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Haridwar is often seen only through the lens of spirituality, Ganga Aarti, and religious rituals. While Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, and Chandi Devi attract millions, there’s a quieter, more mystical side of Haridwar that remains untouched by the regular tourist rush. In this blog, we’ll take you through the hidden places of Haridwar—the forest trails, secret ghats, lesser-known ashrams, and nature spots that offer peace, perspective, and a deeper connection with the holy city. 1. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar – A Paradise for Bird Lovers Just a short walk from Har Ki Pauri lies Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a serene bird sanctuary situated on the banks of the Ganga Canal. It’s a world away from the chaos, especially in the early morning. Why visit: Migratory birds, peaceful ambiance, nature trails. Best time: Winter (November to February). Tip: Carry binoculars and reach at sunrise for the best bird sightings. 2. Bhimgoda Tank & Gardens – A Mythical Water Spring Though close to Har Ki Pauri, the Bhimgoda Tank is often overlooked. Believed to have been formed by Bhim’s footstep during the Mahabharata era, this peaceful spot is surrounded by well-maintained gardens. Why visit: Mythological significance, ideal for evening strolls. Local charm: Old vendors still share ancient stories of Bhim and Ganga. 3. Sapt Rishi Ashram & Sapt Sarovar – Ancient Silence One of the most underrated spiritual spots, Sapt Rishi Ashram is believed to be where seven sages meditated. The Sapt Sarovar nearby is a quiet river spot perfect for reflection and solitude. Why visit: Sacred energy, zero commercial activity. Best time: Early morning for sunrise or post-sunset for meditation. 4. Chilla Forest Range – The Wild Side of Haridwar Part of Rajaji National Park, Chilla Forest is a hidden treasure for nature lovers. Home to elephants, leopards, and deer, it also offers guided safaris. Most tourists miss it while focusing only on temples. Why visit: Jeep safari, birdwatching, forest bathing. Tip: Book safaris in advance via official forest department site or local operators. 5. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Shiva’s Hidden Abode Located on a hill near the railway station, Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s surrounded by dense forest and narrow trails that are rarely explored. Why visit: Spiritual atmosphere, hilltop views. Ideal for: Spiritual trekkers and early morning worshippers. 6. Kankhal – The Forgotten Pilgrim Town Kankhal is technically part of Haridwar, but its spiritual power is often ignored. It’s home to Daksha Mahadev Temple, Sati Kund, and several ancient ashrams, including Anandamayi Ma Ashram. Why visit: Mythology-rich neighborhood, local markets, calm temples. Don’t miss: The holy pond at Sati Kund—it’s steeped in ancient lore. 7. Bara Bazaar’s Backlanes – Local Culture Unfiltered While tourists roam the main market, the narrow lanes behind Bara Bazaar reveal a rich local culture. Here, you’ll find hand-pounded spices, 100-year-old halwais, Ayurvedic shops, and spiritual tools. Why visit: Street photography, local interactions, hidden eateries. Must try: Chotiwala Sweets’ jalebi and Ganga-uttaran puja samagri shops. 8. Rajaji’s Elephant Trail – A Secret Trekking Path A relatively unknown trail starts from the Shyampur area and leads deep into Rajaji Park. This elephant trail is a safe (but guided) trekking route that offers panoramic views and occasional wildlife sightings. Why visit: Jungle trek, panoramic views, no mobile network—true disconnect. Safety tip: Go with an authorized guide, and start before noon. 9. Maya Devi Temple Backside Trail – A Viewpoint Unknown While the Maya Devi Temple is a major pilgrimage site, few people know about the small backside trail that leads to a little-known viewpoint over the city and Ganga River. Why visit: Hidden view of Haridwar, peaceful escape from crowd. Best time: Sunset hour for golden-hour photography. 10. Prem Nagar Ashram – Peace Over Popularity Tucked away from the central Haridwar buzz, Prem Nagar Ashram is a sprawling spiritual retreat that very few outsiders know about. The gardens, library, and prayer halls are open to quiet seekers. Why visit: Non-commercial, spiritual learning, scenic Ganga banks. Who it’s for: Ideal for spiritual readers, solo thinkers, and long stays. 11. Doodhadhari Barfani Temple – Marble Magic Built entirely in white marble, this temple complex in the Doodhadhari area feels like something out of Rajasthan or Italy. Tourists often miss it due to its location away from the main town. Why visit: Marble architecture, peaceful complex, hidden charm. Photography tip: Morning light reflects beautifully on the white domes. 12. Piran Kaliyar Sharif – Spiritual Harmony About 20 km from Haridwar lies Piran Kaliyar Sharif, a dargah that’s one of the most sacred Sufi shrines in India. Though technically closer to Roorkee, it holds strong spiritual energy and remains surprisingly unknown to Haridwar tourists. Why visit: Sufi music, peace, unity of faiths. Best time: Thursday evenings for Qawwalis. 13. Kushavarta Ghat – Quieter Than Har Ki Pauri If Har Ki Pauri is the heart of Haridwar, Kushavarta Ghat is its soul. It’s quieter, cleaner, and historically older. Saints like Adi Shankaracharya are believed to have meditated here. Why visit: Peaceful Ganga darshan, spiritual depth. Best experience: Sit in silence at dawn—let the Ganga speak to you. 14. Shantikunj’s Meditation Caves – A Hidden Wellness Space While Shantikunj Ashram is well-known, most people skip its underground meditation caves, which are open to sincere seekers. These caves are built to aid deep meditation and healing. Why visit: Guided meditation, yogic energy, inner reflection. Note: Requires permission or registration at the front office. 15. Ganga Canal Trails – Cycling Along Sacred Waters The stretch of the Ganga Canal heading towards Rishikesh is lined with quiet walking/cycling paths used mostly by locals. Rent a cycle and ride past mango orchards, ashrams, and untouched Ganga banks. Why visit: Offbeat cycling, countryside feel, local interaction. Ideal for: Solo riders, morning walkers, photographers.

