Chaukori is a quiet hill station in Uttarakhand that offers incredible views of the Himalayas and a peaceful escape from city life. Famed for its beautiful tea gardens, old temples, and stunning scenery, it is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers. This guide to things to do in Chaukori will give you all the information you need to plan a memorable trip with your friends or family. For a comfortable and safe ride around this prominent hill station, book a car rental in Delhi to travel to the charming Chaukori with Savaari.
Table of Contents
- Things to Do in Chaukori
- About Chaukori
- Hotels and Resorts in Chaukori
- Highest Road Trips from Chaukori
- Useful Links
Things to Do in Chaukori
Source: Majestic Journey
This breathtaking hill destination offers a variety of activities for tourists, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature, culture, and adventure. Here are some of the best things to do in Chaukori:
- Hiking and Trekking: Enjoy walking around and trekking through its picturesque landscape of tea gardens, forests, and other nature trails. Popular treks like the Pindari Glacier Trek and the Kafni Glacier Trek are some of the best things to do in Chaukori. You can also hike to the Hanging Rocks (800 m from town), a high point that offers a clear view of the 13 Himalayan peaks stretching from India to Nepal.
- Photography: Chaukori is perfect for photography because of its breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks and beautiful scenery. Capture stunning panoramic views of the snow-clad Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and the Panchachuli group of mountains. Plan photographic sessions during sunrises or sunsets. You will not be disappointed!
- Bird Watching: Bird watching and photographing in Chaukori are delights, as its lush forested areas and meadows are home to hundreds of bird species. Look out for birds like the Himalayan griffon, the lammergeier, and the monal pheasant. Observing them in their natural habitat is a real treat for nature lovers.
- Visiting Temples: This hill station has several ancient temples that are worth visiting. Explore the Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple and the Mahakali Temple, which are steeped in Uttarakhand’s religious and political pasts. These temples showcase traditional architecture and are treasure troves of folklore. These also offer peaceful places for meditation, self-reflection, and prayer against scenic backdrops.
Shopping in Chaukori
Shopping in Chaukori involves splurging on exquisite handicrafts, souvenirs, and local produce at a number of well-stocked local markets.
You can try Kumaoni handicrafts such as wooden carvings, woollen shawls, and handwoven coarse fabrics. Tea and fresh fruits (like apples, apricots, and plums) are also sold; these make for delicious and healthy buys. Consider buying from local souvenir stores that sell vintage postcards, small decorative items, local jewelry, and candles.
Nightlife in Chaukori
Nightlife in Chaukori is miles away from that in cities. The town is more suited for people seeking peace and tranquility. Here are some ways to enjoy the nightlife in this pristine hill station:
- Wine and Rewind: After hours, head to Som Bar and Cafe or Classic Bar & Restaurant to relax and enjoy food and beverages. Unwind over a drink after a long day of touring. These venues are popular among tourists and locals for their food, friendly staff, and pleasant ambiance.
- Cultural Performances: In the evening, attend local cultural performances. Watch traditional dance and music shows, gain insights into Chaukori’s rich cultural heritage, and enjoy a lively atmosphere.
- Local Bonfire Gatherings: Join locals around bonfires. Share stories, enjoy traditional music, and savor warm local snacks. It’s a cozy way to experience Chaukori’s culture and hospitality.
Places to Visit in Chaukori
Several must-visit places in and around this beautiful hill station offer a blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Some of the best places to visit in Chaukori include:
Patal Bhuvaneshwar Caves
Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a famous series of caves within caves located about 38 km from Chaukori. Renowned for its intricate limestone formations, the cave is steeped in mythology. Local legends claim it to be the abode of the 33 crore gods and goddesses in the Hindu pantheon.
This subterranean marvel offers a fascinating spiritual experience as visitors navigate the narrow passages adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites naturally molded into Ganesha’s head, Shiva’s locks, the mythical flower “Brahma-Kamala,” etc.
- Entry Fee: INR 50
- Timings: 7 AM–6 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
Nag Devta Temple
The Nag Devta Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to the supreme serpent deity in Hinduism. It also has smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This peaceful temple is perfect for meditation and spiritual contemplation. The best time to visit is between October and May.
