Haldwani, Uttarakhand: The Gateway of Kumaon

Haldwani is one of the busiest and fastest-growing cities in Uttarakhand, serving as the gateway to Kumaon. Haldwani serves as a trading and transit hub between the plains and the hill towns. The city boasts hill trade, boarding schools, hospitals, modern shops, and markets. Over the past two centuries, Haldwani has grown from a major city to a market town, yet remains influenced by Kumaoni culture, cuisine, and festivals.

Why Haldwani is Famous

Haldwani is famous for several practical and cultural reasons:

Transportation and access to the mountains: Haldwani (and its neighboring Kathgodam) serve as the main rail and road link to major mountain towns in Kumaon, including Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, Almora, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, and others. Kathgodam Terminal and Haldwani Railway Station connect the hilly areas with the plains, making Haldwani a convenient stopover for travelers traveling between hill towns.

A bustling commercial hub: Haldwani has historically been a marketplace where traders from the plains sold mountain products. Trade in fruits, wood, and textiles, often destined for almost all Kumaon towns, often passes through Haldwani's markets and malls, making it a regional retail hub.

Proximity to major tourist attractions: Although Haldwani is an urban center, there are several lakes near Haldwani, including Bhimlat, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal. Furthermore, the wildlife sanctuary Jim Corbett National Park, is located a short distance away, making the city a frequent stop for tourists.

A Brief History

Haldwani's name originates from "Haldu-wani," a Kumauni word that literally translates to "forest of Haldu," referring to the Haldu tree (Haldina cordifolia), which was widespread in the region during the British era. According to British records, the town was formally established in the 19th century.

At that time, it served as a seasonal market for hill people traveling to the Bhabhar region during the winter months. The construction of the Bareilly-Nainital road in the late 19th century, followed by the Bhojipura-Kathgodam railway line, made Haldwani a permanent commercial center and the tehsil headquarters of the region. By the 20th and 21st centuries, it had developed into a major urban agglomeration, serving all the administrative and commercial needs of Kumaon.

Famous Places in and Around Haldwani

While Haldwani offers a wide range of attractions, there are plenty of places to visit, including markets, temples, and natural wonders.

Sheetla Devi Temple (Sheetla Mata):

Located near Kathgodam Road, the Sheetla Devi Temple is perched on a hill, offering spectacular views of the city. The temple is thronged with devotees during special festivals, including Navratri and several other regional festivals.

Gaula River and Gaula Barrage:

The Gaula River in Haldwani is one of the major attractions. If you want to spend some time in a quiet place in Haldwani, you should visit the Gaula Barrage. However, entry charges are ₹20 per person, and parking is ₹10 per two-wheeler. You can enjoy panoramic views of the river banks from the Gaula Barrage. The river, flowing along the high mountains right in front of you, captivates you.

Haldwani Main Market and Traditional Market:

Haldwani's main market is always bustling with activity. Fruit vendors, local handicrafts, street food, and small wholesale markets have been supplying the necessities of the people living in the mountains for decades.

Kali Chaur Temple

Kalichaud Temple is located in Gaulapar, Haldwani, in the heart of a forest. It is believed that in ancient times, Kalichaud Temple was a place of penance for sages and saints. Located approximately 7 kilometers from Haldwani, it is believed that if devotees bow their heads with devotion at this temple during Navratri, all their sorrows are removed.

Short Drives from Haldwani (Day Trips)

Haldwani is located in a location that offers a wide range of attractions within a single day trip, as detailed below.

Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal:

Naini Lake, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal are beautiful lakes that can be easily visited in a day. All of these lakes are known for their boating.

Jim Corbett National Park / Corbett Falls:

Jim Corbett National Park, one of India's most prestigious tiger reserves, can be easily visited within a day's drive. Tourists can also see the Corbett Falls along the way.

Hill Towns (Nainital, Ranikhet, Almora):

Nainital, Ranikhet, and Almora can also be visited within a day's drive from Haldwani.

Culture, Food, and Festivals

Haldwani is culturally Kumaoni in its food and traditions, but trade and migration have given the city a cosmopolitan character. Street food stalls in the city serve North Indian cuisine as well as local delicacies. Local fairs are also held in Haldwani during festivals like Holi, Diwali, and Navratri. Religious centers like Sheetla Devi and the nearby major temples also draw large crowds of pilgrims during certain times of the year.

Economy and Education

Haldwani is one of the largest cities in Kumaon. Its economy relies primarily on traditional trade (agricultural produce, timber, and fruit) along with modern services (retail malls, hospitality, and transportation), including malls, restaurants, and construction projects. Haldwani boasts a large college and university, attracting students from both the hills and plains.

How To Reach Haldwani:

Travelers traveling to Haldwani can choose between rail, road, or air. All three options are available:

By Rail:

Kathgodam, located near Haldwani, is the main railway station in Kumaon. Although Haldwani is also a railway station, Kathgodam is the main railway station, which is connected to major cities like Delhi and Dehradun.

By Road:

Direct government and private buses are available from Delhi to Haldwani. After arriving in Haldwani, travelers can avail shared cabs, government buses, private buses, and taxis to reach nearby hill stations.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Haldwani is Pantnagar. Although it is 27 kilometers away, taxi services are easily available from the airport.

Conclusion

The city of Haldwani isn't just a beautiful mountain lake seen on a postcard, but rather a vibrant, practical city that connects the plains with the hills. Whether you're on your way to Nainital, shopping at the market, visiting the Shitla Devi Temple, or catching a train from Kathgodam Railway Station, Haldwani is one of India's most picturesque mountain-viewing cities. If you're planning a trip to the Kumaon region, you should understand the importance of Haldwani; it's the very place that makes your journey to Kumaon a breeze.