Things to Do in Chakrata – A Simple and Complete Travel Guide

Chakrata is a peaceful hill town in Uttarakhand that feels calm, slow, and very close to nature. It is about 90 km from Dehradun and sits at a height of around 2,100 meters. The place is surrounded by thick forests, small villages, and open valleys. Many people visit Chakrata when they want a break from crowded hill stations. The weather stays pleasant most of the year, and the area is perfect for walking, trekking, waterfalls, and quiet days in nature.

If you are planning a trip soon, this guide will help you understand the best things to do in Chakrata, along with tips, places to visit, and what you can expect from each activity.

What Makes Chakrata Special

Chakrata is known for its simple lifestyle, slow pace, clean air, and untouched forests. It is also home to the Jaunsari tribe, who live in small wooden homes and follow traditional customs. If you enjoy peaceful mountains, long walks, and natural beauty without too much noise, Chakrata is a great choice.

Some of the most popular things to do in Chakrata include visiting waterfalls, trekking, exploring caves, enjoying village life, and relaxing at viewpoints.

Top Things to Do in Chakrata

1. Visit Tiger Falls

Tiger Falls is one of the most famous places in Chakrata. The waterfall is about 50 meters high and is surrounded by tall deodar trees. The walk to the waterfall is simple for most people and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour from the base. The sound of the water, the cool air, and the greenery around the area make it a good place to relax.

You can sit near the pool, click photos, or even dip your feet in the cold water. Many visitors enjoy packing a small lunch and spending an hour or two here. It is one of the best things to do in Chakrata, especially for nature lovers.

2. Explore Deoban Forest

Deoban is a quiet forested area about 15 km from Chakrata. The name “Deoban” means “forest of the gods.” The place is full of tall trees, and the view from the top is beautiful on a clear day.

Deoban is also a good spot for:

• Bird watching
• Long walks
• Photography
• Light trekking

From the top, you can see high Himalayan peaks if the sky is clear. The air here feels very fresh, and the silence of the forest makes the walk enjoyable.

3. Enjoy the View from Chilmiri Neck

Chilmiri Neck is one of the highest points in Chakrata and is known for its wide mountain views. Many people visit it in the evening for sunset. The area has open space for sitting and relaxing, and you can walk around easily.

This place is perfect for:

• Simple family outings
• Sunset views
• Nature photography
• Peaceful evenings

If you want a slow evening in the hills, this is one of the best things to do in Chakrata.

4. Visit Kimona Falls

Kimona Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall near Chakrata. It is around 2 km away and requires a short walk through the forest. The place is usually quiet, which makes it good for people who want to spend time in nature without many visitors around.

Some visitors also try rappelling here with the help of local guides. The waterfall looks especially nice in the early morning when the area is still misty.

5. Explore Budher Caves (Miola Caves)

The Budher Caves are natural limestone caves located around 30 km from Chakrata. The trek leading to the cave is simple and takes you through open meadows and forest patches. The caves are deep, and the temperature inside stays cool.

Important things to remember:

• Carry a torch or flashlight
• Wear proper shoes
• The caves can be slippery inside
• Go with a guide if possible

For people who love exploring natural structures, this is one of the most unique things to do in Chakrata.

6. Visit Ram Tal Garden

Ram Tal Garden is a peaceful garden area with a pond, walking paths, and trees. It is about 9 km from Chakrata and is suitable for families, children, and anyone who wants to spend easy time in nature.

You can do:

• Bird watching
• Light walking
• Picnics
• Relaxation

The area is also good for short photography sessions.

7. Walk Around Local Jaunsari Villages

One of the best things to do in Chakrata is to take a village walk. The nearby Jaunsari villages have wooden homes, narrow lanes, and friendly locals. You can see traditional customs, local clothes, and farmland.

If you stay in a homestay, you can enjoy local dishes like:

• Aloo ke gutke
• Mandua roti
• Local chutneys
• Seasonal village food

The village lifestyle is simple and calm, and spending time here gives you a feel of real mountain culture.

8. Try Short Treks in Chakrata

Chakrata has many small and medium-level treks suitable for beginners. Some popular ones include:

Moila Top

A green meadow with views of the valley. The trek is about 2.5 km and takes under an hour.

Kanasar Trek

A scenic walk through forests and open patches. The area also has one of Asia’s largest deodar trees.

Mundali Trek

A good trek in winter if you want to see snow. In the winter months, this place also becomes a skiing spot.

These treks are simple but very enjoyable for anyone who likes walking in nature.

9. Adventure Activities in Chakrata

If you are looking for some adventure, Chakrata has a few options:

• Rock climbing
• Rappelling
• River crossing
• Mountain cycling
• Winter skiing in Mundali
• Guided nature walks

Local adventure groups organize these activities with proper safety equipment.

10. Stargazing and Camping

Chakrata is a great place for stargazing because there is very little light pollution. Many camping sites near Deoban, Kanasar, and Tiger Falls offer tent stays where you can enjoy:

• Bonfire nights
• Stargazing
• Local food
• Quiet surroundings

If you love peaceful nights in the mountains, camping is one of the best things to do in Chakrata.

Suggested 3-Day Plan

Here is a simple plan to cover the best places in Chakrata:

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Day 1	Travel to Chakrata	Visit Ram Tal Garden	Sunset at Chilmiri Neck
Day 2	Tiger Falls Trek	Lunch + Kimona Falls	Camping at Deoban
Day 3	Budher Caves	Village walk	Return journey

Where to Stay

Chakrata has simple stays, homestays, and a few hotels.

Popular Options:

• Budget rooms around the market area
• Mid-range homestays in Kanasar
• Eco-stays near Tiger Falls
• Camping sites in Deoban

Rooms usually start from ₹800 to ₹1500 for budget stays and go up to ₹4000 or more for better cottages.

Best Time to Visit

• March to June – Good weather, clear views
• September to November – Cool and pleasant
• December to February – Snow in higher areas
• July to August – Rains and slippery roads (avoid heavy travel)

How to Reach

• By Road: 3–4 hours from Dehradun
• By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant (Dehradun)
• By Train: Nearest station – Dehradun station

From Dehradun, taxis and buses are easily available.

Helpful Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking
• Carry warm clothes in winter
• Keep a small medical kit
• Avoid late-night driving in hills
• Respect local customs, especially in villages
• Keep nature clean and carry your waste back

FAQs About Things to Do in Chakrata

Q1. Is Chakrata safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Chakrata is safe, peaceful, and simple to navigate.

Q2. How many days are enough for Chakrata?

2 to 3 days are perfect to cover the main places.

Q3. Can beginners do treks in Chakrata?

Yes, most treks like Moila Top and Deoban are suitable for beginners.

Q4. Are there good food options?

You will find local food, simple cafes, and small eateries. The area is not commercial, so expect basic food.

Q5. Does Chakrata get snow?

Yes, higher areas like Mundali receive snow in winter.

Chakrata is a place where you can slow down, breathe fresh air, and enjoy simple mountain life. Whether you’re visiting waterfalls, walking through forests, exploring caves, or relaxing at viewpoints, there is always something peaceful to enjoy. If you want a quiet break far away from crowded places, these things to do in Chakrata will give you a refreshing and memorable experience.

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