Tehri – Spirituality meets Tranquility
Uttarakhand’s largest district is Tehri Gharwal. The holy river, Bhagirathi runs through Tehri and almost looks like it is dividing the district into two halves. The town of Tehri stretches from the snow-clad Himalayan peaks of Thalaiya Sagar, Jonli and Gangotri group all the way to the foothills of Rishikesh.
Importance
Tehri is an ancient place and is considered to be one of the most sacred cities in India. It is said that Lord Brahma used to meditate here before the creation of the entire universe. Tehri gets its name from the word Trihari which signifies a place that washes the three types of sins – Mansa, Vacha, and Karmana which translates to thought, word, and deeds respectively.
Tehri has a special significance from a spiritual standpoint. By the virtue of this, people from all around the world flock to the town of Tehri. Having said that, it is not just a spiritual destination but is also a go-to for people seeking some quiet time in nature and people wanting to participate in adventure sports.
Places to Visit in Tehri
Tehri Dam
Tehri Dam is the main attraction of Tehri. Standing at a staggering height of 260 meters, the Tehri Dam is one of the tallest dams in the world and the tallest in India. The Tehri dam serves not just in functionality by providing hydroelectricity but is also very popular amongst tourists who flock to see this architectural marvel and indulge in some water activities such as rowing, boating, canoeing, etc.
Chamba
Nestled amidst dense forests, the town of Chamba is one of those rare gems that are untouched. Lush with pines and deodars all over, Chamba sits at a height of 1676 meters above sea level. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the holy river Bhagirathi. Chamba has the best of both worlds: for the explorer in you, it has the Gabar Singh Memorial and Bageshwar Mahadev temple and for the nature enthusiast in you, it has some beautiful lesser-explored trekking trails.
Beautiful Temples
Tehri is surrounded by some beautiful temples like the Chandrabadni Temple, Sen Mukhem temple and while reaching some of these temples may require a short trek, they are all worth it. The Chandrabadni Temple is particularly known for beautifully carved white marbles and tiles and the Sen Mukhem temple is dedicated to the Snake God.
Activities to do in Tehri
Trekking
Tehri has a plethora of options when it comes to trekking trails and spots. All of Tehri is an amalgamation of beautiful streams and waterways making it one of the most picturesque places where a trek seems like no work at all.
Rock Climbing
For all you thrill chasers and adrenaline junkies out there, you will find a great opportunity to go rock climbing in Tehri. Usually said rock climbing happens in an artificial setup but the thrill is all real. This activity can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Shopping
The local Tehri market is a great place where you can pick up locally made handicrafts, woolen clothes, and junk jewelry.
River Rafting
River rafting on the Bhagirathi river continues to be a favorite amongst tourists and if water sports are your thing, you cannot miss this.
Best time to visit Tehri
Although Tehri is a popular tourist destination all year round, it is particularly great to visit between the months of March and May. Tehri during this time period is very pleasant with the nights a little on the cold side. You should carry light woolens or a light jacket if you are traveling to Tehri in the months between March and May.
For all of you mesmerized with snow, Tehri is a great winter vacation destination as well as you can find yourself get lost in the serenity and tranquillity of Tehri’s snow-capped mountains.
How to reach Tehri
By Air
The airport closest to Tehri is the Jolly Grant airport situated in Dehradun. Tehri is approximately 86 kilometers away from this airport and several cabs are available at the airport which will take you to Tehri.
By Rail
The railway station nearest to Tehri is the Haridwar Railway station which is well connected to the different cities of the country. Get any mode of transport easily from the station.
By Road
Tehri is a significant part of the state of Uttarakhand and is therefore connected well to other cities and towns with roads. One can take a normal or luxury bus to Tehri. In case you are traveling from a place far away, you can also take a flight till Delhi and finish the rest of the commute on a bus or a taxi.
Whether your holidays have a spiritual purpose or an adventurous one, the town of Tehri will never disappoint.
