Bhalu Gaad Waterfall- Engulfed by the forest of Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

A place where at every step you take produces a crunching sound of dry reddish-yellow leaves. A trail that requires you to climb and jump across the big boulders. A walk along side a stream so clear that its pebble bed coloured in multiple shades of greenish-yellow shined brightly under the clear sky. This sounds like but is not a scene picked up from a story tale. There actually exists a place that’s in complete seclusion nesting amidst flora and fauna, providing a relaxing sensation and can bring even Einstein’s mind to the state of peace. So would you want to get on this journey with me and know about how to reach Bhalu Gaad Waterfall and when is the best time to visit.

Wondering why the name Bhalu Gaad? Now talking in terms of kumaoni language i.e their local language, ‘Bhalu’ means Bear and ‘Gaad’ means streams of water. Since you walk along a stream and the area was once home to Bears its named ‘Bhalu Gaad’.

Trail to bhalu gaad waterfall starts likes this

The discovery of Bhalu Gaad Waterfall

Well, yes… for me it was kind of discovery in itself. I couldn’t and for that matter no one in my group could have imagined that their exits a trail that can be titled as a journey to the another world. There was a complete flip in the aura of the environment. Discovery of the hidden gems is one of the benefits of travelling with the locals or with a person who knows every nook of the place in and around. And we were lucky we had the team of Nainital Cottages to show us hidden gems of Mukteshwar in & around.

First step on the trail

The car stopped and there seemed no possibility of a trail to exist.

The moment we got down of our cars, we were like What! Are you kidding.. There can’t be a trail here and that too leading to a waterfall.

To my amazement, there were in-fact two trails. Believe me or not but it’s not easy to make out where the path would lead to as there exists no sign boards. This is good to some extent as it would keep the place less touristy.

And, then we stepped further into the forest…

Here the trail starts from

An easy hike to Bhalu Gaad Waterfall

Whenever there is a hike involved in any itinerary, then the very first concerns that flow across our minds is How Difficult Is It? Is it a good idea to take along kids? And much more…

Just to answer all your worries in one line.. The trail to Bhalu Gaad waterfall is pretty easy and a very casual hike.

But, not to forget there will be stream crossings, rock climbing like activities involved be prepared for it. And just like for any other hikes, be prepared for the unforeseen situations. Talking about the steepness of the trail, it is very much flat and you would be walking in the valley along the stream.

Words won’t do justice to it so without wasting any more words and your precious time in describing its mesmerizing beauty let me show you how you can reach there…And, whatever time you saved on reading can be put to use in packing your bags.

Reaching Bhalu Gaad Waterfall

Stream Crossing

 

The most convenient way to reach here is by road. Mukteshwar is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Dehradun at about 6-8hrs of drive. Regular buses and trains ply to Haldwani which is 2.5hrs and you could easily hire a cab from here.

 

Canteen on the way

 

To reach Bhalu Gaad you will have to drive to Dhari village which is at 7km from Mukteshwar towards Haldwani. This is the point where the trek starts from and it takes around 45 min. to reach the fall.

 

 

You may also like- Best Cottage to Stay in Mukteshwar

 

Words of wisdom from my experience and research

• There could be an entry fee of 10rs during peak season.

  

  Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

• I visited the fall in the month on November when there were no tourists and hence no stalls but during summers it is frequented by the locals. So, you may or may not find tea stalls near and on the way to the fall depending upon the time you make a visit. Also, you may find life jackets available on rent.
• The monsoon period though increases the beauty but along with it comes factors like slippery rocks, increased flows and more. It is advisable to be prepared for the same. But, since the water gets muddy during monsoons, that crystal clear water with glittering pebble bed won’t be visible.
• Based on a recent incident I would suggest to avoid swimming if you are an amateur specially in rainy days when the flow is high. Also, if you chose to swim then avoid getting just below the fall. As fascinating as it sounds it’s equally risky as with heavy flow comes the boulders that could hit your head any moment… Enjoy but responsibly.
• I am not sure if proper changing rooms are available so its suggested to wear dry pants and t-shirts that dry off quickly.
• Give yourself an easy 3 hours to trek and completely enjoy the nature without any hustle.
• PARKING- now since there is no designated parking from where the trek starts so please be sure to park your cars on the roadside but without obstructing the way.
• At last, Bhalu Gaad Waterfall WELCOMES you with open arms but not your GARBAGE. So, be responsible to bring it all back and dispose properly. I am sure you would not accept others to make your house a dump yard so you shouldn’t do that too.

 

Lake Pleasant Resort Naukuchiatal – A harmonious blend of comfort and nature

Naukuchiatal, a nine-cornered lake is perched in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand. Bordered by the lush green peaks touching the sky the lake offers a blissful sight. The beauty of Naukuchiatal is left untouched by the many myths circling around the globe. It is believed that at no point on land can we see all the nine corners of the lake in a single sight and if one does then he/she will achieve nirvana and disappear as a cloud of smoke. In this, all so enchanting environment a laid-back property is indeed to have a relaxing vacation. Lake Pleasant Resort is one such resort situated a little off the track and provides splendid views of the Naukuchiatal lake.

How to reach Lake Pleasant Resort Naukuchiatal?

<span data-mce-type=”bookmark” style=”display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;” class=”mce_SELRES_start”></span>Naukuchiatal is well connected via metalled roads to big cities like Delhi and Dehradun. The Pantnagar airport at 60 km is the nearest with regular flights plying to and from Delhi. For those who prefer the railways, Kathgodam is the nearest railway station at 33 km. Both shared and private cabs are available at disposal as you get off the bus or train.

As you continue on the Bhimtal – Naukuchiatal route, you will come across a Hanuman Temple to your right. At about 3 km from this, take the road diverting uphill to your left. From here signboards will lead your way to the Lake Pleasant Resort, Naukuchiatal.

About Lake Pleasant Resort-

Lake Pleasant Resort- Cottage View

Lake Pleasant Resort is a lovely property resting on the peaks circling around the Naukuchiatal Lake. The property offers splendid views of the lake and the evening sky shows a spectacular sight. Besides the cozy suites and deluxe rooms, the cottage offers a rooftop dining where you have all the cuisines to savor. Of all, I would strongly suggest going for their local kumaoni dishes.

There are plenty of activities offered to keep you engaged and make a perfect vacation for all travelers be it solo, group or family. The list of activities includes forest walks, paragliding, bonfire and MTB off-roaders. Also soon you will be able to shot a ball in their pool room and go for a ride on the mountain bikes.

Salient Features of Lake Pleasant Resort-

Solar Powered, Rainwater Harvesting, Sleeping Facilities for Drivers, Courteous Caretaker & Cook and a human’s best friend- DOG

How about the rooms?

This home away from home has a 3 BHK Villa (Includes 1 family room + 2 deluxe rooms) a suite room below the rooftop restaurant and 4 deluxe rooms. With more rooms coming up soon, each room offers a breathtaking view from the comfort of your blanket. The suite room comes with all the amenities like Television, cupboard, a bathtub and a much-needed room heater. All the rooms have a spacious bathroom with just the basic toiletries and continuous hot water supply. All in all, it is a perfect place to be called a HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

How to spend a day in Naukuchiatal?

• Go for a Nature Walk

Early Morning Forest Walk

The whole sole purpose of a vacation in the serenity of Naukuchiatal is to rejuvenate your mind and body. So start your day with an early morning forest walk. The walk is a loop that takes you through the vistas of nature to the Naukuchiatal Lake and back to Lake Pleasant Resort.

Naukuchiatal Lake

Through this walk, you not only freshen up your lungs but also a beautiful crimson skyline to treat your eyes with. Not to miss are the little chit-chats with the locals that could reveal many unknown stories from the past.

• Get some Adrenaline rush

Naukuchiatal is the only place in the region where you can go adventure sporting. To begin with is the mud bike followed by Paragliding. At just 5 minutes from the Lake Pleasant Resort is the takeoff and landing grounds for paragliding and bookings can be made from the resort itself. I would suggest to go for a bigger one and not for the basic one that lasts for just about 2mins. The basic one can cost you anywhere between Rs. 1k to Rs. 2k depending on the season.

