Ultimate Guide to Kalapani

Kalapani

Kalapani in Uttarakhand is a beautiful tourist attraction in Pithoragarh District. Situated on the banks of the Kali River, this is a boundary town of India and Nepal, and it is under the Indian administration. Also known as Vyas Valley, Kalapani is a blossoming valley with breathtaking vistas, which is adorned with Pine and Bhojpatra trees. Tourists seeking peace visit this serene and beautiful valley. It is also one of the top places to visit during the sacred pilgrimage to Chhota Kailash. If you are planning a trip to Kalapani with friends or family, use our Kalapani travel guide to plan your itinerary. Our travel guide is overflowing with the essential information on which places to visit and top things to do in Kalapani, and the best time to visit.

About Kalapani: The Source of the Kali River

Kalapani is located in Dharchula, Uttarakhand, which is the source of the Kali River. Hence, it is a crucial water source for the surrounding areas. This majestic valley beckons tourists with its scenic vistas of the great Himalayas and natural beauty. It is a serene haven for pilgrims on their sacred pilgrimage to Chhota Kailash and Om Parvat. The serene atmosphere with pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings makes Kalapani a must-visit attraction in Uttarakhand.

Kalapani is also known as Vyas Valley, because it is believed that the great Sage Ved Vyas lived for a long time here and meditated here. There is also the cave where Ved Vyas composed the Mahabharata with Lord Ganesha. Today, the cave is a popular attraction of Kalapani. Apart from this, the Kali Temple, Kalapani Spring, and nearby villages, like Gunji and Budhi, are the best places to explore.

Top Attractions of Kalapani

Kalapani is not only a natural wonder but also a spiritual and historical site. It is also the source of the Kali River. Kalapani translates to “Black Water”. Apart from the breathtaking landscapes, Kalapani has plenty of attractions that are a sight to behold. Here is a list of the places that you must visit near Kalapani, Uttarakhand:

Kali Mandir

Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the Kali Mandir is one of the most sacred places in Kalapani. The temple stands peacefully amidst snow-capped peaks and dense forests. It is believed that the Kali River originates near this temple, adding a divine aura to the place. Pilgrims visit here to seek blessings and enjoy the calm atmosphere.

Adi Kailash

Also known as Chhota Kailash, Adi Kailash is one of the main attractions of Kalapani. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan ranges, this sacred mountain resembles Mount Kailash in Tibet. The trek to Adi Kailash is a journey of faith and adventure, offering stunning views of nature and a deep sense of spirituality.

Pata Bhuvaneshwar

Located near Gangolihat, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a mysterious limestone cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave is filled with natural rock formations that resemble gods and goddesses. It is said that visiting this cave equals a visit to all the twelve Jyotirlingas. A must-see for anyone exploring the best tourist places near Kalapani.

Chital Golu Devta Temple

This temple is devoted to Golu Devta, the god of justice and faith. Locals believe that sincere prayers made here are always answered. Surrounded by thick deodar forests, the Chital Golu Devta Temple is not only a place of devotion but also a peaceful retreat for travelers.

Vyas Cave

Named after Sage Vyas, who is believed to have written the Mahabharata, Vyas Cave is an ancient and sacred site near Kalapani. The cave offers a quiet escape and a chance to feel the deep spiritual energy of the Himalayas. It’s an important stop for pilgrims visiting Adi Kailash and Om Parvat.

Best Things to Do in Kalapani

Kalapani is a hidden gem of Uttarakhand, which beckons tourists with its pristine natural beauty. And, the beauty of Kalapani lies in the diverse experiences it offers to its visitors. Apart from exploring the top attractions nearby

  • Trekking: Many tourists enjoy trekking in the gentle trails in Kalapani that lead to hidden viewpoints and beautiful surroundings. Whether you are a trekker or not, whether you like adventure or not, trekking in Kalapani will be a great experience for you.
  • Photography and Sightseeing: From beautiful flowers to the lush surroundings, Kalapani is one of the most scenic places in Uttarakhand that is perfect for photography sessions. Apart from sightseeing, enjoy photography and capture the beauty of the place.

How to Reach Kalapani

Kalapani is located in the easternmost corner of the Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand. This shares a border with Tibet to the North and Nepal to the South and East. To reach Kalapani, you can use different modes of transport. Let’s see the best travel options and route:

By Air: The nearest airport to Kalapani is Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh. Kalapani is well-connected to Pithoragarh. From there, you can take any bus and reach Dharchula. Then take a shared taxi/cab to reach Tawaghat, then trek to reach Kalapani.

By Train: You can reach Tanakpur Railway Station. From there, take a bus to reach Pithoragarh, and from there, you can take a shared taxi/cab to reach Tawaghat, then trek to reach Kalapani.

By Road: This is the best way to reach Kalapani. You can take any bus to reach Pithoragarh from Delhi or Dehradun. From there, reach Dharchula, the last motorable road, by taking a bus. After reaching Dharchula, trek to Kalapani.

Best Time to Visit Kalapani

To make the most of your Kalapani trip, it is crucial to pick the right time to visit the place. It is a part of the great Himalayas. So, you can expect frequent changes in the climate of the region. However, the summer season from April to June is the best time to visit Kalapani. Apart from this, the post-monsoon season from October to November is also the best time to visit Kalapani. During these seasons, the weather remains pleasant, and you can see the surroundings in full bloom. This provides you with the perfect setting with clear skies and mild temperatures for sightseeing and adventure activities, like trekking.