the Kumaon region. Rising to fame during the Katyuri rule, Chaukhutia is an appreciable place to witness the rich history of Uttarakhand.

The town preserves the remnants of the Katyuri dynasty in the form of fort and temples. The legend has it that Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata also stopped here for a short period while they were in exile.

It is believed that Pandukholi caves found in Chaukhutia have been built and adorned by Pandavas and are truly a great place to visit.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Chaukhutia is between March to July and October to February.

Badrinath

Badrinath is the most visited heritage monument in Uttarakhand, perched at around 11,000 feet above sea level in the Himalayan region. The site is one of the four shrines that make up the popular Char Dham.

Badrinath, which is named after Lord Vishnu—the Preserver—is also home to traditional and breathtaking Garhwali wooden architecture.

The main temple is set against a hillock and provides a picturesque view for nature enthusiasts while also bringing bliss and peace to devotees. Badrinath is only open for six months a year, from April to November, due to its high altitude and proximity to a colder area.

It’s a deeply spiritual place to re-energize your spiritual inclinations. It is not only an impressive holy place, but it is also one of the best historical monuments of Uttarakhand. Also, don’t forget to click some amazing photos to post on Instagram.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit is between April to June.

Baijnath Temple, Bageshwar District

Baijnath, located on the banks of the Gomti River, is amongst the very famous monuments and historical places in Uttarakhand, with an echoing spirituality and religious atmosphere. The Baijnath temple is one of the most important religious sites in the Bageshwar district in the state of Uttarakhand.

Baijnath is known as a historical monument of Uttarakhand and this is one of the few selected monuments that cater to a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. Except during the months of winter, devotees of Lord Siva flock to this well-known pilgrimage site every day and throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Baijnath is between September to May.

Pithoragarh Fort

Pithoragarh Fort is one of the town’s most popular monuments in Uttarakhand. This fort, which is close to the place, offers spectacular views of the Kali Kumaon.

According to documents, this fort was built by Gorkhas after the town was invaded in 1789. This ruined fort has become one of the most popular since colonial times. And the best way to explore the beauty around the place is by walking around the premises.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Pithoragarh Fort.

Want to explore a thrilling adventure on your Uttarakhand trip? Check this out:

Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal District

Narendra Nagar is a historical town in the Garhwal area that was once a part of Tehri Riyasat. Narendra Nagar has many pieces of evidence to show the majesty of the Garhwal Kingdom, having been ruled for a long time by Shah Rulers.

In 1919, Maharaja Narendra Shah relocated his capital to this lovely town and built several structures that are still in use as a hospital and secretariat.

The highlight of this place is Narendra Shah’s royal residence, which is also home to an incredible spa destination – Ananda-Inn the Himalayas. The palace’s walls still have original relief work, and the gateway is decorated with two World War I cannons.

The sunset view from the palace, according to visitors who have already visited, is undoubtedly a glimpse not to be missed.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Narendra Nagar is from January to May and again from late September to December.

Lohaghat, Champawat district

Lohaghat is a popular tourist monument in Uttarakhand and no doubt it is amongst the top historical places in Uttarakhand, located on the banks of the Lohawati River in the Champawat district. Lohaghat, an ancient city, is known for its more than a century-old temple.

This ancient city has seen many historical incidents in the past, each of which is thought to have been commemorated by the building of a single temple. Abbot Mount, Mayawati Ashram, Jhuma Devi, and Advaita Ashram are all popular tourist destinations.

When it comes to natural beauty, Lohaghat is indescribable. In the summer, when the Rhododendrons bloom, this lovely hill station transforms into a perfect destination for Uttarakhand vacations.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Lohaghat is from April to late June.

Kalsi, Dehradun District

Kalsi, located 5 kilometres from Dakpathar in the Dehradun district, is known for its Ashoka Pillar Rock Edicts. The 450 BC Rock Pillar is thought to have been erected here. The pillar is thought to be a sign of a prosperous time under Ashokan rule.

This rock pillar in Kalsi is 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with an elephant figure engraved in Brahmi script on the right side. Asaan Barrage, Sahastra Dhara, and Paonta Sahib are among the attractions in Kalsi, which is located on the banks of the Yamuna River.

Best Time to Visit:

Summer months are the most suitable for visiting Kalsi.

