Credit: manish rawal
Gwaldam, a hidden gem on the Uttarakhand and Garhwal borders, is a beautiful village located in Uttarakhand. Situated at a height of 1,708 meters above sea level, the town is situated at the confluence of the rivers Pindar and Nandakini.
It’s an ideal place for a memorable vacation and an ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush green forest and snowcapped peaks of Maiktoli, Trishuli, and Ghunti peaks.
This region of Chamoli is home to several treks like the Roopkund Trek, Bedni Bugyal Trek, and Ali Bendni Bugyal Trek.
Sitting on the border of Garhwal and Kumaon, it has a fusion of both cultures. Garhwalis, Kumaonis, and Bhotias speak a mixed dialect.
History of Gwaldam
From the 7th century to the 11th century, the town was ruled by the Katyuri dynasty, which ruled from Kumaon. Katyuris were famous for their architectural and artistic skills, and they built several temples in the region.
In the 14th century, the region came under the Chand dynasty, which was famous for its military prowess. They also built several temples in the region; Gwalnaag Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the famous one.
During the British era, Gwaldam served as a summer retreat for British officials. It was connected to the nearby cities of Almora and Ranikhet by a motorable road in the 19th century, which made it easier for the British to visit the town.
After independence, Gwaldam became part of Uttar Pradesh. In 2000, Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh, and Gwaldam became a part of the new state.
Places to visit In Gwaldam
Credit: vipin kumar
Badhan Garhi temple
It’s a beautiful temple located at an altitude of 2,260 meters above sea level and 8 kilometers from the town of Gwaladam. One of the oldest temples in the region is dedicated to Goddess Dakshina Kali and Lord Shiva. A trail from Benatoli passes through the forest region toward the temple. It was erected between the 8th and 12th centuries by the Katyuri dynasty. A 5-minute walk up to the viewpoint will give you a view of the mountain in the north and the valley of Kumaon Katyuri in south
There is also a Bhadangarhi fort nearby that has faced many attacks from Kumaon and is now in a ruined state.
Credit: Lalit Bisht
Agyari Mahadev
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is an ancient temple that is situated just 4 kilometers from Benatoli. The trail passes through a ridge in a forest.
Credit: Ravindra Chamoli
Gwaldam Nag
A hilltop shrine is located 2 kilometers southeast of Benatoli. One can reach this place by passing through the dense forest of Gwalnaag. Dhula meadows, situated above the forest, become ideal for skiing during the winter.
Dedicated to the serpent god, the vantage point offers an unparalleled view of both the Garhwal and Kumaon regions. Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot are some peaks visible from here.
Credit: Sarika Rana
Macchi Tal
It’s a fish breeding center that was established by the British in 1928. Located 9km from Gwaldam on the road to Deobal, this is a beautiful place in the tranquility of a thick forest. Different varieties of fish are grown up here.
Credit: Suraj Malpan
Buddhist Khamba Temple
It is situated at a distance of 1.5 kilometers from the main market. Owned by the government, it was established in 1953. Buddha’s statue, made of stone, is beautifully crafted and has the sanctum sanctorum lined up with various incarnations of Gautam Buddha.