Uttarakhand Travel Guide
A place of immense beauty, Uttarakhand is a state on the north of India overlooking spectacular Himalayas on the top and green valleys beneath.
Uttarakhand was named after Uttaranchal got its separation from Uttar Pradesh. It is divided into two regions: Kumaon in east and Garhwal in west. Each region has their distinct culture and languages spoken are Kumaoni, Gahrwali, Hindi and English. From temples to hill stations and from National Parks to trekking adventures, Uttarakhand seems to fulfill every tourists’ wishes at one place.
This state is jam-packed with multitudes of options to visit and to unwind. Nainital, Ranikhet, Dehradun and Mussoorie are natural retreats for people who like enjoying leisurely while peaking at snowcapped mountains of Nanda Devi and lush green valleys. These places get slightly crowded in summers so it is better to have prior arrangements. Badrinath Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Kedarnath, Haridwar, Rishikesh welcome large amount of pilgrims. The rivers Ganges, Yamuna and Alaknanda are not only sources of water but also being worshiped by the pilgrims. The aarti of the river Ganges at Haridwar is a deity occasion that takes place twice a day and invites tourists domestically as well as internationally.
Uttarakhand is a paradise for adventure trippers as it offers trekking, paragliding, camping, skiing, river rafting and jungle safari in places like Har ki Dhun, Rishikesh, Chopta, chakrata, Alaknanada, Rupin Pass trek and many more. Rajaji National Park remains open from November to June for nature lovers and Corbett National Park (oldest in India) inhabits vast migratory birds and animals near Corbett Waterfalls. The famous Kumbh Mela that takes place in Haridwar is a pilgrimage site in which lakhs of people visit to take bath from the Ganges. The culinary here is also very distinct with inclusion of distinct Himalayan spices and herbs. The cuisine consists of staple North-Indian dishes along the famous dessert: Gulgula.
The places to visit here are endless and so are the reasons. So why waste time searching for something else when we have Uttarakhand to unwind.
Due to the diversity of topography in Uttarakhand, it remains accessible to tourists throughout the year. However, seasons of summer and winter are the most favourable. The summer season makes it an ideal time to find respite from the heat in other parts of the country and relish activities like trekking. On the other side, winters in Uttarakhand are perfect to enjoy the beauty of the state all blanketed by the snow.
SUMMER
The weather during summer season remains moderate in some places, whereas some towns and villages in the upper realm stay untouched from the heat of the sun. The temperature in summer in Uttarakhand ranges 20°C to 40°C (in Terai Region of the state) and April to June are the months of summer. It is during this time, a lot of devotees also perform the pilgrimage. The season is also ideal for trekking
MONSOON
During the period of July to September, the monsoon season marks the state of Uttarakhand. The temperature of Uttarakhand in monsoon ranges between 15°C and 25°C and the place receives heavy rainfall during this time. Thus, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip.
WINTER
During the winter season, Uttarakhand looks most scenic as it snows at several places in the state. The temperature usually ranges between 0°C and 15°C. Additionally, October to March is considered as the months of winters in Uttarakhand. The weather during these months is chilly and snowfall is quite obvious.
Being also called as the ‘Dev Bhoomi’, i.e. the ‘Land of the Gods’, this place has mentions in old age puranas. The history of Uttarakhand is divided basis Garhwal and Kumaon regions. Hence, the difference of their history and culture can vary. Carved out of Uttar Pradesh in the year 2000, Uttarakhand is a millennium state with traditions dating back to ancient Hindu epics. Mythologies run deeper here than rivers in the valleys. After the tragedy of June 2013, Uttarakhand Tourism suffered quite a bit. However, that dip lasted for just a while. The authorities are doing their best to make travel in Uttarakhand safer.
