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Places of Tourist Interest
in
CHAKRATA
Chakrata known for its serene environs and
pollution-free atmosphere, is situated at a distance of 98 kms from Dehradun at an
elevation of about 7000 ft(2118 mts). It is
having a cantonement township and the northern part of Chakrata sub-division provides a
fascinating landscape for trekkers and nature lovers. Virgin forests of conifers,
rhododendrons and oaks are best suited for long walks. A vast dense forest, dotted with
attractive villages of the Jaunsari tribe, the area has the 
10,000 ft(3084 mts) high peak of Kharamba. On its northern slopes is
situated Mundali 9000 ft(2776 mts) where in the months of November to April skiers can
enjoy skiing.
Tiger Fall
5 kms from Chakrata by foot, it is a beautiful water
fall, falling from a height of 50 mts.converging into a small pond which creates an
enchanting effect in the scenic surroundings. It is in the north east of Chakrata and is
at a height of 1395 mts above sea level. Roaring, gushing water, thickly forest and a
beautiful view makes it an ideal place for enchanting outing.
Lakhamandal
Past Kempty 
falls, 75 kms on the Mussoorie-Yamnotri road lies Lakhamandal, having a
historical as well as mythological significance. It figures prominently in the annals of
Mahabharata. Legend has it that the Kaurvas made a shelter house and conspired to burn the
Pandavas alive here. Lakhmandal is situated on the bank of Yamuna at a distance of 35 kms.
From Chakrata
and 128 kms. from 
Dehra Dun.
To the antiquarian it provides considerable material of
interest. It contains temples dedicated to Diva,
The five
pandava brothers, Parasuram and Kedar. In order to burn the Pandavas, the Kauravas had built their 'Laksha
Grah' (house of lac). The two remarkable well executed figures in stone of
Arjuna and the other of Bhima are available in the village.
Moigad Fall
69 kms from Dehradun on Delhi-Yamunotri road via
Dehradun-Vikasnagar, is the serene and tranquil Moigad Fall. On the way to Yamunotri, one
can bathe at the foot of the fall, which is a refreshing experience for all.
Ram Tal Garden
9 kms from Chakrata on Chakrata-Mussoorie route is the Ramtal Garden. It is a 30 metres long and a 20 metres wide garden enveloped by greenery, making it an ideal picnic spot.
Kanasar
At a distance of 26 kms situated near Chakrata and 105 kms from Dehradun on Chakrata-Tyuni motorable road, surrounded by high peaks and dense rain forests the place is ideal for tourists. A forest Rest House in the picturesque surroundings is available for accommodation.
Devban
16 Kms away from Chakrata this place is surrounded by dense forests and lies at an altitude of 9,500 ft. It provides a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan ranges.
Hanol
Lord ‘Mahasu’ is worshipped in the village of
Hanol, lying on the eastern bank of the Tons. The temple of the deity constructed in the
‘Huna’ architectural style elevated at 1429 mts. Above sea level is 186 kms from
Dehradun. It is believed that a demon lived here and devoured atleast one man a day. In
mandrath, a devotee of Lord Shiva defied the custom and prayed to Lord Shiva for help.
Deolari Devi another devotee of Shiva and a resident of Hanol on being directed by God
sent her four sons to Mandrath and asked the man to plough his field. After a long fight
lasting a couple of days the demon was killed and the man while ploughing his field
discovered four Shivlings-Maasu, Pavasi, Vasik and Chalda named after the four sons of
Deolari Devi. The villagers thereafter started worshipping Shiva as ‘Mahasu’.
Kalsi
Approximately 5 kms from Dakpathar, is an Ashoka Pillar Rock Edict, built in 450 B.C., which represents the post-warfare era when king Ashoka converted himself to the Buddhist faith. The edicts ever aimed at the moral elevation of his people. One such edict at Kalsi is made of quartz which is 10ft long and 8ft broad. ‘Gajottam’ meaning ‘the most excellent elephant’ is inscribed on the right side of the rock and is engraved in Brahmi script in the eatern dialect of Magadhi, the then official language. The National Archaeological Department has taken the responsibility of preserving the edict having a high historical significance. The scenic beauty around Kalsi is picturesque. From the Yamuna upto Kalsi the land on the western bank of the river is formed in tow successive ledges, each about 30 metres high. Near the foot of the upper ledge is the Kalso stone containing one of Ashoka's Edicts.
Koti Power House
83 kms from Dehradun, this is one of the biggest power generating units in India.
Balani Devi Temple
Temple is situated on Dehradun-Tyuni motorable road
via Chakrata 26 kms short of Tyuni and 60 kms from Chakrata.