Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhumi, is a Himalayan state in northern India that is noted for its natural beauty and spirituality (or the Land of the Gods). The state of Uttaranchal was established out of Uttar Pradesh and is an area with not only a spectacular view of the Himalayas but also a cultural ethos that speaks of peaceful harmony with nature.
Because it is the source of the Ganga and the Yamuna, two of Hinduism’s most sacred rivers, Uttarakhand is a popular pilgrimage destination. Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are among the Hindu pilgrimage destinations known as the Char Dhams, which are located in Uttarakhand. Every year, thousands of people travel to Uttarakhand to pay their respects to the Char Dham.
Uttarakhand is a magnificent land of mountains and mythology, breath-taking vistas and thrilling adventure, as well as wellness and yoga. The state is known as Devbhumi, or the land of gods, and is surrounded by the Himalayas and divided into two main portions, Garhwal and Kumaon. Nainital, Mussoorie, Corbett National Park, and Auli, as well as pilgrimage sites like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, are among the 13 lesser-known places in Uttarakhand’s 13 districts.
Devbhumi Uttarakhand is an easy state to fall in love with within India. Because of its unusual scenery, which includes the steep Himalayas, dazzling streams, eye-catching meadows, imposing glaciers, and weird lakes, Uttarakhand is a popular tourist destination in the Indian Himalayas. Each one offers a diverse range of tourist, sightseeing, adventure, and wildlife opportunities. This North Indian state, which is filled with sacred Hindu temples and trekking trails, is a tourist destination where visitors can engage in adventurous and recreational activities in addition to seeking the Almighty’s blessing.
There's a lot of fun to be had!
- For adventure tourism, Uttarakhand offers superb trekking, mountain climbing, and white-water rafting opportunities. Auden’s Col, Kalindi Khal, Nag Tibba, Bedni Bugyal, Valley of Flowers, Chopta Chandrashila, and other notable treks in Uttarakhand are among the best in India.
- Skiers will find enough to enjoy in Uttarakhand, with Auli being one of the top ski destinations in India. Camping is another popular adventure sport, with the most popular camping places being Jharipani, Dhanaulti, Kanatal, and Corbett National Park.
- Climbers can enjoy the mountain peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas in both the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, with Hathi Parbat, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome among the most popular mountain summits.
- Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Mussoorie, and Pithoragarh are the greatest places to go paragliding. In Uttarakhand, mountain riding is popular, particularly in Rishikesh, Chopta, and Lansdowne.
River Rafting in Uttarakhand is a thrilling experience.
Rishikesh is the most popular river rafting destination in Uttarakhand. The River Ganga is a famous river rafting location in Uttarakhand since it has a range of sections and grades. Rishikesh offers river rafting to both novice and experienced rafters. River rafting is available in Rishikesh at four different levels: Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, and Grade IV.
The main white water rafting segment, which takes 8-9 hours and spans from Kaudilaya to Laxman Jhula, features 13 huge rapids. The course is dotted with whirlpools and runs through sandy beaches including Byasi, Marine Drive, Shivpuri, and Brahmpuri. The 13 notable and challenging rapids on the course range in complexity from grade II to IV+ and include Denial Dip, Black Money, CrossFire, Three Blind Mice, Return to Sender, Roller Coaster, Golf Route, Club House, Double Trouble, Hilton, and Terminator.
Rapids ranging in severity from grade III to IV+ characterize the first 9-10 kilometers from Marine Drive to Kaudilaya. The second section, which runs from Marine Drive to Shivpuri and takes around 2-3 hours, is 11 kilometers long. Black Money, CrossFire, and Three Blind Mice are three popular rapids in this area, ranging in difficulty from grade II to III+. From Shivpuri to Brahmpuri, the third stretch is 10-11 kilometers long and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Rapids comparable to those present on the Marine Drive to Shivpuri section are combated. The greatest rapids on this portion are Return to Sender, Roller Coaster, Golf Course, and Club House.
River rafting in Rishikesh is best done in March, while it can also be done from mid-September to early December, as the water becomes quite cold after that.
Top 10 Places to visit at Uttarakhand
RISHIKESH
AULI
NAINITAL
MUSSOORIE
HARIDWAR
LANSDOWNE
JIM CORBETT
DEHRADUN
MUKTESHWAR
KEDARNATH
KEDARNATH YATRA
Yoga Capital of the World "Rishikesh"
Rishikesh is a small town in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district, near Haridwar, situated at the confluence of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga Rivers in the Himalayan foothills. Rishikesh (also spelled Hrishikesh) is renowned as the “World’s Yoga Capital” and is known for its adventure activities, old temples, and popular cafes. Rishikesh is a pilgrimage town and the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, as well as one of Hinduism’s holiest places.
