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Kanatal: The Untamed Beauty of Uttarakhand’s Hidden Highland

Kanatal – Nature’s Quiet Escape
Dehradun
30-12-2024
Camping & Glamping

"In the solitude of Kanatal, the mountains whisper secrets only silence can hear."

A peaceful retreat above the clouds

Located at a stunning height of around 8,500 feet above sea level in the picturesque Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Kanatal is a peaceful and relatively unique gem that offers everything a blue mountain enthusiast could hope for – mysterious misty meadows as far as the eye can see, picturesque valleys covered with towering pine trees, and an unparalleled sense of peace that revives the soul. The place is a perfect retreat for both glampers and campers, offering them a captivating blend of untamed wilderness and decadent luxuries under a vast, encrusted sky.

In stark contrast to the bustling, tourist-filled destinations of Mussoorie or Rishikesh, Kanatal has a special and enchanting beauty that remains largely unexplored. This hidden gem is distinguished by its quiet and uncrowded trails, which provide travelers with the best opportunity to experience truly immersive interactions with nature.

Location & Accessibility

  • Region: Near Dhanaulti, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
  • Altitude: Approx. 2,590 meters (8,500 ft)

How to Reach:

  • By Road: 75 km from Dehradun, 40 km from Mussoorie
  • By Train: Nearest station – Dehradun (around 75 km)
  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 90 km)

From customized camps for those seeking an adrenaline rush to high-end eco-glamping resorts that offer a touch of comfort amidst nature, Kanatal has transformed into a stunningly beautiful camping destination.

Variety of accommodation types:

  • Alpine and Swiss Tents: Equipped with attached washrooms, comfortable beds, and bonfire areas
  • Luxury Glamping Cabins: These are the perfect accommodations for those who want to experience comfort as well as enjoy a charming rustic feel to their surroundings.
  • Adventure Camp: Ziplining tents, rock climbing tents, and obstacle course tents were included
  • Highlights: Scenic views of snow-capped peaks, starry night skies, and morning bird songs, campfire music, and oral tradition

Activities to Enjoy

  • Nature exploration and adventures on forest trails:
    • Walk through deodar forests and apple orchards
    • Take photographs of rare Himalayan flora and endemic bird species
  • Adventure sports:
    • Zip-lining, rappelling, canyon crossing and rock climbing
    • Evening bonfire with stargazing sessions
  • Cultural and spiritual detours:
    • Explore the Surkanda Devi Temple, a sacred Shaktipeeth that offers a 360° view of the hill -

Sustainability and responsible travel

  • Respect and honor the profound silence that surrounds the serene beauty of the forests.
  • Stay away from plastic - use refillable water bottles and cotton bags
  • Practice leave no trace practices while hiking Promote local businesses and eco-friendly camps

 Food & Local Flavors

  • Camps usually serve hearty Indian and Garhwali meals:
  • Mandua Roti (finger millet flatbread)
  • Pahadi Rajma-Chawal, Kandali Saag, and Aloo ke Gutke
  • Freshly brewed Buransh juice (from rhododendron flowers) and herbal teas

Weather Notes & Best Time to Visit

  • Best Season: April to June and September to November
  • Summer: Pleasant days (15–25°C), chilly nights
  • Winter: Cold, with occasional snow (sub-zero at night)
  • Monsoon (July-August): Lush but slippery; check weather updates before planning

Kanatal, where peace reigns

Nestled amidst pine forests and towering hills, Kanatal is not just a camping spot – it’s an emotional pause button. Whether you’re heading out with friends, hiking alone, or reconnecting with nature over a bonfire and a cool breeze, Kanatal offers a pristine, poetic escape from the digital world.

So pitch that tent, pull out your sleeping bag, and let the mountains do the talking.