Places to visit in Uttarkashi

A little ascend will take you to the Darwa Top, 4450 meters from where the mighty Swargarohini, Bandarpunch seem so close that you will feel that you can touch them with the stretch of a hand.

The route was originally used by local Gujjar shepherd who brought their cattle for grazing. The route was also occasionally used by sadhus to travel between the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples.

Best season: May - October
Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 4150 m

Dodital, also known as Dodi Lake, is situated at a height of 3,024 meters north of Uttarkashi. The Dodi Lake is believed to be a sacred lake as it is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. The trek will take you through vast lands covered by rhododendrons and oak trees. Although a long walk, but the trek to Dodital is pretty easy.

The pristine waters are flanked by thick rhododendrons, deodar, pine and oak woods. The lake is famous for rare species of fish such as the Golden Trout called Dodi in the local language. You will also find a small Ganesha temple near the lake. It is an ideal place for taking rest and organizing recreational activities such as bird watching, boating and angling.

The Darwa top is situated at a distance of 5km from Dodital and the elevation is 13,300 feet. The trek from Dodital to the Darwa top is an uphill climb which will take you through thick birch forests and open meadows. However, on reaching the top, the panoramic view of the Bandarpunch and Swargarohini ranges will take your breath away.

The trek to Hanumanchatti from Dodital through Darwa top can be completed in two days. This is followed by an ascent towards yamunotri via the upper stretches of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. During the trek to yamunotri from Dodital, the trekkers encounter dense virgin forests and high reaching grasslands.

Best season: May - October
Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 4150 m

Counted among the most beautiful meadows in the country, the vibrant meadow of Dayara Bugyal has attained cult status among hikers. During the wintry months, the milky slopes are perfect for some alpine skiing. The Bhagirathi peaks, Kala Nag, Bandarpoonch are among scores of other peaks that loom around the meadow, and trekkers are particularly taken by many emerald lakes strewn across Dayara Bugyal. Another first-timer trek on the list, the best months to visit are between May to November, although experienced trekkers find the meadow laden with snow in winters irresistible.

Distance from Delhi: 425 Kilometres approximately