Chakrata is one of those rare, lesser-known hilltop destinations that remain untouched by heavy tourism. Just a 4.5-hour drive from our home, it’s a hidden gem near Dehradun that offers stunning views, peaceful hikes, and a true escape into nature.
The Scenic Drive to Chakrata
The journey itself is a highlight. The road conditions are surprisingly good, and the drive is mostly traffic-free, making it an absolute pleasure. There are stretches under construction and some enclosed valley patches with no views, but when the landscape opens up, it makes up for everything. Towering deodars, winding mountain roads, and crisp mountain air set the tone for the trip.
Where We Stayed – A Quiet Retreat in Auli Village
Instead of staying in Chakrata town, we chose a more secluded option—Auli village, about 20 km away. It’s a tiny settlement with just 20-30 homes, perched beautifully on the hills with breathtaking views.
Our guest house was simple yet comfortable, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The only catch? There were no restaurants nearby, so all our meals were provided by the guest house itself. But with home-cooked food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, we didn’t mind at all.
Hiking in Auli – Endless Scenic Trails
One of the best things about staying in Auli was the access to incredible hiking trails. You can pick a path and walk for hours, soaking in the mesmerizing landscapes, crisp air, and absolute serenity. There’s no fixed route—just nature at its best, waiting to be explored. If you love peaceful, offbeat hikes, this place is a dream come true.
Exploring Chakrata – Tiger Falls & Mall Road
While we loved the solitude of Auli, we also took some time to visit popular spots in Chakrata.
Tiger Falls – A Refreshing Morning Escape
We were lucky to reach Tiger Falls early in the morning before the crowds arrived. The short 30-minute downhill hike from the parking spot was easy and rewarding. The waterfall itself was stunning—crystal-clear, ice-cold water tumbling down into a peaceful pool. We spent an hour there, enjoying the view and sipping on Maggi and chai from a small stall nearby before making the hour-long hike back up.
Chakrata Mall Road – A Small But Charming Market
Unlike the more commercial hill stations, Chakrata’s Mall Road is a short 500-meter stretch with small local shops and eateries. Cars aren’t allowed here, but parking is easy to find along the main road. The food was surprisingly good—simple yet delicious momos and breakfast dishes at budget-friendly prices. We strolled through every little corner, spending a good 2-3 hours soaking in the relaxed vibe of the town.
Offbeat Adventure – The Road to Hanol
One afternoon, we decided to take the road to Hanol, a drive that winds through dense deodar forests. It was just as beautiful as expected, but we quickly learned that the area is damp and full of leeches—so if you ever visit, be mindful of where you step!
Budget Breakdown
A weekend in Chakrata turned out to be quite affordable. Here’s what we spent:
- Stay: ₹2,000 per night × 2 nights = ₹4,000 (Our guest house was cheaper because it was 20 km outside Chakrata. Hotels in Chakrata town typically cost around ₹4,000 per night.)
- Fuel: 200 km × 2 = ₹2,000
- Meals: ₹200 per meal × 4 meals × 2 people = ₹1,600
Total: Approx ₹8,000 for 2 people
Final Thoughts
Chakrata is perfect for those looking for a quiet, nature-filled retreat away from the usual tourist crowds. Whether it’s hiking in Auli, exploring Tiger Falls, or simply enjoying the scenic drive, this hidden gem in Uttarakhand offers a refreshing escape. If you love peace, adventure, and offbeat travel, put Chakrata on your weekend getaway list!