Venturing down the less-trodden path compels us to embrace the present, relish the spontaneity of the moment, and embrace the unknown. It is in taking that leap into the unfamiliar that we discover the genuine delight of uncovering a hidden gem.
For adventurous travelers who crave the thrill of the unexpected, Uttarakhand beckons with its array of offbeat treasures.
This state offers a captivating mix of rustic adventures, heritage gems, and thrilling escapades, making it an ideal destination to satiate the wanderlust of these explorers.
Embarking on the off-the-beaten path starts at Kausani, a charming hill station in Uttarakhand known as the “Switzerland of India.” Surrounded by fragrant pine forests that lead to the majestic snow-capped Himalayas, one can experience a mesmerizing sunrise over these peaks and then embark on an idyllic nature walk through the woods, encountering vibrant species of robins, parakeets, and woodpeckers.
In Kausani, one of the paths leads to a lush tea estate, allowing visitors to stroll through the fragrant cultivation and witness the art of tea making. Another route takes them to the Kausani shawl factory, where they can admire the craftsmanship of turning simple woolen strands into beautiful garments.
The diverse range of experiences in this small village is what makes it alluring to the ever-curious explorer.
Just a few kilometers away from Kausani lies a hidden gem in plain sight, the Baijnath Temple. This group of 12th-century shrines was constructed by the Katyuri kings along the river Gomti.
Adorned with intricate carvings of deities, the most remarkable being the idol of Parvati carved from black stone, these heritage temples offer a serene environment for visitors to appreciate the artwork at their own leisure, allowing them to observe the finer details often overlooked amidst crowded places.
In addition to the Baijnath temples, Uttarakhand boasts several other offbeat heritage treasures, such as the Katarmal Sun temple, Jageshwar temple, and the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave. These allures captivate curious wanderers for various reasons, including their impressive architecture and the mystical tales associated with them.
Among these gems, the Pandukholi temple stands out for its extraordinary location. Situated at a breathtaking altitude of 8000m above sea level, Pandukholi holds great mythological significance as it once provided shelter to the Pandava princes.
Nestled on a Himalayan ridge, the allure of this ancient sanctuary lies in the journey through the forests that eventually reveal the majestic snow-capped peaks.
The enchanting encounter with nature in Uttarakhand extends to Mukteshwar, where the pristine surroundings and clear night skies add a touch of magic to everyday activities like stargazing and nature photography.
Adding to the trail of hidden gems, Abbott Mount is an alpine settlement surrounded by 13 cottages and a church.
These charming shelters were constructed by a British gentleman who was captivated by the mesmerizing views of the Shivalik Valley, which can still be admired from Abbott Mount. The place was eventually named after him, preserving his fond memory.
The captivating experiences in Uttarakhand also encompass heritage art forms. In Almora, travelers can immerse themselves in the divine art of Aipan, practiced by Kumaoni women to celebrate festivals, weddings, and traditional events.
They create freestyle drawings of flowers, deities, and geometric patterns on a red canvas of wet mud using a white paste called bisvar. Equally mesmerizing is the vanishing art of wood carving known as Likhai. Witnessing these traditional Likhai craftsmen at work is a rare and cherished moment.
Uttarakhand never fails to surprise at every turn. From the welcoming locals eager to share vibrant tales over tea, to the awe-inspiring vistas of hill stations and the intricately engraved walls of ancient shrines, the region is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Undoubtedly, Uttarakhand is a paradise for off-the-beaten-track travelers.
Source : bbc.com
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