Ever wondered about visiting peaceful places surrounded by nature? Well, Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh is one such spot. It is full of spiritual places and beautiful views. Paonta Sahib is a town on the Yamuna River. If you are planning a trip, be sure to explore the various places to visit in Paonta Sahib, including the revered Gurudwara Paonta Sahib, the tranquil landscapes of Yamuna Temple, the historical significance of Kavi Darbar, and the breathtaking views from Kali Mata Temple.
Suggested Read: 9 Best Budget Friendly Places to Visit in Himachal
It is a special place for Sikhs because the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, lived there for three years. He was invited by the local ruler and founded the town. The word “Paonta” means “a place to settle.”
Suggested Read: 15 Famous Places to Visit in Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh
The main attraction is the Gurudwara, a Sikh temple built by Guru Gobind Singh. It has beautiful views of the river and the valley. Inside the Gurudwara, there is a special golden palanquin (a type of carriage) and places where the Guru’s belongings are kept. There is a museum with his weapons and pens. Sikhs from all over the world visit Paonta Sahib as a pilgrimage.
Suggested Read: 9 Best Places to Visit in Palampur Himachal Pradesh
It is about 45km from the town of Nahan. We will show you all the interesting spots and amazing sights Paonta Sahib has to offer. Get ready for an adventure that is both calming and exciting. Let’s start our journey.
Places to Visit in Paonta Sahib
Get ready for a chill trip to Paonta Sahib. Visit the spiritual Gurudwaras, see the awesome bird sanctuary, and maybe catch a glimpse of some cool animals in the national park. Here are some of the best places to visit in Paonta Sahib.
1. Paonta Sahib Gurudwara
This Gurudwara has a special connection to Sikh history. Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Guru, lived here in Nahan for four years until 1685 AD. He wrote a lot of the holy book Dasam Granth during this time. The Gurudwara was built where Guru Gobind Singh stayed, and it still has many things that belonged to him. It is a big building with a dome by the Yamuna River, and lots of Hindu and Sikh people come here every day for prayers. They also offer free meals to everyone, thanks to donations from the community.
Suggested Read: Best Tourist Places in Shimla
If you are looking to explore beyond Paonta Sahib, there are several enchanting places to visit near Paonta Sahib, including the serene hill station of Nahan, the bustling city of Chandigarh with its modern architecture and beautiful gardens, and the picturesque capital city of Shimla nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills.
2. Churdhar
Churdhar is the highest mountain in Sirmaur. It is a great place for hikers because the views are amazing. A long time ago, a famous explorer named George Everest used this mountain to study other big mountains in the Himalayas. You can even see all the way down to the plains far in the distance. Additionally, if you are exploring the area around Paonta Sahib, Churdhar offers an excellent opportunity for adventure and exploration, making it one of the captivating places to visit near Paonta Sahib for those seeking stunning vistas and outdoor activities.
Suggested Read: 12 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Spiti Valley
There are a few different trails to reach Churdhar. It is a bit of a tough hike, but it is worth it for the scenery. Near the top, there is a temple to a god called Shirgul Devta and a newer temple to Lord Shiva. The mountain is also a wildlife sanctuary with beautiful plants, flowers, and cool birds like pheasants. If you are lucky, you might even spot deer or a Himalayan black bear.
3. Haripurdhar
Haripurdhar is a beautiful town on top of a hill. It has amazing views of a valley called Bhangayani (named after a famous temple). The valley is surrounded by tall mountains, making the whole place look like a painting.
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit In Chail Himachal Pradesh
Haripurdhar is also a starting point for people who want to hike up to Churdhar Peak. It is a long way from the town of Nahan (about 86 km). While exploring the vicinity of Paonta Sahib, consider venturing to Haripurdhar, a picturesque town renowned for its panoramic vistas and as a gateway to Churdhar peak, adding to the list of captivating places to visit in Paonta Sahib and its surroundings.
4. Baru Sahib
Picture a spot tucked away in the stunning mountains of India known as the “Valley of Divine Peace” – that’s Baru Sahib. Here, the emphasis is on blending modern education with cultivating kindness and self-awareness. Spread across a vast 400 acres in a serene area adorned with abundant trees, Baru Sahib offers a tranquil retreat.
Suggested Read: 21 Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala
Despite being relatively new, reaching Baru Sahib is easy, simply drive from Solan along the Rajgarh route, about 63 kilometers away. As you explore the scenic surroundings near Paonta Sahib, don’t miss the chance to visit Baru Sahib, adding to your itinerary of Paonta Sahib tourist places.
5. Simbalbara National Park
Simbalbara National Park is a beautiful nature reserve located near Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh, India, adding to the list of Paonta Sahib tourist places. It is known for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and serene atmosphere. The park is home to various species of flora and fauna, including deer, leopards, and different kinds of birds.
Suggested Read: Top 16 best tourist places to visit in Solan Himachal
Visitors to Simbalbara National Park can enjoy activities like nature walks, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, making it one of the most enticing places to visit near Paonta Sahib. The park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
6. Sirmauri Tal
Sirmauri Tal used to be an important place where kings lived, by the Giri river. But it is said that the town got destroyed because of a sad story. The king promised to give half of his kingdom to a dancing girl if she crossed a narrow gorge on a rope. She did it, but when she tried to come back by dancing on the rope, the king cut that rope and the girl dropped into the river.