Bageshwar Town

Among the top 3 historical places in Uttarakhand, the holy township of Bageshwar, which is also revered as the holy land associated with Lord Sada Shiva, said to be the redeemer of all sins, is located at the confluence of three rivers, namely the Saryu, Gomti, and latent Bhagirathi.

If the Puranas (Sanskrit sacred writings) are to be believed, this is unquestionably a place capable of freeing one from the everlasting bonds of births and deaths.

The Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains flank the town on the east and west sides, and the Suraj Kund in the north and the Agni Kund in the south, making this Lord Shankar’s land of great religious, historic, and political significance.

With numerous temples to visit in and around the city, this is an ideal destination for religious devotees and Lord Shiva followers. This district also includes the hilltop town of Kausani, which has mesmerising views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Several trekking trips originate in this Uttrakhand district, making it a popular destination for adventure sports tourists. Overall, there is something for everyone at this place.

Best Time to Visit:

September to late February is the best months to explore the famous landmarks and various things to do around the city.

Adi Badri Group Of Temples

The Adi Badri group of 16 temples is part of the popular Panch Badri of Uttarakhand. A three-foot-high black stone idol of Lord Vishnu is enshrined in the Narayan temple among them. The Archaeological Survey of India is responsible for the upkeep of these temples.

The Gupta dynasty built the temples, which are thought to be Lord Vishnu’s residence during the Satya, Treta, and Dwapara yugas.

Best Time to Visit:

This is one such category of place where you can visit all throughout the year.

If you want to know more about best tourist Cities of the Uttarakhand, Click here!

Jagatram

Jagatram is a fascinating and one of the top Uttarakhand monuments, located near Dehradun district in the Garhwal area. It is historically important and has a long and illustrious history that goes back to the first century AD. As a consequence, it has remained one of the most famous heritage monuments, renowned for an ancient horse sacrifice ceremony, to this day.

According to legend, one of the Verman Clan’s ruling kings performed Ashwamedha Yaga, or horse sacrifice, at the four sites in this region to gain supernatural powers. Currently, the ASI created and maintains three of the four sites. Also, several natural edifices and caves, such as limestone Cave, Asan Barrage, Sahastradhara or thousand-fold spring, can be visited from here.

Best Time to Visit:

This is one such category of place where you can visit all throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. How many historical places are there in Uttarakhand?

India is a place full of culture, traditions, and sages and Uttaranchal is one state that has a total of 30 beautiful historical places alone which offers a rich history and therefore are very popular tourist attractions. Ancient temples/shrine, Narendra Nagar, Lohaghat, Limestone Cave, and more.

Q2. How many World Heritage Sites are there in Uttarakhand?

The land of gods, a tiny Indian state, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To know more about the monuments visit the official website of the state here.

Q3. Name the famous monuments of Uttarakhand?

The name of the top 10 monuments which have significant popularity and importance amongst the tourists, as well as travel agents, are as follows:

Katarmal Sun Temple

Dwarahat Temple

Badrinath Temple

Baijnath Shrine

Kalsi, Quartz Rock

Pithoragarh Fort

Q4. How many monuments are there in Uttarakhand?

The city has 44 monuments in total which share great importance to the history of the region. To know more about the monuments visit the official website of the state here.

Q5. What is Uttarakhand famous for?

The Kumaon mountains, the holy river Ganga, spiritual centres, many shrines especially Shiva Temple, and spellbinding landscapes are all part of Uttarakhand’s appeal. The land of gods is also known for adventure sports, a diverse range of flora and fauna, a charming history written in antiquated stones, and the humblest of people. Thus, making the state one of the best places to visit in India.

Q6. Why is Uttarakhand called the land of God?

Due to the numerous Hindu temples and pilgrimage centres found in the region, it is often referred to as the “Devabhumi” (literally “Land of the Gods”). The Himalayas, Bhabar, and Terai regions of Uttaranchal are renowned for their natural beauty.

Q7. Which is the nearest railway station to Almora?

Kathgodam railway station.

Q8. How to reach Uttarakhand?

The place is well connected with other cities of our country, India. The best way to reach it taking a flight directly to Dehradun. And if you want to travel cheap, then you might consider taking your own car or just board the Delhi city bus.

Q9. Which major cities are connected to Uttarakhand via Delhi?

Almost all the major cities are connected to the region via Delhi.

Q10. Which is the best holiday package for exploring the historical places of Uttaranchal?

Any travel package of 6 Days/ 7 nights would be sufficient to cover all the important places.