Hanol is an endearing village located along the Tons River and encased by green hills that provide an expansive green backdrop. Though not typically included on travel itineraries, Hanol holds deep significance to local residents who call it their home and hold fond memories for its residents.
Hanol’s most striking attraction, Mahasu Devta Temple, stands as an unforgettable monument dedicated to Shiva that dates back to the 9th century and stands amid lush grasslands and gently sloped hills. Attracting millions each year with its breathtaking beauty is this grand stone structure constructed during that era and set against stunning views of rolling grasslands, sparkling streams flowing nearby and sunshine bathing its surroundings; creating an intoxicating picture.
Hanol is also steeped in history of nature’s beauty; once home to Asia’s tallest pine tree. Although this iconic specimen no longer stands tall in Hanol, its remains and preserved bark still inspire curiosity among visitors who visit.
Hanol offers an ideal two-day trek in Uttarakhand for novice and experienced hikers alike, providing a moderately challenging trail that provides stunning valley views at each turn while the gentle flow of Tons River provides an immersive, almost euphoric feeling along its course.
Mahasu Devta Temple stands out both historically and architecturally. With its high roofing of slate and exquisitely decorated balconies adorned with tassels and bells adornments aplenty as well as its vast collection of spherical rocks believed to have been used by Bhim for exercising–which add to its ethereal allure–this temple makes quite the impression. According to local religious leaders, only those possessing spiritual purity could move these stones, an act which has not yet happened yet.
Tiuni to Hanol offers an incredible birding trail for bird watchers. Along its length are numerous species of birds such as babblers, grass-birds and wall-creepers; Himalayan Griffons; as well as many other raptors which makes each part of this trek exciting for nature enthusiasts.
Discover Hanol, an unexplored treasure where nature, history and spirituality converge to form an unforgettable landscape that inspires and mesmerizes visitors alike.
Best Time for Hanol Mahasu Devta Temple
The Hanol Trek in Uttarakhand is all year round, with the exception of the monsoon time when hot and humid weather makes the trail risky. Every season provides a distinct journey:
- The winter months are the most beautiful. It transforms the countryside into a peaceful covered in snow, which offers stunning, peaceful landscapes.
- Spring When winter is gone, vibrant blooms burst into bloom, creating an green oasis which provides a pleasant break from the heat of summer.
Take a trip in these times to take in the unique beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the city of Hanol offers.
Detailed Trail Information of Hanol Temple Trek
Day 1: Hike starting from Bashik Devta Temple, Tiuni to Mahasu Devta Temple, Hanol
- Distance & Duration:Hiking Distance: 9 kmTime Requirement: Approximately 8-9 hoursAltitude: The trek involves an average gain of 3,720 feet. The trek covers varied terrain that has elevations local to the area ranging between roughly 3,467 and 3,480 feet at specific points.
- Hiking Distance: 9 km
- Time Requirement: Approximately 8-9 hours
- Altitude: The trek involves an average gain of 3,720 feet. The trek covers varied terrain that has elevations local to the area ranging between roughly 3,467 and 3,480 feet at specific points.
- Highlights & Route Details:Starting Point – Tiuni:Start at the venerable Bashik Devta Temple in Tiuni The holy place has a rich history that is deeply rooted in local customs. In Tiuni, Vashik — regarded as the son of Deolari Devi is respected by the people of Tiuni.Tiuni is an important city in Tiuni is a vital center for Jaunsari tribes near Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh, famous for its customary clothing, its dialect and the picturesque crossing point between both the Tons as well as the Pabbar rivers join.Scenic Journey:The temple is located at the end of the road. take an easy dirt path which offers breathtaking perspectives of the clear water that flow from Tons River. Tons River.Keep following the maintained route up to 5 kilometers to reach Bhakwar village. In Bhakwar take a look at the local agricultural creativity through terraced fields as well as planted plots that have been stepped. Interact with the residents of Bhakwar to find out about their traditions and everyday activities.Take a break at a nearby food market, and remember to bring reusable containers so that you can reduce the amount of waste.Deodar Forest & Arrival at Hanol:Following Bhakwar, trek through a beautiful Deodar forest that is approximately 4 kilometers. Take in the beautiful forest canopy, the scattered cones of deodar as well as the tranquility of this largely unexplored woodland.In the morning, you will be at Hanol village. There, famous Mahasu Devta Temple stands proudly in the vast bugyals (meadows) suitable for camping.
- Starting Point – Tiuni:Start at the venerable Bashik Devta Temple in Tiuni The holy place has a rich history that is deeply rooted in local customs. In Tiuni, Vashik — regarded as the son of Deolari Devi is respected by the people of Tiuni.Tiuni is an important city in Tiuni is a vital center for Jaunsari tribes near Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh, famous for its customary clothing, its dialect and the picturesque crossing point between both the Tons as well as the Pabbar rivers join.
