Shikhar Fall
About
Shikhar Falls is one of the offbeat destination located in the proximity of Dehradun. Surrounded by mountains, it offers a serene and secluded atmosphere, visited by both locals and tourist. Its pristine white cascading waterfall allure many nature lovers to explore this beauty. During summers, it is frequented by many for a refreshing dip in its crystal clear waters. If you are looking for a place different from usual spots like Sahastradhara and Lachhiwala, Shikhar Falls is worth considering.
A Perfect Summer Escape
Dehradun is known for its popular water spots such as Robbers Cave, Sahastradhara, Maldevta and Lachhiwala that are visited by many escaping the summer heat. Among these, one place that stands out as a peaceful retreat is Shikhar Falls. However, it is not easy to navigate Shikar Fall like others, as it require a trek of about one km. While the trail is not hard, it can be challenging sometimes, as it involves navigating through narrow path and even alongside a water pipeline. The trek may not be an easy ride for children and elderly people.
Serene Ambience
Shikhar Falls is located at Kairwaan Gaon, Rajpur, around 13 km from Ghanta Ghar. The trail to reach the site offers a scenic view of the surrounding with a sense of adventure. Though the height of the waterfall is not very high, its crystal clear icy cold water is refreshing and cannot be not refrain from bathing underneath it. With a lush green view, visitors can also spot a variety of birds and butterflies.
Diminishing Charm
Unfortunately, the scenic place is strewn with a lot of trash, and the bushes surrounding the area reduces its charm. Due to its proximity to the city, it attracts a multitude of visitors making the place overcrowded, especially during weekends. Additionally, you can also spot a number of people drinking alcohol near the site which makes the environment uncomfortable for families and solo travelers.
Food Options
Visitors will find some food stalls near the site offering tea, Maggie, macaroni, and other snacks. On special request, some vendors may also cook chicken and rice.
Timing
You can visit here any day, as it is open throughout the week. However, you must leave the site before sunset, as the area is surrounded by jungle and road are also in tattered condition.
Accommodation
Visitors can find stay options at Rajpur Road, as the site doesn't offer staying options to its visitors.
Important Tips for Travellers
- Location doesn't provide direct local transport connectivity, hiring a taxi or renting a two wheeler is recommended.
- Free roadside parking facility is available near the trail head.
- Visitors are not required to pay any entry fees.
- Facilities such as changing room, lockers, costume, tyre tubes are not available near the site.
- Apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Connecting road is narrow and unmetalled, caution is required while driving.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes, as to reach the falls one km trek is required.
- Be cautious while trailing the route, as certain points can be risky.
- Carry enough cash, as location have limited mobile coverage.
- Avoid visiting the site during the monsoon, as it is prone to landslides and cloudburst.
Nearby Attraction
You can also visit, other popular location such as : -
- Sai Baba Temple.
- Jharipani Waterfall.
- Bhatta Fall.
- Mossy Falls.
- Sahastradhara
- Mussoorie Lake.
- Dehradun Zoo (Malsi Deer Park)
- Robber's Cave (Gucchu Pani)
- Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple.
- FRI (Forest Research Institute)
- Mindrolling Monastery (Buddha Temple)
- Tapkeshwar Temple.
- Lachhiwala.
- Maldevta.
How to Reach
By Road : - Shikhar Falls is situated around 20 km from Dehradun ISBT, in Kairwaan Gaon, Rajpur, Dehradun. The location is connected partly with the motorable road and can be visited by hiring taxi, personal vehicle, or renting two wheeler. After reaching the last motorable points, you need to do a trek at least 1 km to reach the location. Local transportation facility are not available to access the site, visitors can use personal vehicle, hire taxi or rent a two wheeler. The road leads to the location are not in good conditions and requires caution while driving.
By Rail : - The nearest railway station is Dehradun railway station, around 15 km from the point. Cabs and two wheeler renting options are easily available from the station to access the site.
By Air : - The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 40 km from the location. Visitors can book taxi from the airport and proceed with the provided route.
Best Time to Visit
It can be visited round the year but the ideal time is summer from March to June and post monsoon season.
Height from Sea Level
It is located at an elevation of 1,371 meters (approximately), which is around 4,500 feet from sea level.