11 Historical Monuments You Must Explore In Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has been a favourite 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 travelling 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.

* Kalsi, Dehradun District

About 5km from Dakpathar in Dehradun district, Kalsi is a small town that is famed for its Ashoka Pillar Rock Edicts. It is believed that the Rock Pillar erected here dates back to 450 BC. The pillar is reckoned as a symbol of a prosperous era during the Ashokan rule. This rock pillar in Kalsi is 10ft high and 8ft wide and has a figure of an elephant that is inscribed in Brahmi script on the right side of the rock. Kalsi is situated on the bank of River Yamuna and has attractions like Asaan Barrage, Sahastra Dhara and Paonta Sahib.

* Tons Valley, Jaunsar Bawar Region

Tons valley is famed for its distinct culture and traditions and the most specific being polyandry and to some extent, polygamy as well. The people of Tons consider themselves the descendants of Pandavas and Kauravas and worship Kauravas as gods, there is also a temple that is dedicated to Duryodhan. What make this region special are its ancient temples and their Festival of Balls held every January. Most of the ancient temples here can be seen made of wood with pent roofs lined with slates. Duryodhan Temple is the most historic temple of this region.

* Mussoorie, Dehradun District

Mussoorie takes us back in the time of British rule. Developed as a shooting lodge after being found by Captain Young and Mr. Shore, Superintendent of Revenues, Mussoorie gained popularity in no time at all. Since it became a favourite of many British Personnel, many building including resorts and holiday homes were constructed here for the comfort. Mussoorie attracts tourists with those same colonial period buildings till now. Undoubtedly, the city has earned its fame by being naturally beautiful but these colonial style buildings contribute to its charm.

* Nainital

The beautiful Lake City, Nainital is a perfect example of British architecture influence in Uttarakhand. From having the colonial style houses to buildings that are now mostly converted into government offices, there remains history in each part of this city. The city boasts of famed Jim Corbett’s residence; Governor’s House that’s almost looks like Buckingham Palace (England); India’s first Methodist Church and several other small and big colonial structures.

* Dehradun

Dehradun is perhaps known best for its institutes that British left behind. This capital of Uttarakhand happens to actually offer glimpse of different periods and their influence over the modern day city. Dehradun is said to be have founded by Guru Ram Rai in the 18th century. Guru Ram Rai Darbar, which is a Gurudwara built in 1699 by Raja Fateh Shah is an important building that marks the history of Dehradun. The famed Clock Tower and Forest Research Institute set up during the British Raj can rightly be called the historical landmarks of Dehradun.

* Kausani, Bageshwar District

Situated in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, Kausani is a peaceful hill station. Known best for nature’s beauty this place also has historical significance. It is recorded that Mahatma Gandhi stayed in Kausani in 1929. It is said that during his stay in Kausani, Mahatama Gandhi penned Gita-Anashakti Yoga by being inspired by the beauty of this town. Gandhiji was so impressed by the place that he even started called Kausani- the Switzerland of India. The place where he stayed is called Anashakti Ashram and it still accommodates visitors.