In the 1960s, the Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in Rishikesh, making the place famous around the world. The Beatles Ashram is currently a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world. Whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and camping alongside the fast-flowing Holy Ganges are all popular activities in the tranquil region. It also serves as the beginning point for a number of Himalayan hikes.
Due to its location on the hallowed banks of the Ganga, Rishikesh has become a mecca for Sadhus (saints), with a slew of ashrams teaching spirituality, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda springing up. In this religious town, non-vegetarian food and drink are strictly outlawed. Rishikesh has the most beautiful nightly Ganga Aarti, which is less crowded than its contemporaries in Varanasi and Haridwar. The International Yoga Festival takes place here in the first week of March, attracting yoga aficionados from all over the world.
Rishikesh is divided into two main areas: the downtown area, also known as Rishikesh town, and the Triveni Ghat, a popular tourist destination. Most of the popular ashrams, cafés, hotels, and tourists may be found on the other side of Rishikesh, 2 km upstream from the famed Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula. The cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh have been declared “twin national historic cities” for the first time in India.
Time required to visit the site-2 to 3 days
Best time to visit the site-September to June
Skiing Paradise of India “Auli”
Auli, India’s most popular ski resort, is a small but picturesque destination. Visitors and professionals alike enjoy Auli’s skiing slopes, which were initially established as a paramilitary outpost. Auli hosts a variety of snow events, throughout the winter.
Auli, at 2,800 meters and surrounded by acres of oak and coniferous forests, offers panoramic views of some of India’s highest peaks, including Nanda Devi, the country’s second-highest peak (7,816m). It’s also a gateway to the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, which contain the Hemkund Sahib gurudwara and popular hiking spots including Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit, and Tapovan. In addition to Auli, Uttarakhand has a variety of other ski resorts, such as Dayara Bugyal.
Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- January to March for Skiing enthusiasts, October to March for nature lovers
City of Lakes “Nainital”
Nainital is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, nestled in the Kumaon highlands’ foothills. It is located near Dehradun and Delhi and is the most visited hill station in North India. Nainital is a wonderful weekend getaway from Delhi and its environs.
Nainital enjoys a lovely environment all year, making it a popular hill station for families, couples, and even solo travelers. It can be reached by automobile from nearby large cities and is suited for a two-day visit. With Mall Road on one side, Thandi Sadak on the other, and the bus stop just across the street, the Naina Lake is in the heart of Nainital.
Nainital is overflowing with exquisite colonial structures that add to the area’s splendour. Because of its likeness to the Cumbrian Lake District, it was founded by the British. Pangot, Ranikhet, and Almora, three little hill stations around Nainital, are largely obscure. Some short walking pathways can also be found in Nainital.
Whether you want to go boating on the beautiful Naini Lake, enjoy some Garhwali and Kumaoni cuisines, shop for souvenirs, or take a ropeway excursion to Snow View Point to take in the Himalayan beauty, Nainital is sure to leave an impression on you.
The “Indian Lake District,” also known as Nainital, is a famous tourist destination for both adventurers and seekers. Nainital, noted for its lakes and beautiful surroundings, is the ideal summer retreat for those seeking a respite from the hot summers of north India. Nainital is particularly recognised for its educational institutions, such as St. Joseph’s College, Birla Vidya Mandir, and the famed Sherwood College, which has produced notable celebrities such as Amitabh Bachchan, Kabir Bedi, Manish Pandey, Majo Nath Sharma, and Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
The rocky terrain of Nainital lends itself to some of the most energizing adventure sports, with trekking being one of the most popular. The journey to Naina Peak, which takes between six and seven hours and reaches a height of 2611 meters, is one of the most popular. The lovely foot track is surrounded by lush forest and is a popular birdwatching area. The area is home to several bird species, including Sunbirds and Himalayan Griffon Vultures.
Another popular destination is the Tiffin Top Trek, a short trek with lots of fun activities and a luxurious natural experience. Tourists typically begin the three-kilometer hike early in the morning so that they may enjoy the bonfire on the base at dusk. The Snow View and Camel’s Back trekking circuits are very popular for taking in the tranquil ambiance of Nainital.