- Entry Fee: Nil
- Timings: 6 AM–7 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
Arjuneswar Temple
The Arjuneswar temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located atop a hill, it offers a calm environment and beautiful views of the surroundings. It was said to be founded by Arjuna, one of the Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata.
- Entry Fee: Nil
- Timings: 6 AM–7 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
Berinag
Berinag is a charming nearby town, celebrated for its scenic beauty and extensive tea gardens. It provides breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas, making it a picturesque spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Dharamghar
Dharamghar is a small village near Chaukori that provides spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges. It is an off-beat location blessed with oak forests and tea plantations. It serves as the base for visiting three shrines: the Sangad Temple, the Shikhar Temple, and the Bhaner Temple. It’s an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Places to Visit Near Chaukori
For those looking to explore more, these are some of the best places to visit near Chaukori:
- Munsiyari: Approximately 97 km away, Munsiyari is one of the best places to visit near Chaukori. It is a picturesque hill station offering stunning views of the Panchachuli peaks. It serves as a base for various treks, including the Milam Glacier and the Ralam Glacier treks. It is also known for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and bird watching.
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located some 79 km, Binsar is a wildlife sanctuary renowned for its rich biodiversity and panoramic views. The Binsar Zero Point offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges—making it one of the most beautiful places to visit.
- Entry Fee: INR 150/person (Indians) and INR 600/person (Foreigners)
- Timings: 9 AM–7:30 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
- Gangolihat: Gangolihat, located some 35 km from Chaukori, is known for the ancient Haat Kalika Temple. Situated between the Saryu Ganga and Ram Ganga rivers, this spiritual center is a major pilgrimage site offering scenic beauty and tranquility. It is also home to the temple caves of Shailashwer, Mukteshwar, and Bholeshwar and, hence, is one of the most blessed places to visit.
- Kausani: Kausani, located 90km away, is famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India,’ Kausani offers breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the majestic mountains. The town is surrounded by lush pine forests, tea gardens, and charming homestays. Try them, and you just might turn up your wanderlust by a notch!
Best Places to Eat in Chaukori
While there are limited dining options here, you can find a few places offering local Kumaoni cuisine as well as North Indian and basic Continental dishes. Some popular places to eat in Chaukori include:
- Shanti Home Stay: Shanti Home Stay offers a beautiful dining experience with a variety of traditional dishes. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is cozy—making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
- The Crew Mocktails and Kitchen: Known for its delivery and takeaway options, The Crew Mocktails and Kitchen provides an extensive meal menu and refreshing mocktails. It’s one of the best places to eat in Chaukori if you want a quick and tasty meal.
- Geet Hotel: Located behind the TRC Government Guest House, Geet Hotel offers Indian cuisine in a comfortable setting. The restaurant is appreciated for its friendly service and good food.
- Alpine Restaurant: Located inside Hotel Himshikhar, Alpine Restaurant offers a variety of food options, including Indian dishes. It provides a simple and quick dining experience, making it one of the best places to eat in Chaukori after a tiring day out.
About Chaukori
Chaukori, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, is nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas. It is known for its majestic views of the Nanda Devi and the Panchachuli peaks. The hill station is named so as it is shaped like a bowl and enveloped on all sides by the mighty Himalayas.
It is a unique destination for exploring nature’s beauty and bounty in lush tea gardens, dense forests of pine and oak, and rich wildlife habitats. Its unspoiled beauty is complemented by clear blue skies, allowing tourists to experience phenomenal sunrises and sunsets throughout the year.
Chaukori’s History
Chaukori began as a tea plantation area during the British Raj. Like other colonial mountainous retreats, it gradually developed into a quaint but busy hill station. The influence of British settlers is still evident in the region’s old bungalows and built structures in the old tea estates. Several ancient temples add to its historical allure.
Lesser-Known Facts about Chaukori
Here are a few surprising yet unknown facts about Chaukori:
- Chaukori is situated at an elevation of 2,010 meters (6,594 feet) above sea level.