Culture of Uttarakhand
Nature is a perfect remedy to balance the human senses. Garhwali and Kumauni have stark differences in their culture, but they share a common bond of the Himalayas. The Garhwal division is dotted with several Hindu temples and visited by thousands of devotees in summer. Garhwal is also home to the headwaters of two of the most sacred rivers in India: Ganges and Yamuna. The Kumaon division is speckled with sparsely populated hamlets and hill stations awaiting their next batch of honeymooners every season. Be it Garhwal or Kumaon, the hills of Uttarakhand can heal any weary soul. And thus, local folks who love simple living are now accustomed to the benefits of tourism in Uttarakhand.
Char Dham in Uttarakhand
Char Dham of Uttarakhand comprises a tour to four holy sites, including Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Though, each site has its own history, yet one can be amazed to find how all the four sites are connected together and form a sacred tour. This religious tour is one of the primary ones on the list of tours offered by Uttarakhand Tourism. As one embarks on a strenuous tour of these hilly trails, they can get to cherish some blissful moments that connect them with supernatural power. As the place got better connectivity and infrastructure post-Indo-China war of 1962, one can easily hop on to these holy abodes and have a hassle-free experience.
Uttarakhand is also finding its place among best destinations of adventure tourism in India. Bungee jumping in Rishikesh, paragliding in Pithoragarh, boating in Nainital, skiing in Auli, trekking to Kedarnath, jeep safari in Jim Corbett National Park, temple hopping in Haridwar, and camping in Kausani are some of the most popular things to do in Uttarakhand. With a perfect blend of forested regions, rocky cliffs, and undulating terrains, an adventurous soul can get satiated, for sure.
Trekking in Uttarakhand
Trekking and Rafting are two of the most enjoyed activities offered by Uttarakhand Tourism. So, if yoga and meditation is not your cup of tea, you can paddle your way to glory when rafting season in Rishikesh is underway. Kauri Pass, Bedni Bugyal, Har ki Doon, Gangotri Glacier, Deorital, and Roopkund are some of the most rewarding treks in Uttarakhand. Dotted with some of the most spectacular hill stations, such as Nainital, Kausani, Mussoorie, and Dehradun, this state is a real treat for adventure seekers.
Famous Food in Uttarakhand
There are many local food items that are quite popular in Uttarakhand. The local communities of Garhwalis and Kumaonis have their traditional dishes that are quite famous amongst travelers who are exploring about the state. While in Uttarakhand, one should try food items like Kafuli, Bhang Ki Chutney, Garhwal ka Fannah, Phaanu, Baadi, Kandalee Ka Saag, Chainsoo, and Kumaoni Raita.
Best Stay Areas in Uttarakhand
There are many areas in Uttarakhand that are really good for a stay. The choice of the place depends upon the places that you are covering on a trip. The city of Haridwar is considered to be the gateway to the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Most of the cities and towns in the state are easily accessible through this city. Even Rishikesh and Dehradun provide great connectivity to other places in the state. When covering a lot of places on the journey to Uttarakhand, try staying at one of these places to make the trip easy and convenient for you.
Tourism in Uttarakhand is all about perilous pleasures. The state of Uttarakhand seems to have holiest of holy Hindu pilgrimages, silky meadows on treeless hills, snow-covered mountains towering above glacial lakes, and Raj-era hill stations. Lofty mountains, quaint hamlets, unspoilt culture, and clear night skies will make you want to linger a little longer in Uttarakhand. A bevy of tourist attractions in Uttarakhand can make your vacation of any duration worthwhile.
Sharing its boundary with Nepal and China, Uttarakhand is set at the edge of the Himalayas. Uttarakhand houses the most sacred temples of the Hindus- Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. This is not all! The place has a lot more to it. Uttarakhand has top hill stations of the country including Mussoorie, Nainital, Auli, Uttarkashi and Chamoli.
Reaching Uttarakhand is easy and this is because of its connectivity with other cities of the country via air, rail and road.
