Getting to the Waterfall
From Kathgodam: Hire a taxi or drive via the Bhowali-Mukteshwar road. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Mukteshwar Town: Drive approximately 12 km toward Dhari village on the Dhari-Pokrad Road. Park at the open area near the roadside shack at Dhari and begin the trek from there.
From Nainital: ~40 km via Bhowali. Hire a taxi or use a private vehicle.
From Delhi: ~332 km via NH 9. Alternatively, take the Ranikhet Express to Kathgodam and hire a taxi onward.
Entry tickets are purchased at the gate at the start of the trek. Vehicles are parked outside the site.
Trail Character and Difficulty
The difficulty level is easy to moderate. The terrain is uneven, and the stream crossings require basic agility, but the trail does not require technical equipment or prior trekking experience. Children and older adults complete this trek regularly. The path follows the stream throughout, and the sound of water accompanies most of the walk.
Along the trail, visitors pass small cafes and activity stalls. Carry water and light snacks if arriving early.
Trek Distance: 2 km one way from Dhari village
Duration: 30 to 45 minutes each way
Difficulty: Easy to moderate with uneven terrain, stream crossings, and rock boulders near the end
Forest Cover: Dense oak and rhododendron forest throughout the trail
Wildlife Note: The stream and forest support birdlife along the trail. The name Bhalugaad references bear sightings historically associated with the area.
At the Waterfall: Entry Fee and Timing
The waterfall is 60 ft. high and drops into a natural pool, where visitors are allowed with life jackets. Synthesising elements of both a horseshoe and a plunge formation, the cascade tracks along a textured rock bed before transitioning into a powerful, uninterrupted vertical drop at its base. This feature becomes more pronounced during the monsoon, when the volume increases. On-site changing rooms add convenience for those looking to enjoy the pool up close.
Entry Fee: INR 60, life jackets for INR 100
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Mukteshwar waterfall flows year-round because the source is continuous. However, the experience changes significantly by season:
Monsoon (July to September): The waterfall is at full flow, and the forest is intensely green. The plunge shape is most pronounced when water volume is high. The trail becomes slippery after rain, and stream crossings are more demanding. Wear waterproof footwear and exercise caution on rocky sections.
Post-monsoon and Autumn (October to November): October is the best overall month. The waterfall retains strong flow, trail conditions improve, and crowds are lighter than in summer.
Winter (December to February): The waterfall continues to flow. A midday visit is more comfortable given the cold mornings at Mukteshwar's elevation.
Summer (March to June): Pleasant trekking temperatures. Waterfall flow is lower than the monsoon but still active. Weekends see the highest footfall.
Visiting hours are from sunrise to sunset. The site is not open after dark.
Footwear: Closed-toe trekking shoes are essential. The terrain includes rocky paths, stream crossings, and wet sections. Avoid sandals or smooth-soled footwear.
Dress Code: Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended as there are temples in the surrounding area.
Monsoon Safety: Check weather conditions before visiting during July to September. Avoid the trek if there has been very heavy rainfall in the preceding 24 hours.
Arrive Early: The site is less crowded before 11:00 AM on weekdays. Weekend afternoons during summer see the highest footfall.
Carry Water and Snacks: Cafes open by 11:00 AM. Carry enough water for the return trek if arriving early.
Life Jackets: Access to the pool area requires a mandatory entry fee of INR 100 per person, payable directly at the waterfall site.
Photography: The rainbow at the base of the falls is best photographed between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM when sunlight hits the mist at the right angle.
Mukteshwar offers several worthwhile visits that pair naturally with a Bhalugarh Waterfall Mukteshwar day trip:
Mukteshwar Temple, Nainital: A 350-year-old temple at approximately 2,312 m, considered the town's most sacred site. Offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range on clear days.
Chauli Ki Jali: A natural rock formation popular for rock climbing and valley views, approximately 3 km from Mukteshwar town
Starscapes Observatory: A dark-sky observatory in Mukteshwar offering stargazing sessions, particularly clear at the town's elevation
Peora Ridge: A quiet hamlet approximately 21 km from Mukteshwar, known for apple orchards and views of Trishul and Nanda Devi
After your trek to Bhalugaad Waterfall, return to a room designed for comfort and relaxation. Choose from the cosy Deluxe Room, the Deluxe Room with Valley View and its private balcony overlooking the hills, or the Deluxe Room with Himalayan View, where snow-capped peaks create a memorable backdrop to your stay. Every room includes free Wi-Fi, a television, a work desk, a balcony, a private bathroom, a tea and coffee maker, a hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries.
Refuel after a day spent exploring Mukteshwar's trails and waterfalls at our multi-cuisine restaurant. From hearty North Indian and Tandoori dishes to South Indian favourites, Chinese, Continental fare, and local Kumaoni specialities, there is something to suit every appetite. Choose between the warm indoor dining area or outdoor seating with views of the surrounding ridgelines.
Whether you want to stay active or simply unwind after your outdoor adventures, our resort offers a gym, lawn, terrace, pool table, indoor games, and parking, giving you plenty of ways to relax between excursions.