What to Explore Near Netwar Village

Far away from crowded hill stations and noisy cities, Netwar Village sits quietly in the hills of Uttarakhand, offering a peaceful break for those who want to connect with nature and local life. Surrounded by pine forests, rivers, and terraced fields, this small village is known for its calm atmosphere, traditional wooden temples, and friendly mountain people.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, or someone looking for a quiet escape, Netwar welcomes you with its simple charm and untouched beauty. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know—how to reach, what to see, where to stay, and why Netwar is one of the hidden gems of the Tons Valley.

Quick Facts

The History and Legends of Netwar Village

Netwar is not just a peaceful mountain village—it is a place deeply rooted in history, mythology, and faith. According to local beliefs, the village has strong connections to the Mahabharata, one of India’s greatest epics. The people here worship not just gods, but also powerful human figures from ancient times. One such figure is Karna, the generous warrior and son of the Sun God.

In fact, Netwar is home to a rare Karna Devta Temple, where Karna is worshipped as a deity. The temple is made of beautifully carved wood and stands as a symbol of honour and giving. Every year, villagers hold rituals and fairs to celebrate Karna’s legacy. What makes this even more special is that very few places in India worship Karna in this way, making Netwar truly unique.

Netwar is also closely connected with the nearby village of Saur, where people worship Duryodhan, another character from the Mahabharata. This may seem surprising to many, but locals see these figures in a different light—as protectors and guardians of the valley.

Over the years, the village has preserved its rich cultural traditions, wooden architecture, and temple rituals. Even today, people follow age-old customs passed down through generations. The village gods are believed to guide and protect the community, and locals often seek their blessings before planting crops or starting a journey.

These stories and beliefs are not just part of the past—they are still very much alive in the hearts of the villagers. From temple festivals to daily prayers, the history of Netwar continues to shape its peaceful and spiritual way of life.

Why Netwar Village Should Be on Your Travel List

Netwar Village may be small, but it is full of natural beauty and mountain charm. The village has old wooden houses with beautiful carvings, narrow walking paths, and green fields that glow in the sunlight. Behind the village, you can see snow-covered peaks shining under the blue sky. In the evening, you will hear the soft sound of temple bells, and local people often share stories of Karna, a hero from the Mahabharata who is still worshipped here for his kindness and bravery.

One of the best things about Netwar is that it is not crowded like other tourist places. You can enjoy the fresh air, quiet surroundings, and slow village life. If you love nature, simple living, or photography, this place will feel like heaven. It is also perfect for people who enjoy walking and trekking. Many famous treks like Har Ki Dun, Rupin Pass, and Kedarkantha start from here, so you don’t need to travel far to begin your journey. You can step out of your homestay and start walking straight into the mountains.

Netwar is also a great place to relax and spend time with friendly villagers, try local food, and learn about their customs. It gives you the true experience of living close to nature and tradition in the Himalayas.

Where Is Netwar Village Situated

Netwar Village is located in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. It is around 11 km before Sankri, a well-known base for popular Himalayan treks like Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha.

The village sits at a beautiful spot where two rivers—Rupin and Supin—meet to form the Tons River. It is surrounded by thick forests of pine, chir, and deodar trees, which add to its peaceful charm. To reach Netwar from Dehradun, you travel through scenic mountain roads passing Mussoorie, Kalsi, Purola, and Mori, before arriving at this calm riverside village.

Netwar’s location makes it a perfect place to begin trekking or to simply relax in nature.

Places to Visit Near Netwar Village

Netwar is not just a peaceful mountain village—it is also a gateway to some of the most beautiful and famous places in the Himalayas. From trekking trails and national parks to riverside views and local temples, there’s a lot to explore around Netwar. Here are some of the must-visit places near the village:

1. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

Govind Pashu Vihar National Park area begins right from Netwar. It is home to many rare animals like the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, bharal (blue sheep), and the beautiful Himalayan monal bird. Nature lovers can go for guided walks or treks into the forest to see wildlife, alpine flowers, and snow-covered peaks. The park is also rich in medicinal plants and is a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers.

2. Har Ki Dun Valley

Just a few days of trekking from Netwar, Har Ki Dun is one of the most scenic valleys in Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by snowy Swargarohini peaks and filled with lush green meadows, wildflowers, and old wooden villages like Osla and Gangar. The trail starts from the Netwar check-post after getting forest permits, making this village the perfect starting point.

3. Rupin Pass Trek

This is a thrilling cross-state trek that begins from the Uttarakhand side and ends in Himachal Pradesh. The Rupin Pass Trek takes you through hanging villages, deep pine forests, and roaring waterfalls. The final part of the trek involves crossing the high-altitude Rupin Pass (4,650 m), which gives amazing views of the Himalayan ranges. The trek starts near Netwar and requires experienced guides.

4. Bali Pass Trek

If you are looking for a more adventurous route, the Bali Pass Trek connects Har Ki Dun Valley to Yamunotri, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The pass is very high (around 4,900 meters) and is usually done by experienced trekkers. It offers stunning views of Bandarpoonch and Kalanag peaks and goes through glaciers, alpine lakes, and peaceful valleys.

