By Apoorva Dabral
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Kotdwar—meaning “Gateway to the Hills”—is one of Uttarakhand’s most underrated yet spiritually enriching destinations. Derived from the words “Kot” (fort or hills) and “Dwar” (gate), Kotdwar truly lives up to its name as the entrance to the Garhwal region. Located about 116 km from Dehradun, Kotdwar is a scenic retreat that blends nature, spirituality, history, and modern infrastructure.
Religious Significance: Home of Sidhbali Temple and Kanv Ashram
Kotdwar is renowned for the sacred Sidhbali Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman in his “Siddh” form. Perched atop a hill with a panoramic view of the Khoh River, the temple is a major pilgrimage site in Garhwal. Daily bhandaras (community feasts) and aartis attract thousands of devotees. Offerings like jaggery and coconut-filled water symbolize the faith and traditions carried over generations.
The city is also known as Kanv Nagari, home to the Kanv Ashram hidden in the dense forests. Believed to be the very place where Shakuntala lived and where King Bharat—after whom India (Bharat) is named—was born and raised, the ashram remains an important mythological and cultural landmark.
Wildlife and Nature: Gateway to Rajaji National Park
Nature lovers will find themselves in awe of Rajaji National Park, one of India’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. Located near Kotdwar, it is home to elephants, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. The surrounding forests provide ample opportunities for trekking, photography, and wildlife sightings, making Kotdwar a nature enthusiast’s paradise.
Kotdwar: Emerging Hub for Char Dham Yatra
Strategically located, Kotdwar serves as a vital link for the Char Dham Yatra. With a distance of 241 km to Kedarnath and 324 km to Badrinath, and only 70 km from Haridwar, it acts as a perfect base for pilgrims embarking on this sacred journey. The improving road infrastructure ensures smoother and faster connectivity.
Local Life and Cuisine: Discover the Flavors of Kotdwar
Kotdwar’s bustling marketplaces, particularly around Jhanda Chowk, offer a delightful mix of shopping and local street food. Popular treats like momos, thukpa, and lamb dishes dominate the local cuisine. Don’t miss the legendary “Hot and Cold” dessert shop, especially known for its blueberry pastries. The city also boasts fresh produce, supplied directly from nearby villages, making the fruits and vegetables exceptionally fresh and organic.
Ongoing Developments: A City on the Rise
Kotdwar is rapidly transforming with several infrastructure projects under development:
- Kotdwar Railway Station is being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
- A new Sidhbali-Kotdwar–Delhi train service has been launched.
- Construction of a modern hospital, bus terminal, and a four-lane bypass is underway.
- Sewage treatment plant under the Namami Gange Project is being built at a cost of ₹135 crore.
- Kotdwar–Najibabad double-lane road project worth ₹691 crore is in progress.
These initiatives reflect the city’s potential as a modern yet culturally rooted destination.
Why Visit Kotdwar?
Kotdwar is more than just a town—it’s an entry point to the spiritual and natural richness of Uttarakhand. From mythological tales to modern urban upgrades, Kotdwar offers a balanced lifestyle and a memorable travel experience for pilgrims, nature lovers, and casual tourists alike.