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Dehradun is a city known for its cool climate, colonial charm, and famous institutions like Forest Research Institute and Doon School. But beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored—quiet waterfalls, secret trails, serene temples, and natural caves that most travelers miss. If you’re someone who loves going off the beaten path, this blog is for you. Let’s uncover the best hidden places in Dehradun that offer serenity, adventure, and a slice of untouched beauty. 1. Gucchu Pani (Robber’s Cave) – Beyond the Mainstream While Robber’s Cave is known to many, few people venture deep enough into the offbeat sections of this natural cave formation. If you walk further in, past where most tourists stop, you’ll find quieter corners where the water trickles calmly through narrow rock walls. Why visit: Unique cave structure, cold water streams, perfect for nature photography. Travel tip: Visit early morning or around sunset to avoid the crowd. Carry slippers—your shoes will get wet! 2. Maldevta – A Riverside Secret Just a short drive from the city, Maldevta is where nature truly whispers. With the Song River flowing beside it and lush green hills surrounding the area, it’s ideal for a peaceful picnic or a short trek. Why visit: Untouched river spot, great for meditation or relaxing. Activities: Photography, riverside walk, light treks. Local tip: The road is bumpy, so rent a bike or take a local cab. 3. Khalanga War Memorial – A Forgotten Battlefield Most people don’t know that Dehradun was once a key site during the Anglo-Nepalese war. The Khalanga War Memorial, located near Sahastradhara Road, is a serene place surrounded by pine forests and Himalayan views. Why visit: Learn about history, enjoy scenic trails, and experience local Gorkha culture. Best time to visit: Early winter (October–December). 4. Lachhiwala Nature Park – Forest Vibes Without the Crowd Lachhiwala has been redeveloped as Nature Park Lachhiwala, but if you explore a bit further into the forest, you’ll find hidden trails and natural water streams where few go. It’s ideal for bird watching and light treks. Why visit: Lush green forest, lesser-known trails, perfect for solo travelers or couples. Best activity: Bring a mat and book—it’s a great reading spot! 5. Jharipani Falls – Nature’s Untouched Gem Located near Mussoorie Road, Jharipani Falls is much less commercialized than Kempty Falls. A short hike leads to this quiet waterfall surrounded by thick forest. It’s especially beautiful after the monsoon. Why visit: Hidden waterfall, peaceful environment. Tip: Avoid rainy season peak due to slippery trails. Best visited early morning. 6. Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery) – Inner Peace with a View Although popular among locals, tourists often skip the Buddha Temple or don’t go beyond the front courtyard. Climb to the top floor of the stupa and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Dehradun city and surrounding mountains. Why visit: Tibetan architecture, spiritual atmosphere, photography heaven. What not to miss: Prayer wheels and the monk-led evening chants. 7. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Where Faith Meets Nature Located in a natural cave near a forested area, the Tapkeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. But what many people miss is the nearby forest trail that leads to an abandoned ashram and a natural spring. Why visit: Spiritual vibes, waterfall, forest trek. Tip: Visit during Shivratri for an energetic yet traditional experience. 8. FRI Backwoods – A Walk Through the Wild Forest Research Institute (FRI) is famous for its colonial architecture, but few know that behind the main building are untouched forest trails that are rarely explored. You can walk for hours under massive sal trees, without meeting another soul. Why visit: Solitude, fresh air, and a chance to see rare birds. Pro tip: Get permission if venturing deep—some trails are protected areas. 9. Kalsi – Rock Edicts and Himalayan Valleys About an hour’s drive from Dehradun lies Kalsi, a small village on the way to Chakrata. It is home to one of the Ashokan Rock Edicts, carved in the 3rd century BCE. It’s not only historically significant but also visually stunning. Why visit: Ancient history, hidden cultural heritage, scenic views. Ideal for: History lovers, road-trippers, and photo-enthusiasts. 10. Asan Barrage – Birdwatcher’s Paradise Near the Uttarakhand-Himachal border lies Asan Barrage, a wetland sanctuary perfect for spotting migratory birds like the ruddy shelduck, pintail, and even the occasional osprey. Why visit: Tranquil water body, birdwatching, offbeat picnic spot. Best time: November to February for winter migratory birds. 11. Sahastradhara Cave Trail – Beyond the Sulfur Springs Most people visit Sahastradhara for its sulfur springs and water pools, but very few explore the small cave systems and upper cliff trails. If you walk up the trail near the Shiva temple, you’ll discover a peaceful viewpoint with fewer tourists. Why visit: Meditation cave, panoramic views, peaceful energy. Tip: Wear good shoes—rocks can be slippery. 12. Thano Forest – The Hidden Wildlife Zone Located on the outskirts of Dehradun, Thano Forest is part of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve buffer zone. It’s rich in biodiversity and still untouched by commercialization. Why visit: Birding, photography, silence of nature. Warning: Avoid after dark—wild animals are active. 13. George Everest House (Old Trail) – Hidden Side of Mussoorie Though technically closer to Mussoorie, this one deserves mention. Most people use the new road to reach George Everest House, but the old walking trail that starts near Hathipaon is a treat—lined with deodar trees and ancient stone paths. Why visit: Panoramic views of the Doon Valley, peace, and heritage vibes. Pro tip: Start trek at dawn for misty trails. 14. Dwara Village – A Quiet Escape into the Hills Around 40 km from Dehradun, Dwara is a remote village with hardly any tourists. You’ll find apple orchards, slate-roofed houses, and clear Himalayan skies. Stay with a local family for an authentic Garhwali experience. Why visit: Zero commercialization, home-cooked food, slow life. Stay tip: Look for local homestays; phone signals are weak here—perfect

Uttarakhand, often called Devbhumi (Land of the Gods), is a treasure trove of natural beauty, spiritual experiences, and adventure. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this northern Indian state boasts scenic landscapes, sacred temples, serene rivers, and vibrant hill towns. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a pilgrim, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand: 1. Nainital – The Lake District of India A picturesque hill station built around the emerald-colored Naini Lake, Nainital is famous for its boating, colonial charm, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Highlights: Naini Lake Naina Devi Temple Snow View Point Mall Road 2. Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills Just 35 km from Dehradun, Mussoorie offers a cool climate, stunning vistas, and charming colonial architecture. Highlights: Kempty Falls Gun Hill Camel’s Back Road Lal Tibba 3. Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World A spiritual hub on the banks of the Ganga, Rishikesh is known for its yoga ashrams, adventure sports, and serene atmosphere. Highlights: Triveni Ghat Ganga Aarti Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula White-water rafting Beatles Ashram 4. Haridwar – Gateway to the Gods Haridwar is one of the holiest cities in India, where the Ganga emerges from the Himalayas. The evening aarti here is a divine experience. Highlights: Har Ki Pauri Mansa Devi Temple Chandi Devi Temple Kumbh Mela (held every 12 years) 5. Auli – The Skiing Paradise of India Auli is a snowy heaven for skiers and trekkers, offering breathtaking views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Mana Parbat. Highlights: Skiing (Dec–Feb) Gurso Bugyal Trek Auli Ropeway Artificial Lake 6. Jim Corbett National Park – Wildlife and Wilderness India’s oldest national park, Corbett is home to the majestic Bengal tiger and a wide range of flora and fauna. Highlights: Jungle safari Bird watching Dhikala zone Corbett Waterfalls 7. Chopta – The Mini Switzerland of India A hidden gem in Uttarakhand, Chopta is the starting point of the trek to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple. Highlights: Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek Snow trekking Meadows and rhododendrons 8. Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site Open only in summer, this valley bursts into bloom with over 500 species of alpine flowers. It’s a paradise for trekkers and nature photographers. Highlights: Valley trek (July–September) Hemkund Sahib nearby Rich biodiversity 9. Badrinath – Sacred Land of Vishnu One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Badrinath is revered by Hindus and surrounded by snowy peaks and stunning beauty. Highlights: Badrinath Temple Tapt Kund hot springs Mana village (last Indian village) 10. Almora – A Cultural Haven in the Hills Known for its cultural richness and panoramic views, Almora is ideal for a peaceful retreat with a traditional Kumaoni charm. Highlights: Kasar Devi Temple Bright End Corner Deer Park Local crafts and cuisine ✨ Final Thoughts: Uttarakhand is more than just a travel destination — it’s an experience that touches your soul. Whether you’re climbing mountains, meditating by the Ganga, or soaking in nature’s serenity, each place in this divine land leaves a lasting impression.