5 stunning places to visit in Chaukori, Uttarakhand
Located at an elevation of 2,010 meters above sea level, Chaukori is a beautiful tourist destination in Uttarakhand that offers mesmerizing views of the Panchachuli peaks. The place is surrounded by stunning fruit orchards, large stretches of tea gardens, and lush green forests, which make it a must-visit for nature lovers. Here are five places to visit on your trip to Chaukori.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar
One of the best places to visit when in Chaukori, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a limestone cave temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is a series of caves within the cave, and the inside is electrically illuminated and well-preserved. According to legends, the Pandavas stayed here with their wife, Draupadi, during their journey to salvation in the Himalayas.
Pindari Glacier
One of the most beautiful treks to visit near Chaukori, Pindari Glacier is nestled on the edge of Nanda Devi, which is the second-highest peak in India. It is the source of the Pindar River, which meets with the Alaknanda River at the confluence of Karnaprayag. The trek offers you stunning views of the Himalayas and takes you through dense forests and cascading rivers.
Nagmandir Temple
Located 10 kilometers from Chaukori in Berinag, Nagmandir Temple is dedicated to the serpent king with multiple heads called Sheshnag. According to Hindu mythology, Sheshnag forms the bed of Lord Vishnu and contributes to the well-being of mankind. The temple is said to have been constructed in the 14th century by the Pants, who were the Hindu Brahmins of Maharashtra.
Gangolihat
A popular Himalayan hill station 35 kilometers from Chaukori, Gangolihat is well-known for its music, religious traditions, and folk culture. According to legends, Adi Shankaracharya punished himself here to satisfy Adi Shakti. An old temple called Hat-lalika is nestled here, which is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Thousands of devotees and pilgrims visit this place every year. Several local fairs are also organized in Gangolihat.
Nakuleshwar Temple
A well-known religious site near Chaukori in Pithoragarh, the Nakuleshwar Temple is built in the unique Khajuraho architecture style that attracts various historians and devotees throughout the year. According to legends, the temple was constructed by the last two Pandavas named Sahadev and Nakula. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features 38 stone images of different Hindu gods and goddesses.