Located in the hills of Uttarakhand, Chakrata is a picturesque town which offers a peaceful state and keeps you away from the hustle and bustle of city shores and city life. This place offers breathtaking landscape views all around. The place is a complete heaven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The place is also sound for wildlife enthusiasts, capturing every moment they encounter in Chakrata. It is best to, therefore, visit Chakrata in January as it is the best time to trek and hail. Many tourists from every corner of the country to have an experience with a lasting memory. Immerse into many places and things to do along with many photo opportunities in the forests of Deoban, Chakrata is something that is worth experiencing.
Chakrata Weather in January
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Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chakrata experiences extreme weather conditions in the winter months of December, January and February. The temperature decreases at night below freezing point. The daytime temperature of Chakrata in January is usually around -3 degrees Celsius to 14 degrees Celsius. The region experiences heavy snowfall in January, adding to the intensity of cold chills and air breeze. Tourists shall be well accustomed to the icy roads that pave and extreme weather conditions in the area. It is recommended to wear layers of clothes to retain the body heat while trekking.
Also Read: Things To Do In Chakarta
Things To See In Chakrata In January
Chakrata transforms from a serene green place in January to a snowy white paradise. The air is crisp and clear, perfect for witnessing and performing several activities there. Here is a curated list of things to see in Chakarata in January:
1. Snow-Capped Peaks
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The white layer of snow on these mountains around Chakrata is worth seeing. The hills transform themselves into a white paradise. One can see the Himalayan Range from various points in this town. The serene view puts a layer of ice on your eyes. Photographs will praise the beauty of this place when sunbeams touch the snow-covered peaks of the mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for nature lovers.
Location: Chilmiri Neck
Timings: 24 hours
Places To Stay: Munaals Nest, Burans, Divyansh Resort
2. Frozen Tiger Waterfall
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This waterfall is located about 20 km from Chakrata and has a 5 km trek to be completed. The path to this waterfall is covered with oak trees. This place is also called Kailu Pachad in local languages. The water from the fall cascades down at a height of 315 ft. The waterfall freezes in January and creates stunning natural ice sculptures. Further, the sight of the waterfall transforming wholly or partially into a frozen sculpture offers a rare view that catches the eyes of the tourists.
Location: Kanaser Range, Chakrata, Uttarakhand 248123
Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Places To Stay: Resort Prakriti Unwind, The Hosteller Chakrata, Tiger Fall Eco Resort etc
Related Post: Chakarta Tiger Falls
3. Lakhamandal Temple
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Lakhamandal Temple is 30 km away from Chakrata. The temple dedicates itself to Lord Shiva and has a graphite Shiva Lingam that shines when water is poured into it. This place is a must-visit when you plan a trip to Chakrata in January. The pleasant environment and cool breeze also enhance spirituality. During the winter, this temple captures the eye of tourists.
Location: Lakha Mandal, Nada, Uttarakhand 248124
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
Places To Stay: JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, Himalayan Paradise Hotel, Resort Prakriti
4. Deoban
Deoban comes from Deo, which means deodar trees, and ban, which means forest. One of the scenic destinations famous for treks and forest trails. Tourists can be delighted with the sunlight lush of shadow and light in between the army of pine trees. It is located at 2200 meters to 3025 meters above sea level, witnessing the scenic terrains. However, Vyas Shikhar is one of the highest peaks and gets marvellous views of the distant Himalayas. Deoban is also called as “gods own forest” with engaging peaceful quadrants that reflect the inner peace and becomes the significant places to visit in Chakrata in January.
Location: 13 km from Chakrata on State Highway
Timings: 24 hours
Places To Stay: Prakash hotel, hotel Chakrata green, Hotel Chakrata Homes
Related Post: Waterfalls Near Dehradun
5. Koti-Kanasar
It is one of the Picturesque location which is marked as ideal for a picnic or a honeymoon. It is surrounded by a dense green forest-the green meadows allure tourists and make it perfect for an excursion. A little town Koti Kanasar is also situated here with few houses. Kanasar is known for maintaining very old Deodar trees, exceptionally well. Asia’s biggest Deodar tree with a circumference of 6.35 meters is present in its woodland. Popular for trekking, treks to Buder Gupha takes 2 hours and Deoban takes 3 hours from Kanasar About 3 km away from Kansar is a Forest Rest House, placed creatively on a slope, this gives segregated coloured hallmark of the terrains.
Location: QRHM+V6G, Masak, Uttarakhand 248123
Timings: open 24 hours
Places To Stay: Kanasar Jungle camp, Dopaar By the brook, The hosteller chakrata
Things To Do In Chakrata In January
Chakra in January offers visitors various things to do. From trekking to camping in the snow, it has smoothed stuff for everyone. Here is the list of things to do in Chakarta in January:
1. Snow-Trekking
Trekking in January offers an experience that is worth the penny. The route is covered entirely by snow, and these trails are rewarding and challenging. Two of the well-known trekking routes are Deoban Trek and Chilmiri Neck. The crunch of ice and the silence of the winter forest combine to give the trekkers an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Monsoon
Duration: 3 to 5 Hours
Cost: Free
Related Post: Jim Corbett National Park
2. Snowshoeing
It is one way to see Chakrata’s beauty in January. In this activity, tourists walk through a path of snow that helps them discover places that cannot be reached otherwise. This is an ideal way to find dead leaves and branches stored under the snow, look at panoramic views, and burn some calories. Besides skiing, tourist can explore the explore the area during the warm months and experience the greenery. Mundali is considered as the Mini Kashmir and picturesque region famous for the snowshoeing an skiing.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Duration: 2-4 hours
Highlight: Mundali offers expansive ski slopes with stunning Himalayan views, perfect for skiing enthusiasts.