Naukuchiatal

Now that you are done playing with the mud and air its time for some water sports. Yes, you got me right! Naukuchiatal Lake offers plenty of activities to indulge in. For the calm and peaceful couple there is boating and for the boiling blood, there is Kayaking. And believe me, the view from the center of the lake will make you want to just stay there with eyes wide open and a calming soul. There exists a fixed rate system so no scope of fraud which means no bargain. Please do no carry eatables in the lake and don’t spoil the beauty of the hill station.

• Let’s ride some horses

I have always wanted to explore a town on horseback but never got to. For you wish the same then just make a request and a horse will be waiting for you outside the cottage. For a minimal cost, you can add an hour of a unique experience to your memory lane.

• Done exploring all the places- Now what?

Sunset from Lake Pleasant Resort

Well, the eve has just begun and a crimson red sky awaits your eyes only.The biggest plus point is that you get to enjoy splendid views from every nook of the resort. So just relinquish the sunset at the backdrop of Naukuchiatal lake followed by a bonfire that can be arranged on request.

• Nearby Attractions

For those captivated by its serenity, encircling Naukuchiatal are many more attractions awaiting to lure you. From holy temples of Naina Devi and Hanuman Garhi to the charisma ofMukteshwar. Also, the pristine lake cities of Nainital, Bhimtal and Saat Taal in the proximity make for a perfect day trip from the Lake Pleasant Resort, Naukuchiatal.

For the hunger calls

Rooftop Restaurant

The rooftop restaurant not only serves its guests but also to those looking for a pocket-friendly meal. The food (veg/non-veg) cooked by their in-house chef Anand Ji is not only scrumptious but also of great quality. If you are lucky enough to meet the owner Mr. Sanjay, you will not only be bestowed by his courtesy but also be served some of his specialties.

The cost factor!!

Lake Pleasant Resort is a very restful property perfect for a budget-friendly stay. It is a peaceful stay and a perfect place to get to know the local food, culture, and people. To ease the process, bookings can be made across the leading platforms such as MakeMyTrip, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com.

For Direct bookings-

Website- Lake Pleasant Resort, Naukuchiatal

*Though we were offered a free stay and food at the property, the review is completely unbiased and reflects our actual experience to its best.

** The post contains some affiliate links which won’t cost you any difference but would help us earn a bit for each booking made through this.

Club 10 Pine Cottage in Mukteshwar

A cottage in Mukteshwar engulfed by the pines, where the day starts with a view of sun rays spreading from the peaks through the terraced valley to your doorstep. Where the day ends on the crimson red note of the horizon post which soon the area is blanketed by the million stars. A place where a person’s soul is disconnected but still connected. Connected to the vistas of nature that detoxifies from all the hustle bustle of a polluted city. Is this resonating with your thoughts? All this is possible in the whereabouts of whimsical Mukteshwar.

Thanks to the properties that are coming up in the abode of nature making our dreams come true. This makes it possible to hop on getaways that can rejuvenate us from the routine hectic life. Such are the pros of Club Ten Pine Lodge making it the best cottage in Mukteshwar. Situated in the abode of the Kumaon hills of Mukteshwar region, this cottage is just as one always wish to spend some peaceful time at.

Location-

Mukteshwar is small quaint hill station in Uttarakhand, India at an altitude of 7500 feet. Nestled with the fruit orchards a fresh breeze blows all over the terrain. Muktehswar’s calm and secluded environment is a true reflection of its name meaning Moksha- A salvation from the bustling life. Embellished with reddish roofs, the cute homes with ancient style wooden window frames and picket barriers bring back the reminiscences of British Raj.

About Club Ten Pine Lodge Mukteshwar-

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Set amidst in an enchanting environment is the Club Ten Pine Lodge. There are six spacious rooms dividing into two categories- Deluxe and Suite and each room comes with an extra bed.  The balcony is where one is ought to spend most of their time relishing the views from sunrise to sunset and also the sky with a million stars twinkling to soothe your eyes and soul.

