Koti-Kanasar is constructed on the ancestral farm within an apple orchard, situated 26 km away from Chakrata town. It is perfect for picnics, honeymoons, and family vacations. Situated in this area is the small village of Koti Kanasar, characterized by a handful of houses. Kanasar is renowned for its ancient Deodar trees within its forest. One notable tree boasts a circumference of 6.35 meters, recognized as Asia’s oldest and largest Deodar tree.
Thick Deodar, oak, and pine forests encircle the secluded alpine meadow known as “bugiyal,” appearing unexpectedly around a turn in the endlessly winding road. Slate roofs and stone walls punctuate the scenery as you near the Kanasar Eco-lodge, a family-operated eco-tourism initiative nestled in Koti-Kanasar, just a 25-kilometer drive from Chakrata in Uttarakhand.
The eco-lodge comprises two cottages, each capable of accommodating 6 to 8 people, along with five tents. Situated one kilometer away, the air is consistently filled with the sounds of the Himalayan Magpie on apricot branches or the fleeting sight of the Scarlet Minivet, regardless of the season.
The government has designated this region as a protected area due to its wealth of biodiversity and distinctive cultural and architectural features.
Kanasar, a haven for mid-altitude birdwatching enthusiasts, offers an ideal setting to discover alpine meadows and unexplored forests. Explore the shrine of Mahashu Devta, the Jaunsari deity, or simply relish the refreshing Himalayan air and the allure of the villages. Indulge in hot cups of tea and savor the delicious locally grown rajma, rice, and bhang-ki-chutney. This experience is accessible from the village of Koti on the Rana family’s ancestral farm.
The cottages are situated halfway up the southwestern slope of a hill, offering a scenic panorama of the alpine mountains in the distance and an apple orchard in the valley below in the foreground.
Things to do in Koti Kanasar
Tourists also enjoy trekking to Buder Gupha and Deoban from Kanasar, which are situated at distances of 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively. The Kanasar Temple, a small temple, holds significant importance as a center of faith and devotion for the locals. Additionally, there is a Forest Rest House located 3 kilometers from the village, perched atop a hill, offering excellent panoramic views of the hills.
When to visit Koti Kanasar
The climate remains delightful throughout the year, featuring snowfall in January and February. The landscape showcases the beauty of each season, with apple, apricot, and peach blossoms gracing the surroundings in April-May, a plentiful apple harvest in July-August, and the striking silhouette of leafless apple trees in October. Additionally, autumn brings vibrant hues to apricot and peach leaves, along with the evergreen Deodar.
How to reach Koti Kanasar
Kanasar is situated in Chakrata, approximately 24 kilometers from the main market of Chakrata.
From Dehradun kanasar is approximately 112 Kilometers and it can take roughly 4 hours to reach by road.
Nearest Railway station :- The nearest railway station to koti kanasar is dehradun railway station.
Nearest airport : The nearest airport to koti kanasar is jolly grant air port approx. 139 Kilometer.
Also read : Jaunsar Bawar Village & Jaunsari Community – History, Traditions & Customs Tour