Haldwani is a city in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is the third most populous city in the state and the largest in the Kumaon region. It is also known as the Gateway of Kumaon, as it serves as a base for exploring the scenic and cultural wonders of this region.
The Origin of Haldwani
The name ‘Haldwani’ comes from the word ‘Haldu’, which is a type of tree that grows abundantly in this area. The tree has yellowish wood and is used for making furniture and other items. It was once a forested area where Haldu trees were found in large numbers. The British cleared the forests and established a market town here in the 19th century. It became an important trade center for timber, grains, fruits, and other commodities.
The Attractions of Haldwani
Haldwani is not just a commercial hub, but also a tourist destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Some of the popular places to see in Haldwani are:
- Gaula Barrage: This is a dam built on the Gaula River, which provides irrigation and drinking water to the nearby areas. The barrage also creates a scenic lake where one can enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking.
- Sanjay Van: This is a forest reserve that covers an area of about 12 square kilometers. It is home to various species of birds, animals, and plants. One can go for nature walks, birdwatching, or camping here.
- Lal Kuan Railway Station: This is a heritage railway station that was built in 1884 by the British. It is one of the oldest railway stations in India and has colonial architecture. It is also the junction point for trains going to different destinations in Kumaon.
- Haidakhan Ashram: This is a spiritual retreat that was founded by Baba Haidakhan, who claimed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The ashram attracts devotees from all over the world who come here for meditation, yoga, and service.
The Advantages of Haldwani
Haldwani is not only a gateway to Kumaon, but also a gateway to many other places of interest in Uttarakhand. Some of the advantages of staying in Haldwani are:
- Proximity to Nainital: Haldwani is only 30 kilometers away from Nainital, which is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Nainital is famous for its lake, mall road, temples, and viewpoints. One can easily visit Nainital from Haldwani by road or rail.
- Access to Jim Corbett National Park: Haldwani is also 60 kilometers away from Jim Corbett National Park, which is one of the oldest and largest national parks in India. It is renowned for its wildlife, especially tigers, elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. One can book safaris or stay at resorts inside the park.
- Connection to other Kumaon destinations: Haldwani is also well connected to other Kumaon destinations such as Ranikhet, Almora, Mukteshwar, Binsar, Kausani, Munsiyari, and more. These places offer stunning views of the Himalayas, lush valleys, ancient temples, and rich culture. One can easily travel to these places from Haldwani by road or rail.
The Conclusion
Haldwani is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for business opportunities, shopping options, nightlife entertainment, or natural beauty, you will find it here. It is also a perfect base for exploring the diverse and delightful Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. So, next time you plan a trip to Uttarakhand, don’t forget to visit Haldwani – the Gateway of Kumaon.