5. Kedarkantha Trek

One of the most popular winter treks in India, the Kedarkantha Trek begins from Sankri, which is just 11 km ahead of Netwar. It is perfect for beginners and gives a 360-degree view of snowy Himalayan peaks from the top. This trek is short, easy to reach, and very scenic during snowfall months (December–March).

6. Phulara Ridge Trek

Another unique trek starting near Netwar is the Phulara Ridge Trek. It is known for its long ridge walk, where you can see panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. It’s an easy-to-moderate trek and great for people who want peaceful walks with fewer crowds.

7. Mori Village

Just 12 km before Netwar lies the charming village of Mori, located on the banks of the Tons River. It is known for river rafting, camping, and trout fishing. There are also small riverside cafés and homestays where you can enjoy local food and relax by the water. It’s a good spot for a peaceful stop on your way to Netwar.

8. Sankri Village

Located only 11 km from Netwar, Sankri is the base for many famous treks, including Kedarkantha, Phulara Ridge, and Bali Pass. It has more tourist facilities like guesthouses, shops for trekking gear, and a forest check-post. If you want to stock up or hire a guide, Sankri is a good place to stop.

9. Osla and Gangar Villages

These are small, ancient villages that you’ll pass on the Har Ki Dun trail. Built with wooden houses and surrounded by fields, these villages are known for their traditional architecture and peaceful lifestyle. The Someshwar Mahadev Temple in Osla is believed to be more than 1,000 years old.

Tips Before You Visit Nearby Places

• Forest Entry Permit: For treks and walks inside Govind Pashu Vihar, you need to pay an entry fee at the Forest Office in Netwar. Carry your ID card.

• Local Guides: It’s best to take a registered local guide or porter from Netwar or Sankri, especially for longer treks.

• Travel Season: March to June and September to November are the best months. Avoid monsoon months due to slippery trails.

• Stay Options: You can stay in Netwar or Sankri and make day trips or begin your treks from there.

How to Reach Netwar Village

Best Time to Visit Netwar Village

Top Things to See and Do in Netwar Village

1. Explore Ancient Temples

• Karna Devta Temple – an ornately carved wooden shrine to the generous hero of the Mahabharata.

• Duryodhan Temple (Saur) – a rare place where villagers worship the Kaurava king.

• Pokhu Devta Temple – guardian of justice, standing at the exact confluence of the Rupin & Supin rivers. 

2. Riverside Walks & Birdwatching

Stroll along the Tons banks, watch rainbow trout jump and spot Himalayan bulbuls, woodpeckers and (if lucky) the dazzling state bird—the Himalayan monal. 

3. Rafting & Fishing

The Tons is renowned for thrilling Grade IV rapids and snow‑trout angling (permit required). Outfitters in Mori or Netwar can arrange day trips.

4. Start Your Trek

Register at the Forest Office, pack supplies from village shops, and head into the alpine world of Har Ki Dun or the Rupin Valley.

Forests and Biodiversity Around Netwar

Netwar sits on the buffer edge of Govind Pashu Vihar—a 958 km² sanctuary protecting rare species like the Himalayan black bear, bharal (blue sheep), musk deer, and more than 150 bird species, including golden eagles and monals. Respectful trekking keeps this fragile habitat safe for future explorers. 

Why These Forests Matter

Stay and food in Netwar Village

Responsible Travel Tips

1. Carry back all plastic—no dustbins on trails.

2. Dress modestly inside temples; photography is forbidden in sanctums.

3. Hire local guides & porters—supports village income and keeps you safe.

4. Stick to marked paths to protect fragile alpine plants.

Packing Checklist

• Light down jacket (nights < 8 °C even in May)

• Trekking poles & rain cover

• Water‑filter bottle

• Re‑usable tiffin box & cutlery

• Torch + extra batteries

• Power bank (limited electricity in forest camps)

Final Thoughts

Netwar Village is more than a dot on a trekking map—it is a living museum of Himalayan culture where rivers sing, wooden temples glow, and every trail leads to wonder. Whether you seek the wild silence of Govind Pashu Vihar, the thrill of Har Ki Dun, or simply a quiet homestay amid cedar trees, Netwar’s gentle magic will stay with you long after you leave.

Plan your Tons‑valley escape with WanderSky—from cosy homestays and rafting add‑ons to full‑service Har Ki Dun or Rupin Pass trek packages. Your mountain story starts here!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a mobile network available?

Jio and BSNL work in the village; no signal once you walk 2 km into the forest.

2. Do I need a park ticket?

Yes. Pay the Govind Pashu Vihar fee at the Netwar Forest Office; temple entry is free.

3. Can beginners do the Har Ki Dun trek?

Yes—with a guide and proper acclimatisation.

4. Are ATMs available in Netwar?

No. Carry cash from Purola or Dehradun.

5. Is food available during treks?

Simple meals at forest huts and seasonal dhabas; carry energy snacks.

6. Can I charge my phone on the trek?

Only at base camps with solar power—keep a power bank handy.

7. Is camping allowed near temples?

Camping is allowed in designated meadows, not within 200 m of any shrine.