Hello everyone, welcome to Trip Trek Tales, another day, another new place is waiting for you. So, today in this blog, we will take you on a journey to a small hidden village of Uttarakhand, the name is Kanatal. The blog will discuss the things to do in Kanatal, where we lay out an activity plan for you. Also, in this blog, we will provide you with several important information that can help you plan your trip to Kanatal.

Kanatal is a small gem that is hidden in the peaceful Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. This small hill station is 40 km away, and it presents a unique source of adventure, serenity, and natural beauty. And now comes the twist to it, Kanatal is not simply a sightseeing place but a soulful holiday where silence turns into music and each new sunrise is like a new start.

Imagine that you want to disconnect from city life, have the chance to live in the lifestyle of the real mountain, and enjoy some views. In that case, this guide to things to do in Kanatal will be your perfect companion.

9 Best Things to do in Kanatal to Make your Trip Memorable

If you are visiting Kanatal, then we suggest some of the things you must do when you are in this beautiful haven.

1. Witness the Magic of Sunrise at Surkanda Devi Temple

One of the most iconic places to visit in Kanatal, Surkanda Devi Temple sits atop a hill at 2,757 meters and offers 360-degree views of snow-draped Himalayan peaks. The early morning trek (around 2 km from Kaddukhal) is invigorating, especially when the Kanatal temperature dips and the mist curls around the pine trees.

When the sun shines on the temple dome, it unleashes the colours of orange and pink into the sky, and it is worth all the strides. It is not only a religious place but also a spiritual cleanse for all the travellers who want to relax their minds.

2. Embrace Wilderness at the Kodia Jungle

When it comes to adventure-filled activities in Kanatal, exploring the Kodia Jungle tops the list. It is a thick forest path, a few kilometers away out of the main town, which is populated by wild boars, ghorals, barking deer, and various kinds of birds.

You can either be on a guided jeep tour or you can go on a relaxing walk in the forest tracks in the cool mountain air. The soothing Kanatal temperature makes this experience even more enjoyable, especially between March and June when the forest is in full bloom.

3. Camp Under a Blanket of Stars

In case you have ever imagined sleeping in the stars and, at the same time, with a smell of pine in the air, Kanatal camping is an experience that you cannot afford to miss. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, camping here is one of the most magical things to do in Kanatal.

There are numerous camps and Kanatal stays offering cosy tents, bonfire nights, and barbecue dinners. Sipping hot tea in front of the fire and looking at the Milky Way in the sky,  it is film heaven.

4. Adventure Awaits: Ziplining, Rock Climbing & Rappelling

Kanatal is also emerging as a hub for adrenaline junkies. The activities in Kanatal include Kanatal is also becoming a venue of adrenaline junkies. The activities in Kanatal include ziplining, rock climbing, valley crossing, and rappelling, all set against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas.

Adventure camps and Kanatal hotels and resorts offer packages that combine these thrilling experiences with scenic hikes and nature walks. It is an excellent opportunity to have fun and rest during one trip.

5. Day Picnic at Tehri Lake

A short drive from Kanatal brings you to the stunning Tehri Lake, a man-made reservoir that has become one of the most photogenic places to visit in Kanatal. The crystal waters of turquoise hue are ideal for boating, jet skiing, and kayaking.

The gentle Kanatal temperature ensures that even during summer, you can spend hours here without feeling drained. The lake reflects the evolving sky as the sun goes down and makes the postcard-perfect pictures.

6. Experience Authentic Mountain Life through Homestays

While Kanatal has beautiful resorts, it’s the Kanatal homestays (yes, many owned by settlers from different regions of India) that offer a truly warm and personalised experience. These stays are a combination of homely and Garhwali hospitality.

Wake up with a mountain breakfast, which is aloo parathas and chai, get exposed to locals, and get familiar with the sustainable life in the region. These Kanatal homestays are perfect for travellers seeking more than just a vacation, they promise connection and cultural immersion.

7. Stay in Luxury: Kanatal’s Best Resorts and Hotels

If your idea of vacation includes a touch of luxury, there are several 5 star hotels in Kanatal that redefine mountain comfort. These accommodations provide restoration in all its forms, with beautiful rooms that look out on the valley, or the use of heated swimming pools, and in-house spas.

Some of the best resorts in Kanatal also organise yoga retreats and guided nature walks, making them ideal for wellness travellers. Popular choices among visitors include The Terraces Kanatal, Club Mahindra Kanatal, and other premium Kanatal hotels and resorts offering a seamless blend of nature and luxury.

8. Bonfire Nights & Local Flavors

After a full day filled with adventure, we suggest you spend the night with a bonfire. Most Kanatal resort and camping spots arrange live music and storytelling sessions under the stars. You should not pass up the opportunity to taste local Garhwali foods- you have to taste Aloo ke Gutke, Kafuli, and Mandua ki Roti.

These are the most soulful of evenings, and some of the best recollections of your journey, as they recall to you the reason why it is so gratifying to linger in the mountains.

9. Take a Scenic Drive to Dhanaulti and Mussoorie

In case you spend more time, you must drive somewhere nearby to Dhanaulti or Mussoorie. These hill stations are within an hour’s distance and provide a different atmosphere- crowded marketplaces, cafes,and beautiful viewpoints.

It is a road hedged with pine, orchard, and winding curves, and the journey is as pleasant as the place. It’s one of the most scenic places to visit in Kanatal and its surrounding region.

What is the Best Time to Visit Kanatal

The beauty in Kanatal varies with the seasons.

• Summer (April-June): Ideal for trekking and sightseeing; the Kanatal temperature stays between 15 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius.
• Monsoon (July-September): The hills are now green, but landslides may take place.
• Winter (October-February): It will be a snow day! The Kanatal temperature can drop below 0 degrees Celsius, offering mesmerising snow-clad landscapes.

Each season is beautiful, and so Kanatal is an all-year-round vacation for various types of travellers.

Best Stays in Kanatal – From Cosy Homestays to Lavish Resorts

The selection of the appropriate accommodation can maximise your mountain holiday. If you’re traveling on a budget, cosy Kanatal stays and Kanatal homestays offer comfort with local flavor. For those seeking indulgence, 5 star hotels in Kanatal and the best resorts in Kanatal come with spa facilities, valley-view balconies, and luxurious amenities.

Whether you choose a rustic Kanatal resort surrounded by deodar trees or a modern retreat with all conveniences, the hospitality here feels genuine and heartfelt.

Here we have listed down some of the best Kanatal hotels and resorts. Please check these Kanatal stays if you are planning your trip in the upcoming days or months:

• The Woods by Aaryam Resort
• The Mountilla Resort
• Club Mahindra Resort
• Keekoo Stays

Why Kanatal Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

Kanatal is not about checking off the list of sightseeing places; it is more about experiencing the beat of the mountains. There is a soul-touching place in stillness, pine fragrance, warm welcome by locals, and a lack of digital clatter that makes the place a destination.

Among all the things to do in Kanatal, perhaps the most meaningful is doing nothing–just sitting quietly with a cup of chai, watching clouds drift over the valley.

Read More: Jeolikote Travel Guide

Final Thoughts

You may be after an adventure, you may be after some peace, or perhaps you just need to get rejuvenated, but Kanatal has the experience that no other hill station can give. It is the sort of place that you will never forget, even after you go. This is a beautiful hidden gem of Uttarakhand that cannot be left unexplored. We have provided you all the things to do in Kanatal, so go there and create your own memories.

Grab your bags, fill up your camera, and prepare to explore the beauty of this secret treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions