Khirsu, Uttarakhand – A Peaceful Hill Gem You Shouldn’t Miss
If you are tired of crowded hill stations and want to enjoy some real peace in the lap of nature, then Khirsu in Uttarakhand is the place for you. Located at a height of 1,700 meters above sea level, Khirsu is a quiet and less-explored village surrounded by dense forests, snow-capped peaks, and clean mountain air. It’s a perfect spot for those who want a slow, peaceful, and natural break from city life.
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What Makes Khirsu Special?
Khirsu is not about malls or busy tourist markets — it’s about simplicity and nature. You’ll find beautiful views of the Garhwal Himalayas, calm jungle walks, chirping birds, and peace all around. It’s ideal for nature lovers, couples, writers, photographers, or anyone who wants to do “nothing” and just relax.
One of the best experiences in Khirsu is a 2 KM walk through the jungle, where you can spot birds, enjoy fresh air, and feel completely disconnected from the noisy world.
Note: If you are looking for a good cafe, Shopping street or any entertainment place, Khirsu is not a place for you.
How to Reach Khirsu?
Reaching Khirsu is easy if you follow this route:
From Rishikesh:
- Rishikesh → Srinagar (Uttarakhand) – 110 km
- Srinagar → Khirsu – 15 km (takes about 30–40 minutes uphill drive)
You can hire a taxi from Rishikesh or Srinagar, or take a shared jeep from Srinagar bus stand. Roads are little narrow but its well-maintained and the drive is scenic.
Best Places to Stay in Khirsu
Since Khirsu is still offbeat, you won’t find too many hotels. But the few options available offer great views, budget-friendly rates, and peaceful stays.
1. GMVN Guest House – Khirsu
This guest house is run by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). It has clean and neat rooms with mountain views. They have food available on site, like tea, coffee, pakoda and lunch + dinner.
Tariff: ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per night (approx.)
Best for couples, families, and solo travellers Booking available online on the GMVN website or on arrival both
2. Basa Homestays and Cottages
This home stay is locally run stays with a touch of Garhwali hospitality. It has Cozy cottages, simple meals, and organic food.
Basa homestay is surrounded by apple orchards and forest. Great for those who want an authentic village stay experience
Price: Around ₹2500 per night – Incluing breakfast
Both options are good — GMVN is for comfort and convenience, while Basa offers local charm and a rustic feel.
Kandolia Temple – A Peaceful Stop Near Khirsu
If you’re staying in Khirsu, you must plan a short visit to Kandolia Temple, which is located in Pauri, about 15–18 km from Khirsu. The drive is beautiful with hills, pine trees, and valley views all along the way.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Kandolia, who is believed to be a form of Lord Shiva and the local deity of Pauri Garhwal. The temple is located on a small hilltop and is surrounded by lush deodar forests. It’s not just a religious spot — it’s also a place where you can feel peace, fresh air, and calmness all around.
Next to the temple, there’s a small park and open area where families and locals come to relax, especially during mornings and evenings. The views of the valley and mountains from here are amazing — especially during sunset.
It’s a great place for:
- A short morning or evening trip from Khirsu
- Photography and relaxing with nature
- Understanding local culture and beliefs
So if you’re in Khirsu and looking for a nearby outing, Kandolia Temple is a peaceful and refreshing place to visit — spiritually and naturally fulfilling!
What to Do in Khirsu?
Even though it’s a small village, you can enjoy:
- Nature walks in the jungle
- Watching the sunrise over the Himalayas
- Visiting ancient temples nearby
- Relaxing in the garden with a cup of chai
- Bird watching and stargazing at night
You won’t find too many restaurants, but home-cooked food at the guest houses or homestays is both tasty and healthy.
Final Words
Khirsu is a hidden gem — quiet, green, and untouched by commercial tourism. It’s not for those looking for party spots or shopping malls, but it’s perfect for people who want peace, silence, and beauty all around.
So next time you plan a trip to Uttarakhand, skip the usual crowd and try Khirsu — you’ll come back with a calm heart and fresh mind.
