Kotgaon, the mist-full village lies in the mountains of the Garhwal Himalaya and is also one of the smallest villages near Sankri. It is 1km away from Sankri, which is a 5-minute drive on a single mountain road. Either you can also walk on the valley for 10–15-minute by crossing the beautiful landscape. By witnessing the Swrgarohani peak and several other mountains from the village. The route crosses a waterfall which connects Kotgaon to the other villages which is seen on the way.
Entering the village stops, at the old temple of Lord Shiva known as the Someshwar Temple. The temple lies at the center of the village, constructed with wooden planks and bricks, and covered with a small shikhara. The temple is designed with ancient wall arts which depicts images of flowers, animals and deities. Villagers have scripted these designs on both sides of the lower wall at the entrance.
The temple is located in the center of the field, where people hold public prayer and function of the temple. Also, the villagers hold meetings and gatherings at the ground and children also spend the evening playing games like cricket.
Kotgaon has tiny single-story houses made of wooden planks, mud and clay are replicas of mountain houses where one can stay with all the amenities. This village does not have any hotels or guesthouses, people visiting the village either go back after visiting the village or stay at the people’s houses. The villages provide cozy stays at their homes, and some houses have on-floor bedding with carpets making the stay more homely. The villages are now turning to modern houses made up of bricks and cement. Several shops stock a variety of groceries and offer rental equipment, including shoes, raincoats, walking poles, and jackets in different sizes. Visitors can easily rent these items as needed. Some shops also have small attached kitchens, where travelers can grab quick bites like Maggi and coffee.
Nowadays, outside foods like chow mein, momos, and burgers have significantly influenced mountain villages. However, this village still stays true to its roots with homely local food, including the special Garhwali thali. This traditional meal features Mandua ki roti, Chauli ki sabzi, Jakhiya aloo, and Lal bhat, along with other local delicacies.
This small village holds many histories from the past and also has picturesque views. During the winter, the snowfall enhances the beauty of the village. The beauty enhances more and more over time.
How to Reach Kotgaon
By Road
Kotgaon is located approximately 10 km from Sankri, which serves as the base village for the popular Har Ki Dun trek. Travelers can take a bus or taxi from Dehradun to Sankri, covering a distance of around 187 km in 7-8 hours. From Sankri, you can either hire a local jeep or take a 30–40-minute trek to reach Kotgaon.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Kotgaon is Dehradun Railway Station, situated about 187 km away. Upon arriving at the station, travelers can either hire a taxi or board a bus to Sankri. From Sankri, the journey to Kotgaon continues either by local transport or on foot.
By Air
For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 210 km from Kotgaon. From the airport, one can take a taxi or bus to Sankri, followed by a short drive or trek to Kotgaon.
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