Uttarakhand By Air :
There are two domestic airports near Uttarakhand. These include the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and Pantnagar Airport near Nainital. While there are regular flights to Dehradun from major cities of the country, Pantnagar Airport gets limited flights. So, make sure that you check with the flights before planning your trip to Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand By Rail :
Rail network offers convenient travelling to places in Uttarakhand. Some important junctions of the place include Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Nainital, Kotdwar, Kathgodam, Pauri and Udham Singh Nagar. All these station are well connected to other cities of the country such as Delhi, Varanasi and Lucknow. Express and passenger trains run to the place from different parts of the country.
Uttarakhand By Road :
There is a wide road network which covers the entire state. The roads are well-connected with Delhi and major state highways. These highways are further linked to main tourist destinations and important places such as Haridwar, Rishikesh and Corbett National Park. It is easy to reach these places via road. Also, there are bus services which operate on a daily basis to different destinations in Uttarakhand.
So, it is easy to reach Uttarakhand via all the modes of transportation. Be it any holiday season; make sure that you arrange your bus/train/air tickets beforehand to avoid any reservation issues later. This will help you make it a comfortable journey.
TOP TOURIST PLACE OF UTTARAKHAND
Are you planning on taking the Kedarnath Yatra? If yes then make sure that you are equipped with the right knowledge about your destination which will take you through one of the most divine and holy pilgrimages to this blessed temple.
Kedarnath is the highest and utmost among all Jyotirlingas. Kedarnath is a holy Hindu town located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand in India and has gained importance because of Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath has been a pilgrimage center since the olden times. It is one of the Char Dhams situated in the Himalayas. Kedarnath is located at an astounding height of 3584 meters above sea level near the head of the Mandakini River. On the way to Kedarnath, you will spot several striking sights, including the Vasuki Tal Mountain Lake and Gauri Kund. The Kedarnath Temple lies amongst the magnificent snow-capped Garhwal Himalayan ranges and is thronged by thousands of tourists each year. Explore customized Kedarnath tour packages
What not to miss?
Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi
⇥Visit Sunset Point at the Chopta Valley
⇥Gaurikund- the lake of compassion
⇥Pray at Anusuya Devi Temple
⇥Trek to Vasuki Taal
⇥View the Himalayan Ranges
Pay a visit at the Triyuginarayan Temple Enjoy Camping
Rishikesh at the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of River Ganga has some interesting pleasures for holidays in Uttarakhand. Go for exhilarating river rafting in Rishikesh, stay at beach camps, practice Yoga Asanas at ashrams with a perfect backdrop of mighty Himalayas or go exploring the mountains. This ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, holds International Yoga Festival and will never cease to amuse you with surprises at every turn.
What not to miss?
⇥Ram and Laxman Jhula – Experience the thrill of swaying over the swiftly flowing Ganga.
⇥The Beatles Ashram – Witness the best of the graffiti artwork.
⇥Swarg Ashram – Meditation ground of famous Rishis.
⇥Rajaji National Park – An expedition is incomplete without a jungle safari at this park.
⇥Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Pay homage to Lord Shiva at this famous sacred place.
⇥Triveni Ghat for Ganga Aarti
Water sports adventures
Trekking up in the hills
Wash away all your sins by taking a holy dip in the sacred Ganges River, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest cities for Hindus. Although the city remains vivacious throughout the year but the footfall is maximum during the Kumbh Mela, and the month of Saavan. Pilgrims from far and wide visit the Temples in Haridwar. Har ki Pauri, the river ghat is also one of the best places to visit in the town. It is the site of the mesmerizing Ganga aarti in Haridwar. Every evening, there is a worship ritual for the River Goddess. A million of tiny flickering lamps are floated in the river with sounds of bells and devotees and priests singing praises with full devotion.
What not to miss?
⇥Ganga Aarti
⇥Delicious food at famous Chotiwala
⇥Ropeway ride to Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi
⇥Boat Ride
Visit various temples with unique features of their own
An old Indian proverb goes, there are many sacred spots of pilgrimage on the earth but there has been none equal to Badrinath. Indians, known for their religious fervor, lay special significance to this holy town. Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage Yatra and best places to visit in Uttarakhand. According to Hindu fable, God Vishnu sat in the meditation at this place. Positioned at the height of 10,279 feet, the temple is encircled by lofty snow-clad Himalayas with Alaknanda River flowing by. The spiritual significance and purity of Badrinath Temple appeal scores of devotees. Explore Packages
What not to miss?
