Viraatkhai, located in the Jaunsar-Bawar region, is one of the less explored regions in Uttarakhand. Located 70 km north of Dehradun, Offering a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of popular hill stations, it is the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
History of Viraatkhai
In Hindi, “Viraat” means huge, and “Khai” means gorge, Justifying the deep gorge It has. The name “Viraatkhai” is associated with the Mahabharata king named “Viraat.” He helped the Pandavas during their 13-year exile. They took up different occupations to avoid detection. Yudishtra, the eldest of the Pandavas, took on the role of a brahmin, while Arjuna became an eunuch and served as a dance teacher to the king’s daughter, Uttara.
Bhima took up the role of cook, whereas Nakul and Sahadeva took up the role of housekeepers.
Duryodhana is widely worshipped in the region. There is a Lakhamandal Temple where King Duryodhana tried to burn the Pandava brothers in a palace made of shellac.
Panchali Tradition
A unique tradition is followed among the locals where the brother is married to a woman from the same family. According to them, it helps keep families together. It’s a tradition, they say, following Mahabharta times, like Draupadi marrying all the Pandava brothers. But in the modern era, this practice is followed by very few people
Viraatkhai places to visit
Viraatkhai peak:
At the top of Viraatkhai peak, you can see the Himalayan ranges that begin from Dhauladhar peak to Bandarpoonch in the west and Sumeri, Kedar peak, and Swargarohini in the east.
In the southwest, Dehradun and the Mussorie Valley look very beautiful.
Jhulke Danda:
It’s located half an hour’s trek from the Viraatkhai peak.
Garh Viraat:
The remains of King Viraat can be found on top of a hill 2 kilometers from Viratkhaitop, towards Chakarta. After this, you have a 15-minute walk.
Viraatkhai weather and temperature
The best time to explore Viraatkhai is during the months of April to June and September to October. During this time, the weather remains pleasant in between the range from 15°C to 25°C. In winter, the region receives heavy snowfall, and temperatures fall to 0°C at night.
Viraatkhai Map
How To Reach
By Road: Viraatkhai is well-connected by road and can be easily accessed from major cities in Uttarakhand and other neighboring states. The nearest major town is Chakrata, which is around 10 km away from Viraatkhai. There are regular bus services available from Dehradun, Mussoorie, and other nearby cities to Chakrata, from where visitors can take a taxi or a shared jeep to reach Viraatkhai.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Viraatkhai is located in Dehradun, which is around 100 km away. Dehradun is well-connected to major cities in India and has regular trains running from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from Dehradun to reach Viraatkhai.
By Air: The nearest airport to Viraatkhai is located in Dehradun, which is around 115 km away. The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Viraatkhai.