Things To Do
in Tarkeshwar

Tarkeshwar, India, is a serene town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, known primarily for its spiritual significance and lush natural beauty. The town is famous for the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Surrounded by dense forests and cool breezes, it provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of spirituality, nature, and local culture in this quaint destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Spiritual Awakening and Nature Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, where you can participate in the morning Aarti and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a scenic hike around the nearby hills, enjoying the lush greenery and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a riverside picnic at the nearby riverbank, watching the sunset while enjoying local snacks.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors
morning
:

Visit local markets to experience the vibrant culture of Tarkeshwar, shopping for handcrafted souvenirs and local produce.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes, followed by lunch featuring your own creations.

evening
:

Explore local cafes and enjoy an evening of live music or a cultural performance showcasing regional arts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍛Meal at Local Restaurant$3
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel per Night$20
Coffee at a Café$1.50
🛒Groceries for a Week$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Serene and peaceful environment
  • Rich cultural and spiritual heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation may be infrequent
  • Language barriers may exist for non-Hindi speakers
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कहाँ है शौचालय?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "मुझे मदद चाहिए" - I need help
  • "आपका नाम क्या है?" - What is your name?

Places to Visit in Tarkeshwar

Visit one of these nice places.

Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Capture the intricate architecture and serene surroundings of this sacred temple.

Himalayan Views

Various lookout points along hiking trails offer stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range.

Local Market Scenes

Vibrant market scenes filled with colorful produce and local artisans provide excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tarkeshwar

Tarkeshwar offers a rich culinary experience, with a blend of local flavors and traditional dishes that reflect the region's cultural heritage.

Tarkeshwar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Aloo Tamatar ki Sabzi

A flavorful potato and tomato curry commonly served with roti.

Must-Try!

Kachori

Spicy fried pastry filled with lentils, often enjoyed as a snack.

Raita

A cooling yogurt dish mixed with vegetables and spices, perfect for balancing spicy meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tarkeshwar Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tarkeshwar experiences a diverse climate throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Monsoons bring heavy rainfall, leading to cooler temperatures but potential travel disruptions. Winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C (41°F) or lower, especially at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Temples

Always remove shoes before entering temples, and dress modestly.

Greeting Locals

A polite greeting, such as 'Namaste', is appreciated when meeting locals.

Dining Etiquette

Use your right hand for eating, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tarkeshwar is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. It is advisable to stay updated on local weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season.

Tipping in Tarkeshwar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some places may accept digital payments; it's wise to carry small denominations.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild weather and blooming flowers make this an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid, with occasional rains; carry an umbrella and stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November)

Cool and pleasant; perfect for trekking and exploring local attractions.

Winter (December to February)

Cold with possible snowfall; warm clothing is essential for outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Tarkeshwar at Night

Tarkeshwar's nightlife is relatively subdued, focused more on cultural experiences. You can find local cafes offering live music on weekends, and some temples hold evening ceremonies that attract visitors. Traditional dance performances may also be arranged occasionally, providing insight into the local culture.

Hiking in Tarkeshwar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kempty Falls Trail

A popular hiking trail leading to beautiful waterfalls, perfect for a day of exploration.

Mussorie Ridge Trail

A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Airports

How to reach Tarkeshwar by plane.

Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport)

Located about 40 km from Tarkeshwar, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tarkeshwar is quite walkable, especially around the temple and market areas. The hilly terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, but the main attractions are generally accessible on foot. Sidewalks can be uneven in places, so caution is advised while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hindu Community

The majority of the population identifies as Hindu, with many participating in local religious practices.

Tourists and Pilgrims

Tarkeshwar attracts a significant number of pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual experiences and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular among locals, often played in open fields throughout the town.

Football

Football (soccer) is also widely played, especially among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tarkeshwar is generally light, with the primary mode of transportation being local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Roads can be narrow and winding, so it's advisable to be cautious while driving. Public transport is available but may not operate frequently, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarkeshwar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for egg or dairy inclusions.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; inform restaurant staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Tarkeshwar are basic. Local clinics provide primary care, but for more serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to larger towns or cities nearby. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide