Udham Singh Nagar is known for its serene environment, but on top of that the city is also prominent for its religious sites. The city is home to many sacred places that visitors can explore. Situated around 291 km from Dehradun, the city offers good road connectivity, along with air and rail services. The Nearest railway stations connected with the city are in Khatima, Kichha, Rudrapur, Bazpur, and Kashipur. Additionally, the nearest airport is in Pantnagar. The city has something to offer every kind of traveler, whether you are a devout or regular visitor looking to explore new places with friends and families.
Visitors can explore various tourist places within and around the city. Among them, some prime destinations often visited are Lake Paradise situated in Rudrapur, Girital, and Drona Sagar located in Kashipur. Additionally, there are some religious places which have its unique distinction are Chaiti Devi, Moteshwar Mahadev Temple and Atariya Temple.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Moteshwar Mahadev Temple, located just 3 km from Kashipur, stands out for its significance. It is believed that the Moteshwar temple dates back to the Mahabharata era. Its Shivalinga is considered among the 12 Sub- Jyotirlingas. Due to the significant size of the Shivling, the temple earns its name “Moteshwar”. Meanwhile, the Atariya temple situated in Rudrapur is quite renowned throughout the Kumaun region.
People often visit here in large numbers to seek blessings. There is a folktale about the temple, once the King Rudra passed through a village, after going a certain distance his chariot was stuck in a marshy land. His soldier tried many attempts to free the chariot but failed every time. In response, Kind Rudra decided to build a temple and well at that place. It is said that the present Atariya temple stands at the same place, just 2 km away from the bus stand.
Every year, on the occasion of Navratri a 10 day fair is held here, attracting thousands of people from many places. With a population of more than 16 lakh, Udham Singh Nagar is the third most populated district of Uttarakhand. The city is inhabited by people from various states, reflecting unity in diversity in this area. After Hindus the religion that dominates the city is Sikhs. Nanakmatta, located near the Saryu River, is a prominent pilgrimage site for Sikhs.
Devotees from various parts of the country visit here to seek the blessing of Guru Nank Dev and Guru Har Gobind Singh. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji, visited this place during 1515 AD. Originally the city was known as Gorakhnath but renamed Nanakmatta after the visit of Guru Nanak Dev ji. The dam built on the Saryu River near Nanakmatta adds to the scenic beauty of this Gurudwara, which offers an enchanting view during morning and evening time.
The city, known for its industrial and agricultural sector, was separated from Nainital in 1995. Due to its robust production in agriculture, Udham Singh Nagar is referred to as "Food Bowl of Uttarakhand" and "Rice City". Visitors may explore other places from this location such as lake Paradise, Giri Tal, Drona Sagar, and Atariya Temple.