Kakdagaad is an offbeat destination in Uttarakhand, remains untouched by mainstream tourism, making it a haven for those seeking authentic village life and the serene sound of birds at dawn. Located near Rudraprayag in Augustmuni, this region offers pristine natural habitats, ideal for birdwatching and immersing in nature.
The confluence of Akashganga and Mandakini rivers, just a few kilometers away, adds to its charm, while the area’s biodiversity makes it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
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Kakdagad offers an unspoiled retreat for those craving nature and solitude. With its newly inaugurated bird-watching trail, rich wildlife, and serene river trails, it’s a perfect destination for eco-tourists, birdwatchers, and adventurers looking to explore Uttarakhand’s hidden treasures.
Birdwatching at Kakdagaad: Kakdagad is a birdwatcher’s delight, hosting species like Spotted Forktail, Himalayan Bulbul, Laughing Thrush, Niltava, and Griffon Eagles, which are easily spotted after sunrise. The Magpie Birding Camp, run by birding enthusiast Mr. Yashpal Singh Negi, offers an ideal base for enthusiasts. Many spend hours exploring, often packing lunch to return by afternoon after spotting a wide variety of birds.
Wildlife Spotting in the Jungle: Beyond birds, Kakdagad’s forests are home to Grey Ghoral, Himalayan Tahars, Martens, and Common Himalayan Pikas. The diverse ecosystem provides ample opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
River Trail: A Scenic Retreat: The river trail along Kakdagad’s icy waters is perfect for relaxation and spotting fishing-dependent avifauna. A highlight is the Brown Dipper, a tiny bird that dives repeatedly into the cold river to catch prey, showcasing nature’s resilience and beauty.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and optimal birdwatching conditions. Avoid monsoon months (July–September) due to landslide risks.
Essentials: Pack binoculars, sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and snacks, as facilities are limited.
Connectivity: Mobile networks are patchy; BSNL is most reliable. Inform family of your plans.
Kakdagad Bird Watching Trail: A New Eco-Tourism Initiative
On an unspecified date before May 2025, Chief Forest Conservator (HAF) Dr. Dhananjay Mohan inaugurated the Kakdagad Bird Watching Trail, developed by the Rudraprayag Forest Division under the Singoli-Bhatwadi CAT Plan. This trail aims to promote biodiversity and support local livelihoods through eco-tourism.
Boosting Local Employment: The trail is designed to create employment opportunities for local youth by attracting bird lovers and nature-conscious tourists. Dr. Mohan highlighted Kakdagad’s rich biodiversity and tranquil environment, predicting a surge in visits from environmentalists, bird experts, and nature enthusiasts globally.
Variations in the spelling are: "Kakdagad," "Kakragarh," and "Kakragad."
Kakdagaad Birding Trail is located in near Augustmuni ( 12 kms from Rudraprayag).
By Road: Regular buses run from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Kakdagad via Kund. Inform the bus conductor to stop at Kakdagad near Rudraprayag, as missing the stop could lead to a longer journey. Traveling by personal four-wheeler is convenient for the scenic but narrow roads.
By Air and Train: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 180 km from Rudraprayag), and the closest railway stations are Rishikesh or Haridwar (150–180 km). From these points, hire a taxi or take a bus to Rudraprayag, then a local jeep to Kakdagad.
Enhance your Kakdagad visit by including Chopta and the Tungnath trek, or extend your journey to Badrinath and the Valley of Flowers. These additional destinations require 4–6 extra days, offering a mix of trekking, spirituality, and natural beauty in Uttarakhand. You can also visit Kartikswami and stay at Kanakchauri village. To extend your bird photography exploration you can also visit Mandal, Makkumath, Deoriatal, Anusuya Devi temple.
Kakdagaad Birding Trail is popular place for following activities/ interests - Bird Watching.