⇥Enjoy the amazing scenic beauty
⇥Explore the beauty of Vasundhara Falls
⇥Skiing in Auli
⇥Sightseeing in Badrinath
⇥Trekking in Badrinath
⇥Glare at the Neelkanth- a major peak of the Garhwal region
⇥Pay homage at the Charanpaduka
⇥Bheem Pul – a natural stone bridge on River Saraswati
⇥Visit Valley of Flowers National Park – a paradise for nature
⇥loversSatopanth Lake – an enchanting water body
Dehradun grabs much of the attention due its picturesque location. The capital of Uttarakhand is a city of myriad pleasures. Snuggled in the Doon Valley, betwen the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, it’s a city of unmatched picturesque beauty. It’s the gateway to the scenic hills of Uttarakhand. The town has a number of monuments from the colonial days of the British Raj. Having plethora of options to explore, it also serves as the picnic spot for many. It is well connected with other destinations and thus is a halting point for a short yet sweet getaway. Explore holiday packages for Dehradun
What not to miss?
Visit 6-sided Ghanta Ghar
⇥Shopping at the Paltan Bazaar
⇥Bow down at Nanaksar Gurdwara
⇥Get the feel of Buddhism at Mindrolling Monastery
⇥Take a dip at Sahastradhara to eliminate any skin disease
⇥Spend time with family at Lacchiwalla
⇥Paragliding
⇥River rafting
⇥Angling
The City of Lakes, Nainital in Uttarakhand is one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand. The city gets its name from Naini Lake, an awe-inspiring lake at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas present an exotic view. Nainital is a natural majesty. Snow covered mountains in backdrop, scenic beauty, lovely lakes and lush flora, grabs your attention instantly. Preferred by honeymooners and families alike, this serene hill station offers the best snowfall experience. ideal for honeymoon couples, families as well as nature lovers, it’s one of best hill stations in India.
What not to miss?
⇥Romantic boat rides
⇥Visit to Naina Devi Temple
⇥Ride in the cable car
⇥Yachting
⇥Savor Pahari cuisine or authentic Tibetan food
⇥Angling
⇥Enjoy snowfall at Snow View
⇥Visit China Peak
⇥Go to Tippin Top
⇥Shopping at the local markets
A magnificently beautiful offbeat place in Uttarakhand is Almora. Offering a soothing respite from the scorching heat, it is amongst the best summer destinations in India. Boasting of the architecture of colonial era, this commercial center is worth exploring. Nestled in the shape of a horse saddle, this hillock is dotted with Fir and Pine Trees.
What not to miss?
⇥Pay homage at the Kasar Devi and Nanda Devi Temple
⇥Shopping at 200-year-old Lala Bazaar
⇥Buy Angora clothes
⇥Witness the splendid views of sunrise and sunset at Bright End Corner
⇥Visit Deer Park
Auli can be titled as the ‘skiing capital of India’. Beguiling snowfall lovers and adventure enthusiasts equally, it is the best place to learn skiing. This white wonderland is ideal destination for a romantic honeymoon that lasts forever. It can also be visited for the never ending fun and frolic with the family. Bounded by tall oak and coniferous forests, this Bugyal draws a scenic picture of the nearby mountain ranges.
What not to miss?
⇥Skiing
⇥Snowboarding
⇥Mountaineering
⇥Ride Asia’s longest cable car that starts from Joshimath to Auli and vice-versa
⇥Visit Trishul Peak
⇥Unravel the secrets of Vansh Narayan Kalpeshwar
⇥Visit world’s highest manmade lake
Ideal for spending summer vacations, Lansdowne was founded by Viceroy of India and also named after him. Bestrewed with pine forests, it is a tranquil and pollution-free destination. Being the Cantonment Area of Garhwal Rifles, this hill station is very clean and well-maintained. Pristine Himalayan beauty, snow cladded peaks and fresh air are some of the compelling factors to visit this place.
