Why Sari Village is the Hidden Gem of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful landscapes, spiritual destinations, and peaceful hill stations. While places like Mussoorie, Nainital, and Rishikesh often steal the spotlight, there are still many quiet villages waiting to be explored. One such place is Sari Village, a small but charming village in the Rudraprayag district. This hidden gem is perfect for those looking to connect with nature, enjoy mountain views, and experience village life.

In this article, we will explore what makes Sari Village special and why it should be on your travel list.

Where is Sari Village Located?

Sari Village is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It sits at an altitude of around 6,600 feet (2,000 meters) above sea level. The village is around 20 kilometers from Ukhimath, which is the nearest town. From Rishikesh, it takes about 7 to 8 hours by road to reach the village.

The drive to Sari is beautiful and filled with views of forests, rivers, and snow-capped mountains. The last part of the road winds through small hamlets and thick pine forests, giving you a real feel of the Himalayan countryside.

Why is Sari Village a Hidden Gem?

Peaceful and Less Crowded

Unlike popular tourist spots, Sari Village is calm and uncrowded. You will not find loud markets or heavy traffic here. Instead, you will hear birds chirping, leaves rustling in the wind, and the soft sound of mountain streams. This peace is perfect for people who want to take a break from their busy lives.

Starting Point for Deoriatal Trek

One of the best things about Sari Village is that it is the starting point of the famous Deoriatal Trek. This short trek is ideal for beginners and offers amazing views of the Chaukhamba mountain range. The trek to Deoriatal is just 2.5 kilometers from Sari Village and can be done in a few hours.

At the top, you will find a beautiful lake called Deoriatal, which reflects the snowy peaks on clear days. This peaceful lake surrounded by forests is a perfect spot for photography, meditation, or simply relaxing.

Chopta Tungnath Trek

Another great reason to visit Sari Village is its close connection to the famous Chopta Tungnath Trek. This scenic trek begins from Chopta, which is around 30 kilometers from Sari Village and can be reached in about an hour by road. The trail to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, is around 3.5 kilometers and is perfect for beginners and nature lovers.

Along the way, you’ll walk through green meadows and pine forests with views of snowy Himalayan peaks. At the top, the peaceful Tungnath Temple sits quietly in the mountains. If you go a little further, you’ll reach Chandrashila Peak, which offers wide views of major peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. This trek is perfect for sunrise views, spiritual connection, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Authentic Village Experience

Sari is a small village with less than 100 houses. Most people here are farmers who grow their own food. Staying in Sari Village gives you a chance to experience real village life. You can talk to the locals, taste home-cooked food, and even join them in daily activities like farming or collecting firewood.

Many villagers also run homestays, which offer simple and clean rooms, local meals, and warm hospitality. It’s a great way to support the local economy and learn about their way of life.

Stunning Mountain Views

From Sari Village, you can see some of the most beautiful Himalayan peaks, including Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, and Meru-Sumeru. These snow-covered mountains look especially magical during sunrise and sunset when the sky turns orange and pink.

On clear nights, the village offers an amazing view of the star-filled sky, making it a great place for stargazing and night photography.

Perfect Weather All Year Round

The weather in Sari Village is pleasant for most of the year. Summer months (April to June) are cool and comfortable, making it a perfect time for trekking and sightseeing. Monsoon (July to September) brings lush greenery but some trails might be slippery. Autumn and early winter (October to December) offer the best mountain views. In January and February, the village sometimes gets snow, turning it into a winter wonderland.

Things to Do in Sari Village

Trek to Deoriatal

As mentioned earlier, this is a must-do. The trail is short and easy, and the lake at the top is worth every step.

Nature Walks

The village is surrounded by forests and farms. You can go on nature walks to see local plants, flowers, and birds. These walks are peaceful and a good way to explore the area.

Bird Watching

The region around Sari is home to many types of birds. Bird lovers can spot species like Himalayan Monal, Woodpeckers, and various types of Finches. Early morning is the best time for bird watching.

Photography

With its scenic views, village life, and natural beauty, Sari Village is a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re into landscape, wildlife, or portrait photography, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.

Camp Under the Stars

Some travelers prefer to camp near Deoriatal or around the village. There are spots where you can pitch a tent and enjoy a night under the stars. It’s a unique experience that brings you close to nature.

How to Reach Sari Village

By Road

You can drive to Sari Village from major cities in Uttarakhand. The roads are well-connected, and you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Ukhimath and then Sari.

By Train

The nearest railway station is in Haridwar. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the village.

By Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. After landing, you can drive or take a cab to reach Sari.

Where to Stay in Sari Village

There are many homestays and guest houses in Sari that offer comfortable rooms, warm food, and friendly service. These stays are usually run by local families who treat guests like their own. Staying here supports local tourism and gives you a more personal experience compared to hotels.

Tips for Visiting Sari Village

• Carry cash, as there are no ATMs in the village.
• Pack warm clothes, especially in winter.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to trek.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Avoid plastic bags and waste, and keep the area clean.

Conclusion

Sari Village may not be on every traveler’s list, but it should be. It is a perfect mix of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and local culture. Whether you are a nature lover, a trekker, or someone looking to slow down, Sari Village offers something special.

In a world full of crowded tourist spots, Sari stands out as a quiet and meaningful travel experience. It is not just a destination; it is a reminder of how simple and beautiful life in the mountains can be.