About Chakrata & History
Chakrata, earlier known as Jaunsar Bawar, is a well-known major tourist and picturesque picnic spot in the district of Dehradun in Uttarakhand state. It’s located at a distance of 92 kms from Dehradun and 73 kms from Mussoorie. Chakrata is situated at an elevation of 2270 meters above sea level and is beautifully located on the banks of two rivers – Yamuna and Tons amidst amazing flora and fauna.
Chakrata, a cantonment area, is a secluded hill station with a calm environment. The place is famous as a mesmerizing weekend destination that is approximately 87 kms northwest of Dehradun with Mussoorie on its east and Kinnaur on its west. The region is a military cantonment and, thus, foreigners have to face severe restrictions during their visit.
Chakrata is a hidden gem situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by the Himalayas and forests of green. The air here is so pure and pollution-free. Chakrata is a beloved hill station for the people of Uttarakhand and is less known to outsiders. One can spend a lovely weekend or enjoy a few days off here. Discover short trekking trails, chase waterfalls, enjoy the snow if it is winter, and relax in peace.
History of Chakrata
Chakrata was earlier known as Jaunsar-Bawar. The placed was named after the Jaunsari tribe and it still has a marked presence in few villages that surrounds the region. A British Indian Army cantonment was established by Colonel Hume of the 55th Regiment in 1866 and the cantonment was first occupied by the troops and officers in 1869. Now, it is an access restricted military cantonment area.
Chakrata Tehsil was a part of Dehradun in 1901. It had a total population of 51,101 which included the towns of Kalsi and Chakrata. Kalsi is famous for its rock edicts of the Mauryan King Ashoka, dated back to 2nd century BC which was first discovered in 1860 by John Forest.
Special Frontier Force, the only ethnic Tibetan unit of the Indian Army which was developed after the Indo-China war of 1962 has its permanent garrison in Chakrata. R&AW and other intelligence services in Chakrata are known to impart various weapons and survival training. This is done in support of various Indian foreign policy goals.
Best time to visit Chakrata
Summer months from March-June is the best time to visit Chakrata. When it is unbearably hot in other parts of the country, This place could be your next runaway paradise. The months of early winter between September to November are also chilly and reliable. If you enjoy the snow, December ends and January is definitely Chakrata’s best time to visit.