If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “What’s the best way to spend a day in Tehri?” you’re not alone. With its rich history, the majestic Tehri Dam, and plenty of outdoor activities, Tehri offers more than just scenic views. But knowing how to navigate your day here can be tricky, especially if time is limited.
Missing Out on Key Experiences
Many visitors to Tehri come for the views but leave without truly experiencing what the town has to offer. Tehri has transformed from a submerged old city to a rising hub of water sports and adventure tourism. If you spend your day only sightseeing, you might miss out on the region's core activities and culture.
One Day Isn't Enough to Explore Everything
A one-day visit to Tehri may leave you feeling like you've barely scratched the surface. With limited time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what to prioritize: should you visit the dam, go trekking, or try adventure sports? The fear of missing out looms large.
A Step-by-Step Plan for a Fulfilling Day in Tehri
To maximise your day, here’s a structured itinerary that ensures you cover Tehri’s most iconic experiences:
Morning: Visit the Tehri Dam
Start your day early with a visit to Tehri Dam, the tallest in India and one of the highest in the world, standing at 260.5 meters. The dam isn’t just an engineering marvel; it’s a source of clean energy and irrigation for the region. Guided tours are available, and these will provide you with insights into the dam's history, how it was built, and its role in the region’s development.
Tip: Make sure to reach the dam area by 9 AM. The weather is cooler in the morning, and the views of the surrounding Himalayan foothills are stunning.
Late Morning: Water Sports at Tehri Lake
After the dam tour, head over to Tehri Lake. This man-made reservoir is the heart of adventure tourism in the area. Here, you can try a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. According to a 2022 tourism report by Uttarakhand’s Department of Tourism, water sports in Tehri saw a 35% increase in participation from 2021, demonstrating the growing popularity of these activities.
Case Study: A group of tourists from Delhi shared their experience in a 2023 Uttarakhand tourism survey, stating that Tehri Lake’s water sports were the highlight of their trip, especially because the lake is less crowded compared to other popular tourist destinations like Rishikesh.
Lunch: Dine at a Local Restaurant
Post-adventure, you’ll need a break. Head into New Tehri, the town developed to house the residents of the old Tehri city. Here, you can enjoy local Garhwali cuisine at one of the many small eateries. Traditional dishes like Chainsoo (a lentil dish) and Aloo Ke Gutke (spicy potato fry) are must-tries.
Afternoon: Trek to Surkanda Devi Temple
With a full stomach, it’s time to take a more relaxed approach to the afternoon. Drive 30 minutes from Tehri to the Surkanda Devi Temple. The trek from the base is roughly 2 kms, and while it’s a moderate hike, the views from the top are worth it. On a clear day, you can spot the Himalayan peaks.
Historical Fact: The Surkanda Devi Temple is part of the mythological circuit and is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, places where parts of Goddess Sati's body are believed to have fallen during Lord Shiva's Tandava.
Evening: Wind Down with a Sunset at Tehri Lake
Head back to Tehri Lake to close out the day. The sunset over the lake is a tranquil end to a busy day. You can either stroll around the lake or book a short boat ride to enjoy the view. The Tehri Lake Festival, held annually, often features cultural performances and water sports competitions, but even outside the festival, the lake area remains a serene spot to reflect on your day.
Key Takeaways for Your Day in Tehri:
- Start your day early with a visit to the iconic Tehri Dam.
- Dive into water sports at Tehri Lake to experience the adrenaline Tehri offers.
- Indulge in local Garhwali food for a cultural culinary experience.
- End with a trek to Surkanda Devi Temple and a relaxing evening by the lake.
By following this itinerary, you’ll leave Tehri having experienced the best of its engineering, adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty—all in just one day.
