Dhokaney Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Uttarakhand

In this comprehensive travel guide, we have tried our best to cover everything you need to know regarding Dhokaney Waterfall like route map, insider advice, local tales, activities to enjoy and much more. This guide will inspire you to visit this enigmatic paradise, irrespective of the fact whether you are a solo adventurer, a family on a picnic or a couple craving a romantic getaway.

Introduction to Dhokaney Waterfall

The magnificent natural wonder Dhokaney Waterfall is located in the heart of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. Dhokaney waterfall is a much underrated tourist jewel hidden like a best kept secret in the hilly terrain of the Himalayan range covered with forest range full of pine plantation. This stunning waterfall is not fully explored yet and remains relatively untouched, making it a perfect place for those admiring solitude and raw natural beauty.

The waterfall tumbles down from rugged rocks, creating a misty spray and a shallow, glistening pool at its base. It is the kind of place where you can sit near shallow water, dip your toes in icy water and feel completely at peace. If you are planning a weekend getaway from Delhi or a road trip through Uttarakhand, Dhokaney Waterfall promises an experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

Why read this guide? We have explored Dhokaney Waterfall, spoken to locals and gathered insider tips to help you make the most of your visit. This guide is packed with practical advice, unique insights and everything you need to plan for a perfect trip. Let’s get started.

Location

Dhokaney Waterfall is located near the quaint village of Dhokal in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. It is located at Suyalbari village, a few distances from NH 109 which connects two popular regions of Uttarakhand (Almora with Nainital). The waterfall lies at a distance of roughly about 20 kilometers from Almora village and 48 kilometers from Nainital, making it an approachable destination for travelers visiting Kumaon region.

The waterfall lies in a tranquil valley, followed by dense pine forests and towering mountains. The place remains less crowded than other tourist spots in Uttarakhand due to its secluded location. The nearest major town, Suyalbari, is just 2 kilometers away, where you’ll find basic amenities and parking facilities.

Pro Tip: Use GPS coordinates (approximately 29.5833° N, 79.6667° E) to locate the waterfall accurately, as it may not always appear on standard maps due to its offbeat status.

Key Features

Dhokaney Waterfall is a visual and sensory delight. Here are some of its standout features that make it a must visit spot:

• Cascading Beauty: The waterfall flows down rocky cliffs, creating a mesmerizing sight and a soothing sound that instantly calms the mind.
• Crystal Clear Pool: At the base, a shallow pool forms, perfect for dipping your feet or splashing around.
• Scenic Surroundings: The waterfall is enveloped by pine forests, rolling hills and rugged mountains, offering stunning views at every turn.
• Quiet Ambiance: Dhokaney Waterfall often remains peaceful, with few people, especially in the early afternoon.
• Accessibility: A short 0.5 kilometer hike from the parking area makes it accessible for most travelers, including families with kids.

Insider Tip: The pool at the base is filled with colorful pebbles that kids (and adults) love collecting.

Why to Visit And What makes It Special?

Dhokaney Waterfall stands out as a must visit spot for its untouched beauty and unique offerings. Dhokaney Waterfall offers a chance to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with nature vibes.

• Hidden Gem Status: Dhokaney Waterfall is not very famous yet as other Uttarakhand waterfalls like Kempty or Bhimtal, which means existence of fewer crowds and a more authentic experience.
• Nature’s Therapy: The sound of free flowing water falling from mountain, fresh mountain air and lush greenery create a calming environment that is a perfect natural stress reliever.
• Photography Paradise: The waterfall and its surroundings offer endless opportunities for clicking stunning photos, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
• Cultural Connection: The nearby Kainchi Dham Temple and local villages add a cultural dimension to your visit making it more than just a nature trip.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Although Dhokaney Waterfall is in itself a natural wonder but the surrounding area is also very rich in its history and culture. This sector of Himalayan region, renowned as “Devbhoomi” (Land of Gods), is famous for its spiritual significance, ancient traditions and culture. The waterfall is located near the famous Kainchi Dham, Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, a spiritual retreat visited by devotees from around the world including notable figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.

The local folklore suggests that the waterfall and its surrounding forests have been revered by the Kumaoni people for centuries. The area is dotted with small temples and shrines, reflecting the region’s deep connection to nature and spirituality. The people of this region during festivals like Basant Panchami celebrate with rituals that honor the natural beauty of the Himalayas, including the waterfall.

The nearby village of Ninglat is known for its traditional Kumaoni culture, where you can witness the local crafts, music and cuisine. Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), a government organization, promoting sustainable tourism in this region has given the responsibility of maintaining and looking after this offbeat waterfall.

Insider Tip: Try to chat with locals at the homestay near the waterfall in order to learn about Kumaon traditions and stories. They are often seen feeling proud and happy sharing the tales of this region’s history.

How to Reach Dhokaney Waterfall (Route Map)

The route to reach Dhokaney Waterfall is straightforward, with availability of multiple transportation options. Here is a detailed guide to reach this offbeat destination:

First of all, try reaching Haldwani, Almora or Nainital. Now, there after two modes of options are available:

By Car

• From Nainital (48 km): Take National Highway 109 toward Almora. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through the scenic hills and forests. Do follow instructions to the waterfall from Suyalbari, usually 2 km from the main road.
• From Almora (20 km): Take NH 109 towards Nainital. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Drive cautiously as the road is not well at certain region and prone to accidents.

Public Transport (By Bus)

• From Nainital or Almora: The regular bus service is available between Nainital and Almora along NH 109. Step out from the bus at Suyalbari and then take a shared auto or taxi (approx. Rs 100 to 200) to the waterfall.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (90 km). Now either take a bus to Suyalbari or hire a cab for Rs 2000-3000.

