Have you ever heard of Chakrata? If the answer is no, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Most people have never ventured to this off-the-beaten-track destination in the hills of Uttarakhand state in northern India. But trust us – it’s worth a visit! In this blog post, we’ll tell you all about why Chakrata should be on your bucket list and provide some top tips for experiencing everything it has to offer. So sit back, relax and get ready for an adventure as we take you through all that makes Chakrata so special!
What is Chakrata and where is it located in India
Have you ever wanted to get away from it all and take a vacation somewhere completely off the grid? Well, if so, then we have the perfect destination for you – Chakrata in northern India! Read on to find out why Chakrata is quickly becoming one of India’s hottest tourist destinations.
The Basics
Chakrata is a cantonment town located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an elevation of 7500 feet above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests. Chakrata has been popular among tourists for years because of its serene atmosphere and beautiful views. The town also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, rafting and more.
What makes Chakrata so special?
Chakrata offers something that few other places in India can – peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is located close enough to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla and Dehradun that it’s easy to reach but far enough away from them that it feels like a world apart. There are no large crowds or traffic jams here; just fresh air, scenic mountains and lovely waterfalls.
Another great thing about Chakrata is that there are plenty of places to stay here – from budget hotels to luxury resorts – so you can choose the accommodation option that best suits your needs. You can also explore the local market for some unique souvenirs or spend some time relaxing at one of the many cafes and restaurants in town.
The climate and weather conditions in Chakrata
Climate
Chakrata has a subtropical highland climate, which means that it experiences cool summers and cold winters. The temperatures in summer rarely exceed 30°C, making it ideal for tourists who want to escape the scorching heat of the plains. The average winter temperature hovers around 10°C, so be sure to pack your warmest clothes if you plan on visiting during this time of year!
Rainfall
The area receives ample rainfall throughout the year, with the most rain falling between June and September. During these months, heavy showers can often last for days at a time, occasionally accompanied by thunderstorms. However, visitors should still be able to enjoy plenty of sunny days too!
Chakrata also experiences snowfall in December and January. Although these months are usually chilly and damp, they offer stunning views of snow-capped mountains as far as the eye can see – definitely worth braving the cold weather for!
Winds
Chakrata has strong winds throughout the year but they tend to be strongest during spring (March – April). These winds can make outdoor activities difficult at times so it’s best to plan your outdoor adventures carefully if you’re visiting during this time of year.
Things to do in Chakrata – sightseeing, trekking, etc
Surrounded by lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and gushing rivers, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers. But what else can you do when you visit this hidden gem? Let’s take a look at all the amazing activities you can enjoy!
Take a Sightseeing Tour:
Chakrata is full of stunning sights to behold. From Tiger Falls to the Buddha Temple, there are many places to explore and admire. The Jaunsar-Bawar region near Chakrata also offers spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. For those who love nature walks and hikes, there are plenty of trails available for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something here for everyone!
Go Trekking:
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then trekking around Chakrata is definitely worth considering. From short treks to challenging multi-day expeditions, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can even trek up to Kauri Pass which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. For those who want a little more adventure and thrill in their life, they can opt for rock climbing or rappelling as well!
Camping:
With its picturesque mountains and serene lakeside view, camping in Chakrata is an experience like no other. There are many campsites that offer magnificent views of the Himalayas while providing all the necessary amenities such as tents and sleeping bags. Campfire nights with friends under the stars make these trips even more memorable!
How to get to Chakrata
Take a Sightseeing Tour: Chakrata is full of stunning sights to behold. From Tiger Falls to the Buddha Temple, there are many places to explore and admire. The Jaunsar-Bawar region near Chakrata also offers spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. For those who love nature walks and hikes, there are plenty of trails available for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something here for everyone!
Go Trekking: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then trekking around Chakrata is definitely worth considering. From short treks to challenging multi-day expeditions, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can even trek up to Kauri Pass which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. For those who want a little more adventure and thrill in their life, they can opt for rock climbing or rappelling as well!
Camping: With its picturesque mountains and serene lakeside view, camping in Chakrata is an experience like no other. There are many campsites that offer magnificent views of the Himalayas while providing all the necessary amenities such as tents and sleeping bags. Campfire nights with friends under the stars make these trips even more memorable!
Where to stay in Chakrata
Travel By Road
Many people choose to travel by road when they visit Chakrata. There are several routes that take you directly to Chakrata, including taking NH 44 from Dehradun or traveling via Mussoorie. You can also take NH 709 B from Mussoorie or NH 756 B from Chiuni. The roads are quite winding and can be dangerous, so make sure you drive carefully and have an experienced driver if possible!
Travel By Train
If you’d prefer not to drive, you can also opt for train travel. The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, which is approximately 120 km from Chakrata. From Dehradun, you can take a taxi or bus to reach your destination. Please note that many services do not operate after dark, so plan your journey accordingly!
Travel By Air
The closest airport is in Dehradun as well (the Jolly Grant Airport). Once you arrive at the airport, it’s recommended that you hire a car or taxi service to reach Chakrata since public transport options may be limited due to its remote location.
Restaurants and food options in Chakrata
Tibetan Cuisine –
The first stop on our tour is Tibetan cuisine. The Tibetan community in Chakrata is renowned for its delicious food. Dishes like momos (steamed dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup) are especially popular with locals as well as visitors alike. For those looking to sample some traditional Tibetan fare, we recommend visiting one of the many Tibetan-run restaurants located in the center of town.
North Indian Cuisine –
Next up is North Indian cuisine. While it may not be as popular as Tibetan offerings, it can still be found throughout Chakrata if you know where to look. For example, the popular restaurant ‘Dhaba by Claridges’ serves up some delicious North Indian curries and tandoori dishes that will leave your taste buds tantalized!
Street Food –
Last but certainly not least is street food. If you want to experience the real flavor of Chakrata then head out onto the streets and explore the local street food scene. From chaat (snack items like samosas and pakoras) to hot jalebis (deep fried dough balls), there are endless options for those who dare to explore!
Chakrata is the perfect getaway for those who love nature and hiking. With beautiful views and plenty of things to do, Chakrata should be on your list of places to visit in India. And the best part is, it’s not too difficult to get to or find a place to stay. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Chakrata today!
