Overview: The Gateway to Kumaon
Nestled in the foothills of the Kumaon Himalayas on the banks of the Sarda River, Tanakpur is a charming town that serves as the Gateway to Kumaon and the last plain area on the road to the mountainous Kumaon region. Located in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, just 3 km from the Indo-Nepal border, this scenic town is a perfect blend of spiritual significance, natural beauty, and strategic importance.
Tanakpur is widely renowned as the gateway to the sacred Purnagiri Temple, one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India, and the first point in the Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage. The town is situated at an average elevation of 245–255 metres (837 feet) above sea level and covers an area of 11.2 square kilometres.
Whether you are a devout pilgrim seeking the blessings of Goddess Purnagiri, a nature enthusiast exploring the Terai region’s lush forests, or a traveller looking for a serene getaway, Tanakpur promises a unique and memorable experience.
Key Information at a Glance
History of Tanakpur
The Ancient Roots
Tanakpur’s history is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Kumaon region. The area was completely covered with forests until the first half of the 19th century. Three miles from Tanakpur was Brahmadev Mandi (currently in Nepal), which was built by the Katyuri kings who ruled from the 7th to 11th centuries C.E.
The British Era
During the British colonial period, a 6-foot-wide footpath was constructed from Tanakpur to Tawaghat. Originally part of the Almora district, the region was later incorporated into the Champawat district.
The Formation of the City
Tanakpur was a small village before it gradually transformed into a bustling town. The market, which was completely suppressed due to landslides, was revived, and the city was formed. Today, Tanakpur is emerging as a popular business town of the Kumaon region due to its proximity to Nepal, Kumaon, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Gateway to Kailash Mansarovar
Tanakpur holds immense spiritual significance as the first point in the Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage. For centuries, pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar have begun their expedition from this very town.
Geography of Tanakpur
Location and Topography
Tanakpur is located in the Terai-Bhabhar region of Kumaon, on the banks of the Sarda River (also known as the Sharda River). It lies adjacent to the Nepal border, making it a strategic junction for the region.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 29°04′26″N, 80°06′32″E |
| Elevation | 245–255 m (837 ft) |
| River | Sarda River (Sharda River) |
| Border | Nepal (3 km away) |
The Last Plain Area
Tanakpur is the last plain area on the road to the Kumaon zone of Uttarakhand and acts as a junction for the mountainous part of the Kumaon district. Beyond Tanakpur, the terrain becomes hilly as it ascends towards the Kumaon Himalayas.
The Sarda River
The Sarda River flows beside Tanakpur, adding to its scenic beauty. The NHPC has set up a hydel power project on the Sarda River at Banbasa, near Tanakpur, producing 120 MW of electricity.
Flora and Fauna of Tanakpur
Flora — A Tropical Treasure
Tanakpur lies in the Terai region, which is characterised by lush forests and rich biodiversity. The forests in the study area are dominated by various tree species:
Dominant Tree Species:
- Dalbergia sissoo (Shisham) — a common hardwood species
- Holoptelea integrifolia — a prominent tree species
- Acacia catechu (Khair) — found in the region
- Trewia nudiflora — another species found in the area
Common Fruit Trees:
- Mango, litchi, neem, jackfruit, guava, and other tropical fruits
Fauna — Wildlife in the Region
The Banbasa region and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife:
- Wild elephants — often spotted in the region
- Barking deer, wild boar, and sambar — found in the sanctuary terrain
- Asian elephants, leopards, jungle cats, sloth bears, jackals, and wild boars — found in the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Tanakpur, the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 2012, spanning approximately 270 square kilometres. The sanctuary boasts a rich tapestry of over 100 tree species, including shisham, bamboo, teak, and chir pine.
Wildlife Found in the Sanctuary:
- Tigers
- Asian elephants
- Leopards
- Jungle cats
- Sloth bears
- Jackals
- Wild boars
Religious Beliefs and Sacred Sites
Purnagiri Temple — The Crown Jewel
The Maa Purnagiri Temple is the most significant religious site in Tanakpur and one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. It is dedicated to Goddess Purnagiri, a manifestation of Durga and Mahakali.
Key Features:
- Location: Situated atop a hill at 910 metres (3,000 feet), approximately 20–24 km from Tanakpur
- Access: Road from Tanakpur to Thulligad, followed by a 3-kilometre trek through stairs
- Mythological Significance: Believed to be the site where the navel (Naabhi) of Goddess Sati fell
- Festivals: Thousands of devotees visit during Chaitra Navratri (March–April)
- Sacred: One of the 108 Siddha Peeths
Other Religious Sites
| Site | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sharda Ghat | Near Tanakpur bus stand | Also known as Ma Purnagiri Sharda Ghat |
| Panchamukhi Mahadev Temple | Near Tanakpur | Dedicated to Lord Shiva |
| Kranteshwar Mandir | Near Tanakpur | Dedicated to Lord Shiva |
| Boom Temple | Purnagiri Road | Shri Adya Shakti Peeth |
Purnagiri Mela
The Purnagiri Mela / religious festival is held here every year to honour Goddess Sati. The fair is held during Chaitra Navratri. It draws lakhs of devotees each year who embark on a divine journey of faith, devotion, and blessings.
