Purnagiri Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand. Tanakpur, a town in the Udham Singh Nagar district, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to this sacred temple. The route from Tanakpur to Purnagiri is frequently traveled by devotees and tourists seeking spiritual experiences and scenic mountain views.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Tanakpur to Purnagiri Temple – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable if you are arriving in Tanakpur by rail and want to explore onward options. However, there is no direct train to Purnagiri, so you will need to combine train travel with road transport.

• Tanakpur Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, connected to cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kathgodam, with frequent trains and reasonable fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class.

• From Tanakpur station, you must take a taxi or bus to Purnagiri Temple, which is about 45 km uphill, as there is no direct train connectivity beyond Tanakpur.

• Trains to Tanakpur run frequently, but booking via IRCTC in advance is advised, especially during festival seasons when pilgrim traffic increases.

• Tanakpur station has basic waiting areas and auto-rickshaw stands for last-mile connectivity, but no direct shuttle to Purnagiri.

• Travel time by train to Tanakpur varies from 6 to 10 hours depending on your starting point, so plan your onward road journey accordingly to avoid late arrivals.

Bus

Buses are the most popular and economical way to reach Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur. Both government and private operators run services frequently, catering to pilgrims and tourists.

• State-run Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private buses operate from Tanakpur Bus Stand to Purnagiri, covering the 45 km distance in about 2 to 3 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹50 to ₹150, depending on the type of bus (ordinary or deluxe) and season.

• Buses start early in the morning, around 6 AM, with the last bus usually leaving by late afternoon; frequency reduces after sunset due to hilly terrain and safety concerns.

• The road is narrow and winding, so travel can be slow during monsoon months due to landslides or fog, so check weather conditions before departure.

• There are several small stops en route where you can buy snacks and tea, but food options are limited; carry water and light snacks especially during peak pilgrimage times.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Tanakpur to Purnagiri Temple is a convenient option if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but involves hilly roads requiring careful driving.

• The distance from Tanakpur to Purnagiri Temple is approximately 45 km via NH309 and local mountain roads, taking around 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Self-drive or hired taxis are available in Tanakpur; taxi fares range from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for a round trip depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• The road includes steep climbs and narrow stretches; monsoon season can cause slippery conditions and occasional landslides, so drive cautiously and avoid night travel.

• There are tolls on NH309, and parking near the temple is limited but available; arriving early helps secure parking and avoid crowds.

• Rest stops with basic food and tea stalls are available en route, especially near the village of Purnagiri, allowing you to refresh before the final ascent.

Flight

There is no direct flight connectivity to Purnagiri Temple or Tanakpur. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which serves limited domestic flights and is about 70 km from Tanakpur.

• Pantnagar Airport connects to Delhi and other major cities with a few daily flights; from the airport, you must take a taxi or bus to Tanakpur, which takes around 2 to 3 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, usually between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 one way, depending on booking time and airline.

• After reaching Tanakpur, you need to continue your journey by road to Purnagiri Temple as no direct flights or helicopters serve the temple area.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions, especially fog in winter months, so plan buffer time for onward travel.

• Taxi services are available at Pantnagar Airport, but pre-booking via Ola or Uber is recommended for better rates and reliability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train ticket to Tanakpur in advance through IRCTC to secure a confirmed seat, especially during festivals like Navratri when pilgrim traffic peaks.

• Upon arrival at Tanakpur Railway Station or Bus Stand, hire a prepaid taxi or board a local bus to Purnagiri Temple; prepaid taxis avoid haggling and ensure fixed fares.

• Start your road journey early in the morning to avoid afternoon fog and traffic on the narrow mountain roads, ensuring safer and quicker travel.

• Carry sufficient water, light snacks, and warm clothing as the weather can change quickly in the hills, and food options en route are limited.

• On reaching Purnagiri village, prepare for a short uphill walk to the temple; wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some steps and uneven paths.

• Return to Tanakpur by bus or taxi before sunset to avoid traveling on dark, winding roads, which can be risky without street lighting.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or trusted local transport from Tanakpur to avoid scams or overcharging, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in hilly areas with limited sanitation facilities.

• Book train and bus tickets online or at official counters in advance to avoid last-minute rush and unavailability, particularly during weekends and holidays.

• Local transport options near Purnagiri Temple are limited; plan your return trip timing carefully as shared jeeps or taxis may not be available late in the day.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months (July to September) as sudden showers can disrupt travel and make roads slippery.

• Carry a small first-aid kit and any personal medicines, as medical facilities near the temple are basic and located some distance away.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the roads are generally clear.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, making travel risky and uncomfortable. Winter mornings can be foggy, causing delays and reduced visibility on the mountain roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri if you prefer less crowded conditions, as pilgrim numbers surge significantly.

• Monsoon months (July to September) often cause landslides and roadblocks on NH309, so check local weather and road status before planning your trip.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon fog and traffic congestion on narrow roads leading to the temple.

• Winter months (December to February) can be cold, so carry warm clothes and be prepared for foggy conditions that may slow down travel.

Arrival at Purnagiri Temple & What to Expect

When you arrive at Purnagiri Temple, you will find a serene environment surrounded by hills and forests. The temple complex is modest but spiritually significant, attracting many devotees year-round.

Local transport options are limited near the temple, so most visitors walk from the parking area or nearby village. Accommodation is available in nearby towns like Tanakpur or Champawat, with basic guesthouses and hotels.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are not available at the temple, so plan your return trip carefully. At Tanakpur, you can easily find auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses for onward travel.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur is by road, either via bus or taxi. Buses offer an economical option with frequent services, while taxis provide comfort and flexibility, especially for groups or families.

Planning your journey with advance bookings, early departures, and awareness of seasonal conditions will help you avoid common travel challenges. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage to Purnagiri Temple from Tanakpur.