Time required to visit the site- 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit the site- Throughout the year
Queen of Hill Stations “Mussoorie”
Mussoorie is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, located 290 kilometers from Delhi in the Dehradun district. Mussoorie, popularly known as the Queen of the Hills, is situated at 7000 feet above sea level and is bordered by the Shivalik Himalayan range and the Doon Valley. With a calm and pleasant climate all year, Mussoorie was once the British summer capital.
The city’s archaic architecture can be seen in the hotels and churches, and the archaic architecture of the hotels and churches can be seen in the city’s British vestiges. The Mall (also known as Mall Road) is a slightly steep avenue lined with cafes and various shops that runs the length of Mussoorie.
Another popular Mussoorie attraction is the Ropeway to Gun Hill. Visitors can take a cable car ropeway journey up to Gun Hill, Mussoorie’s second-highest point, for a stunning view of the entire city as well as the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
Landour, a small hill station in Mussoorie, is part of the Mussoorie district, which comprises Mussoorie, Barlowganj, and Jharipani. Mussoorie has all you need for a memorable holiday, including numerous waterfalls, the surrounding village of Dhanaulti, and colonial architecture ruins.
When it comes to adventurous activities, Mussoorie is progressively gaining a name. The skywalk, zip swings and zip lines, climbing, skiing, and paragliding are just a few of Mussoorie Adventure Park’s adrenaline-pumping activities. The park can also accommodate you if camping and trekking are more your kinds of adventure. River rafting is another major tourist attraction in Mussoorie, where you may raft through the challenging rapids of the Dhauliganga and Alaknanda rivers.
Mussoorie is a destination that is best explored on foot. It boasts wide, pleasant highways on one side with a spectacular view of the valley, stores on the other, and fountains and trees with wooden benches in between. Take a stroll around the stores, which sell one-of-a-kind wooden handicrafts, accessories, woolens, and other items. At regular intervals, there are also little vendors offering wonderful corns, momos, sweet corn, Maggie, coffee, eggs, and other products. Because the temperature is pleasant throughout the day, walking along the Mussoorie Mall Road is a pleasant experience.
Time required to visit the site- 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit the site- September to June
Gateway to God “Haridwar”
Haridwar is one of India’s seven holiest cities, located in Uttarakhand. It is here that the sacred Ganga initially enters the Indo-Gangetic plains. Haridwar is a major Hindu temple town studded with temples, ashrams, and narrow lanes where millions of devotees gather to take a bath in the holy Ganges. It is thought that bathing in the sacred Har Ki Pauri cleanses one of all sins.
The famous Ganga Aarti, done every evening at the Har ki Pauri Ghat, is a highlight of Haridwar. Hundreds of thousands of people visit the Ganga to worship and float diyas. Every twelve years, Haridwar is one of four cities that host the Kumbh Mela (the others being Ujjain, Nasik, and Allahabad). The Kanwar Mela is conducted here every year during the month of Saawan (rainy season). It also acts as a gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, as well as a base for other tourist destinations such as Rishikesh and Devprayag.
According to Hindu legend, Haridwar is home to the Panch Tirth (five pilgrimages). The places to visit are Har ki Pauri (Gangadwar), Ghat (Kushwart), Kankhal, Mansa Devi Temple (Bilwa Tirth), and Chandi Devi Temple (Neel Parvat).
In Haridwar, Ayurveda, meditation, and yoga are all popular. Because it is a religious centre, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are not permitted. The city is well-connected by bus and train, though traffic is notably crowded during the Yatra season, which runs from May to October.
Every Hindu’s bucket list includes a bath in the Ganga River. Haridwar is one of the holiest cities in India. The city is well-known since it is the main point from where the Ganga originates. In this city, every devotee’s wandering faith in God is said to be reinforced. Bathing in the Ganga provides not just a sense of purity, but also a launching pad for many. Many people believe that a single dip in the holy river can cleanse them of all their sins.
Every 12 years, Haridwar hosts the Kumbh Ka Mela. There is a massive Hindu devotee gathering at Haridwar. There are millions of people living there. The gathering is regarded as one of the world’s most peaceful, as well as the world’s largest gathering of religious pilgrims. People bathe, pray to the gods and goddesses, and light diyas and lamps. It is one of the largest religious gatherings in India. This Mela is considered to be one of Hinduism’s holiest rituals. At the Mela, you’ll find a variety of activities, shops, restaurants, rides, and other attractions.
