Tucked away in the peaceful Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Khirsu is one of those rare places where time slows down. Surrounded by dense oak, pine, and deodar forests. This serene hill station offers Khirsu from Delhi magnificent views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Crisp mountain air, and a refreshing break from the crowded tourist circuits of Mussoorie or Nainital.
Still relatively unexplored, Khirsu is perfect for those seeking quiet, nature-filled escapes. If you’re based in Delhi and looking for a peaceful offbeat destination, this guide will tell you exactly how to reach Khirsu from Delhi—via road, rail, or bus—along with tips for planning your trip.
Where is Khirsu Located?
Khirsu is a small hill town in Pauri Garhwal district, located approximately 15 kilometers from Pauri, the district headquarters. It lies at an elevation of about 1,700 meters and offers panoramic views of more than 300 Himalayan peaks on a clear day, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.
This region is part of the less commercialized interior of Uttarakhand, known for its natural beauty, slow pace, and cultural richness. You can learn more about unknown and lesser-known destinations in Uttarakhand in our dedicated guide.
Distance from Delhi to Khirsu
- Approximate Distance: 385–400 kilometers
- Average Travel Time: 9 to 11 hours, depending on the mode of transport
How to Reach Khirsu from Delhi
Khirsu is accessible via multiple routes, depending on your preferred mode of travel—whether you’re driving, taking a train, or using public buses. Read also: How to Travel from Delhi to Nainital by Train, Bus, and Car
By Road (Best Option for Scenic Travel)
Traveling to Khirsu by road is highly recommended if you enjoy scenic drives and flexible itineraries. The route offers varied landscapes—from flat farmlands to forested hills—and is well-maintained up to Pauri.
Recommended Route:
Delhi → Meerut → Bijnor → Najibabad → Kotdwar → Satpuli → Pauri → Khirsu
This route is suitable for both self-drivers and travelers hiring a private taxi.
Travel Tips:
- The roads between Kotdwar and Pauri are hilly but in good condition.
- The final 15 km stretch from Pauri to Khirsu involves narrow mountain roads, so cautious driving is essential.
- You can take halts at Satpuli or Jwalpa Devi Temple for food and sightseeing.
Total Road Travel Time: 9 to 10 hours (including breaks)
If you’re exploring the region, also consider visiting other summer destinations in Uttarakhand that are ideal during May and June.
By Train (Comfortable but Requires Local Transport)
There is no direct train to Khirsu, but you can travel part of the way by train and then take a taxi or bus to complete your journey.
Option A: Delhi to Kotdwar
- Take a train from Delhi to Kotdwar (e.g., Mussoorie Express, Garhwal Express)
- Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
- From Kotdwar, hire a taxi or take a shared vehicle to Pauri (around 4 hours), then onward to Khirsu (30 minutes)
Option B: Delhi to Rishikesh
- Take a train to Rishikesh or Haridwar
- From Rishikesh, hire a taxi or take a bus to Pauri and then to Khirsu
- Travel time from Rishikesh to Khirsu is approximately 6–7 hours
These train options are suitable if you prefer avoiding long road journeys from Delhi, but keep in mind that the last leg will still require road transport.
By Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
If you’re traveling on a budget, taking a bus from Delhi to Pauri is the most economical option.
Route:
- Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) → Pauri
- Buses depart in the evening and take approximately 10–12 hours to reach Pauri
- From Pauri, shared taxis or private vehicles are available to Khirsu
While buses may take longer than private vehicles, they offer an affordable and fairly reliable way to reach the Garhwal region. Suggested also:How to Reach Neem Karoli Baba Ashram from Delhi
When is the Best Time to Visit Khirsu?
The best time to visit Khirsu is from March to June and again in September to November. Summers are pleasant and ideal for nature walks, while post-monsoon months bring clear skies and spectacular Himalayan views.
For those planning a trip in late spring or early summer, check out our Uttarakhand travel guide for May to find weather updates, packing tips, and suggested activities.
Winters (December to February) are also beautiful if you enjoy snowfall, though the roads may become challenging due to weather conditions.
Things to Do in Khirsu
- Visit the Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple, one of the oldest Shiva temples in the region
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges from the Khirsu Viewpoint
- Go for nature walks through deodar and oak forests
- Explore nearby villages and interact with the locals for a glimpse into Garhwali culture
- Use Khirsu as a base to explore Pauri or embark on spiritual journeys like the Panch Kedar Yatra
If hiking is on your mind, explore our guide to the best hiking trails in Uttarakhand, many of which are within reach from Khirsu or nearby towns.
Where to Stay in Khirsu
Accommodation options in Khirsu are limited but cozy. Most are government guesthouses or family-run homestays. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during summer months.
There are also options to stay in Pauri and make day trips to Khirsu.
Final Travel Tips
- Carry cash, as digital payments may not work everywhere
- Network connectivity is limited, especially for some operators
- Pack layers, even in summer, as nights can be cold
- Avoid driving after dark in hilly areas
Explore More of Uttarakhand
If Khirsu has piqued your interest in offbeat Uttarakhand, explore our full Uttarakhand travel collection for curated guides, destination ideas, and expert tips to help you plan your trip better.
Conclusion:
Khirsu offers the perfect balance of nature, peace, and raw Himalayan beauty without the crowds. Whether you drive, ride a train, or take a bus, the journey to this hidden village is just as enriching as the destination itself.
So if you’re planning your next Uttarakhand escape, make sure Khirsu is on your list—you’ll thank yourself later.
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