Tehri Garhwal District

Overview
Tehri Garhwal, located in Uttarakhand, is a district known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is home to the iconic Tehri Dam, one of the tallest dams in the world. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, it offers a mix of spiritual destinations, adventure activities, and picturesque landscapes. Popular trekking routes, serene lakes, and holy temples attract tourists year-round. The district’s rich history, combined with its serene environment, makes it a favorite among travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Tehri Garhwal is also a gateway to some of Uttarakhand’s most scenic trekking trails.
History of Tehri Garhwal
Tehri Garhwal District has a rich history that dates back to the Garhwal Kingdom, established in the medieval period. The region was ruled by the Panwar dynasty for several centuries. In 1803, the kingdom faced a major upheaval due to the Gorkha invasion, but with British assistance, the Garhwal rulers regained control. In 1815, after the Anglo-Nepalese War, the kingdom was divided into British Garhwal (later part of Uttarakhand) and Tehri Garhwal.

Tehri served as the capital of the Tehri princely state until 1949, when it merged with the Indian Union. Post-independence, Tehri Garhwal became a district in Uttar Pradesh, and later, in 2000, it became part of the newly formed state of Uttarakhand. The district witnessed a significant transformation with the construction of the Tehri Dam, which submerged the old Tehri town and created a massive reservoir, altering its geography and economic landscape.
Tehri Garhwal Stats
District Headquarters: New Tehri
Area: 3,642 sq. km
Latitude: 30.38°N
Longitude: 78.48°E
Total Population: Approximately 618,931 (as per the 2011 Census)
Literacy Rate: 76.36%
Altitude: 1,550 meters (New Tehri)
Language: Hindi, Garhwali
Best Season:March to June and September to November
Places to Visit in Tehri Garhwal

Tehri Dam

One of the world’s tallest dams, Tehri Dam is a marvel of engineering. It offers stunning views, water sports like jet skiing and boating, and serves as a major source of hydroelectric power in the region.

New Tehri Town

A modern town built to replace the submerged old Tehri, New Tehri is a hub for tourism and adventure activities. The town offers panoramic views of the Tehri Lake and surrounding mountains.

Surkanda Devi Temple

Located at an altitude of 2,757 meters, this revered temple is part of the Shaktipeeths and is surrounded by dense forests. The trek to the temple is both spiritually uplifting and scenically rewarding.

Chamba

A charming hill station, Chamba is known for its apple orchards and tranquil ambiance. It serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions and trekking routes.

Kanatal

A serene getaway, Kanatal offers lush greenery, pleasant weather, and camping opportunities. It is ideal for travelers seeking peace and adventure with activities like trekking and jungle safaris.

Dhanaulti

Known for its tranquil forests and Eco Parks, Dhanaulti is a perfect escape for nature lovers. The refreshing environment and stunning views make it a popular spot for weekend getaways.

Khatling Glacier

A trekker’s paradise, Khatling Glacier is surrounded by snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows. The trek offers breathtaking vistas of natural beauty, making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.

Devprayag

The confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, Devprayag is a spiritual town and the starting point of the Ganga River. The town has ancient temples and a serene ambiance.

Narendranagar

Known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, Narendranagar houses the famous Ananda Spa. It offers breathtaking views of the Ganges valley and the distant Himalayas.

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

A cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. The temple attracts devotees and travelers seeking peace and spirituality.

How To Reach

Getting Around with Ease

Via Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 91 km from New Tehri. Taxis are available to reach the district.

Via Train

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 76 km away. From there, buses and taxis can take you to Tehri Garhwal.

Via Road

Tehri Garhwal is well-connected by road to major cities like Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Haridwar. Regular buses and private taxis are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Common Questions

Tehri Garhwal is famous for the Tehri Dam, trekking trails, temples, and its scenic Himalayan beauty.
Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, boating, water sports at Tehri Lake, and exploring cultural and spiritual sites.
The best time to visit is from March to June and September to November, avoiding the monsoon season.
Yes, it offers activities for all age groups, including water sports, temple visits, and nature exploration.
Tehri Garhwal has hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and campsites to suit various budgets and preferences.
A 3-5 day trip is sufficient to cover major attractions, though trekkers might need more time for longer trails.

Book Customized Trip