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Located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Kotdwar is a beautiful town that is settled on the banks of the Khoh river and is surrounded by lush green hills and deep valleys. Therefore, it maintains a pleasant weather throughout the year. Kotdwar is nestled on the slopes of towering hills and provides its visitors with the panoramic beauty of the nearby settlements. Even though it is generally popular as a religious site on account of the presence of several Hindu temples, it is still frequented by numerous weekend travellers and landscape photographers. Following is the list of the major places one can explore while in and around Kotdwar. Read on to know more about these gorgeous sites that are all set to amaze you.
1) Kanvashram
Kanvashram is a picturesque settlement on the outskirts of Kotdwar and is known as a site of great historical, archaeological and cultural importance. It is located on the banks of the river Malini. As per Hindu ancient texts and local legends, Kanvashram is believed to be the site where Menaka, a divine nymph, was sent by the king of gods, to allure sage Vishwamitra and disturb his long-lasting meditation.
Later on, when Menaka gave birth to a girl, she left her on the banks of the Malini river. It was sage Kanv who found the girl and named her Shakuntala. Therefore, Kanvashram is believed by Hindu devotees to be a site of great cultural as well as religious prominence. You must visit this mesmerising place if you would love to get lost in a peaceful atmosphere.
2) Sidhbali Temple
Sidhbali Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is located in the enchanting valleys of Kotdwar. It is the most frequented place in the region and is visited by thousands of Hindu devotees every year. As it is built wonderfully on the banks of the river Khoh, it harbours a serene and tranquil environment which lets visitors feel the essence of divinity and calmness.
If you are looking forward to taking a break from the main town of Kotdwar and soothing your nerves, then you cannot find a better place than Sidhbali Temple. The presence of lush vegetation around the temple helps in increasing its overall charm.
3) Lansdowne
If you wouldn't mind exploring beyond the boundaries and the outskirts of Kotdwar, then Lansdowne is your calling. It is a cantonment town at a distance of about 39 km from Kotdwar and is home to beautiful lakes, hills, trekking trails and camping sites.
If you are a snowfall lover, then this beautiful town will certainly interest you to the core. Yes, during the winter season, Lansdowne experiences heavy snowfall. The major places once can witness here include Lover's Lane, Bhulla Tal, St. Mary's Church and Santoshi Maa Temple. So, what do you think about a visit to this enthralling expanse while in and around Kotdwar?
4) St. Joseph's Cathedral
Located in the midst of Kotdwar, St. Joseph's Cathedral is the second largest church in Asia at an elevation of about 1500 ft. It is not only known for its beautiful environment and surrounding greenery but also for its architectural grandeur.
Therefore, it wouldn't be wrong to say that St. Joseph's Cathedral is a site for architecture enthusiasts as well. Here, on one hand, you can relax amid its soothing atmosphere and on the other hand, you can explore its commendable structure which comprises beautiful domes.
5) Jim Corbett National Park
The oldest of them all, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular protected areas in the country. It was established in the year 1936 with a motive of preserving the beauty of the endangered Bengal Tiger. If you are a wildlife lover, then Jim Corbett National Park is nothing less than heaven for you.
As it houses hundreds of rare species of flora and fauna, no traveller can afford to miss this beauty. It is located at a distance of about 43 km from Kotdwar and is easily accessible. The region is also perfect for landscape photographers.
