Dwarahat is one of the most serene hill stations of India, which is home to around 55 ancient hindu temples and classic Himalayan landscape. The name in local language translates the meaning “Way to Heaven” which truly describes Dwarahat as a hill station in Uttarakhand. With around 55 temples, this village is also known as the “Town of Temples” which makes it significant among all the Hindus in India.The town is located around 1,510 metres above sea level, which allows it to provide tranquil beauty of the mountains and forests of Uttarakhand.
What Makes Dwarahat Special?
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Well, what makes Dwarahat special is its collection of temples, insane natural beauty, and the calmness of this town. This hill station is not known to many travellers worldwide, making it less crowded and cleaner. If one wants to see how the staircase to heaven looks like, then Dwarahat is the answer, the simplicity this town holds is on another level. This town is located between Ranikhet and Garsin, making it a perfect spot to relax and spend your holidays in peace and fresh air. The cultural value of this town is so pure and vibrant that it attracts positive energy among the residents and tourists.
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Mythology Behind Dwarahat
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As the regional language translates, Dwarahat is known as “Way to Heaven”, but there is a mythology behind this town. This hill station was said to be the meeting point of the two beautiful rivers, Ramganga and Saryu. But the Kosi river became jealous of this fact and played a trick, where she told both the rivers that their counterparts would not come for any rendezvous. But as the truth unfolds in the end, both the Ramganga and Saryu rivers curse the Kosi River to be alone forever. Thus, we can see that the Kosi River flows in the middle of nowhere, and no other stream joins it.
History Of Dwarahat
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The history of Dwarahat is as interesting as its name. It is believed that the village was once ruled by the Chand and Katyuri Kings, but was later taken over by the Chand Kings of Kumaon in the 16th century. But it is also believed that the town was first ruled by the Kunindas, a tribal community of Uttarakhand. Historians have found coins which belong to this community and it is hence believed that the first dominance over the land of Dwarahat was by Kunindas between 500 BC to 600 AD. Their power declined with the rise of Guptas, which brought development to the town in the fields of architecture, art, literature, sculptures and paintings.
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Temples Of Dwarahat
There are 55 ancient Hindu temples in Dwarahat, built with unique architectural excellence. The intricate architecture of these temples will make you speechless as they showcase perfect examples of Indo-Aryan, Maru-Pratihara, and Nagara styles of architecture. Divided into 8 groups, these ancient temples hold huge archaeological value all over the world and are as follows:
1. Badrinath Temple Dwarahat
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There are three groups of Badrinath temples devoted to Lord Vishnu, who took the form of Badrinath to save the world from evil. It is also known as one of the dhams from the chardham yatra of Hindus. The temple is made in Shikhara style, and an idol of the deity is found in the sanctum.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
2. Bandeo Temple
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Bandeo temple is known as the first developed temple in the central region of the Himalayas. It is shaped like a pyramid, which makes it unique and significant for understanding the minds of our ancestors.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
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3. Gujar Deo Temple
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Gujar Deo temple is known as one of the best architectural examples of intricate carvings in India. The temple is built in orthogonal shape and showcases Nagara and Sekhari Shikhara style of architecture. At present the temple is in a dilapidated condition, but after studying its architecture, it is said that this temple was built during the 13th century.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
4. Kacheri Group of Temples
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The Kacheri group of temples has 12 shrines, 10 of which are aligned in two rows and two on slightly higher platforms, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. This temple’s architecture uses single-standing pillars and a stone block well.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
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5. Maniyan Group of Temples
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The Maniyan Group of Temples has nine shrines, some dedicated to Jain Tirthankers and some to Brahminical deities. Four of the shrines are built in a square, making it one big complex, with each having the exact same front courtyard. Archeologists believe the Maniyan Group of Temples were built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
6. Mrityunjay Temple Dwarahat
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The beautiful Mrityunjay Temple Dwarahat is devoted to Lord Shiva, also known as Mrityunjaya. You can see Nagara style of architecture, which is believed to be built during 11th-12th centuries. Other than the main shrine of Lord Shiva, there is a small complex inside the temple that is specially dedicated to Bhairav Baba. All the other shrines of the temple are now in ruins, without any deities placed inside them.
