Nestled in the picturesque Pauri Garhwal district, Kotdwar serves as the perfect base for exploring Uttarakhand's natural beauty and spiritual heritage. This historic hill town, whose name literally means "gateway to the high hills," sits 454 meters above sea level and offers travelers a unique blend of colonial history, religious significance, and easy access to some of North India's most famous destinations.
Whether you're planning a weekend escape from Delhi or looking for an offbeat Uttarakhand destination, Kotdwar provides the ideal starting point for adventures ranging from wildlife safaris at Corbett National Park to peaceful temple visits and hill station retreats.
About Kotdwar: History and Significance
A Town Steeped in History
Originally spelled "Kootdwar" (where "Koot" means high hills and "Dwar" means gateway), this municipal city was established in 1890 during British rule. It became one of India's earliest railway stations when the first passenger train service began here in 1901—a testament to its historical importance as a transportation hub.
The region has witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties, including the Mauryan Empire under Ashoka, the Katyuri Dynasty, the Panwar Dynasty of Garhwal, and even a 12-year period under Gorkha rule before British colonization. This rich tapestry of history makes Kotdwar more than just a transit point—it's a living museum of Uttarakhand's past.
Modern-Day Kotdwar
Today, Kotdwar spans 84 square kilometers and serves as one of Uttarakhand's larger urban centers. Since gaining municipality status in 1952, it has grown into a well-connected town that attracts pilgrims, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an authentic Garhwal experience away from crowded tourist circuits.
Top Tourist Places to Visit Near Kotdwar
1. Lansdowne Hill Station (37 km)
This charming cantonment town is renowned for housing the Garhwal Rifles regiment and offers stunning Himalayan views. Lansdowne's colonial architecture, pine forests, and serene atmosphere make it perfect for a peaceful retreat. Don't miss Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top viewpoint, and the Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial.
Local Tip: Visit during October to March for clear mountain views and pleasant weather.
2. Sidhbali Temple (3.5 km)
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Sidhbali Temple ranks among Uttarakhand's most revered Hindu shrines. Located on the banks of River Khoh, this temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Tuesdays and Saturdays. The peaceful riverside setting and spiritual energy make it a must-visit for anyone seeking blessings or simply appreciating local religious culture.
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily; arrive early to avoid crowds during festival seasons.
3. Kanvashram (14 km)
This historically significant site near the Malini River is where sage Kanva raised Shakuntala, the legendary figure from the Mahabharata. According to Hindu mythology, this is where the romance between Shakuntala and King Dushyanta unfolded—a story immortalized by the great poet Kalidasa in his Sanskrit masterpiece "Abhijnanasakuntalam."
The ashram offers a glimpse into India's ancient gurukul system and provides a tranquil spot for meditation and reflection.
4. Durga Devi Temple (10 km)
Located approximately 10 kilometers from Kotdwar's main market, this temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is an important pilgrimage site. The temple sees particularly high footfall during Navratri celebrations, when devotees from across the region come to seek the goddess's blessings.
5. St. Joseph's Church (1.3 km)
Remarkably, this church is recognized as Asia's second-largest church at its elevation. Built during the colonial era, it showcases beautiful architecture and serves the local Christian community. The church is open to visitors of all faiths who appreciate architectural heritage.
6. Jim Corbett National Park (Accessible from Kotdwar)
India's oldest national park, established in 1936, spans over 1,318 square kilometers of diverse terrain. Since 2017, tourists can enter Corbett through the Kotdwar gate, making it incredibly convenient for wildlife enthusiasts staying in the area.
The park is famous for:
- Bengal tigers and leopards
- Asian elephants
- Over 600 bird species
- Thrilling jungle safaris
- River rafting opportunities in the Ramganga River
Expert Advice: Book your safari permits online well in advance, especially during peak season (November to February). Early morning safaris offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
Other Notable Places
- Medanpuri Devi Temple: A hilltop temple offering panoramic views
- Koteshwar Mahadev Temple: Ancient Shiva temple with spiritual significance
- Tarkeshwar Temple: Sacred shrine surrounded by dense forests
- Charekh Danda: Ideal for trekking and nature walks
- Soonya Sikhar Ashram: Perfect for yoga and meditation retreats
How to Reach Kotdwar: Complete Travel Information
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport, located 105 kilometers away. Regular flights connect Dehradun with Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or book a private cab to reach Kotdwar in approximately 3 hours.
By Train
Kotdwar Railway Station (Station Code: KTW) is well-connected to major Indian cities. Direct trains run from:
- Delhi to Kotdwar: Multiple daily trains including Nandadevi Express
- Haridwar to Kotdwar: Local passenger trains
- Moradabad to Kotdwar: Regular services available
The historic railway station itself is worth exploring for history buffs, as it represents over 120 years of Indian railway heritage.
Distance from Major Cities
- Delhi to Kotdwar: 216 km (approximately 5-6 hours)
- Haridwar to Kotdwar: 72 km (2 hours)
- Rishikesh to Kotdwar: 102 km (2.5 hours)
- Dehradun to Kotdwar: 116 km (3 hours)
- Nainital to Kotdwar: 204 km (5 hours)
- Pauri to Kotdwar: 106 km (3 hours)
Best Time to Visit Kotdwar
October to March is considered the best time to visit Kotdwar and nearby attractions. The weather remains pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Monsoon season (July-September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make travel challenging but transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise. If you don't mind the rain, this is the best time to witness nature at its most vibrant.
Summer months (April-June) can be warm but remain cooler than the plains, making Kotdwar a good escape from Delhi's scorching heat.
Plan Your Kotdwar Adventure Today
Kotdwar offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, nature, and adventure—all within easy reach of major cities. Whether you're seeking a quick weekend getaway or planning an extended Uttarakhand tour, this gateway town provides authentic Garhwal experiences without the commercial hustle of more touristy destinations.
Ready to explore the hidden treasures of Kotdwar and Pauri Garhwal? Contact Gokeys Travel Services for customized tour packages:
- Email: gokeysindia@gmail.com or helpdesk@gokeys.in
- Phone/WhatsApp: Available for instant booking and trip queries
Let us craft the perfect itinerary for your Kotdwar, Lansdowne, or Corbett National Park adventure. From transportation and accommodation to guided tours and safari bookings—we handle everything so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories!
Last Updated: Dec 2025