Words by the Owners –

‘Frequent flyers who love nature came to this place 10 years back and thought of having a home away from home at a peaceful location. Just to relax and rejuvenate with no thoughts for commercialization. This was created and built because of interest – SHOUK BADI CHEEZ HAI, Kuch Bhi Kara Deti Hai. Started from a small property but kept adding to the property as time flowed. Still, we think of trying how we can make it best. One can get this idea by seeing a private bar, which makes us feel like a VIP having a glass of drink and enjoying a game of Table Tennis. Roam around balcony seeing birds chirping, valley views, and the wandering clouds.’

The cottage is well connected by road from nearest International Airport in Delhi. For those plying in with their own vehicle will find ample parking space in the cottage premises. One can also hire easily available cabs from the nearest railway station in Kathgodam which is at a distance of 72 km.

How about the Rooms of  your cottage in Mukteshwar?

All the six rooms of the cottage come well furnished with an attached bathroom. The modern amenities in the room include a television, a sitting area and round the clock service. Also, the bathrooms are spacious enough and equipped with the much-needed hot water geyser and all required toiletries. Embracing the rooms is the balcony attached to each of the rooms. Witness the changing moods of the valley from dusk to dawn and top it with a blanket of million stars.

How to spend a Day in Mukteshwar?

Although Mukteshwar is a hill station for the laid-back travelers but for there’s more to get connected. Connected not through the technology, nor the peers on social media. The bond is between your soul with the serene and enchanting beauty of the hills. Hills that are covered in different shades from the refreshing green in the monsoon to the bright reddish-yellow in the autumn.

• Start off Bright-

A morning in the mountains is incomplete until one savor the sunrise. As the sun rises at the backdrop, the rays falling on the wavy peaks slowly brightens the valley afront. So just sit on the balcony, grab a cup of tea and watch the rays traverse from the peaks through the terraced valley.  If this doesn’t suffice to feed your hunger for sunrise views then put on your jacket and take a drive uphill the cottage. This will take you to the spots from where you can witness the crimson red reflections on the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi and Panchachauli range.

• Devbhoomi Aye aur  Mandir Nahi Gaye

Uttarakhand is known as Devbhoomi- the land of gods, for its many temples that exist on the holy land. This makes it inevitable to wrap up a trip to Uttarakhand without a temple tour. So once you are freshened up proceed to the nearby Mukteshwar Dham. Set amidst in the forest is this temple devoted to Lord Shiva, the god behind the naming of the town. A five to ten minutes climb up the stairs will lead you to the temple. A sense of calmness enchants all through the premises of the temple. At the backdrop are some picturesque wide-angle views of the valley. This very spot is known as Chauli Ki Jali.

• Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, Mukteshwar

Flowing down through the deep forest is this place to be closest to nature. The trek with an hour of walk on the rocky trail, crossing the streams and climbing the rocks up and down takes you to this covert waterfall. In autumns, the trail gets covered with lovely reddish-yellow leaves making it an impeccable walk through nature.

Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

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• Other Places in the vicinity of Mukteshwar

The laid-back town of Mukteshwar is in close proximity to much-known tourist places like Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, and more. If you are here for a long stay then reward yourself with a visit to these beautiful places each having a unique charm of their own. One can try water sports like zorbing and kayaking or go paragliding all at Naukuchiatal which is just an hour away from the cottage. Also at just 40 km is the town of Nainital that has been seen in cinemas a lot..at least until the producer has a budget for international destinations. Here you can spend your day boating, shopping in the Tibet Market or go horse riding, take a ropeway to snow point and more. As the sun sets the streets of Mall road are buzzing with herds of people shopping and savoring their taste buds.

The day ends on a beautiful note of the million billion stars. This was when I and my ghoomakkad friend tried capturing the night sky from the balcony and created memories.

You may also like – The Naini Lake, Nainital

Feeling Hungry?

Food is something that can make or break your trip. When at club ten pine, be assured to be served the best. The restaurant in the cottage serves some of the most scrumptious home-like food.  You just have to relish the food along with the beautiful valley view outside the window. Guests have an option for both veg and non-veg and can also place a special order for children below five years.

The cost factor

We all make a number of plans of getting out on a weekend trip or even long trips. The moment the cost factor comes into play a big hole in the pocket starts appearing. And then what…Leave it Yaar, Abhi Paise Nahi hai, phr Kabhi chalengae. The plan gets dumped all because of those colored printed papers. The tariff at Club Ten Pine is unlike others not exorbitant but falls in a mid-range stay. This adds to the many reasons to chose Club Ten Pine Mukteshwar apart from its service and the picturesque location.

So what are you waiting for..winter is approaching and soon the town will have a new white look embracing its beauty. Book your stay for the peak season now and avoid any last minute rush.

For bookings-

Club Ten Pine Lodge Mukteshwar

Cell: + 91 9034-200500

Email: info@clubtenpinelodge.com

The Naini Lake

This beautiful mango shaped lake situated at Nainital,  Uttarakhand in India is a very famous tourist spot especially for the especially for those who wish to spend some quality time with family away from the heat and hustle bustle of the metropolis. Every year people in huge numbers visit this place in the summers and even winters to play in the snow. And so did me and my friends decided to visit the place …….

Delhi to Haldwani by bus

A lot of buses ply from Delhi ( Anand Vihar ISBT) both directly to Nainital or Haldwani from where you can take a cab (easily found on the bus stand) for the remaining distance of 40 Kms (takes about 1 hr). One can also take a train to Haldwani and a cab thereafter.

We took a bus from Delhi at night and after a 6 hrs. journey  reached Haldwani from where we took a cab for Nainital.

Day 1

On reaching Nainital, we looked out for a place to stay. Luckily we found a nice decent hotel with the amazing lake view on the Mall road at a very very affordable price due to offseason.

After a small sleep we had an omelette for the breakfast and with still empty stomachs left to explore the city. Starting with a few minutes sitting next to the lake enjoying the breeze we were approached by a lot of cab drivers to take us to the around 13 viewpoints around the city. So we decided to take this which costs 700 per pax. The different points included few lakes, horse riding point( paid separately), barahpatthar ( a place where one can learn rock climbing), Lovers & Suicide point, a waterfall, caves (entry fee paid separately) and few more…One can find good options to fill the stomach at the waterfall. After 5 hrs. we were dropped back to the start point.

lake while on the cab tour

Next, we headed towards the famous market called The Bhotia Market where one can buy stuff from clothing to games and much more. Then we prayed at Naina Devi temple situated on the Lakeside. Now it was time to feed the stomach and the Bhotia market was the perfect place to eat at. A wide variety of options were available and we tried our hands on the Chinese food the place is known for. One must give a visit to Machan for eating.

Now, as the sun was down we took a walk on the Mall road which I found was better than that of Shimla. It was a really amazing walk with one after the other ice creams. There are lots of restaurants and branded shops one can try. At night the entry of cars is closed and the road is flooded with tourist in seasons.

We reached our hotel and made arrangements for some party. Then the late night Hookah on the terrace with a perfect lake view was the best part ( Because to buy that one HOOKAH we had to trek for about 2 hrs visiting the same place for thrice because of the great help we got from the local shopkeepers).  Thats all for the day GOOD NIGHT…See you tomorrow.

Day 2

We started a little late because of the late night party. We took a boat ride to reach the other side of the Mall road from where we were to take a ropeway which took us to Snow View Point from where the view was as shown above. After enjoying for about an hour we returned back and took a shuttle for the Zoo. I must say it was a very nice one where we saw the tiger, beautiful birds, Chimpanzees and a lot more…

After returning back we filled up our stomachs as it was around 6 in the eve. Next, we took a walk on the Mall road to once again see the beauty and around 8 Pm took the bus back to Delhi.

Cost

Coming over to the most important part we managed the trip in almost negligible cost i.e. Rs 2000 per pax.