- Start at the venerable Bashik Devta Temple in Tiuni The holy place has a rich history that is deeply rooted in local customs. In Tiuni, Vashik — regarded as the son of Deolari Devi is respected by the people of Tiuni.
- Tiuni is an important city in Tiuni is a vital center for Jaunsari tribes near Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh, famous for its customary clothing, its dialect and the picturesque crossing point between both the Tons as well as the Pabbar rivers join.
- Scenic Journey:The temple is located at the end of the road. take an easy dirt path which offers breathtaking perspectives of the clear water that flow from Tons River. Tons River.Keep following the maintained route up to 5 kilometers to reach Bhakwar village. In Bhakwar take a look at the local agricultural creativity through terraced fields as well as planted plots that have been stepped. Interact with the residents of Bhakwar to find out about their traditions and everyday activities.Take a break at a nearby food market, and remember to bring reusable containers so that you can reduce the amount of waste.
- The temple is located at the end of the road. take an easy dirt path which offers breathtaking perspectives of the clear water that flow from Tons River. Tons River.
- Keep following the maintained route up to 5 kilometers to reach Bhakwar village. In Bhakwar take a look at the local agricultural creativity through terraced fields as well as planted plots that have been stepped. Interact with the residents of Bhakwar to find out about their traditions and everyday activities.
- Take a break at a nearby food market, and remember to bring reusable containers so that you can reduce the amount of waste.
- Deodar Forest & Arrival at Hanol:Following Bhakwar, trek through a beautiful Deodar forest that is approximately 4 kilometers. Take in the beautiful forest canopy, the scattered cones of deodar as well as the tranquility of this largely unexplored woodland.In the morning, you will be at Hanol village. There, famous Mahasu Devta Temple stands proudly in the vast bugyals (meadows) suitable for camping.
- Following Bhakwar, trek through a beautiful Deodar forest that is approximately 4 kilometers. Take in the beautiful forest canopy, the scattered cones of deodar as well as the tranquility of this largely unexplored woodland.
- In the morning, you will be at Hanol village. There, famous Mahasu Devta Temple stands proudly in the vast bugyals (meadows) suitable for camping.
Day 2: Guided Exploration of Hanol Village
- Guided Trek Details:Distance & Duration:You can cover an additional 9km within 7-8 hours in an organized tour through The Hanol region.Elevation Change:The route ascends between 3,480 and 4,171 feet before descending down to 3,480 feet providing both physical challenges and beautiful views.
- Distance & Duration:You can cover an additional 9km within 7-8 hours in an organized tour through The Hanol region.
- You can cover an additional 9km within 7-8 hours in an organized tour through The Hanol region.
- Elevation Change:The route ascends between 3,480 and 4,171 feet before descending down to 3,480 feet providing both physical challenges and beautiful views.
- The route ascends between 3,480 and 4,171 feet before descending down to 3,480 feet providing both physical challenges and beautiful views.
- Cultural & Natural Immersion:Experience a unique experience in Hanol an idyllic community loved for its warmth and rich heritage of culture.Enjoy local tea while chatting with friendly locals and take in the authentic life style that makes the region special.The trail in this area is marked with an amalgamation of cultivated and natural beauty. one end displaying deciduous trees and the other showing stunning landscapes of agricultural land that show the human creativity.Navigation & Safety:The GPX file is available to aid you on the unpaved, yet interconnected trails. Take care when walking on slippery surfaces and pick trails that are safe for the delicate local vegetation.
- Experience a unique experience in Hanol an idyllic community loved for its warmth and rich heritage of culture.
- Enjoy local tea while chatting with friendly locals and take in the authentic life style that makes the region special.
- The trail in this area is marked with an amalgamation of cultivated and natural beauty. one end displaying deciduous trees and the other showing stunning landscapes of agricultural land that show the human creativity.
- Navigation & Safety:The GPX file is available to aid you on the unpaved, yet interconnected trails. Take care when walking on slippery surfaces and pick trails that are safe for the delicate local vegetation.
- The GPX file is available to aid you on the unpaved, yet interconnected trails. Take care when walking on slippery surfaces and pick trails that are safe for the delicate local vegetation.
Day 3: Trekking to Mahasu Devta Temple to Devta Range
- Distance & Duration:Hiking Distance: Approximately 7 kmDuration: About 5-6 hourselevation: This route involves gradual elevation shifts, which range between 3,480 feet 367 to.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 7 km
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
- elevation: This route involves gradual elevation shifts, which range between 3,480 feet 367 to.