How to Reach Tanakpur
Tanakpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to major cities in Uttarakhand and northern India.
By Air — Nearest Airports
| Airport | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pantnagar Airport | 98 km | Nearest airport in Nainital district |
| Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi | ~366 km | Major international hub |
From Pantnagar Airport:
- Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Tanakpur
- Pantnagar is connected to Delhi with daily flights
By Train — Tanakpur Railway Station
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Tanakpur Railway Station (TPU) |
| Connectivity | Well-connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Bareilly, Kolkata |
| Station Code | TPU |
| To Delhi | ~10.5 hours (Delhi Tanakpur Express) |
By Road (Most Popular)
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi → Tanakpur | 366 km | 4.5–5 hours |
| Bareilly → Tanakpur | 113 km | ~2.5 hours |
| Haldwani → Tanakpur | ~80 km | ~2 hours |
| Pithoragarh → Tanakpur | ~80 km | ~2.5 hours |
National Highway 9:
Tanakpur is connected by National Highway 9, which starts from Askot in Pithoragarh and passes through Tanakpur to Delhi, connecting to cities including Khatima, Rudrapur, Rampur, Moradabad, Hapur, Ghaziabad, and Delhi.
Transport Options:
- Buses: Regular buses available from Delhi (ISBT Anand Vihar), Bareilly, Haldwani, Pithoragarh
- Private Taxi: Most convenient and flexible
- Self-Drive: Well-maintained roads via NH-9
Distance from Major Cities
| City | Distance to Tanakpur | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 366 km | 4.5–5 hours |
| Bareilly | 113 km | 2.5 hours |
| Meerut | 313 km | 5–6 hours |
| Haldwani | ~80 km | 2 hours |
| Pithoragarh | ~80 km | 2.5 hours |
| Pantnagar | 98 km | 2.5 hours |
| Dehradun | ~250 km | 6–7 hours |
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate Overview
Tanakpur has a subtropical climate with hot summers, heavy monsoons, and mild winters. The region receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,700 mm.
Seasonal Breakdown
| Season | Months | Temperature | Conditions | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | October–March | 10°C – 25°C | Pleasant, ideal for sightseeing | ⭐ Best |
| Summer | March–June | 15°C – 40°C | Warm to hot; comfortable in early months | ⭐ Good |
| Monsoon | July–September | 20°C – 35°C | Heavy rainfall (1,700 mm), avoid travel | ❌ Avoid |
Best Time to Visit by Season
Monthly Temperature Snapshot
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | ~18°C | ~8°C |
| May | ~35°C | ~20°C |
| July | ~32°C | ~25°C |
| October | ~28°C | ~16°C |
Packing Guide
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Light cotton clothes (summer), light woollens (winter), comfortable walking shoes |
| Essentials | Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, power bank, camera |
| Documents | Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport) |
| Seasonal | Raincoat (monsoon), warm layers (winter) |
Top Places to Visit in and Around Tanakpur
Within Tanakpur
Nearby Destinations
Things to Do in Tanakpur
1. Pilgrimage to Purnagiri Temple
The most important activity in Tanakpur is visiting the sacred Purnagiri Temple. The 3 km trek to the temple is considered sacred and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. The temple is especially crowded during Navratri.
2. Explore the Sharda River
Take a stroll along the banks of the Sharda River, enjoying the scenic beauty and the sound of the flowing water. Consider a boat ride for a closer experience. Enjoy a picnic by the river with family and friends.
3. Visit the Tanakpur Barrage
Visit the Tanakpur Barrage on the Sharda River, an important engineering structure that offers a glimpse into the region’s irrigation and power generation efforts.
4. Explore Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
Take a guided nature walk at the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary to spot various species of birds, deer, and wild elephants.
5. Village Tourism
Explore the surrounding areas and learn about Kumaoni culture, traditions, customs, and festivals of the locals.
6. Nature Trails
Being a vast land of greenery, Tanakpur is an ideal place for hikes and small treks to the hills and temples from where one can have mesmerising views of the Himalayan peaks.
7. Explore Local Markets
Wander through the local markets, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and shopping for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Kumaoni products.
Accommodation Options
Discover Uttarakhand Recommendation: For a convenient stay, consider the KMVN Tourist Rest House in Tanakpur. For more options, stay in nearby Champawat (30 km) or Lohaghat (37 km).
