5 Historical Places You Should Not Miss In Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has been a favorite haunt for many nature-driven souls across the country. Its remote and lesser known locations often intrigue the adventure junkies to head out and create history of their own. Also known as the Land of Gods, Uttarakhand takes great pride in housing several eminent Hindu and Sikh shrines in India. However, it has been noticed very less have spoken about the state’s history, although Uttarakhand possesses several historical sites. Despite traveling to Uttarakhand many times, most of us are unaware that Uttarakhand has been the refuge for Kols in 2nd century BC; great Sages practiced meditation to attain enlightenment and to many trade merchants trading salt with Tibet.

And only a few of us know that Chand and Katyuri were two major dynasties in the state that contributed immensely to the history of Uttarakhand. Also, many are aloof with the facts like there are places in Uttarakhand where Kauravas are worshipped and polyandry is practiced. That is why this time we came up with a blog that will enlist such places in Uttarakhand that reflects the rich history of this state. We hope that you would like our attempt.

* Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal District

Once, the part of Tehri Riyasat, Narendra Nagar is a historical town of Garhwal region. Ruled for a very long time by Shah Rulers, Narendra Nagar has many evidences to prove the majesty of the Garhwal Kingdom. Maharaja Narendra Shah shifted his capital to this beautiful town in 1919 and constructed several buildings that are still in use as hospital and secretariat. The royal palace of Narendra Shah, which also the home to an incredible spa destination: Ananda- Inn the Himalayas is the highlight of this town. The palace still has original relief work on its walls and the gateway is adorned with two cannons dating back to World War I. According to the tourists who have already been here; the sunset view from the palace is surely a thing not to miss.

* Dwarahat, Almora District

Situated about 34kms from Ranikhet, Dwarahat is a small town that was once the seat of Katyuri Kingdom. Dwarahat, which literally means- “Way to Heaven”, is popular for its ancient temples. The temples have the influence of Gurjari School of Art and is certainly a must visit in Uttarakhand. A small place, Dwarahat can be covered in a day although there are 55 temples to witness. Katyuri dynasty, which is responsible for the construction of temples in Dwarahat, is believed to be the most prominent rulers of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Prior to the defeat at the hands of Chand rulers, Katyuris made an important contribution to the architectural grandeurs of the Garhwal region as well.

* Chaukhutia, Almora District

Famous as Rangilo Gewar, Chaukhutia is a sleepy town in Kumaon region. Rising to fame during the Katyuri rule, Chaukhutia is an appreciable place to witness the rich history of Uttarakhand. The town preserves the remnants of the Katyuri dynasty in the form of fort and temples. The legend has it that Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata also stopped here for a short period while they were in exile. It is believed that Pandukholi caves found in Chaukhutia have been built and adorned by Pandavas and are truly a site to visit.

* Lohaghat, Champawat District

Situated on the bank of Lohawati River in Champawat district of Uttarakhand, Lohaghat is reckoned to be important destination in the state. An ancient town, Lohaghat is known for its temples that are more than a century old. This historic city is a witness to several historical events in the bygone era and each event is believed to have been marked by the construction of one temple each time. Places like Abbot Mount, Mayawati Ashram, Jhuma Devi and Advaita Ashram are major attractions here. Lohaghat is indescribable when it comes to nature’s beauty. Usually adorned with Rhododendrons in the summer, this beautiful hill station becomes an ideal place to holiday in Uttarakhand.

* Ghuddauda, Almora District

Unlike other historical destinations in Uttarakhand, Ghuddauda in Almora district has no specific monument to boast of. It is believed that the town is named so because of the horse race that used to take place in during the British Raj. According to the locals, the race used to be held in a huge field with great pomp and show. It is also said that the race was unique in its own way as whoever won the race had the choice to select the prize of his wish. This small town in the district of Almora stands as an example of the interest of people in adventure and sports. A beautiful sleepy town now, today’s Ghuddauda can be an excellent offbeat destination in Uttarakhand.