Kanatal, nestled in the Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand, is a peaceful and scenic hill station offering panoramic Himalayan views, apple orchards, and adventure activities.

Kanatal Hill Station - Serene Getaway in Uttarakhand Hills

Nestled in the serene Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Kanatal is a peaceful hill station located about 78 km from Dehradun and 38 km from Mussoorie. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, apple orchards, and tranquil ambiance, Kanatal is an ideal getaway for those seeking solitude and natural beauty away from crowded tourist spots.

About Kanatal

Perched at an altitude of 8,500 feet, Kanatal offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas, lush green valleys, and dense forests. The town gets its name from a lake that once existed here. Today, it’s a favorite destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers alike.

Top Attractions in Kanatal

1. Surkanda Devi Temple: A sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati, located around 8 km from Kanatal. The trek to the temple offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.

2. Tehri Dam: One of Asia’s largest dams, located about 35 km away, perfect for sightseeing and photography.

3. Kodia Jungle: A dense forest area ideal for jeep safaris, nature walks, and bird watching. You might even spot wild deer and musk deer.

4. Dhanaulti: Just 15 km away, Dhanaulti is another peaceful hill spot with eco parks, adventure activities, and stunning mountain views.

5. Chamba: Located 15 km from Kanatal, this charming town offers scenic beauty and a relaxing vibe amidst nature.

Things to Do in Kanatal

  • Camping & Bonfire: Enjoy starry nights and cozy bonfires in the lap of nature.
  • Adventure Sports: Try trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and valley crossing.
  • Photography: Capture the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
  • Apple Orchard Visit: Walk through orchards and enjoy fresh apples during harvest season.

Best Time to Visit Kanatal

The best time to visit Kanatal is March to June and September to December. Summers are pleasant, while winters bring snowfall, creating a magical experience.

How to Reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (92 km).
  • By Train: The closest railway station is Dehradun (85 km).
  • By Road: Kanatal is well connected by road from Delhi (320 km), Rishikesh (75 km), and Mussoorie (38 km).

Nearby Attractions

  • Mussoorie (38 km) - Queen of Hills, famous for Kempty Falls and Mall Road.
  • Rishikesh (75 km) - Yoga capital and adventure hotspot. click here for more details
  • Tehri Lake (35 km) - Perfect for boating and water sports.
  • Dhanaulti (15 km) - Ideal for eco-parks and forest trails.

3 Days Itinerary 

Day- 1: Delhi to Rishikesh (259 Km/6 Hrs)

Start early from Delhi in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy a smooth drive to Rishikesh, which takes around 6–7 hours. On arrival, check in to your hotel and relax for a while. In the afternoon, explore the spiritual and cultural side of the city by visiting Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, followed by a walk-through nearby Ashram. In the evening, attend the peaceful Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, and later enjoy dinner at one of the popular cafés before staying overnight in Rishikesh.

Day- 2: Rishikesh to Kanatal (74 Km/5.5 Km)

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Kanatal, passing through winding mountain roads and beautiful valley views via Chamba. Reach Kanatal by afternoon, check in to your resort or camp, and have lunch. Spend the rest of the day visiting Surkanda Devi Temple, which involves a short trek and offers breathtaking Himalayan views. In the evening, enjoy a quiet walk-through forests and apple orchards, followed by a cozy bonfire and dinner at your stay.

Day- 3: Kanatal - Local Sightseeing & Adventure

Wake up to a refreshing mountain sunrise and enjoy breakfast with panoramic views. The day can be spent exploring Kanatal’s natural beauty and adventure options, such as a nature walk in Kodia Jungle, local sightseeing, or adventure activities like zip-lining and valley crossing. After lunch, relax or indulge in photography and leisure time. In the evening, visit nearby viewpoints to watch the sunset, and end the day with dinner, bonfire, and stargazing before an overnight stay in Kanatal.

Day- 4: 27 Kanatal – Delhi (319 Km/7.5 Hrs approx.)

After an early breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Delhi. The drive takes around 8–9 hours, with stops along the way for refreshments and lunch, possibly near Rishikesh or on the highway. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from the hills to the plains, and reach Delhi by evening, marking the end of a refreshing and memorable trip.