What not to miss?
⇥Bhulla Lake – enjoy boating at this untouched and serene Lake
⇥Set out for an exciting Jungle Safari
⇥Bhim Pakora – Get astonished to see the perfect balance of two huge stones placed on each other
⇥Darwan Singh Regimental Museum – Visiting this Museum is a matter of pride
⇥Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Siddha Peeth of Lord Shiva
(10)Mussoorie – trip to Uttarakhand is never complete without visiting here
Mussoorie is the hotspot for people travelling to Uttarakhand. This ‘Queen of hills’ is the ultimate choice for the honeymooners. The exotic views of Shiwalik ranges and Doon Valley are visual treat to the eyes. A perfect confluence of natural splendor, stunning waterfalls and impressive colonial architecture, this hill station will never fail to amuse you.
What not to miss?
⇥Lal Tibba – Get panoramic views of mountain trails
⇥Lake Mist – One of the many nature’s bliss
⇥Kempty Falls – Dare to feel the chilly water straight from the snow covered mountains fall on your head
⇥Cloud’s End – End point of Mussoorie
⇥un Hill – Delight in a cable car ropeway ride to this place
⇥Paragliding
⇥Nag Tibba Trek – Famous for trekking
⇥Soham Heritage & Art Center – Get a glimpse of Himalayan culture
⇥K Dev Bhoomi Wax Museum – Take a pic with the political leaders and celebs from all around the world
(11)Jim Corbett National Park – natural habitat of Royal Bengal Tigers
Noted for its Bengal Tigers, Jim Corbett National Park has rich flora and fauna. Spot the leopards, wild elephants and tigers wandering in the Dhikala Zone. Bountiful of nature and an escape from the hustle bustle of the metropolis, this wildlife sanctuary is a bliss for nature buffs and wildlife aficionados. Exquisitely engrossed by reverie belts, emerald hills, grasslands and waterholes, Corbett makes an ultimate kingdom of animals.
What not to miss?
⇥Garjiya Devi Temple – Worship the Garjiya Devi at this Shakti Peeth
⇥Jim Corbett National Museum
⇥Corbett Falls – a small yet scenic waterfall
⇥Elephant Safari
⇥Jeep Safari
⇥Canter Safari
(12) Binsar – perfect fusion of mythology and nature
The spectacular view of the Nanda Kot, Nanda Devi, Chaukhambha and Kedarnath will make you fall in love with this Binsar. It is a superb and serene getaway from the honking buzz of the city. Offering the best homestays, it is the ultimate place to get the complete insights about the ‘Dev Bhoomi’. Zero Point steals the lime light for providing enthralling views of the Himalayan peaks.
What not to miss?
⇥Sightseeing – Go for a nature walk and experience the one of a kind sightseeing
⇥Photography – ‘Shoot’ anything and everything you like
⇥Lazing around – Holidays are all about relaxing
⇥Trekking – get engaged into trekking
⇥Safaris to the Binsar wildlife sanctuary – This jungle ride will give you some of the best of the views of your life
(13) Ranikhet – Behold the breathtaking views of the Himalayas
You are welcome in the snowy world of Ranikhet. Watch the backpackers wandering around the town, families having fun in the snow, newly wedded couples enjoying a romantic getaway. Being the Kumaon Regiment Centre, it has an unspoiled natural beauty. Lined with trekking trails, ancient temples and mountain peaks, this hill station can be visited in summer as well.
What not to miss?
