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Kotdwar, also known as the Gateway to Garhwal offers a serene escape to its visitors. Even though the town is an industrial hub, it doesn’t lack natural beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Kotdwar boasts a perfect blend of history, cultural heritage, and serenity. From ancient temples to lush green landscapes, there are an array of places to visit in Kotdwar that cater to people of diverse interests. So, if you are looking for a destination that will help you unwind and learn new things, Kotdwar could be a great choice.
10 Places To Visit In Kotdwar
Before you set out on your journey, it is essential to have an itinerary ready. By including the most popular attractions in Kotdwar, you can witness the best of things in the town.
1. Shri Sidhbali Baba Dham Mandir
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Starting the list of Kotdwar tourist places with Shri Sidhbali Baba Dham Mandir, a revered spiritual site for Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple is perched on a hill and offers a scenic view of the Khoh River. Besides the religious importance of the shrine, you can experience a serene environment. While you are at the temple, you can check out the intricate carvings and decorations on the wall. People from far and wide visit the temple to seek blessings from Lord Hanuman and experience his divine aura. As the name of the temple suggests, the idol of Lord Hanuman is in its Sidhbali form. Since the idol is placed in the centre, you can easily see it from the entrance of the shrine.
Location: Shri Sidhbali Marg, Kotdwar, Uttarakhand
Timings: 4:30 AM – 2 PM, 3 PM – 8 PM
2. Kanvashram
Photo: Satdeep Gill / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most visited tourist attractions in Kotdwar is Kanvashram. For those who don’t know, it is a sidh peeth of Rishi Kanva and holds great spiritual significance for the people of Kotdwar. According to locals, this is where sages like Kanva and Vishwamitra meditated several decades ago. However, today, the ashram has turned into a popular tourist site that is visited by thousands of believers every year. Nestled amidst dense forests and scenic landscapes, Kanvashram offers a perfect blend of nature and spirituality. When visiting the ashram, you get to experience the tranquil surroundings and watch the Malini River flowing through. To make the most of your visit, make sure to explore the surrounding area.
Location: Chokighata, Kanvashram Rd, Kotdwar, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24*7
3. Durga Devi Temple
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Another prominent religious site that cannot be missed is the Durga Devi Temple which is located on the banks of the Khoh River. Since the shrine is 11 km away from Kotdwar, it takes around 25-30 minutes to reach the place. Dedicated to Durga Maa, Durga Devi Temple is considered to be one of the oldest shrines in the region. Once you reach the temple, you can immerse yourself in the serene environment and enjoy the sound of the flowing river. Besides partaking in the rituals, you can explore the numerous waterfalls in the area. Not only that, but you can also take a dip in the river. That is if the water level is safe and low. The area near the temple is a popular picnic spot. So, you can spend some quality time with your loved ones.
Location: 11 km from Kotdwar Town
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
4. Medanpuri Devi
Photo: Akshatha Inamdar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Medanpuri Temple, one of the lesser-known tourist places in Kotdwar is located at an altitude of 1,657 meters. Based on the local stories, the goddess of the temple bestows curd and milk to her devotees. Legends have it that the goddess paid a visit to a family in Marora in the form of a curd dish. After she told them about the place where she would appear, they built a temple in her honour. It is because of this reason that people from different places visit the shrine with unique offerings. Although the temple receives a decent crowd throughout the year, it is the most crowded during Navratri. During that time, the temple organises a huge celebration that is attended by thousands of devotees.
Location: 90 Km from Kotdwar
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
5. Shri Koteshwar Mahadev
Photo: Dey mit / Wikimedia Commons
Your Kotdwar tourist places list is incomplete without Shri Koteshwar Mahadev Temple. Located at a height of 1,428 meters, the temple is highly popular among couples who cannot conceive children. At any given time, you will find the temple crowded with couples who come here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. Based on the local story, a woman found a Shivling while digging. After she hit the Shivling accidentally, villagers heard voices that instructed them to build a temple on the same spot. Well, that’s how Shri Koteshwar Mahadev Temple came into existence. To witness the shrine in its full glory, you should visit the place in the Shravan month. During that time, devotees visit the temple and recite the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra throughout the month.
