Top 10 Historical Places in Uttarakhand that Stood the Test of Time

Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is replete with scenic marvels and natural wonders. Having said that, its splendid beauty and charming vibes are famous all over the world and which is why every year, thousands of tourists flock here to revel in the lap of nature and partake in cherished moments for a lifetime. Along with exploring an array of ancient temples, tourist places and indulging in exhilarating activities, tourists can also consider visiting the best heritage places in Uttarakhand that are strategically positioned on its breathtaking landscape. Rightly reckoned as paradise for history buffs, this spectacular hill state has everything to satiate your wanderlust.

So if you wanna delve into the glorious past and experience something exceptional, this blog will certainly give you major travel goals. Check out the list of Top 10 Historical Places in Uttarakhand that stood the test of time. 

1. Katarmal Sun Temple

Located in Katarmal village, this revered temple sits beautifully at the height of 2,116 meters above sea level. Dedicated to Hindu God Sun, this ancient temple dates back to the 9th century and is therefore listed among best Uttarakhand historical monuments worth visiting. Built by a Katyuri ruler named Katarmalla, there are 45 more shrines, apart from the main temple, dedicated to the omniscient Lord Shiva. It is also devoted to his consort, Goddess Parvati along with Lakshman and Narayan. The spectacular shrine and its pristine location looks ethereal during sunrise, so make sure not to miss the first ray of Sun here.   

Best Time to Visit: November to February

2. Baijnath Temple

Seated in the Garhwal hills, Baijnath Temple dates back to the 12th century and is the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Shiva. This heritage temple is well-maintained and is visited by a large number of Shiva devotees from all across the country. The temple has no particular opening and closing time; however, it closes just before sunset. So do pay a visit to this iconic temple which is one of the significant Uttarakhand historical monuments that speak tall about its glorious past. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

3. Bageshwar

Bageshwar is the confluence of three prominent rivers - Saryu, Gomti, and Bhagirathi. It is the famous town of Uttarakhand that is home to many significant temples from ancient times that are visited by a large number of devotees and tourists from across the globe. A few prominent temples that are worth visiting include Sriharu Temple, Bagnath Temple, Chandika Temple, Temple of Bamani, and Gauri Udiyar. Besides being a heritage town, Bageshwar is also famous in the trekking circuit as there are many trekking trails such as Pindari Glacier and Pandusthal. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes while exploring this popular tourist place in Uttarakhand.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

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4. Ghuddauda

Located in Almora District, Ghuddauda is the only historical town in Uttarakhand that is distinctive in its own way. The town is named after a horse race that took place there during British rule. Locals believe that the race was usually held in a large field with a lot of glam and glitz. Another exciting fact about this race was that the winner could choose anything as a prize.

This small town is a precedent of people's enthusiasm for adventure sports, and the fact that travel junkies across the globe visit here goes on to prove it. Today, Ghuddauda is a peaceful, sleepy town and an offbeat destination in Uttarakhand.

Best Time to Visit: Between October to March

5. Dwarahat

The erstwhile capital of the Katyuri Kingdom, Dwarahat is approximately 34 kilometers away from Ranikhet. Etymologically, Dwarahat means "Way to Heaven," and all the ancient temples of this town are well-known. Marked by the Gurjari School of Art, these temples fall under the must-see monuments of Uttarakhand. Despite 55 temples, you can easily explore this small town in a day. The Katyuri dynasty, credited with the construction of temples here and is considered to be the most powerful dynasty in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand. Before their defeat by the Chand rulers, Katyuris contributed significantly to the architecture of the Garhwal region.

Best Time to Visit: Between October to March

6. Badrinath

The most visited heritage monument in Uttarakhand, Badrinath, is straddled at about 11,000 feet above sea level in the beautiful Himalayan region. The site is among the four shrines that make up the famous Char Dham. Badrinath, named after Lord Vishnu—the Preserver (according to the Hindu religion), is also home to Garhwali wooden architecture. The main temple is established against a hillock and delivers a panoramic view for nature enthusiasts while bringing bliss and peace to devotees. 

Unfortunately, due to its high stature and proximity to a colder area, Badrinath is only open for six months a year, i.e., from April to November. It's a profoundly spiritual place to re-energize your spiritual inclinations. It is not only a unique holy place, but it is also one of the best historical monuments of Uttarakhand. Also, don't forget to click on some amazing Instagram-worthy pictures!

Best Time to Visit: Between April to June

7. Pithoragarh Fort

It is one of the town's most famous monuments in Uttarakhand. This fort offers astonishing views of the Kali Kumaon. It is believed that Gorkhas built this fort after the town was invaded in 1789. This ravaged fort has become one of the principal forts since colonial times. And the most promising way to explore the beauty around the place is by walking around the premises.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn and Spring prove to be the best times to visit Pithoragarh Fort.

8. Chaukhutia, Almora District

Renowned as Rangilo Gewar, Chaukhutia is a sleepy town in the Kumaon area. Growing to fame during the Katyuri rule, Chaukhutia is a palpable place to glimpse the affluent yore of Uttarakhand. The town preserves the remains of the Katyuri dynasty in the form of fort and temples. The mythology has it that Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata also halted here for a short span while they were in exile. It is also believed that Pandukholi caves found in Chaukhutia have been built and embellished by Pandavas and are truly a splendid place to visit.

Best Time to Visit: Between March to July and October to February

9. Banasur ka Kila

Located 7km from Lohaghat in Champawat district, Banasur ka Kila is one of the best heritage places in Uttarakhand that is a reflection of its rich past. Built in the mediaeval era, this majestic fort is dedicated to the thousand-armed son of king Bali, Banasur. One needs to trek uphill for 2 km to reach this beautiful fort that offers the stunning view of the mighty Himalayas. Also, there are intriguing fables attached to the fort which piques the curiosity of many travelers and history buffs. 

Best Time to Visit: February to November

10. Devalgarh

Displaying the spectacular architectural brilliance of ancient Garhwal, Devalgarh is one of the best tourist places in Uttarakhand that fascinates history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This hill town is situated 15 km from Khirsu in Pauri district. The erstwhile capital of Garhwal kingdom, this heritage town has some of the iconic marvels such as Raj Rajeshwari Temple, Gaura Devi Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Som-ki-danda etc which are ancient and worth discovering.  

Best Time to Visit: April to December

We hope you have already added these stunning historical places in Uttarakhand to your wish list. You can plan your vacation with us and grab exciting offers along with tailor made tours. Book flights, hotels, buses, Holiday Packages at best rates. With Adotrip, nothing is far!