- The region has large stretches of pine, oak, and rhododendron forests.
- It is known for extensive tea gardens that produce high-quality Berinag tea.
How to Plan a Trip to Chaukori
Any travel guide on Chaukori will recommend 3–4 days as the ideal tenure for exploring this hill station and its surroundings. Book your accommodation in advance—especially during peak seasons—choosing from hotels, resorts, or guest houses according to your budget and preferences.
Pack warm clothes, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Plan your itinerary with nature walks, temple visits, and relaxation time. Finally, decide on your mode of transportation—such as driving, taking a train, or flying—and make necessary travel bookings ahead of time.
How to Reach Chaukori
This hill destination is well-connected by several transportation facilities. Consider the following routes to reach Chaukori:
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, which is about 180 km away. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From the railway station, you can book a Savaari car rental in Kathgodam to travel to Chaukori by road, which takes 6–7 hours. Trains like the Ranikhet Express and the Sampark Kranti Express connect Kathgodam with Delhi.
By Road
Chaukori by road is connected to major cities in Uttrakhand. You can also drive from Delhi (480 km), which takes 11–12 hours. Regular buses and taxis to the hill station are available from towns like Almora, Nainital, and Pithoragarh. Book a Savaari car rental in Nainital and head to this hill station for the most pleasant and hassle-free experience.
The roads are well-maintained, but it is advisable to hire a local driver if you are not experienced in driving in hilly areas.
By Flight
The nearest airport to Chaukori is Pantnagar Airport, located around 205 km away. Pantnagar Airport has flights connecting to Delhi. The drive from Pantnagar takes about 7-8 hours. It is recommended to arrange your transportation in advance, as taxi services may not always be readily available. But to reach Chaukori, you can book a Savaari airport taxi in Dehradun from Jolly Grant Airport and travel to your destination.
Best Time to Visit Chaukori
The best time to visit Chaukori is during the summer. Consider the months from March to June and from September to November while planning your trip. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering the best views of the Himalayan peaks. Summers (March–June) are mild and perfect for outdoor activities, while the autumn months (September–November) provide a serene environment with colorful foliage.
This hill station is at its most beautiful during the monsoons, but tourists must avoid rainy seasons because of heavy rainfall and the possibility of landslides. Winters (December–February) are cold with occasional snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy chilly weather and snow-covered landscapes.
Hotels and Resorts in Chaukori
There is a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences available here. These places provide comfortable stays with modern amenities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Chaukori:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Ojaswi Resort | Tea Garden Near Police Chauki Chaukori, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand – 262531 | 8928460558 |
| KMVN Tourist Rest House | Pithoragarh Road, Chaukori, Uttarakhand – 262531 | 8650002542 |
| Himshikhar Hotel | Bageshwar-Munsiyari Road, Chaukori, Uttarakhand – 262531 | 8477836706 |
| The Misty Mountains Banjara | Jhaltola Estate, Near Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Gangolihat, Uttarakhand – 262534 | 8006667722 |
Chaukori is indeed a hidden gem in the Kumaon region, offering stunning Himalayan views, serene tea gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re after adventure, spiritual enrichment, or a peaceful retreat from city life, this gorgeous hill destination has something special for everyone. Discover the serene charm of this Himalayan haven with our travel guide, and let its beauty rejuvenate your soul.
Highest Road Trips from Chaukori
One of the few activities one should definitely do is take a road trip from Chaukori to different cities in Uttarakhand. These journeys offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences, from winding mountain roads to rugged terrain. Take a road trip, enjoy the journey, and explore all that these destinations have to offer.
| Destination | Distance by Road (approx.) |
| Chaukori to Pithoragarh | 82 km |
| Chaukori to Munsyari | 97 km |
| Chaukori to Binsar | 106 km |
| Chaukori to Almora | 108 km |
| Chaukori to Ranikhet | 126 km |
| Chaukori to Nainital | 172 km |
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Useful Links
Last Updated on August 19, 2024 by Shabari Shankar