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (100 km). Book a taxi from airport or ride a bus to Suyalbari (3- 4 hours)

Route Map

• Key Route: Delhi → Moradabad → Haldwani → Nainital → Suyalbari → Dhokaney Waterfall.

Insider Tip: If traveling by public transport, confirm bus schedules in advance, as they may be less frequent in the off-season.

Best Time to Visit

March to June and September to November are the best and perfect time to explore this beautiful wonder of nature. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C and the waterfall flows vigorously, especially post-monsoon. The spring (March-June) brings flourishing wild flowers, while the autumn (September-November) offers clear skies with vibrant greenery.

Try to avoid during monsoon season (July-August) due to slippery trails and potential road blocks. The winters (December-February) can be chilly with temperatures dropping to 5°C but the waterfall is still beautiful if you are prepared to bear the cold.

Insider Tip: Visit in early March or late October to enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists.

Weather

• Spring (March-June): Warm days (20-25°C) and cool nights, perfect for hiking and photography.
• Monsoon (July-August): Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and roads challenging. The waterfall is at its fullest but less safe.
• Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, mild temperatures (15-22°C) and lush greenery, ideal for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December-February): Cold (5-15°C) with occasional frost.

Pro Tip: Check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as sudden rain can affect road conditions in hilly areas.

Entry Fees

The entry to Dhokaney Waterfall is not free and has to pay an amount of Rs 100 per individual. The entry fee is collected by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) for maintenance and cleanliness of the area. The children below the age of 5 years may enter for free, but do confirm with the staff at the gate.

Insider Tip: Carry cash with you in small denominations, as card payments may not be accepted at the entrance.

Things to Do

• Hiking: The 0.5-kilometer trail from the parking area to the waterfall is an easy walk, suitable for beginners and families. For more adventure, explore nearby trails leading into the pine forests for stunning views.
• Photography: The waterfall, misty spray and surrounding forests are a photographer’s dream. Capture the golden light during sunrise or sunset for Instagram-worthy shots.

Nearby Attractions

• Kainchi Dham Neem Karoli Baba Ashram (10 km): A spiritual retreat known for its serene ambiance and famous visitors.
• Mukteshwar (50 km): A hill station with the Mukteshwar Temple, rock climbing, and panoramic Himalayan views.
• Nainital (48 km): Pay homage to world famous and most vibrant Naini lake, enjoy blessings of Naina Devi and Mall Road.
• Almora (20 km): Experience Kumaoni traditions and culture while exploring ancient temples.

Pro Tip: Pay a Visit to Kainchi Dham for a mix of nature and spirituality.

Travel Tips

• Comfortable trekking shoes, light layers (warm layers in winter) and a raincoat for unexpected showers.
• Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and a basic first aid kit.
• Pack light snacks like nuts or granola bars as food options near the waterfall are limited.
• Don’t forget to try Kumaoni delicacies like Aloo ke Gutke (spiced potatoes), Bhatt ki Churkani (black bean curry) and Madua Roti (finger millet bread) at the homestay’s restaurant or nearby dhabas.

Insider Tip: Buy local jams and pickles from Ninglat village as edible souvenirs.

Preventive Measures

• Avoid wandering to prevent the chances of getting lost or slipping from rocky terrain.
• Follow local guidelines.
• Avoid deep areas during swimming as it can be little risky.
• Avoid exploring during heavy rains due to landslides and floods.

Pro Tip: Carry a small backpack with essentials and keep your phone charged for navigation and emergencies.

Personal Experience

My Visit to Dhokaney Waterfall was nothing short of a magic. I arrived here in the early afternoon and to my delight the Dhokaney Waterfall was roaring in its full swing. The short hike from the parking site towards waterfall was very refreshing as the cool breeze was filled with the pine fragrance and it seems that the distant yet sweet sound of water was calling towards it. I was awfully struck by seeing the raw beauty of this place in the lap of nature.

I spent hours in the pool under the falling water while capturing my lifetime moments in my phone. I tried a delicious plate of Aloo ke Gutke from the nearby home stay and listen to various stories and incidents regarding this place from locals serving there. The calmness of the surrounding forest and rocky mountains bisected by the sweet sound of water falling from the rocks with musical sound of birds chirping was making my each and every moment worth visiting.

Locals Opinion

I enjoyed conversation with the local villagers and home stay staff regarding the Dhokaney Waterfall and was very pleased to know that Dhokaney waterfall was once a resting place for sages practicing meditation in the Himalayas. The locals also briefed that they offer prayers at this waterfall during their festivals season. The local villagers feel pride in keeping this offbeat destination clean and request tourist to respect the environment and do follow the guidelines.

Accommodation

Although Dhokaney Waterfall is a good experience for day trip but spending a night will certainly adds charm to the experience. KMVN Homestay, located near the waterfall, offers basic rooms, tents and delicious Kumaoni food. The rates range from Rs1000-2000 per night. Suyalbari and nearby villages offer budget guesthouses for Rs 800-1500 per night, ideal for backpackers. The luxury hotels and resorts will be available for Rs 2000-5000 per night in Almora like Hotel Shivalik and Nainital like The Naini Retreat.

Conclusion

Dhokaney Waterfall is a true offbeat treasure in the great Himalayas and a kind of blessing from nature for relaxing and rejuvenating in a peaceful environment. The visitors often leave this waterfall feeling refreshed and inspired. The each and every moment spent at this place will make you feel special. Dhokaney waterfall will leave you with memories to cherish.

Are you ready to explore Dhokaney Waterfall like a pro? Have you ever visited Dhokaney waterfall or another offbeat waterfall?