Udham Singh Nagar

Udham Singh Nagar: The Agricultural Heartland of Uttarakhand

Udham Singh Nagar, also known as the Granary of Uttarakhand, is a vibrant district located in the Terai region of the Kumaon division. Established in 1995 and named after the revered freedom fighter Shaheed Udham Singh, the district is celebrated for its fertile plains, cultural diversity, and rapid industrial development.

Top Tourist Attractions in Udham Singh Nagar

Explore a mix of religious landmarks, natural beauty, and historical significance in this dynamic district.

1. Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib

• A sacred Sikh pilgrimage site associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji

• Located near Nanak Sagar Dam, offering a peaceful and spiritual setting

• Major festivities during Guru Nanak Jayanti

2. Moteshwar Mahadev Temple, Kashipur

• Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas

• Popular during Mahashivratri and Shravan month

3. Nanak Sagar Dam

• Picturesque reservoir ideal for bird watching, photography, and evening strolls

4. Drona Sagar Lake

• Mythologically significant lake named after Guru Dronacharya

• Surrounded by temples and known for seasonal lotus blooms

5. Rudrapur Local Markets

• Markets like Mandi Chowk and Avas Vikas offer regional crafts, woodwork, and local produce

6. Phato Eco Tourism Zone

• Rich biodiversity, ideal for nature walks, eco-tourism, and educational tours

Top Adventure & Nature Activities in Udham Singh Nagar

1. Boating at Nanak Sagar Dam

• Calm waters and sunset views – perfect for boating

• Best time to visit: October to March

2. Bird Watching at Wetlands

• Explore wetlands around Kichha and Rudrapur

• Spot species like painted storks, egrets, and herons

3. Fishing in Local Rivers

• Peaceful fishing spots along Kosi and Pilakhar Rivers

• Permits may be required in certain areas

4. Nature Walks and Village Trails

• Discover Terai’s charm by walking through sugarcane fields, orchards, and canal-side paths

5. Off-Road Biking & Cycling

• Dirt trails and rural landscapes make for thrilling off-road adventures

6. Gularbhoj Reservoir

• Scenic spot for photography, camping, and bird watching

7. Camping and Stargazing

• Ideal spots: Gularbhoj and Nanak Sagar

• Winter skies are perfect for stargazing

8. Local Eco-Tourism Activities

• Engage in agro-tourism, organic farming, bullock cart rides, and folk performances

Geography and Climate of Udham Singh Nagar

Located in southern Uttarakhand, the district shares borders with Nepal (east) and Uttar Pradesh (south). It spans approximately 2,912 sq. km.

Climate Overview

• Summer (Apr–Jun): 25°C to 40°C, hot and humid

• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Moderate to heavy rainfall

• Winter (Oct–Feb): Pleasant, 5°C to 20°C

Agriculture in Udham Singh Nagar – Granary of Uttarakhand

This district thrives on agriculture, thanks to its fertile plains and progressive techniques.

Major Crops & Produce

• Crops: Rice, wheat, sugarcane, vegetables

• Fruits: Mangoes, guavas, litchis

Institutional Support

• Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Pantnagar is a leading hub for agricultural education and innovation

Top Educational Institutions

• Govind Ballabh Pant University, Pantnagar – India’s first agricultural university

• Government Medical College, Rudrapur – Renowned for medical education

• Nanakmatta Gurudwara – Also serves as a center for spiritual and religious learning

Popular Religious Sites in Udham Singh Nagar

• Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib – Major Sikh pilgrimage site

• Moteshwar Mahadev Temple, Kashipur – Dedicated to Lord Shiva

• Chaiti Devi Temple, Kashipur – Famed for Navratri celebrations

Natural Attractions in Udham Singh Nagar

• Nanak Sagar Dam – Tranquil and photogenic destination

• Giri Sarovar – Ideal for family picnics and nature walks

• Drona Sagar – Historical and scenic lake, especially during lotus bloom

Outdoor and Adventure Activities

• Trekking: Nearby trails to Banlekha and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

• River Rafting: Kosi River near Sitarganj

• Bird Watching: Popular at Phato Eco Zone, Sukhi Reservoir, and Nanak Sagar

Local Cuisine of Udham Singh Nagar

Enjoy the authentic flavors of the Terai region:

• Aloo ke Gutke – Spicy potatoes

• Bhatt ki Churkani – Black soybean curry

• Gahat Dal – Horse gram lentil stew

• Ras Bhaat – Flavored rice in spiced broth

How to Reach Udham Singh Nagar

• By Air: Pantnagar Airport (10 km from Rudrapur) – Direct flights from Delhi

• By Train: Major stations – Rudrapur, Kashipur, Kichha

• By Road: Accessible via NH-74, with regular buses from Delhi, Dehradun, Bareilly

Conclusion

Udham Singh Nagar is a remarkable blend of agricultural heritage, spiritual depth, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure. Whether you’re a pilgrim, nature enthusiast, or culture seeker, this district offers something truly authentic and memorable.