Uttarakhand, known as the “Land of Gods,” is a beautiful state in northern India. It is famous for its majestic Himalayas, sacred rivers and spiritual sites like Kedarnath and Haridwar. The state’s natural beauty and rich culture attract tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. In this article, we will know about the district of Uttarakhand which is known as the “Gateway of Garhwal.”
An Overview of Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, also called the “Northern Land,” is a state in northern India, once known as Uttaranchal until 2007. It shares borders with Himachal Pradesh, Tibet, Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Covering 53,483 square kilometers, it has 13 districts in two region: Garhwal and Kumaon. Dehradun is the capital and Nainital is the judicial capital.
Number of Districts of Uttarakhand
As of now, Uttarakhand has 13 districts grouped into two regions: Garhwal and Kumaon. Each region reflects the state’s unique cultural and geographical identity.
Gateway of Garhwal
Kotdwar, located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is often called the “Gateway to Garhwal.” It is a peaceful town at the foothills of the Himalayas and serves as the starting point for exploring the beautiful Garhwal region.
Location of Kotdwar
Kotdwar is situated about 101 kilometers from the district headquarters, Pauri. It lies in the lower Himalayan region, making it an easily accessible town with a mix of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Attractions in Kotdwar
Kotdwar offers several attractions for visitors. Some of the key places include:
- Sidhbali Temple
- Kanva Ashram
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
- Buddha Park
- Khoh River
- The Battery House
The Old Name of Kotdwar
Kotdwar was historically known as Khohdwar, meaning “gateway of the river Khoh.” This name reflects the town’s connection with the Khoh River, which flows through the region and adds to its natural beauty.