Chamoli district is the pride of the state Uttaranchal studding with major pilgrimage centre of the country like Badrinath, Joshimath and Hemkund Sahib, Snow-Clad Himalayan Peaks and phenomenon natural sceneries.
The district is said to be able to captivate any visitor with its mystic charm and pristine beauty. The lush green hills are a real paradise for trekking, climbing and hiking. Little quaint villages scattered around, International Border with Tibet and climatic cardinalities fulfills the journey with enthusiasm and lovable memories.
Chamoli District Stats
- District Headquarters: Gopeshwar
- Area: 7951 sq km
- Total Population: 3,91,114
- Literacy Rate: 76.23%
- Altitude: 1300 m
- Language: Kumauni, Garhwali, Hindi
- Best Season: Throughout the year
Places to Visit in Chamoli
- Badrinath : Badrinath, one of the most important pilgrim centre of the country is a part of sacred 'Char Dhams' of the State. It is flanked by Nar and Narayan mountains, while the Neelkanth Peak forms a splendid backdrop.
- Hemkund Sahib : Hemkund or the 'Snow Lake' nestles at a height of 4329 m. amidst seven snow-covered mountains, which are collectively called Hemkund Parvat.
- GovindGhat (15 kms) : It is set on the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhyundar or Lakshman Ganga. There is a big gurudwara here.
- Gopeshwar : The picturesque town of Gopeshwar has some good temples in and around the city. The main attractions are the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, Vaitarni Kund, a group of temples without idols and Oak View etc.
- Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra: Internationally renowned festival is held after every 12 years and celebration keeps on for three weeks. It’s a 280 km trek starting from Nauti Village (KarnaPrayag) to the peaks of HemKund or RoopKund.
- The Panch Prayag : 'Panch prayag' or the five most sacred river confluences of the Garhwal Himalayas are of immense religious importance. The five prayags are VishnuPrayag, NandPrayag, KarnaPrayag, RudraPrayag and DevPrayag, of which three are in Chamoli district.
- Nandaprayag: It is the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, about 21 kms from Karnaprayag, on the main route to Badrinath. The famous Gopalji temple is situated here. NandaPrayag hosts fair on the occasion of Baisakhi and Janmasthami.
- Karnaprayag: It is situated on the sacred confluence of Alaknanda and Pindari rivers and is known for the Karna Temple and the Uma Devi Temple. It is believed that Lord Surya gifted Kavatch, Kundal and Tuneer to Karna at KarnaPrayag.
- Joshimath : This important temple town is an important halt enroute to Badrinath and base for trekkers to the famous Valley of Flowers.
- Auli : This world-class winter games resort is 16 kms from Joshimath. The 3 kms long slope ranging from a height of 2519 mts. to 3049 mts. is a major attraction.
- Valley of Flowers : This 'paradise' of nature lovers was discovered by Frank Smythe along with R. L. Holdsworth in the 1930s. It lies 6 kms from Bhyundar village and covers an area of 87.5 kms, exceptionally rich in floral wealth.
How to Reach Chamoli
- By Air: Nearest airport for Chamoli is Jolly Grant (221 kms). Public Transport and Private Cabs are available from Airport to Chamoli anytime.
- By Rail: The nearest rail head is located at Rishikesh (202 kms). Haridwar may be another choice for those travelers who are planning to arrive by rail.
- By Road: Chamoli district is well connected by road, with important towns of the Uttaranchal, Delhi, Uttar-Pradesh and Punjab State which further connects it with outside world.