Enquiry
Dunagiri
Location
Almora district in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 455 km State Capital Dehradun: 414 km
Altitude
2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
March to June and September to November
Facts About Dunagiri
Dunagiri is a sacred peak and a lesser-known pilgrimage site located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India.
The Dunagiri peak is revered in Hindu mythology and is associated with the legend of Lord Hanuman. It is believed that Dunagiri is the peak from which Lord Hanuman brought the Sanjeevani herb to heal Lord Rama's brother, Lakshmana, during the epic Ramayana.
There is also a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga near the Dunagiri peak, known as Dunagiri Temple or Dunagiri Devi Temple. The temple holds significant religious importance for devotees and is considered one of the Shakti Peethas (holy abodes of Goddess Durga) in the region.
Dunagiri is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green forests, meadows, and panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The area provides a tranquil and serene environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and solitude.
The trek to Dunagiri is not as well-trodden as some of the more popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. However, it is a challenging trek that requires proper planning and preparation. The trek takes you through dense forests and remote villages, offering a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
For those interested in spiritual and offbeat experiences, Dunagiri offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and immerse themselves in the myths and legends of Hindu mythology. It is a destination that offers both spiritual and natural experiences, making it a hidden gem in the Himalayas.
Day
Dunagiri :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Dunagiri Temple
The Dunagiri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Dunagiri, is the primary attraction in the region. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and experience the spiritual ambiance. The temple architecture and surroundings offer a serene atmosphere for meditation and prayer.
2. Bagasu Nag Temple
Situated near Dunagiri, the Bagasu Nag Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located amidst scenic surroundings and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The temple is revered by locals and visited by devotees seeking blessings.
3. Dunagiri Retreat and Ashrams
Dunagiri is known for its spiritual retreat centers and ashrams, which offer yoga, meditation, and spiritual teachings. Visitors can participate in yoga retreats, attend meditation sessions, and explore the spiritual teachings imparted by experienced gurus.
4. Natural Beauty
The surroundings of Dunagiri are blessed with stunning natural beauty, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Visitors can explore the pristine natural landscapes through trekking trails and nature walks.
5. Trekking Trails
Dunagiri serves as a base for various trekking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, high-altitude lakes, and remote villages. Treks like the Dunagiri-Bagasu trek and others in the nearby areas offer opportunities to explore the Himalayan wilderness and witness diverse flora and fauna.
6. Village Visits
Exploring the nearby villages allows visitors to experience the local way of life, interact with the friendly villagers, and witness traditional Kumaoni culture and customs. Village walks provide insights into rural life and offer opportunities for cultural immersion.
7. Scenic Drives
Driving through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Dunagiri is a memorable experience in itself. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of valleys, rivers, and terraced fields.
8. Cultural Events and Festivals
Dunagiri and its surrounding areas host various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can participate in traditional festivities, cultural performances, and local rituals.
How to Reach
By Road
Reaching Dunagiri involves a combination of travel modes, including air, rail, and road, followed by a trek or local transport to the village itself. Here's how you can reach Dunagiri: Dunagiri is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Uttarakhand. 1. From Delhi: - Dunagiri is approximately 425 kilometers (264 miles) away from Delhi. - Drive or take a bus from Delhi to Haldwani or Kathgodam. - From Haldwani or Kathgodam, hire a taxi or take a bus to Dunagiri. 2. From Dehradun or Haridwar: - Dunagiri is approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) away from Dehradun and 400 kilometers (249 miles) away from Haridwar. - Drive or take a bus from Dehradun or Haridwar to Haldwani or Kathgodam. - From Haldwani or Kathgodam, proceed to Dunagiri by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.
By Train
The nearest major railway station to Dunagiri is Kathgodam Railway Station. 1. From Kathgodam Railway Station: - Kathgodam Railway Station is approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles) away from Dunagiri. - Hire a taxi or take a bus from the railway station to Haldwani. - From Haldwani, continue the journey to Dunagiri by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.
By Air
The nearest airport to Dunagiri is the Pantnagar Airport (IATA: PGH) in Uttarakhand. 1. From Pantnagar Airport: - Pantnagar Airport is approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) away from Dunagiri. - Hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Haldwani or Kathgodam. - From Haldwani or Kathgodam, proceed to Dunagiri by hiring a taxi or taking a bus. It's about a 7 to 8-hour journey by road.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Dunagiri experiences a mild summer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The weather is ideal for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The clear skies and pleasant temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 12°C and 20°C. The region becomes lush and green, but the rains can make the trekking trails slippery and challenging. Landslides are also common.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The postmonsoon season offers clear skies and crisp air, making it an ideal time for trekking and enjoying the serene environment.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Dunagiri are cold, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The region experiences occasional snowfall, making it a tranquil winter retreat. Warm clothing is essential for those visiting during this time.
Hotels Around Dunagiri
While Dunagiri itself may have limited hotel options due to its remote location, nearby towns and villages in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand offer a wider range of accommodations. Here are some towns near Dunagiri where you can find hotels, guesthouses, and lodges:
1. Almora:
- Kasar Himalaya Retreat :
- Hotel Shikhar :
- Hotel Mount Heaven :
- Binsar Eco Resort :
- Hotel Khazanchand Mansion :
2. Ranikhet:
- Chevron Rosemount :
- West View Hotel :
- Cosmos Himalayan Villas :
- Hotel Meghdoot :
- Holm Farm Heritage :
3. Bageshwar:
- Hotel Uttarakhand :
- KMVN Tourist Rest House :
- Hotel Chauhan :
- Hotel Sunanda :
- Shiva Palace Hotel :
4. Kausani:
- Chevron Mountain Villa :
- Krishna Mountview Mountain Resort :
- Suman Royal Resort :
- The Buransh :
- Hotel Prashant :
5. Binsar:
- Club Mahindra Binsar Valley Resort :
- Grand Oak Manor :
- Mary Budden Estate :
- Binsar Eco Camp :
- Binsar Forest Retreat :
These are just a few examples of hotels and accommodations available in nearby towns to Dunagiri. You can explore booking websites or contact local tourism offices for more options and to check availability based on your preferences and budget. Additionally, it's advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.: