Things To Do
in Pauri
Pauri Garhwal is a scenic hill town in Uttarakhand, perched in the Garhwal Himalayas. It serves as the district capital and a gateway to valley views, pine forests, and centuries-old temples. The town preserves Garhwali culture with a relaxed rhythm, welcoming visitors to its markets and hillside trails.
Used as a base for treks and village visits, Pauri offers a blend of natural beauty and local charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Pauri and take a moment to soak in the stunning mountain views. Check into a local guesthouse, where traditional hospitality awaits. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring local delicacies before heading out to explore.
Visit the Khirsu village nearby, known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquility. Take a leisurely walk through the apple orchards and immerse yourself in the rural charm. Relish a simple, yet flavorful lunch at a local eatery offering homemade dishes.
Return to Pauri and explore the local market, where vibrant colors and sounds of the town come alive. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk while watching the sunset over the Himalayas. Conclude the day with a traditional dinner, experiencing the local cuisine.
Begin the day with a visit to the ancient Kandoliya Temple, tucked away in the hills. Offer prayers and bask in the serene ambiance surrounding the temple grounds. Enjoy some fresh tea and snacks from a nearby local stall before heading out.
After visiting the temple, explore the town's important landmarks such as the Pauri Garhwal Museum. Learn about the rich history and culture of the region through the various exhibits. Stop for lunch at a local dhaba, enjoying parathas and seasonal vegetables.
In the evening, head to Pauri’s local park for a refreshing stroll amidst greenery. Engage with locals, sharing stories and experiences as the day winds down. Dine at a restaurant overlooking the valley, embracing the tranquil night atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧭Local bus fare | $0.3-0.8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $15-25 |
| ☕Tea/coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic Himalayan setting with easy hill-town access
- Rich Garhwali culture and cuisine
- Relaxed pace and lower crowds compared to major hill stations
- Good base for treks and nature experiences
- Limited nightlife and occasional road access issues
- Smaller tourism infrastructure compared to larger hill stations
- Can be chilly and windy in the evenings
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Aap kasao?" - How are you?
- "Dhaniyaa dhanyavaad" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Pauri
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop viewpoints around the town offering sweeping views of the Garhwal valley and evergreen slopes.
A vantage point on the town’s edge where the first light paints the hills in warm colors.
Food in Pauri
Pauri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy green leafy curry made with spinach or fenugreek and yogurt, a Garhwali staple.
Must-Try!
Softened dried beans simmered into a rustic lentil dish served with rice or roti.
Roasted black gram dal cooked into a thick, flavorful curry.
Spiced potato slices that showcase Garhwali tarka and herbs.
Horse gram dal cooked with local spices, especially comforting in colder months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market area where you can sample fresh produce, snacks, and chai.
Samosa, pakoras, and chaat stalls near the market square, great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or Ram Ram; address elders with respectful terms.
Modest clothing in religious places; remove shoes before entering temples; ask permission before photography of people.
Safety
Tipping in Pauri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in larger establishments; small eateries may not expect tips.
Cash remains common in markets; cards and mobile wallets are increasingly accepted in towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool evenings; occasional thunderstorms; great for day hikes and exploring the markets.
Heavy rainfall from July to September; trails can be muddy and landslides can occur; carry rain gear and plan indoor activities.
Cold with crisp air; nights can drop to near freezing; higher elevations may see snowfall.
Pauri at Night
Hiking in Pauri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular 2-3 day trek from Pantwari offering panoramic Himalayan views.
Seasonal forest trails through pine and deodar, suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Pauri by plane.
Dehradun's airport about 90-150 km away with road connections to Pauri.
Nearby airstrip closer to Udham Singh Nagar; more limited services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous people and culture of Garhwal with Garhwali language and customs.
Most residents speak Hindi as well as Garhwali; many visitors use Hindi for communication.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local teams and informal games in public spaces.
Traditional sport played in villages and occasionally in town events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pauri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Garhwali cuisine is largely vegetarian; look for dals, sabzi, and roti; request no ghee if avoiding dairy.
Rice-based options are common; ask for roti substitutes or rice with curries.