Without a doubt, Har Ki Pauri is Haridwar’s most famous tourist attraction. Har ki Pauri is a ghat built in honor of King Vikramaditya’s brother, and it is visited by devotees all year. Every evening as the sun sets, the Ganga Aarti is performed at the ghat, transforming the area into a dazzling, sensory exhibition. With flaming torches and ringing bells everywhere, the nocturnal Aarti at Har ki Pauri is a mesmerizing event that should not be missed.
Other ghats worth seeing in Haridwar are the Gau Ghat and the Vishnu Ghat. In Haridwar, the Bhimgoda Kund/Tank is a historically significant landmark. According to legend, the Pandavas stopped in Haridwar to drink water on their way to the Himalayas, and Bhimgoda was the spot where Bhim collected water with only his knees, thus earning the name. It is a prominent tourist site in Haridwar that draws visitors throughout the year.
Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- October to February
Quaint little hilly town “Lansdowne”
Lansdowne is a picturesque little hill town located 258 kilometers from Delhi in Uttarakhand’s Pauri district. Bird watchers, casual hikers, and weekend visitors from the NCR will love this hill station, which is flanked by oak and pine forests and studded with colonial-era residences.
The British found the hamlet and named it after Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India at the time. The guesthouses here are fading colonial relics with spectacular views of the mountains from their balconies.
Although Lansdowne does not have many tourist attractions, those ones it does have offer distinct experiences. Tip-n-Top (also known as Tiffin Top), a hilltop in Lansdowne that affords a spectacular panoramic view of the Shivalik range, which is shrouded in mist, is the most well-known tourist destination in the area. Sunrises and sunsets may be seen from this hilltop viewpoint, which is flanked by tall oak and pine trees.
Bhulla Taal, a man-made lake a short distance from the peak, is a popular bird-watching spot with boat rides available. Bhulla Taal, a man-made lake a short distance from the peak, is a popular bird-watching spot with boat rides available. Hawaghar, a renowned tourist location in Lansdowne, is a site where you can feel the brisk mountain air blowing through your hair while staring out at the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, as the name implies.
If you want to gain a flavor of the town’s history, you must go visit the Garhwali Mess. The Indian Army owns the Garhwali Mess, one of Lansdowne’s oldest extant British buildings, and it provides insight into India’s post-independence history. Other tourist attractions in Lansdowne include St. Mary’s Church, St. John’s Church, and the Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial, which is a must-see for history buffs.
Local foods such as Phaanu, Kafuli, and Kulath ki dal, as well as desserts such as Arsa and Gulgula, are known for their Garhwali cuisine.
Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- Throughout the year
Jim Corbett National Park
In the Himalayan slopes of the Nainital region, Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand’s oldest national park. The endangered Bengal tiger can be found at Corbett National Park, which is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve.
A variety of riverfront resorts are available in Jim Corbett National Park, which is noted for its animal safaris. With over 650 species of unusual and migratory birds, it is a bird lover’s paradise. The most popular resort in Corbett National Park is Dhikala, a forest lodge on the boundary of Patil Dun Valley known for its gorgeous location and abundance of wildlife.
Only 180 vehicles are allowed to enter the national park each day. Jim Corbett National Park is closed from July through October during the monsoon season. Jhirna, Dhela, and Sitabani, on the other hand, have year-round tourism zones. Forest officials organize safaris in two shifts in all zones.
Jim Corbett National Park, originally Hailey National Park, was established in 1936 and is named after Jim Corbett, a famous hunter and naturalist. It was the first location where Project Tiger was launched in 1973. The park is divided into five zones to promote tourism: Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Domunda, and Sonanandi, and it comprises more than 500 square kilometers.
Jim Corbett National Park is dominated by sal forests, which cover more than 75% of the park’s entire area. Three of the most frequent tree species are Sal, Khair, and Sisso. Bamboo forests also dominate several areas (lead by Male Bamboo). The only conifer tree you’ll see is the Chir Pine. Many other species have contributed to the reserve’s diverse flora, but they are only found in limited numbers.
The numerous flowering trees are responsible for Jim Corbett’s enticing and delectable green cover. Some of the most well-known names include Kachnar (white tom pink blooms), Semal (huge red blossoms), ‘flame of the forest,’ Dhak (brilliant orange), and others.
Jim Corbett has traditionally been an excellent habitat for animals, including rare and critically endangered species such as the Asiatic elephant and the Ghariyal. The reserve’s main feature is the stunning Royal Bengal Tiger, which draws thousands of visitors each year for a thrilling jungle safari. Other animals found in Jim Corbett include the Asiatic Black Bear, Hog Deer, Walking Deer, Sambar, and Sloth, to name a few.
Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- Mid October to Mid June
Winter Capital of Uttarakhand Dehradun
Dehradun is Uttarakhand’s capital and largest city. Because of its elevation of 1400 feet above sea level, Dehradun has a pleasant climate all year. Only 30 kilometers from Mussoorie, Dehradun is known as the “Gateway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.” Dehradun is known as the “Educational Hub of Uttarakhand” since it is home to some of the country’s most prestigious colleges and boarding schools.
As one might anticipate from a city located in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun boasts tunnels, waterfalls, and natural springs. One such well-known attraction is Robber’s Cave, a natural cave surrounded by hills. Robber’s Cave is one of the city’s most popular picnic spots since tourists can either walk through it or immerse their feet in the chilly water.
Lacchiwala is another favorite destination for nature enthusiasts, where you can unwind and watch the sunset over the man-made lake and dense foliage. Lacchiwala can also arrange for trekking and birdwatching if you’re interested.
Timings to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- Throughout the year
Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand, is a small hill town around 50 kilometers from Nainital. Mukteshwar is named after Mukteshwar Dham, a 350-year-old Shiva temple in the area. Mukteshwar is recognized for adventure activities as well as a spectacular view of the Himalayan peaks.
According to tradition, Lord Shiva killed a demon here and bestowed Mukt, or salvation, to him. Mukteshwar is a well-known hiking destination with lush green slopes and narrow alleys, as well as rock climbing and rappelling opportunities. Beautiful orchards, evergreen forests, undulating meadows, and charming colonial-style cottages and homes are all prominent attractions here. The fascination of Mukteshwar is spending time alone, observing nature, and listening to the birds sing.
Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit the site- Throughout the year
Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a Hindu pilgrimage site and one of India’s most revered temples. Kedarnath is part of the Chhota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand and is one of India’s most sacred Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Kedarnath Temple, in the Rudraprayag District in the Garhwal Himalayan Range, is only accessible by hiking from Gaurikund and is only open for six months from April to November due to heavy snowfall in the region the rest of the year.
During the winter months, from November to May, the diety is transported from Kedarnath Temple to Ukhimath and worshipped there. Lord Shiva is also known as Kedar, the destroyer and guardian, and it is believed that visiting Kedarnath will offer one “Moksha,” or release. Due to its religious significance, Kedarnath, which is located near the Chorabari Glacier and has the Mandakini River flowing in front of it, attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.
Adi Shankaracharya reconstructed the current Kedarnath Temple using massive stone slabs on a vast rectangular dais that was previously built by the Pandavas thousands of years ago. The Kedarnath Valley was devastated by flash floods in 2013, but the temple itself was spared.
Kedarnath Yatra
The Kedarnath Yatra, which begins in Gaurikund and ends at the Mandakini River’s mouth at the Kedarnath Temple, is a 16-kilometer pilgrimage.
This difficult trail can be climbed using horses or ponies. The Kedarnath trekking path looked a little different before the 2013 spots of rain. The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering has built sheds every few kilometers for pilgrims to rest throughout their long journey. Along the Yatra path, there are refreshment stops selling Maggi, tea, lemonade, and water bottles, among other things. While you’re here, take a 3-kilometer hike to Chorabari Tal, a gorgeous lake.
Time required to visit the site- 1 day
Best time to visit the site- May to June, September to October
Best Shopping Markets at Uttarakhand
- Haridwar
- Dehradun
- Nainital
- Almora
- Badrinath
- Mussoorie
Best Hotels at Uttarakhand
- Diner’s Villa
- Ambika House
- The Raja Palace Hotel
- Winter Line Adventure Camp- Uttarakhand
- The Ranikhet Continental
Frequently Asked Question
Uttarakhand is best visited in the months of March to April and September to October. Summer is considered the peak season due to the availability of activities such as trekking, paragliding, and the Char Dham Yatra.
The Himalayan natural splendour, grand temples, the Bhabar, and savannahs of Uttarakhand are well-known.
The state of Uttarakhand is largely a Hindi-speaking region. Other languages spoken in Uttarakhand include Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari.
Some of Uttarakhand's most well-known foods include Aaloo ke gutke, Kafuli, Phaanu, Baadi, and Chainsoo.
The trip in Uttarakhand should last approximately a week. However, there are a variety of packages available, ranging from three nights and four days to ten nights and eleven days.
Have fun at this beautiful Devbhumi!!!
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