Nestled at an elevation of ~3,000 ft near Kotdwar, Jusgar Resort Kotdwar—also known as Junglhabits Spice Garden Resort—is a resort near Kotdwara that serves as a unique habitat in the jungle. It’s one of the most compelling showcases of eco tourism in Uttarakhand, combining a spice garden, dome houses, cave- and tree-houses, and resorts in Kotdwar that are ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure tourism in the Himalayas (
Here’s your complete 2025 travel guide—complete with routes, tips, and must‑try experiences for the most adventurous things to do around the resort.
1. Getting to Kotdwar – the Gateway
From Delhi
- By Road (Bus/Car)
Kotdwar lies ~214 km from Delhi along NH 119/NH 58, roughly a 5–6 hour journey via Meerut–Najibabad–Kotdwar . Buses depart from ISBT, Kashmiri Gate. Shared taxis are an alternative. - By Train
Direct overnight or daytime trains—like Garhwal Express—connect Delhi to Kotdwar Station (established 1890). From there, resort pick-up is available . - By Air
Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) is ~250 km away. Travelers can take a self-drive, taxi, or train/bus to Kotdwar, then resort shuttle .
From Dehradun
- By Road
Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is ~97–110 km from the resort. Post‑landing, taxis or shared cabs via Laldhang connect to Kotdwar and onward to Jusgar, about a 2.5‑ to 3‑hour drive . - By Train
While Delhi and Kotdwar have direct rail links, Dehradun to Kotdwar typically involves taking a train or bus via Haridwar/Rishikesh, but it remains a scenic and convenient route especially by road. - By Air
Jolly Grant is your closest airport. Upon landing, grab a pre-arranged taxi or local cab to Kotdwar (2–3 hrs), then resort shuttle service.
From Haridwar
- By Road
Haridwar is ~80 km from Kotdwar, reachable in 2–2.5 hrs via NH 119. Regular buses and shared taxis operate this route. From Kotdwar, it’s a short 17 km drive to Jusgar . - By Train
Haridwar connects to Kotdwar via daily passenger trains. Once at Kotdwar Station, shuttle services and taxis are readily available. - By Air
International arrivals land at Delhi or Dehradun; domestic bus/train to Haridwar, then onward to Kotdwar is feasible.
2. From Kotdwar to Jusgar Resort
Once in Kotdwar, the final leg is straightforward:
- Distance: ~17 km via a hill route with river‑side vistas along River Khoh .
- Transport Options:
- Resort Pickup: Pre-booked shuttle from Kotdwar Station or bus stand.
- Taxi/Shared Cab: Easily arranged locally from ₹400–800.
- Self-drive/Rental: Scenic route with some rough patches—better during daylight .
- Resort Pickup: Pre-booked shuttle from Kotdwar Station or bus stand.
Drive time is about 35–45 minutes under normal conditions.
3. Why Visit Jusgar Resort?
Jusgar delivers a trifecta: eco‑tourism Uttarakhand, best adventure experiences, and serene rest.
Eco‑Focused Features
- It’s Uttarakhand’s first spice garden‑themed resort—educational and aromatic .
- As a natural, sustainable eco‑friendly hill resort, it blends seamlessly into the sub‑Himalayan wilderness .
Adventure Highlights
- Kids Zone: includes zip lines, commando nets, flying foxes, tyre bridges, monkey ropes—35+ setups .
- Rock Climbing: Natural walls up to 30–42 ft .
- Trekking & Hiking: Trails from 28 km over 3–7 days to nearby villages; shorter easy hikes for casual explorers
- Camping & Tree/Tent Houses: immerse in wilderness—camp under stars, soon cave & tree‑house dwellings will be available
This makes it one of the region’s top adventure activities, with most adventurous activities for both children and adults.
Cultural and Wellness Offerings
- Bird Watching: Look out for the endangered Nightjar in natural forest habitat
- Village Tourism & Educational Camps: Experience local culture and spice farming
- Yoga & Meditation: In partnership with Rishikesh Yogpeeth—an upcoming wellness retreat
4. Nearby Attractions & Activities
- Corbett National Park: 14 km away—for elephant/tiger safaris and adventure tourism in Himalayas .
- Kalagarh Tiger Reserve: Access via Kotdwar–Dugadda road (~47 km drive) .
- Rajaji National Park, Malan Wildlife Sanctuary: 30–90 km for safaris and wildlife watching .
- Temples & Heritage Sites: Sidhbali Dham (14.5 km), Shri Durgadevi (4 km), Bhairavgarhi, Mahabgarh, Tarkeshwar, St. Joseph’s Church—all within reachable day trips .
- Kanva Ashram & Ayurvedic Spots: Journey into spiritual‑historical terrain (~14–18 km) .
For top 10 adventure activities, consider:
- Dome‑stay camping
- Zipline & flying fox
- River‑side hiking
- Natural rock‑climbing
- Jeep safari in Corbett
- Nightjar bird‑watching
- Village homestays
- Wildlife safari at Rajaji
- Tiger‑reserve visits
- Meditation & yoga
5. Planning & Travel Tips 2025
- Best Time to Visit: March–June and Sept–Nov. Pleasant summers (20–30 °C), winters cooler (5–15 °C) .
- Road Conditions: Scenic but narrow and uneven in parts. Travelers suggest daylight driving, avoid certain stretches during monsoon .
- Stay Options: Dome-houses, tents, eco‑cottages—contact resort early. Igloo domes are popular .
- Resort Charges: Rates fluctuate around ₹7,500–10,000/night including breakfast; check for current deals on booking platforms .
- Pack: Trekking shoes, lightweight woollens, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars for birding.
6. Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
- Morning drive from Delhi/Dehradun/Haridwar via Kotdwar.
- Afternoon check-in, lunch at The Nightjar Restaurant.
- Evening zip‑lining or campfire, followed by jungle walk.
Day 2: Adventure & Wildlife
- Early bird‑watching walk for Nightjar & Himalayan birds.
- Post‑breakfast trek or rock climb.
- Afternoon safari drive to Corbett or Kalagarh.
- Evening yoga/meditation.
Day 3: Culture & Relaxation
- Visit Sidhbali Dham or Shri Durgadevi Temple.
- Spice garden walk and village visit.
- Spa/massage (if available).
- Relaxed evening under the stars in dome tents.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, embarking on a journey from Delhi, Dehradun, or Haridwar to Jusgar Resort promises a rich tapestry—mountain roads, wildlife, cultural heritage, spice aromas, adventure sports, and peace. This is eco tourism in Uttarakhand at its finest: sustainable yet thrilling, natural yet comfortable. Whether on a family trip, a solo retreat, or spiritual expedition, this eco‑friendly hill resort has something for everyone.
For the best adventure experiences near Kotdwar, book your stay at Jusgar, plan your transport early, and embrace the wild, adventurous heart of Uttarakhand.
Happy travels—may your journey to this jungle habitat and its adventurous spirit be unforgettable in 2025!