- Highlights & Points of Interest:The morning’s trek will lead you to a remembrance place for the world’s highest pine trees. Explore the remains of the giant pine once atop the world as you walk through this historic region.The route is completely asphalted, which allows you to see stunning views on the gentle ascent.Scenic Vistas:Listen to the tranquil music from the Tons River, framed by groups of deodar and pine trees. Also, you can catch a glimpse of the village’s life, from children going to school, to people who tend freshly planted fields.The route also takes you to Khunigad and also the well-known Samadhi Tree Sanctuary, where the ancient roots and trees give a peek into the region’s fascinating natural heritage.Optional Transport:For those who do not wish to trek the whole distance Taxis are readily available starting from Hanol for an estimated cost between Rs 100 and 150.
- The morning’s trek will lead you to a remembrance place for the world’s highest pine trees. Explore the remains of the giant pine once atop the world as you walk through this historic region.
- The route is completely asphalted, which allows you to see stunning views on the gentle ascent.
- Scenic Vistas:Listen to the tranquil music from the Tons River, framed by groups of deodar and pine trees. Also, you can catch a glimpse of the village’s life, from children going to school, to people who tend freshly planted fields.The route also takes you to Khunigad and also the well-known Samadhi Tree Sanctuary, where the ancient roots and trees give a peek into the region’s fascinating natural heritage.
- Listen to the tranquil music from the Tons River, framed by groups of deodar and pine trees. Also, you can catch a glimpse of the village’s life, from children going to school, to people who tend freshly planted fields.
- The route also takes you to Khunigad and also the well-known Samadhi Tree Sanctuary, where the ancient roots and trees give a peek into the region’s fascinating natural heritage.
- Optional Transport:For those who do not wish to trek the whole distance Taxis are readily available starting from Hanol for an estimated cost between Rs 100 and 150.
- For those who do not wish to trek the whole distance Taxis are readily available starting from Hanol for an estimated cost between Rs 100 and 150.
The comprehensive tour offers an ideal blend of culture immersion, stunning natural beauty, and challenging but rewarding treks. Be sure to enjoy the trip, take care of the environment around you, and be awed by the beauty and timeless nature of this amazing area.
How to Reach For Hanol Mahasu Devta Temple
Hanol is located around 170 kilometers away from Dehradun It is 158km from Mussoorie and 95 kilometers away from Chakrata. How to get there: Hanol:
- From Dehradun:Rail Nearest railway station located in Dehradun (about 181km away) However, trains do not run directly from there to Hanol.Taxi/Auto Taxis that share the road are readily available at Dehradun Railway Station, and you could also use an auto or taxi direct to Hanol.by the air Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun is about 208 km from.
- Rail Nearest railway station located in Dehradun (about 181km away) However, trains do not run directly from there to Hanol.
- Taxi/Auto Taxis that share the road are readily available at Dehradun Railway Station, and you could also use an auto or taxi direct to Hanol.
- by the air Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun is about 208 km from.
- From Chakrata:Taxi There is the option of taking taxis directly at Chakrata’s Taxi Stand.
- Taxi There is the option of taking taxis directly at Chakrata’s Taxi Stand.
- For Bus Travelers:There aren’t any buses that direct you that go to Chakrata you can take any bus that is heading to Vikas Nagar, and change into a shared taxi to take the last part of your journey.
- There aren’t any buses that direct you that go to Chakrata you can take any bus that is heading to Vikas Nagar, and change into a shared taxi to take the last part of your journey.
- Alternative Route:Participate in on one Tiuni Village’s treks that are organized along the route beginning at Hanol for an even more memorable adventure.
- Participate in on one Tiuni Village’s treks that are organized along the route beginning at Hanol for an even more memorable adventure.
This allows you to adapt your travel experience to your personal travel needs.
Essentials for the Hanol Mahasu Devta Temple
- A well-stocked First Aid kit, including:
- Scissors
- Band-aids (regular and waterproof)
- Analgesic spray (Relispray, Volini, etc.)
- Antiseptic Liquid (Savlon, Dettol, etc.)
- Antiseptic powder (Povidone-Iodine-based powders like Cipladine, Savlon, etc.)
- Cotton roll and bandage
- Crepe Bandage
- 1-inch wide medical tape (paper or cloth)
- Micropore tape
- Tablets for motion sickness (Avomine) and acidity (Gelusil, Digene, etc.)
- Mild pain relief tablet (Crocin)
- Identity Card
- Cap, scarf, bandana, and sunglasses
- At least two litres of water
- Lemon, salt, or an electrolyte drink (Electoral/Gatorade/Glucon D, etc.)
- High-calorie snacks (nuts, dry fruits, home-baked cake, etc.)
- Safety pins, rubber bands, and a whistle (useful in emergencies)
- Quick-drying T-shirts (preferable over cotton tees)
- Poncho (only during monsoons)
- Plastic sheet to wrap electronic devices (only during monsoons)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Trekking poles (optional)
Remember to always seek advice from a physician before consuming any medication.