Delhi – Nainital-Delhi =  800 per pax

Hotel ( 3 rooms) = Total 1200 per night Shared amongst 7

Boating + cab tour = 800 per pax

Food = 100 Rs per meal per head

I think we had a lot for that little amount and those two days went very well for all of us looking forward to which we soon planned our next trip to Agra.

One must give a visit to the Nanda Devi Mahotsav hosted every year. This time it’s from 6th to 11th of September 2016.

That’s all folks………..

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The Naini Lake in Nainital, Uttarakhand

This beautiful mango shaped lake situated at Nainital,  Uttarakhand in India is a very famous tourist spot especially for the especially for those who wish to spend some quality time with family away from the heat and hustle bustle of the metropolis. Every year people in huge numbers visit this place in the summers and even winters to play in the snow. And so did me and my friends decided to visit the place …….

Delhi to Haldwani by bus

A lot of buses ply from Delhi ( Anand Vihar ISBT) both directly to Nainital or Haldwani from where you can take a cab (easily found on the bus stand) for the remaining distance of 40 Kms (takes about 1 hr). One can also take a train to Haldwani and a cab thereafter.

We took a bus from Delhi at night and after a 6 hrs. journey reached Haldwani from where we took a cab to Nainital.

Day 1in Nainital

On reaching Nainital, we looked out for a place to stay. Luckily we found a nice decent hotel with the amazing lake view on the Mall road at a very very affordable price due to offseason.

After a small sleep we had an omelet for the breakfast and with still empty stomachs left to explore the city. Starting with a few minutes sitting next to the lake enjoying the breeze we were approached by a lot of cab drivers to take us to the around 13 viewpoints around the city. So we decided to take this which costs 700 per pax. The different points included few lakes, horse riding point( paid separately), barahpatthar ( a place where one can learn rock climbing), Lovers & Suicide point, a waterfall, caves (entry fee paid separately) and few more…One can find good options to fill the stomach at the waterfall. After 5 hrs. we were dropped back to the start point.

lake while on the cab tour

Next, we headed towards the famous market called The Bhotia Market where one can buy stuff from clothing to games and much more. Then we prayed at Naina Devi temple situated on the Lakeside. Now it was time to feed the stomach and the Bhotia market was the perfect place to eat at. A wide variety of options were available and we tried our hands on the Chinese food the place is known for. One must give a visit to Machan for eating.

Now, as the sun was down we took a walk on the Mall road which I found was better than that of Shimla. It was a really amazing walk with one after the other ice creams. There are lots of restaurants and branded shops one can try. At night the entry of cars is closed and the road is flooded with tourist in seasons.

We reached our hotel and made arrangements for some party. Then the late night Hookah on the terrace with a perfect lake view was the best part ( Because to buy that one HOOKAH we had to trek for about 2 hrs visiting the same place for thrice because of the great help we got from the local shopkeepers).  That’s all for the day GOOD NIGHT…See you tomorrow.

Day 2 in Nainital

The mango shaped Naini Lake, Nainital

We started a little late because of the late night party. We took a boat ride to reach the other side of the Mall road from where we were to take a ropeway which took us to Snow View Point from where the view was as shown above. After enjoying for about an hour we returned back and took a shuttle to the Zoo. I must say it was a very nice one where we saw the tiger, beautiful birds, Chimpanzees and a lot more…

After returning back we filled up our stomachs as it was around 6 in the eve. Next, we took a walk on the Mall road to once again see the beauty and around 8 Pm took the bus back to Delhi.

For you have time in hand and want to extend your holiday then visit the much more serene and rejuvenating town of Mukteshwar at just 42 km from Nainital.

Cost

Coming over to the most important part we managed the trip at almost negligible cost i.e. Rs 2000 per pax.

Delhi – Nainital-Delhi =  800 per pax

Hotel ( 3 rooms) = Total 1200 per night Shared amongst 7

Boating + cab tour = 800 per pax

Food = 100 Rs per meal per head

I think we had a lot for that little amount and those two days went very well for all of us looking forward to which we soon planned our next trip to Agra.

One must give a visit to the Nanda Devi Mahotsav hosted every year. This time it’s from 6th to 11th of September 2016.

That’s all folks………..