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
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See Dwarahat Beyond Temples
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- Local Life: Learn more about the regional or local people of Dwarahat. The people are kind and welcoming and mostly display a positive attitude towards tourists. Living in a town known as “the way to heaven,” the people of Dwarahat always show kindness while sharing their daily lives with others.
- Nature Walks: A Way to Heaven, Dwarahat has some of the most serene natural trails spread across the town and nearby areas. Explore and admire the tranquil beauty of Uttarakhand’s forest, backdropped by the Himalayan range and decorated with the calmness of Dwarahat.
- Enjoy Local Festivities: Dwarahat is known for its vibrant celebrations on several auspicious hindu festivals. You can plan your trip around Makar Sankranti, Harela, Basant Panchami, Bhaitauli, Olgia (Ghee Sankranti), Ganga Dussehra, Bat Savitri, and Khatarua. Participate in the two famous fairs of the town, Doonagiri Mela and Syalde Bhikhauti Mela, offering cultural insights.
Places To Visit Near Dwarahat
There are plethora of places to visit near Dwarahat, Here is a list of captivating places curated for you to make your trip most memorable and heartworthy,
1. Ranikhet
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Ranikhet is a small hill station also known as the British town of India, as this used to be the holiday destination of various British Viscounts in the past. The town offers beautiful Himalayan landscape decorated with lush green forests of Uttarakhand.
Distance from Dwarahat: 34 Kms
Key Attraction : Himalayan Landscape with Lush Green Forests
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2. Almora
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Almora is a beautiful town known for its simplicity and lush greenery. The place is famous for its nearby landmarks such as Anthargange Caves, Kasar Devi Temple and Chitai Golu Devta temple. Almora is a big district in Uttarakhand known for its religious and natural significance among tourists.
Distance : 60 Kms
Key Attraction : Anthargange Caves, Kasar Devi Temple
How To Reach Dwarahat
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By Road: Dwarahat is well connected with various cities of Uttarakhand such as Almora and Ranikhet. The town is located between the intersections of Kausani-Ranikhet and Almora-Badrinath, which makes it easy to access through road.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Dwarahat is Kathgodam, which is around 108 kms away. After reaching Kathgodam you can take a private cab or taxi to reach Dwarahat which takes around 4-5 hours of drive.
By Air: The nearest airport to Dwarahat is Pantnagar Airport which is around 142 kms away from the destination. Being a domestic airport, there are limited flights available for Pantnagar. From the airport you can take a cab or taxi to reach Dwarahat which will take around 5-6 hours.
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Dwarahat is a hidden gem located in the Kumawan range of Uttarakhand. Translated literally as “Way to Heaven”, this hill station’s natural beauty, peaceful environment and religious significance make it a perfect addition to your trip to Uttarakhand itinerary. Admire the beautiful intricate carvings of all 55 ancient temples while learning about their historical significance. As few people know about this destination, the town is perfect for a relaxed and crowd-free holiday destination where one can explore nature, spirituality, and ancient beauty.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dwarahat
What is Dwarahat also known as?
Dwarahat is known as Sanskritik Nagari (Cultural heritage) because of numerous hindu temples located here and in English the name literally translates as “Way to Heaven”.
How many temples are there in Dwarahat?
There are a total of 55 ancient hindu temples located in Dwarahat. These temples are divided into 8 major segments and were mostly built during 11th to 14th centuries.
What is the best time to visit Dwarahat?
The best time to visit Dwarahat is during the hindu festivals including Makar Sankranti, Harela, Basant Panchami, Bhaitauli, Olgia (Ghee Sankranti), Ganga Dussehra, Bat Savitri, and Khatarua. These hindu festivals are celebrated with full enthusiasm by the people of Dwarahat, offering your cultural insight and new experiences.
Where is Dwarahat located ?
Dwarahat is situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, approximately 37 km from Ranikhet.
Is Dwarahat suitable for trekking and outdoor activities?
Yes, Dwarahat is good base for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of Kumaon region. There are several trekking rout and nature trails in and around the town.
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