Surkanda Devi Temple, Kanatal

Flowing gently at an elevation of 1700 metres, Tehri Lake is an artificial reservoir built alongside the Tehri Dam to divert the water from Kanatal’s Bhagirathi River to fill the reservoir. Apart from being a beautiful visual, Tehri Lake is an adventure destination for thrill-seekers owing to the adrenaline-pumping water and aerial sports the destination offers. In an attempt to encourage tourism, the lake is bustling with activities ranging from kayaking to boating, water skiing to scuba diving, and even some unique activities like canoeing, water zorbing, paragliding and hot air balloon rides. If you aren’t an aquaphile, don’t fret, for the picturesque lake is enough to bring a smile to your face. Location: Koti Colony, New Tehri

Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Surkanda Devi Temple is a 3 km walk from the village, Kaddukhal. Legend has it that when Goddess Sati died, her husband Lord Shiva carried her body back to Kailash, which is when her head fell at the spot where the temple was then erected. Thus, the name Sirkandha was derived, which over the passage of time is called Surkanda. This ancient site is surrounded by lush greenery and a panoramic view of the breathtaking Himalayas!Pilgrims from all over flank this holy spot during Ganga Dussehra and Navratri, the array of colours and lights making the celebration worth witnessing!Timings: Summer - 05:00 am to 07.00 pm/ Winter - 07:00 am to 05.00 pmLocation: Chamba - Mussoorie Road, Saklana Range, Uttarakhand 249145, India

New Tehri is a peaceful hill town that sits between 1,550 and 1,950 meters above sea level. It looks out over the huge green expanse of Tehri Lake and the Tehri Dam, which is India's tallest dam and a world-class engineering marvel.People who want to have fun go jet skiing, kayaking, speedboating, and even stay in floating huts on the reservoir. The 440 m single-lane Dobra-Chanti suspension bridge is a thrill for both drivers and hikers. Chandrabadni, Sem Mukhem, and Surkanda Devi are hilltop shrines that can be reached by spiritual trails. From there, you can see the Himalayas from all sides. Outside of town, beautiful hikes to Khatling Glacier, Panwali Kantha, and Nag Tibba go through slopes covered in rhododendrons and alpine meadows.

Places to visit in Kanatal are many, but there’s nothing like the spotless Kaudia Forest. Kaudia is great for picnics, bird watching, nature photography, and hiking. The dense, serene forest opens up to breathtaking views of steep hills and valleys as you walk through the greenery, natural springs gurgling along the sides. You can explore the forest by opting for a Jeep Safari from Kanatal to Kaudia, with prior permission. This ride will introduce you to wildlife that inhabits the forest, and is a great photo opportunity for enthusiasts. Kaudia is also considered a great picnic spot, so if you’re travelling with friends and family, make sure to carry along a few snacks, take a break from all the activities and just breathe in the beauty around!Timings: 9 am to 5 pmEntry Fee/Price: Rs. 20 per personLocation: Kanatal, Kaudia Range, Uttarakhand 249130