Tucked into the Aglar River valley of Tehri Garhwal, Devalsari is a quiet forest hamlet that few travellers have heard of — and that is exactly its charm. Famous for its ancient deodar groves, a centuries-old Shiva temple and some of the richest birdlife in the Garhwal foothills, Devalsari is a growing eco-tourism destination and a perfect, gentle companion to the Nag Tibba trek. Here's what makes it special.
Where is Devalsari?
Devalsari sits at around 1,722 m (5,650 ft) in the Aglar valley, near Thatyur and Munglori Village — the same base area used for the Nag Tibba trek. Its location, off the main tourist routes, is why the forest here has stayed so pristine and the pace so unhurried.
The ancient deodar forest
Devalsari is best known for its old-growth deodar (Himalayan cedar) forest — one of the finest stands of these towering, fragrant conifers in the region. Walking beneath the deodars, with light filtering through the high canopy, is the essence of a Devalsari visit. The community has long protected these woods, and that stewardship is central to the area's eco-tourism today.
The Devalsari Mahadev temple
In a clearing within the forest stands the Devalsari Mahadev temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an important place of worship for the surrounding villages and draws devotees, especially during its annual fair. Like the Nag Devta shrine on Nag Tibba, the temple is a reminder that in these valleys forest and faith are deeply intertwined — you can read more about that tradition in our history of Nag Tibba.
A paradise for birdwatchers
The undisturbed deodar and oak forest makes Devalsari a superb birding and butterfly destination. Naturalists come here to spot Himalayan species that are hard to see elsewhere, and the area is increasingly on the map for wildlife photographers and slow-travel enthusiasts. A quiet walk with a local naturalist is the best way to experience it.
Devalsari with your Nag Tibba trek
Because it sits so close to the Nag Tibba base, Devalsari makes an ideal half-day add-on — a relaxed cultural visit or gentle acclimatisation walk before the summit push. It's included in our premium and private packages: you spend an unhurried half-day walking shaded village trails, visiting the temple and sharing tea with local families before the climb.
Plan your visit
Devalsari is best combined with the two-day summit trek. See the complete Nag Tibba trek guide to plan your trip, check how to reach the base, or message us on WhatsApp below to book a package that includes the Devalsari experience.