⇥Indulge in long walks visiting local tourist attractions
⇥Partake in some popular tourism activities like adventure sports
⇥Visit Jhula Devi Temples which consists of numerous bells
⇥Trekking
⇥Mountain biking
⇥Rock climbing
⇥White water rafting
⇥Rappelling
(14)Munsiyari – paradise for bike riders
Munsiyari is the place to be for seclusion seekers and bikers. Being one of the offbeat destinations of India, this hill town offers supreme peace. Being the very own Kashmir of Uttarakhand, it pleases its tourists with revitalizing environment, numerous tremendous attractions and a silent whisper of wind. Fringed with Pine, Rhododendron and Deodar forests, this calm destination is apt for couples who don’t want any disturbance in their privacy.
What not to miss?
⇥Trekking
⇥Beautiful sunset from viewpoint at Panchchuli Peak.
⇥A hot water natural spring in Madkot
⇥Bird watching
⇥Skiing at Khalia Top
⇥Kalamuni Temple – A kali temple dedicated to goddess Naga God
⇥Tribal Heritage Museum – a perfect showcase of the culture, history, lifestyle and traditions of Bhotia people
(15)Lal Tibba in Mussoorie
If one calls Mussoorie the hottest cake for tourists, Landour is the cherry on top. And in its heart lies a place of brilliance called ‘Lal Tibba’. A perfect setting by the nature at a daunting altitude of 7500 feet/2286 meter, this is the highest peak in the vicinity of the mountain region. The picturesque view it lends is surely worth more than the tourists that actually reach there. Being the highest point in Mussoorie, the place gives away the spectacular view of snow clad greater Himalayas, dense deodar forest, and peaceful slopes. Lal Tibba is a centrally located point from where you can enjoy the telescopic views of Kedarnath, Baderpunch, Badrinath and many other beautiful places.
The sun has always added to the beauty of mountains. So it does beautifully at Lal Tibba or the red hill. You can enjoy perfect sunset or sunrise from the vantage point. Lal Tibba in Mussoorie is a place that disappoints people of no age group. The place is definitely worth a visit for two major reasons. Firstly, it is far from the hustle bustle of the city. Second, the area comes under the control of Indian Defense Authorities making it a place.
Hotels in Uttarakhand
As you gear up for your journey in Uttarakhand you may get surprised at the fact that hotels here in Uttarakhand are a blend of all the traditional and classy things together. Starting from the money one wishes to spend, the expense varies on the type of hotel you opt, where 1-star hotels and 2-star hotels would be budget-friendly, 3-star to luxury hotels would be the kind of loaded with facilities and luxurious treatment that can certainly make your holiday in Uttarakhand quite memorable. Top travel destinations like Nainital, Mussoorie, Dehradun, Rishikesh can be ideal for those who want to spend a lavish stay in Uttarakhand as here you can find a range of hotels like budget hotels, cottage hotels, deluxe hotels to luxury hotels and semi deluxe hotels. These hotels represent a certain kind of lavishness and good facilities and amenities work as icing on the cake. Basic amenities like swimming pool, health club, room service, recreation, television are mostly found in all of these architectural epitomes easily. If you choose to travel to the lesser known places like Barkot, Bhowali, Gopeshwar, Dharchula, you will be left with choices of decent 2 star and 1-star hotels that offer all basic amenities and great hospitality where they serve with the special aura of Uttarakhand.
The classic hotels built in almost every part of Uttarakhand whether it be the Garhwal region or the Kumaon come up with the scenic Himalayas as a backdrop with a dash of snow makes up for a perfect scene through your window. Camping is another perfect option if you want to stay connected with nature for its constant pamper. And when it comes to the number of options well there are plenty starting from Nainital, Shivpuri, Chaukori, Auli, Binsar, Chopta, Dayara Bugyal, Bhimtal, Dhanaulti, Kanatal, Deoria Tal, and many more such places. Must have heard of homestays, well they are a brilliant way to spend your vacation amongst the locals learning about their humble lives and a different yet interesting daily routine. The alternatives are quite a few in numbers like Kanatal, Peora, Binsar, Uttarkashi, places near Munsiyari, and Bhimtal, however, in the time to come, Uttarakhand would be replete with a plenty of these for an unforgettable vacation experience of its visitors.
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