Tehri Tourism: Best Places, Activity, and Travel Guide 2024

Explore Tehri Tourism beauty in Uttarakhand: trek to Chamba, visit Shakti Devi Mandir and see submerged Old Tehri. Tips for travel, stays, and activities.

Tehri is a small hill town located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by the Himalayan mountains, it sits at an elevation of 1,525 meters overlooking the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers. The history of Tehri dates back to the 9th century AD when it was part of the princely state of Tehri Garhwal. It remained the capital of the Garhwal Kingdom until the early 19th century when the capital was moved to Srinagar. The old part of Tehri still retains some of its historic architecture and heritage from that era.

Today, Tehri is best known for the Tehri Dam, one of the highest dams in the world, that was constructed between 1978 to 2006. The dam submerged the old town of Tehri under the waters of the massive Tehri Lake that it created. However, New Tehri was built above the old town on a hill overlooking the lake.

Tehri Tourism, a hidden gem nestled in the Himalayas, invites you to discover its rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. From the majestic Tehri Dam to serene lakes, lush landscapes, and ancient temples, Tehri offers a diverse array of experiences. Explore water sports, trekking, and immerse yourself in the local culture. A perfect blend of tranquility and adventure awaits in Tehri, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Tehri is not just about its scenic landscapes; it has a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. The town is home to ancient temples, such as Chandrabadni Temple and Sem Mukhem Temple, offering spiritual solace amid breathtaking surroundings. The local markets showcase the unique Garhwali culture, with traditional artefacts and handmade crafts. This comprehensive Tehri travel guide will serve as your compass, navigating you through the diverse landscapes, cultural treasures, and adventurous escapades that Tehri has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Tehri, Uttarakhand

Tehri, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes and experiences throughout the year. Choosing the right time to visit this picturesque destination can significantly enhance your Tehri tour experience. Here’s a guide to the best seasons to explore Tehri’s beauty.

Regardless of the season, Tehri’s charm remains ever-present. When planning your visit, consider the activities you wish to engage in and the kind of atmosphere you prefer. Each season in the Tehri tour offers a unique perspective, ensuring that this Himalayan destination caters to a wide range of preferences. So, whether you’re drawn to the vibrant blooms of spring, the refreshing monsoons, the tranquil autumn, or the snowy landscapes of winter, Tehri awaits with open arms, ready to enchant you throughout the year.

A Tapestry of Adventures: Things to Do in Tehri

Tehri is a paradise for adventure lovers. The high mountains and gushing rivers create the perfect landscape for adrenaline-pumping activities. Some of the top adventure sports during the Tehri tour are:

Tehri Dam and Lake Adventure:

Begin your Tehri tour escapade with a visit to the iconic Tehri Dam, one of the tallest in the world. Experience the thrill of water sports on the expansive Tehri Lake, including jet-skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The serene waters against the backdrop of the towering dam create a breathtaking setting.

Adventure Water Sport at Tehri Lake: Tehri is a paradise for adventure lovers. The high mountains and gushing rivers create the perfect landscape for adrenaline-pumping activities. Some of the top adventure sports during the Tehri tour are:

• River Rafting: River rafting along the Bhagirathi River is one of the most popular things to do in Tehri. The river features grade 2-4 rapids, offering rafting options for beginners as well as experienced rafters. Short rafting trips of 12-24 km are available from Chilli to Rishikesh taking 1.5-3 hours. Longer multi-day rafting excursions of 54-93 km from Devprayag to Rishikesh can be done over 2-3 days.
• Kayaking: Kayaking is another exciting water sport to try out in Tehri. Kayakers can navigate through the Bhilangana River’s grade 2-3 rapids. Short runs from Ghanshali to Tehri Dam (18 km, 3 hours) and Tehri Dam to New Tehri (16 km, 2-3 hours) are popular kayaking routes. With proper permits, multi-day kayaking trips can also be arranged.
• Boating in Tehri Lake: Take a relaxing boat ride on the massive Tehri Lake created by the Tehri Dam. Admire the green mountainscape mirrored in the calm blue waters. Boating up close to the dam wall is also possible.
• Jet-Skiing: Feel the wind in your hair as you rev up a jet ski on the expansive Tehri Lake. Jet-skiing offers an exhilarating experience, allowing you to cut through the water at high speeds, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of mountains and the Tehri Dam.
• Paddleboarding: Test your balance and core strength with paddleboarding on Tehri Lake. Glide across the pristine waters while standing on a paddleboard, taking in the panoramic views of the dam and the surrounding hills. It’s an excellent way to connect with nature and enjoy a full-body workout.
• Banana Boat Rides: Gather your friends and hop onto a banana boat for a laughter-filled adventure. Towed by a speedboat, the banana boat ride adds a social element to the water fun, as you navigate the lake’s gentle waves while trying to stay on the inflatable boat.
• Parasailing: Soar to new heights with parasailing over Tehri Lake. Attached to a parachute and towed by a speedboat, experience the thrill of flying as you witness the expansive landscapes below. The aerial perspective offers a unique and awe-inspiring view of Tehri’s natural beauty.
• Wakeboarding: Unleash your inner adventurer with wakeboarding on Tehri Lake. Glide over the water’s surface, holding onto a cable towed by a speedboat. Perfect your balance and feel the rush of excitement as you carve through the lake’s waters.
• Fishing Excursions: If you prefer a more laid-back water activity, consider a fishing excursion on Tehri Lake. The lake is home to various fish species, providing anglers with a peaceful yet rewarding experience amidst the serene surroundings.

