Benital, Chamoli

Benital : A hidden Picnic sopt in Chamoli District

Undoubtedly, Uttarakhand stands out as one of India's most stunning states, a place where the splendors of nature abound in every corner. From the quaintest villages to the most remote locations, Uttarakhand's beauty is a constant companion. In this article, we delve into the enchanting world of Benital, an undiscovered gem nestled within the Chamoli district, offering an experience that's as pristine as it is underrated. Benital is a big lake surround by a big green meadow. Benital is perched at 2,600 metres above sea level in the Himalayas.

Tucked away near Karanprayag, Benital exudes an aura of unspoiled natural beauty. Benital is a popular picnic spot in the Karnaprayag block of Chamoli district. This picturesque location is characterized by the lush, emerald forests that envelop the area, with a carpet of vibrant green grass adding to its allure. Benital spans an expansive area, covering approximately 6822800 sq.meter, ensuring there's ample space to explore and soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings.

One of the notable features of Benital is the charming old-style bungalow that graces the landscape. It's essential to note that this bungalow is privately owned and not accessible to the general public. However, this exclusivity only adds to the mystique of the place, preserving its pristine charm. For those seeking a serene retreat or a romantic getaway, Benital presents an appealing choice. Whether you're looking to spend quality time with your loved ones or seeking a romantic escape as a couple, Benital's serene ambiance promises a memorable experience.

In essence, Benital is a testament to Uttarakhand's unending capacity to surprise and delight its visitors. With its unspoiled natural beauty, lush surroundings, and the air of exclusivity surrounding the old bungalow, it beckons those in search of a unique and tranquil escape. While Uttarakhand's more renowned destinations often steal the spotlight, hidden treasures like Benital remain quietly enchanting, waiting to be discovered by those who seek the road less traveled.

Located just 31 kilometers from Karnaprayag, Benital is easily accessible by road. As you embark on the journey to Benital, you'll be treated to the scenic beauty of the picturesque villages that dot the route, enhancing your travel experience. Benital isn't just a destination for relaxation & picnic spot; it's also a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers. The surrounding landscapes provide excellent opportunities for exploring the outdoors, and the area is teeming with avian wonders. You'll find the views from Benital to be nothing short of mesmerizing, with an abundance of tranquility and lush greenery to immerse yourself in.

The heart of Benital features a serene still-water lake, encircled by verdant, small grass fields. The local community utilizes the land for grazing their cows and buffaloes, adding to the rural character of the area. It's essential to note that Benital lacks traditional accommodation infrastructure, such as hotels or camps, making it a destination that remains close to its unspoiled natural state. This, in turn, ensures that your visit to Benital is an authentic and immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature and the local way of life.

Bential Fair

Every year on August 9, a one-day fair is held in Benital, commemorating the memory of the esteemed Uttarakhand state activist and martyr, Baba Mohan Uttarakhandi. He valiantly agitated for 38 days, championing the cause of making Gairsain the permanent capital of the state.

How to reach Benital

To reach Benital Lake, you have several options depending on your starting point and mode of travel. Here are some common routes to reach Benital:

By Road:

- If you're traveling by road, you can access Bential from several major cities in North India. The nearest major cities are Delhi and Dehradun. From Delhi, you can drive Karanprayag to Benital, which is approximately 340 kilometers away, and the journey usually takes around 10-11 hours.
- From Dehradun, Benital is about 230 kilometers away, and the journey takes approximately 7-8 hours.
- You can hire a taxi, take a private vehicle, or use state-run or private buses to reach Benital. There are regular bus services connecting major towns and cities in Uttarakhand to Karnaprayag. from karanprayag you can hire a texi or public transport.

By Train:

- The nearest railway station to Karnaprayag is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Rishikesh, you can continue your journey to Karnaprayag by road, either by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.

By Air:

- The nearest airport to benital is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can travel to Karnaprayag to benital by road.

By Trek:

- If you're an adventurous trekking lover, there is a trekking routes starting from Adibadri, which takes you from the nearby villages and towns. These trekking route offer a unique and scenic way to reach the Benital Village but it require a local person and preparation.