Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Gularbhoj Dam Village

Gularbhoj is a small, picturesque village in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand, India's Udham Singh Nagar district. It is located approximately 17 kilometres from Rudrapur's district headquarters, amidst the stunning scenery of the Gadarpur block. The village's most famous feature is the Gularbhoj Dam, also known as the Haripura Dam, which is a popular local attraction.


Gularbhoj Dam: Built across the Bhakra River between 1966 and 1975, the Gularbhoj Dam is an essential source of irrigation for the nearby agricultural areas. The dam's natural splendour is enhanced by the surrounding verdant forests and quaint villages, which cover an area of more than 30 square kilometres. 
Each of the dam's reservoirs offers a unique set of recreational options, including boating, fishing, and nature hikes.

The location is well-liked by tourists because of its calm and pleasant atmosphere, which makes it a great place for outdoor activities, picnics, and photography. The dam is particularly well-known for its three unique reservoirs:

Known for its fishing and angling options is Haripura Jalashay.

Baur Jalashay is renowned for its scenic beauty and is a great place for those who enjoy the outdoors.

A calm location for leisure and pleasure is Nanak Matta Jalashay.

Activities and Attractions: In addition to the dam, tourists can take advantage of local wildlife and boating opportunities. The dam is a great place for environment lovers and birdwatchers because of the diverse flora and fauna found in the lush forests surrounding it. Gularbhoj is a great site for families and parties since it has well-kept parks, picnic areas, and dining options.


Gularbhoj Dam







Boating: Visitors can explore the tranquil waters of the reservoirs by using the boating facilities provided by the Kumaun Mandal Vikas Nigam. ​

Wildlife Viewing: The nearby forests are an excellent place for nature lovers to see a variety of plants and animals. ​

Picnicking: The neighbourhood is perfect for family trips because it has well-kept parks and restaurants.

Boating


Accessibility


By Road: Major towns like Delhi, Rudrapur, Kathgodam, and Nainital have buses and taxis that travel to Gularbhoj. ​

By Train: Gularbhoj (3.5 km), Rudrapur City (16 km), and Lal Kuan Junction (21 km) are the closest train stations.

By Air: The nearest airport, Pantnagar Airport, is roughly 18 km from Gularbhoj. euttaranchal.com

Local Attractions:

Rudrapur City: A vibrant city with a wide range of food and retail alternatives. ​

Chaiti Devi Temple: A hallowed temple that draws both pilgrims and visitors. ​

Giri Sarovar: A calm lake renowned for its peaceful surroundings. 

Chaiti Devi Temple

Giri Sarovar

Rudrapur City



Famous Food

1. Gutke Aloo
A classic Kumaoni cuisine consisting of boiled potatoes mixed with mustard seeds, cumin, coriander, and red chilli. It's a straightforward and tasty recipe that's frequently served with chapati or rice.

2. Churkani Bhatt Ki
This Kumaon region staple is made from black soybeans, or Bhatt. Rice is typically served alongside the spiced soybeans. Locals love this dish, which is high in protein.

3. Raita Kumaoni
This yogurt-based meal has a tangy, refreshing flavour thanks to the use of several herbs and spices. It goes well with the spicy foods and is usually served with rice.

4. Madhra
Ghee and various spices are used to flavour this dish, which is cooked from a variety of lentils and occasionally combined with vegetables. It is frequently eaten with rice and is among the most well-liked comfort dishes in Kumaon.

5. The Singodi
Singodi is a rice flour, sugar, and grated coconut dish that is steamed while wrapped in a bay leaf. This delectable dish is frequently consumed during festivals or other special events.

6. Raita (mint or cucumber)
Made from yoghurt combined with cucumber or mint and seasoned with cumin and other spices, raita is a refreshing side dish that is typically served with main courses in the area.

7. Chainsoo
Cooked with native Kumaoni spices, Chainsoo is a popular black gramme dish that is frequently offered as a filling dinner. It is frequently consumed with rice or chapati and is a fantastic source of protein.

8. Pulao Kumaoni
a flavourful rice meal made with regional spices, occasionally accompanied by meat or veggies. This aromatic and flavourful dish is frequently eaten as a component of a bigger meal.

9. The Gulgula
Gulgula is a sweet, deep-fried snack or dessert prepared of flour, jaggery, and sesame seeds. It is a common confection in Kumaoni households.

10. Fish and Sausage Recipes
Given that Gularbhoj Dam is close to water, you might also come across regionally favourite fish dishes like fried fish. Fresh fish from nearby lakes and rivers is frequently consumed by Kumaoni people.

                                                  Where to Find Local Food

These Kumaoni meals are usually served at small restaurants or neighbourhood food stands close to the dam and the surrounding areas in Gularbhoj. These cuisines are also available in neighbouring cities like Rudrapur and Nainital, where local markets and eateries serve both residents and visitors.

The cuisine of the Kumaon region offers a wide range of flavours that showcase the regional agricultural produce and traditional culinary techniques, even though Gularbhoj Dam may not be particularly known for any one dish.

Conclusion

Gularbhoj Dam, a hidden gem that provides both natural beauty and recreational activities, is situated in Uttarakhand's picturesque Kumaon region. The dam provides vital irrigation for the nearby agricultural fields and is surrounded by verdant forests, serene reservoirs, and quaint communities. For those seeking a tranquil retreat, adventure seekers, and nature lovers, it's the perfect place.

Boating, fishing, and picnicking are among the distinctive activities offered by the three main reservoirs: Haripura, Baur, and Nanak Matta. Its allure is enhanced by the abundant biodiversity of the nearby forests, which makes it a fantastic location for those who enjoy nature. Travellers from all across the nation can reach the region because to its excellent air, train, and road connections.

Visitors' whole experience is improved by the region's delectable Kumaoni cuisine in addition to the dam's natural beauty. Gularbhoj Dam offers the ideal fusion of nature and culture, whether your interests lie in eating local cuisine, exploring the tranquil surroundings, or simply lounging by the lake. It's a great place for people looking for adventure, a peaceful getaway, or a closer relationship with nature.



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