Trekking with Camping Amidst Nature:

Tehri is a paradise for trekkers, with trails leading to hidden waterfalls, alpine meadows, and pristine landscapes. Popular treks like the Khatling Glacier trek offer a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Set up camp amidst the Himalayan wilderness and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Some trekking points you can visit during the Tehri tour are:
1. Nag Tibba Trek
2. Chandrabadni Temple Trek
3. Surkanda Devi Temple Trek
4. Khatlinga Glacier Trek

Camping

Several campsites are available near Tehri Lake and throughout the region. Sleep in tents under starry skies and wake up to magnificent Himalayan vistas. Camping is a great way to experience the raw natural beauty of Tehri. Some Best Spots for Camping in Tehri:
1. Camping Near Tehri Lake
2. Camping in Kanatal
3. Camping in Dhanaulti

Spiritual Sojourn to Temples:

Discover Tehri’s cultural heritage by visiting ancient temples like Chandrabadni Temple and Sem Mukhem Temple. These sacred sites not only offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region but also provide a serene escape amidst the mountains.

Local Market Exploration:

Dive into the local culture by exploring Tehri’s vibrant markets. Indulge in shopping for traditional Garhwali artifacts, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Engage with the locals and savor the authenticity of the region.

Explore Local Culture

Tehri Garhwal is home to a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by its history and geography. Much of the local culture revolves around Hinduism and local deities like Gangotri.

• Cuisine: The cuisine of Tehri Garhwal is simple yet flavorful. It makes abundant use of local ingredients like rajma (kidney beans), bhatt ki dal (black soybean), and mandua (finger millet). Gahat ka saag, made from wild Himalayan greens, is a popular side dish. Common snacks include Singodi, savory fried biscuits made with white flour and cumin.
• Arts: Tehri Garhwal has a strong tradition of folk arts and crafts. Common art forms are wall paintings known as Aipan, wood carving, and prolific painting styles like the Brahmakamal and Alpana schools. Local musical forms include Jhora, Basanti, and Chhopati.
• Religious Significance: The region is deeply associated with Hindu pilgrimage as it is the gateway to major religious sites like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath. Locals revere the mighty rivers Ganga and Yamuna which originate in the upper Himalayas. Deities like Nanda Devi are symbolic of the landscape.
• Festivals: Major festivals celebrated in Tehri Garhwal are Kandali, Harela Mela, and Nanda Devi Mela. Kandali is marked by the worship of Shiva and Parvati. Harela mela coincides with the onset of the monsoons and involves dancing and singing. Nanda Devi mela honors the Hindu goddess Nanda Devi.

Bird Watching and Nature Walks:

Immerse yourself in the biodiversity of Tehri by indulging in bird-watching sessions. The region is home to diverse avian species, providing a treat for nature enthusiasts. Take leisurely nature walks to soak in the stunning landscapes and encounter the local flora and fauna.

Stargazing in the Himalayas:

As the night falls, Tehri’s clear skies unveil a celestial spectacle. Engage in stargazing sessions to witness the beauty of the night sky amidst the tranquil mountain surroundings.

More Activities During Tehri Tour

Places to Visit Near Tehri

Tehri Tour offers some spectacular hill stations that serve as great getaways from the heat and chaos of the plains. The beautiful mountains, scenic trails, and serene lakes make hill stations like:

Tehri Lake or Dam

Tehri Lake is a picturesque man-made reservoir that was created after the construction of the Tehri Dam. Spanning over 42 km in length and 8 km in width, this stunning lake lies at an altitude of 860 meters above sea level. The pristine blue waters of the lake are surrounded by densely forested hills of the Garhwal Himalayas, creating postcard-perfect scenery. You can enjoy mesmerizing views of the lake by taking a boat ride. Boating is a popular recreational activity here, with rowboats and motorboats available for rent. Glide across the calm waters as you soak in panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills reflecting in the lake’s mirror-like surface.