Location: Kalyani Niwas, Shri Sidhbali Marg, Grastan Ganj, Uttarakhand 246149
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM
6. Sidhpeeth Sukhro Devi Mandir
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Sidhpeeth Sukhro Devi Mandir, also known as Sukhraun Devi Temple is one of the top places to visit in Kotdwar Uttarakhand. For those who don’t know, the temple is the entry point to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Based on stories, the current temple is built on the location where the ancient temple in Dwapar Yuga existed. It is because of this reason the temple is visited by a large number of devotees every year. People come here to offer prayers and worship Maa Sukhraudevi, the presiding deity of the temple. Besides the religious significance, the temple boasts a serene atmosphere.
Location: Balasaur, Kotdwar, Uttarakhand 246149
Timings: 4:30 AM – 8:30 PM
7. St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church
Photo: Akshatha Inamdar / Wikimedia Commons
A church in this list of places in Kotdwar might surprise you, but there is also a famous church called St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church that is open to visitors of all faiths. As one of the largest churches in Asia, it provides a prominent place of worship for believers. The first thing you will notice about the church is its stunning architecture. From neo-Gothic designs to high arches, and stained-glass windows, everything about the church looks beautiful. Besides the architectural beauty, you will notice lush greenery all around the building. This not only enhances the beauty of the place but also offers a serene ambience to visitors. Like other churches, St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church also offers Sunday prayers and organises special events like Christmas and Easter celebrations.
Location: Bishop House Rd, behind Govt Hospital, Mohabewala Industrial Area, Kotdwar
Timings: 5 AM – 7 PM
8. Charekh Danda
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When in Kotdwar, you can easily access Charekk Danda, which is located just a short distance away from the town. As a scenic hill destination, Charekh Danda is nothing less than a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Many tourists visit this place to witness panoramic views of the Himalayas. Besides that, you can enjoy trekking, picnics, or photography in the area. According to locals, Charekh Danda is the place where Maharishi Charak wrote the book (granth) called “Nightut.” When visiting this place, you will also find a wide variety of flora that enhances the beauty of the area.
Location: Kotdwar, Borgaon Negi, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24*7
9. Lansdowne
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Although Lansdowne is located at a distance from Kotdwar, it is a popular destination among tourists mainly because of its pristine beauty and colonial charm. Given the distance between Kotdwar and Lansdowne, you can easily access the place by private car. Once you reach there, you can spend your time watching dense forests of oak and pine trees. Other than that, you can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like boating, trekking, and nature walks. Some of you may not know, but the town was developed during the British era. Although it has been decades, the town still boasts an old-world charm.
Location: 39.6 km from Kotdwar
Timings: 24*7
10. Jim Corbett National Park
Photo: Soumyajit Nandy / Wikimedia Commons
When in Kotdwar, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Jim Corbett National Park. Established in 1936, Jim Corbett happens to be one of the oldest national parks in India. As per records, the park covers an area of 520 square kilometres and is home to diverse flora and fauna. However, the major attraction of the park is the Bengal Tiger. These majestic animals rule the park and add to its importance. Other animals that you can spot in the park include elephants, deer, boars, bears, langurs, and more. For the best experience, you should opt for a jeep safari. This way you can go deeper into the park and explore the area better.
Location: 44.4 km from Kotdwar
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Kotdwar may not be as popular as other destinations in Uttarakhand, but it is worth visiting, especially if you want to explore a hidden gem. Once you are in the town, you will find many charming places to visit in Kotdwar. Not only that, but you will also get to experience a different culture. So, if you plan to visit Kotdwar, you can sort your travel plans with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Anmol Rattan / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
