Pauri Garhwal District

Overview
Pauri Garhwal District, located in Uttarakhand, is renowned for its scenic beauty, lush forests, and tranquil surroundings. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. The district is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with numerous ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and traditional Garhwali culture. The region’s serene environment makes it a haven for trekkers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers. Major attractions include Kandoliya Temple, Khirsu, and the scenic hill station of Lansdowne. Pauri also serves as a gateway to several trekking routes and pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand.
History of Pauri Garhwal
Pauri Garhwal District has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was part of the Katyuri dynasty, which ruled over the region from the 7th to the 11th century. The Katyuris were known for their contributions to temple architecture, many of which still stand as historical landmarks in the region. Following the decline of the Katyuris, the area came under the rule of the Garhwal Kingdom, established by King Ajay Pal in the 14th century. The Garhwal kings fortified the region and built several temples that highlight the cultural and spiritual importance of the area.

In the 19th century, after a brief period of rule by the Gurkhas, Pauri Garhwal was annexed by the British following the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816). Under British rule, the region became a key administrative center. Post-independence, Pauri became part of Uttar Pradesh and later Uttarakhand in 2000. Its historical significance and natural beauty continue to make it a vital part of Uttarakhand’s cultural landscape.
Pauri Garhwal Stats
District Headquarters: Pauri
Area: Approximately 5,329 square kilometers
Latitude: 29.8369° N
Longitude: 78.7951° E
Total Population: 687,000 (as per the 2011 census)
Literacy Rate: 82%
Altitude: 1,814 meters (5,951 feet)
Language: Garhwali, Hindi
Best Season:March to June, September to November
Places to Visit in Pauri Garhwal

Kandoliya Temple

Situated amidst dense pine forests, Kandoliya Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Alaknanda Valley. The surrounding park is ideal for picnics and nature walks.

Khirsu

A quaint hill station, Khirsu is known for its peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas of the Himalayan range. Surrounded by oak and deodar forests, it’s a perfect retreat for solitude and nature.

Lansdowne

A serene hill station, Lansdowne is known for its colonial charm and natural beauty. Attractions include Tip-n-Top viewpoint, Bhulla Lake, and St. Mary’s Church.

Nagdev Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Nag Devta (serpent god) is located in a tranquil setting. The temple offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Chaukhamba Viewpoint

This spot provides mesmerizing views of the snow-clad Chaukhamba Peak and the majestic Himalayan range. It’s a popular destination for photography and sunrise viewing.

Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple

An 8th-century Shiva temple, Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev is a spiritual and architectural marvel. The temple complex also houses shrines dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha.

Adwani

A serene picnic spot surrounded by lush greenery, Adwani is perfect for a day outing. The area is also a hub for bird watching and photography enthusiasts.

Tara Kund

A picturesque lake situated at a high altitude, Tara Kund is a trekker’s paradise. The area also has a temple and is surrounded by stunning alpine meadows.

Jwalpa Devi Temple

A revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Jwalpa, the temple is located on the banks of the Nayar River. It’s visited by thousands of devotees during Navratri.

Satpuli

A scenic town located on the banks of the Nayar River, Satpuli is known for its natural beauty and small local markets that offer regional handicrafts.

How To Reach

Getting Around with Ease

Via Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 155 km from Pauri. Taxis are available from the airport to Pauri.

Via Train

The nearest railway station is Kotdwar, approximately 108 km away. Buses and taxis connect Kotdwar to Pauri.

Via Road

Pauri is well-connected by road to major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Regular buses and taxis operate from these cities to Pauri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Common Questions

Pauri Garhwal is known for its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and trekking trails. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
The best time to visit is between March and June or September to November, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and trekking.
Yes, trekking, camping, and bird watching are popular activities. The Nag Tibba and Tara Kund treks are notable adventures in the region.
Absolutely! The district offers family-friendly attractions like Kandoliya Temple, Lansdowne, and Khirsu, along with peaceful picnic spots.
Traditional Garhwali dishes like Kafuli, Phaanu, and Aloo Ke Gutke are must-try delicacies in Pauri Garhwal.
Yes, Pauri offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays, catering to various budgets and preferences.

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