Dobra Chanti Bridge

Walk or drive across the Dobra Chanti Bridge, an engineering marvel that spans the Tehri Lake. Marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the shimmering lake below. This bridge not only serves as a crucial passage but also offers a spectacular vantage point for photography enthusiasts.

Chamba Town

Chamba is a picturesque hill town perched at an altitude of over 1,600 meters above sea level. Surrounded by deodar forests, apple orchards, and snow-capped peaks, Chamba is great for nature walks, birdwatching, camping, and treks. Check out the 12th-century temple complex and shop for Chamba rumal embroidered handkerchiefs. April to June is the ideal time to visit.

Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti is an unspoiled hill resort at a height of 2,400 meters. Take beautiful nature walks through oak and deodar forests. Visit the Surkanda Devi temple, go angling for trout in the rivers, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas. Dhanolti is beautiful in the summer and spring months between March to June.

Tehri Wildlife Sanctuary

The Tehri Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Tehri Dam reservoir and covers an area of 422 sq km. It was established in 2004 to provide a safe habitat for the flora and fauna displaced by the Tehri Dam. The sanctuary has a rich biodiversity of fauna including the Asiatic black bear, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan palm civet, porcupine, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque, langur, and others. Some endangered animal species found here are the musk deer and goral. The sanctuary is also home to around 15 reptile species like the common Indian monitor, pythons, cobras, and kraits. There are also numerous bird species like eagles, pheasants, partridges, falcons, and vultures.

Chandrabadni Temple

Immerse yourself in spirituality by visiting the Chandrabadni Temple. Perched atop a hill, this ancient temple provides not only a religious experience but also panoramic views of the Tehri region.

Sem Mukhem Temple

Another religious gem, Sem Mukhem Temple, offers a serene atmosphere for devotees and visitors. Surrounded by lush greenery, the temple provides a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with the local culture.

Surkanda Devi Temple

Situated at a height of about 10,000 feet, the Surkhanda Devi Temple offers not only a spiritual retreat but also panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The trek to the temple is invigorating and rewards visitors with a sense of accomplishment.

Kanatal

Just a short drive from Tehri, Kanatal is a picturesque hill station offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Enjoy nature walks, visit the Surkanda Devi Temple, and relish the tranquility of this lesser-explored destination.

Devprayag

Journey to the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers to witness the birth of the sacred Ganges River at Devprayag. The town holds immense religious significance and offers stunning views of the merging rivers.

Kempty Fall

Kempty Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Uttarakhand, with water cascading down from an impressive height of 1,500 meters. Take a refreshing dip in the plunge pools or enjoy a picnic by the waterfall surrounded by the Mussoorie mountains. Visit between March and July to see Kempty Falls in full glory.

More Places Near Tehri

How to reach Tehri?

Tehri is well-connected to major cities and destinations in Uttarakhand and northern India. Here are the main transportation options for reaching Tehri:

By Air

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which has daily flights to Delhi and other major cities. The airport is about 85 km from Tehri, and you can easily find taxis or buses to complete the onward journey.

By Train

• The nearest major railway station is at Rishikesh, which is connected to Delhi, Dehradun, and other parts of northern India by regular train services. From Rishikesh railway station, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Tehri in about 4-5 hours.
• Some long-distance trains also stop at Kotdwar railway station, which is about 95 km from Tehri. This can be another rail option to reach Tehri.

By Road

• Tehri is connected by good motorable roads to major destinations like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Pauri, and Mussoorie. There are regular buses run by the state transportation as well as private operators between Tehri and these major towns.
• You can also drive to Tehri by taking the National Highway 58 from Delhi, which connects via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Roorkee, and Haridwar. The drive from Delhi to Tehri takes about 8-9 hours.

Some Major Cities or Destination Distances from Tehri:

Town or Destination	Distance (Approximately)
Rishikesh	74 km
Dehradun	98.5 km
Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport)	75.9 km
Haridwar	92.8 Km
Chamba	11 km
Mussoorie	72 km
Dobra Chanti Bridge	35 Km
Devprayag	78 km
Srinagar, Tehri	84 km
Sem Mukhem Temple	89 km
Chandrabadni Temple	90 km
Surkanda Temple	33 km
Kanatal	25 km
Dhanaulti	38 km
Kunjapuri Temple	51 km
Narendra Nagar	53 km
Uttarkashi	116 km

In conclusion, whether you seek adventure, cultural exploration, or simply a peaceful retreat, Tehri tourism has something for everyone. Embrace the enchanting landscapes, engage in thrilling activities, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this hidden Himalayan jewel. Tehri Tourism awaits, promising an unforgettable journey into nature’s embrace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Tehri Tourism