Local Cuisine — A Taste of Kumaon
Tanakpur offers a taste of authentic Kumaoni and North Indian cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Aloo Ke Gutke | Spiced fried potatoes, a Kumaoni speciality |
| Bhatt Ki Churkani | Black soybean curry |
| Chainsoo | Protein-rich black gram curry |
| Mandua Roti | Finger millet flatbread |
| Gahat Ki Dal | Horse gram lentil soup |
| Bal Mithai | Famous chocolate-like sweet from Kumaon |
| Singauri | Traditional Kumaoni sweet wrapped in leaf |
Where to Eat
- Roadside dhabas: Serve popular North Indian dishes
- Local eateries: Offer Chinese items like chow mein, noodles, momos
- Guesthouses: Some have in-house restaurants serving delicious meals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions
Q1: What is Tanakpur famous for?
Tanakpur is famous for being the ‘Gateway to Kumaon’ and for its proximity to the Sharda River. It is also renowned for the sacred Purnagiri Temple.
Q2: Where is Tanakpur located?
Tanakpur is located in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, on the banks of the Sarda River, adjacent to the Nepal border.
Q3: What is the altitude of Tanakpur?
Tanakpur is situated at an elevation of approximately 245–255 metres (837 feet) above sea level.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Tanakpur?
The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. March to June and September to November are also good options.
Q5: What is the Purnagiri Temple?
The Purnagiri Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India, located atop a hill at 910 metres, approximately 20 km from Tanakpur. It is dedicated to Goddess Purnagiri.
Q6: What is the distance between Delhi and Tanakpur?
The road distance is approximately 366 km, taking about 4.5–5 hours by road.
Q7: What is the nearest railway station to Tanakpur?
The nearest railway station is Tanakpur Railway Station (TPU), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Lucknow.
Q8: What is the nearest airport to Tanakpur?
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 98 km away.
Q9: What languages are spoken in Tanakpur?
The official language is Hindi. The regional language is Kumaoni. English is understood in tourist areas.
Q10: What is the PIN code of Tanakpur?
The PIN code of Tanakpur is 262309.
Travel Logistics
Q11: How can I reach Tanakpur from Delhi?
You can reach Tanakpur by:
- Road: ~366 km, 4.5–5 hours via NH-9
- Train: Tanakpur Railway Station is well-connected to Delhi (~10.5 hours)
- Air: Fly to Pantnagar (98 km) and then take a taxi
Q12: Is there accommodation available in Tanakpur?
Yes, there are budget hotels and the KMVN Tourist Rest House in Tanakpur. For more options, consider staying in Champawat (30 km) or Lohaghat (37 km).
Q13: What are the must-visit places near Tanakpur?
Must-visit places include Purnagiri Temple, Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, Shyamlatal, Champawat, and Lohaghat.
Q14: Is there an entry fee for Tanakpur?
Typically, there are no entry fees for visiting Tanakpur itself. Specific sites like the Purnagiri Temple may have small fees for special services or donations.
Q15: Is Tanakpur accessible for people with disabilities?
Accessibility in Tanakpur can be limited due to its mountainous terrain and older infrastructure.
Practical Information
Q16: What should I pack for a visit to Tanakpur?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and valid ID proof. For winters, bring warm clothes. For the Purnagiri Temple trek, wear sturdy shoes.
Q17: What is the Purnagiri Mela?
The Purnagiri Mela is an annual religious festival held during Chaitra Navratri (March–April), attracting lakhs of devotees.
Q18: Is Tanakpur a good base for exploring the Kumaon region?
Yes, Tanakpur is an excellent base for exploring the Kumaon region as it acts as a junction for the mountainous part of the Kumaon district.
Q19: How can I book a tour to Tanakpur?
Tours can be booked through:
- Local tour operators in Champawat and Haldwani
- Discover Uttarakhand for customised travel packages
Plan Your Tanakpur Visit with Discover Uttarakhand
At Discover Uttarakhand, we’ve been organising unforgettable Himalayan journeys since 1997. As a trusted local operator with deep knowledge of the Kumaon region and its spiritual sites, we offer:
✅ Customised Tanakpur and Kumaon tour packages
✅ Combined itineraries covering Tanakpur, Purnagiri Temple, Champawat, and Lohaghat
✅ Comfortable transport with experienced local drivers
✅ Verified accommodations in Tanakpur and nearby towns
✅ Local guides for temple visits and sightseeing
✅ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Recommended Packages
| Package | Duration | Starting Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanakpur & Purnagiri Pilgrimage | 2 Nights / 3 Days | Delhi | Purnagiri Temple, Sharda River, Tanakpur Barrage |
| Kumaon Spiritual Tour | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Delhi | Tanakpur, Purnagiri, Champawat, Lohaghat |
| Kumaon Wildlife & Heritage | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Delhi | Tanakpur, Nandhaur Sanctuary, Champawat, Pithoragarh |
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91-9997187178, 9760222178, 8171977178
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