Hidden in the Boranshi village near Mukteshwar lies Bhalugaad Waterfall that embodies untouched tranquility, cleanliness, and spirituality. If you are in quest of a low-risk adventure amid nature’s bounty, Bhalugaad is the place for you. On our trip to Mukteshwar in October 2024, we chanced upon his beautiful site online and couldn’t resist visiting the paradise.
The hike to reach Bhalugaad Waterfall
From the starting point to the waterfall site, we hiked for 1.2 kilometers through picturesque grasslands, forests, lovely water streams, and stone pathways. Although the hike is easy and not taxing, avoid the place if you are not a fan of extensive walking. You can take breaks on the way at eateries or activity spots and continue the journey till the waterfall. Most of the eateries were shut at the time we reached. Most of them open by 11 am. Hence, carry enough water and light snacks with you in case the shops or cafes are closed.
Adventure lovers can indulge in activities like Burma bridge, rock climbing, or rappelling. The distance from the starting point to the waterfall has plenty of sites for bird watching and photography. The silence of the forest is only disturbed by the chirping birds or the gushing water streams. This place transported me back to my childhood days when outdoor family outings were fairly common. As Uttarakhand is my hometown, Mukteshwar evoked a sense of nostalgia in me.
The breathtaking Bhalugaad Waterfall
After hiking for about 45 minutes, we reached the waterfall site. This falls from a height of 60feet. It looks like a horseshoe shape with a plunge into a base that’s 40 feet deep. Water flows in this stream throughout the year and is believed to be Lord Shiva’s abode.
Surrounded by dense trees and towering hill tops, the waterfall’s plunge with its clean water looks absolutely refreshing. The authorities have ensured tourists do not litter the place. Hence ,a lot of money has been spent to clean the waterbodies, and the rules are strict here. Hope this place remains litter-free. (Though we saw plastic litter from shops dumped on the slopes, hidden from public view.)
The depth of the base pool is roped and restricted from entering. What looks harmless on the surface is 40 feet deep. The locals hinted at death by drowning in the past of people who paid no heed to warnings. Entering the depths needs permission and a life jacket for rent. So, we stayed at the shallow waters, cooling off our tired feet and soaking in the beauty of nature. We had the entire place to ourselves for some time before tourists started buzzing in. Trust me, with the breeze on our face, the silence and greenery around, it felt like therapy.
A day picnic at Bhaalugaad with friends and family will be a great way to unwind and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones..
Best time to visit Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is an all-year tourist destination. Winters from October to February are windy and chilly, while summers (April to June) are warm but pleasant. Avoid visiting during rainfall (End of June to September).
More about Bhalugaad Waterfall
How to reach- The site is 61 km from Kasar Almora and 14 km from Mukteshwar town. Once you reach Boranshi or Dhari village on the Dhari Pokrad road, park your vehicle and get your entry ticket to the waterfall site. The waterfall site was merely 8 km from Neelkath Retreat, Mukteshwar.
Facilities available- Washrooms, shops and cafes, drinking water, adventure sports, life jackets on rent, changing rooms, free parking outside the premises.
What to wear– Regular comfortable clothes. Dress up modestly, as there are temples in the vicinity. Wear flats or walking shoes. Wearing heels or wedges would be a disaster.
Entry fee to Bhalugaad Waterfall- Rs 60 (Cash or UPI payment accepted)
Timing of waterfall site– 8 am to 6 pm in summer, 9 am to 5 pm in winter