Suggested Read: 16 Best places to visit in Kullu Manali
This act supposedly led to floods that washed away the town. Sirmauri Tal is about 16 km from Paonta Sahib and 25 km from Nahan, adding to the allure of places to visit in Paonta Sahib.
7. Dhaula Kuan
On the way to Paonta Sahib, about 20 km from Nahan, there is a cool place called Dhaula Kuan, which is among the notable places to visit in Paonta Sahib’s vicinity. It boasts a big orchard with lots of citrus and mango trees. Plus, there’s a factory there making all kinds of juices, jams, pickles, and canned fruits. Not far from the orchard is the Kastasan Devi temple.
Suggested Read: 11 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Nahan Himachal Pradesh
It is special because it marks where Raja Jagat Singh won a big battle against another army. To say thanks, the Raja built the temple. Also, there is a research station from the HP Agricultural University nearby. They study tropical fruits there.
How to Reach Paonta Sahib
Here is a breakdown of the different ways to reach Paonta Sahib:
By Road:
Paonta Sahib is well-connected by road to major cities in the region. You can comfortably drive from places like Chandigarh (about 120 km), Dehradun (around 45 km), and Delhi (approximately 260 km)
Bus:
Regular bus services are available from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Chandigarh, and Shimla, offering both state-run and private options.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: The closest major railway station is in Dehradun (about 45 km away). From there, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach Paonta Sahib.
By Air:
Nearest Airport: The closest airport is in Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), about 55 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Paonta Sahib.
Best Time To Visit Paonta Sahib
The best time to visit Paonta Sahib is during the cooler months from October to March. Here is why:
Pleasant Weather: Temperatures are mild, ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). This makes exploring the Gurudwaras, outdoor activities, and sightseeing much more comfortable.
Festival Season: Many important Sikh festivals, like Hola Mohalla and Baisakhi, are celebrated during this period. Experiencing these vibrant events adds another dimension to your visit.
Lush Nature: If you enjoy nature, the forests and hills around Paonta Sahib are at their greenest and most beautiful during and after the monsoon season.
Things to do in Paonta Sahib
In Paonta Sahib, there are several activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy. Here are some things to do in Paonta Sahib:
1. Visit Gurudwara Paonta Sahib: Pay your respects at this historical Sikh Gurudwara, where Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent several years and wrote part of the Dasam Granth. Participate in the daily prayers and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
2. Explore Kavi Darbar: Discover the poetic gatherings held by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Kavi Darbar. Explore the historical significance of this site and learn about the Guru’s literary contributions.
3. Take a Dip in Shri Talab: Experience the sacred waters of Shri Talab, a holy pond located near Gurudwara Paonta Sahib. Many devotees believe that bathing in its waters can cleanse the soul.
4. Enjoy Nature Walks: Explore the scenic beauty surrounding Paonta Sahib by taking leisurely nature walks along the banks of the Yamuna River or through the nearby forests. Enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the natural surroundings.
5. Visit Yamuna Temple: Pay homage to the goddess Yamuna at the Yamuna Temple, located near Gurudwara Paonta Sahib. Experience the peaceful ambiance and take in the beautiful architecture of the temple.
6. Explore Local Markets: Take a stroll through the local markets of Paonta Sahib and explore the vibrant culture of the region. Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties to take home with you.
7. Attend Religious Events: If you’re visiting during a religious festival or event, participate in the celebrations and immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of the region.
8. Birdwatching at Assan Lak: If you’re a nature lover, head to Assan Lake, located near Paonta Sahib, for birdwatching. Spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat and enjoy the serene surroundings.
9. Explore Nearby Attractions: Take day trips to nearby attractions such as Sirmauri Tal, Dhaula Kuan, or Simbalbara Wildlife Sanctuary to further explore the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
Best Hotels Near Paonta Sahib Gurudwara
Here are a few hotels located conveniently near Gurudwara Paonta Sahib:
Hotel Guru Surbhi: This unfussy budget hotel provides comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and secured parking. It’s a very short distance from the Gurudwara.
Hotel City Heart: Another budget-friendly option close to the Gurudwara.
Pal Haveli: Offers a bit more luxury, with an international restaurant, gym, and free Wi-Fi. It’s located on the bypass road, still within easy reach of the Gurudwara.
The Brighton Hotel and Restaurant: Another comfortable option on the main road (NH-72)
I hope this helps you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Paonta Sahib.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Places to visit in Paonta Sahib
Q. Where is Paonta Sahib
Paonta Sahib is located in the Sirmour district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, near the border with Uttarakhand.
Q. Hill Station near Paonta Sahib
The nearest hill station to Paonta Sahib is Dehradun, located approximately 80 kilometers away in the neighboring state of Uttarakhand.
Q. Tourist places near Paonta Sahib
Some tourist places near Paonta Sahib include Dehradun, Sirmaur Tal, Dhaula Kuan, and Simbalbara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Q. Famous Gurudwara in Himachal
The famous Gurudwara in Himachal Pradesh is Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, known for its hot springs and religious significance.
Q. What is Paonta Sahib famous for?
Paonta Sahib is famous for its historical significance as a Sikh pilgrimage site where Guru Gobind Singh Ji stayed and wrote part of the Dasam Granth.