3. Camping In The Snow
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Nature lovers will love Visiting Chakrata in January. The camp activists set up tents in snowy meadows surrounded by pine and oak trees. The clear sky is so starry at night that camping becomes cosy enough. There is also a cool air breeze and snowfall in the area. Camping in Kanasar offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and city shores making it a must-visit things to do in Chakrata. Sargazing is very popular activities among campers and the favourite past time.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn
Duration: Flexible, typically 1-3
Cost: Varies based on accommodation and activities
Related Post: Places To Stay In Chakrata
4. Watch The Sunset
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If you are a fan of sunsets, then you can’t miss this place and enjoy the mesmerising sunsets. Chilmiri Neck is one of the best and popular spot in Chakrata where you can enjoy the sunset. Take a short drive from the chakrata to reach to the Chilmiri neck and witness the tranquil beauty. This is the highest peak of Chakrata surrounded by lush greenery of deoadar and offering the panoramic views of the Himalayas. One of the top choice for the couples to witness the mesmersing beauty of the sunset where the sun transformers into spectrum of vibrant hues.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn
Duration: 1-2 hours for sunset viewing
Cost: No entry fee
5. Bird Watching
Deoban located in the heart of Chakrata is the paradise of bird enthusiasts to watch the stunning birds. This is the pristine location surrounded by the dense deodar rhododendron forests that boasts the rich variety of Avian species. Deobas is 13 km away from the Chakrata perched at an altitude of 2200 m. Garhwal region of Uttarakhand is a home to over 30% of the butterfly species found in India. While exploring must watch the different butterfly species such as Chinese Peacock Butterfly, Indian Red Admiral, Lime Butterfly, Painted Lady, and Kaiser-e-hind along with more than 100 species of birds like Yellow-Crowned Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Brown-headed Barbet, Coppersmith Barbet, Common Hawk, Cuckoo Blue.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November, when migratory birds are also present.
Activities: Guided bird watching tours. Visitors can enjoy informative tours that provide insights into various bird species and their habitats.
Cost: Free
Related Post: Places To Visit In Chakrata
Chakrata Weather In Other Winter Months
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Chakrata in January has to offer snow-covered landscapes and thrilling snow activities that every traveller must do. The weather in December and February remains more or less similar. There is zero to low rainfall, sometimes negative temperatures, and often it snows. During December, the temperature swings between a minimum of -2 degrees to a maximum of 18 degrees Celsius. In February, the temperatures are between 0 degrees and 17 degrees. Further ahead in March, the heat starts rising again with temperatures remaining between 3 degrees and 23 degrees Celsius, and so on. Technically, the winter months are considered the off-season in Chakrata, but if one is looking to visit to see snowfall, this is the perfect time.
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Chakrata in January becomes a dream destination for those fond of winter and snow. The place is simply majestic, with beautiful landscapes and a white layer of snow. Thus, the spot becomes a perfect winter getaway for both locals and tourists. Whether you have visited the place for snowy trail trekking, embracing the natural beauty, learning about the rich cultural aspect, or simply sitting by the peace, your trip to Uttarakhand will be worth remembering. Embrace the winter chill, as Chakrata in January is a go-to destination for all backpackers, trek advisors and nature lovers.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chakarta In January
Which month is best for Chakrata?
The ideal months to visit Chakrata are the Autumn months of September to November and the Summer months of April to June. During monsoon, the routes become slippery enough posing a threat to the tourists, and the roads are prone to landslides. At the time of winter, the temperature drops to minus degrees Celsius with snow-covered paths.
Can we see snow in Chakrata?
Yes, we can see snow in Chakrata during winter. The temperature drops to minus 5-8 degrees Celsius. Because of its higher altitude, the region experiences heavy snowfall, with roads and trekking routes layered with snow that create beautiful scenery.
Why to visit Chakrata?
With its very famous Tiger Waterfall, Horticulture Gardens, and Lakhamandal Temple, Chakrata attracts tourists from every corner of the country. Ancient caves to explore and breathtaking views of landscapes make Chakrata a must-visit place for both tourists and trekkers, offering them an amazing experience.
Where should one visit in Uttrakhand Chakrata or Mussoorie?
Mussoorie and Chakrata are both ideal destinations to visit. Mussoorie is more developed and commercialised, and it accommodates people in various hotels serving multi-national cuisines. At the same time, Chakrata is a small region that is not so developed. It is a quiet, hidden hill station in Uttarakhand worth visiting.
How is the road from Dehradun to Chakrata?
The road from Dehradun to Chakrata is pleasant enough, with scenery all around. Tourists can drive from Dehradun to Chakrata while exploring nearby destinations like Tiger Fall, Horticulture Garden, and Moila Top. Some roads can be tricky, however, as they are narrow, with cars overtaking and coming from the front.
Is it good to visit Uttarakhand in January?
Yes, January is a great time to visit Uttarakhand because of the snow-capped landscapes and winter sports activities including skiing and trekking.
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With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
