About Kotdwar
Lying at the foothills of the Shivalik range where the plains meet the mountains, Kotdwar is the southernmost railhead and gateway to the Garhwal division. Revered for centuries, it is home to the famous Siddhabali Temple, a hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman where thousands of devotees gather every Tuesday and Saturday. Kotdwar also cradles Kanvashram on the banks of the Malini River — the ancient hermitage of Sage Kanva where Shakuntala lived and Emperor Bharata, after whom India (Bharat) is named, was born.
Top Highlights & Key Attractions
Shri Siddhabali Temple
Miraculous hilltop Hanuman shrine overlooking the Khoh river valley, renowned for answering devotees’ prayers.
Historic Kanvashram
Vedic heritage landmark on the Malini River, birth site of Emperor Bharata and immortalized in Kalidasa’s Shakuntala.
Gateway to Lansdowne
Starting point of the picturesque 40 km pine-forested drive up to the British-era cantonment of Lansdowne.
Durga Devi Temple
Ancient cave temple situated 13 km from Kotdwar along a roaring hill riverbank.
How to Reach Kotdwar
Direct 4.5-hour highway drive from Delhi (210 km) via Meerut, Bijnor, and Najibabad. Regular express buses run day and night.
Kotdwar Railway Station (KTW) has direct daily trains from Old Delhi (Mussoorie Express, Garhwal Express).
Jolly Grant Dehradun (105 km) or Delhi IGI (220 km).
Where to Stay in Kotdwar
City hotels near the railway station, GMVN rest house, and tranquil riverside eco-resorts on the road to Lansdowne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kotdwar called the Gateway of Garhwal?
Kotdwar is historically and geographically the primary railway and road entrance connecting the northern plains to the Garhwal Himalayas.
How far is Lansdowne from Kotdwar?
Lansdowne is just 40 km (about 1.5 hours uphill drive) from Kotdwar railway station.