10 Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand The state that one can easily fall in love with is Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. The surreal landscape of lofty mountains, gleaming streams, eye-catching meadows, spectacular glaciers and surreal lakes, all make Uttrakhand an expected tourist destination in India that not only satisfies wanderlust, but also creates a desire to explore more and more.
Uttarakhand is one of India’s most beautiful northern states, which delights everyone with its beautifully scenic landscapes. Charming hill stations juxtaposed with snow-capped peaks, picturesque villages along winding mountain paths, serpentine rivers cutting their way through the hills, world-famous conservation parks such as ‘Jim Corbett Tiger National Park’ and ‘Asan Wetland Conservation Reserve’, world heritage sites such as ‘Valley of Flowers’ and ‘Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve’
Numerous sprawling parks speak of the continuous efforts of Uttarakhand to protect its natural ecosystem; its rich culture and religious heritage ensures that it stays on top of the travel schedule of everyone. For travellers from around the world, who visit this mighty land every year to attain redemption for a life-changing experience, it has been a favoured option. Here all your adventurous desires can be fulfilled easily; whether it’s soaring like an eagle, cruising through the Ganges‘ strenuous rapids, trekking to some of the fascinating peaks, skiing through some of the picturesque slopes and enchanting destinations, enjoying the longest cable car trip in India, and much more. Uttarakhand is in short, a dream destination for everyone.
Rishikesh – the adventure and Yoga capital
Rishikesh is sometimes referred to as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ as the most peaceful place in northern Uttarakhand, surrounded by hills and bisected by the wide and sluggish Ganges. Rishikesh acquired instant fame as the location where the Beatles came to stay with their guru, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, back in the 1960s. It is an exceptional place to meditate and learn yoga. Rishikesh is also a good starting point for treks to Himalayan pilgrimage centres such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamnotri. It is correctly referred to as the gateway to the Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri Himalayan Shrines. 7 Story Temple At the confluence of Chandrabhaga and Ganga, situated 24 km upstream from Haridwar,
Rishikesh has been a spiritual centre for a long time. The sage Raibhya Rishi is said to have done extreme penance here and God appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh as a reward, hence the name. There are numerous ashrams in Rishikesh, several of which are known internationally as centres of philosophical studies, yoga and meditation. An international yoga week is organised here every year between 2 and 7 February by Uttarakhand Tourism. There are opportunities for white water rafting on the Ganga for the adventurous. The climate here is continental in nature, but its location in the foot hills provides it with a nice year-round climate. Any time of the year, one can visit Rishikesh.
- Must visit place: One of the interesting places to see in Uttarakhand is the Beetles Ashram. While you are surrounded by serenity, do make it a point to see the graffiti on the walls. Entry fee is Rs 150 per person
- Things to do: A thrilling white water rafting in Rishikesh is an experience of a lifetime and is one of best things to do in Uttarakhand. Looking for a diving experience, take a dip in the holy Ganga and feel spiritually cleansed with the divine experience.
- Best time to visit: You can go to Rishikesh anytime you feel like a holiday, however, the best time to visit this tourist place in Uttarakhand is from August to October.
Haridwar – Blessed by Ganga
Haridwar acts as Uttarakhand and Dev Bhomi’s Gateway to the Char Dhams. Gangadwara (Har Ki Pauri), Kushwart (Ghat), Kankhal, Bilwa Tirtha (Mansa Devi Temple) and Neel Parvat (Chandi Devi) are the ‘Panch Tirth’ or the five pilgrimages situated within Haridwar’s periphery.
Haridwar is also one of the four places where every twelve years Kumbh Mela happens after rotation, and every six years Ardh Kumbh happens. In addition to remaining the home of the tired in body, mind and spirit, Haridwar has also acted as a centre of attraction for learning the arts, science and culture. Haridwar, as well as its special Gurukul school system of western education, has a long-standing place as a great source of Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies. Haridwar is just 10 km from Rajaji National Park. For wildlife and adventure enthusiasts, it’s a perfect destination. In the evening, as thousands of Diyas (lamps) and marigold flowers float and illuminate the holy waters, the Ghats look breathtakingly lovely.
Haridwar, as it is today, not only has religious significance, but it is also famous for Roorkee University, one of the oldest and most prestigious science and engineering learning institutes in Roorkee. Another District University, i.e. Gurukul also offers traditional education of its own kind, with a large campus.
- Must visit place: Har ki Pauri ghat is a must visit place while you are in Uttarakhand. The Brhmakhund, which is visited by hordes of devotes is known to have one of the most amazing arts and is a surreal experience.
- Things to do: Take a dip in the holy Ganga and also enjoy a serene boat ride there. Eat the delicious local food to get a real feel of the place.
- Best time to visit: Though summers are hot, it gets pleasant here once the sun sets. The best time is between the cooler months of August to October
Kedarnath – the lord of the field
In the Rudra Himalaya range, Kedarnath is an ancient and majestic temple, over a thousand years old, constructed of massive stone slabs over a large rectangular base. On the stairs, we find inscriptions in Pali ascending through the wide grey steps leading to the holy sanctums. Adi Shankaracharya founded the new temple. With figures of different deities and scenes from mythology, the inner walls of the temple sanctum are decorated. According to legend, after the Battle of the Mahabharata, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone for their sin. Lord Shiva eluded them twice and took shelter at Kedarnath in the form of a bull while fleeing. He dived into the ground upon being pursued, leaving behind his hump on the surface. A massive statue of the Nandi Bull stands as a guard outside the temple gates. It is at this time that pilgrims flocking from all parts of India for a holy pilgrimage are thrown open at the doors of the temple.
One of the holiest pilgrimages for a devout Hindu is Kedarnath. It is situated at the head of the Mandakini River amid the breathtaking mountainscape of the Garhwal Himalayas. Another name for Lord Shiva is Kedar, the guardian and destroyer. Kedarnath’s shrine is very beautiful and is surrounded by lofty, snow-covered mountains and grassy meadows that cover the valleys throughout the summer. The high Keadardome peak, which can be seen from great distances, is directly behind the temple. It is actually fascinating to see the temple and the peak with its endless snow.
Badrinath – the land of meditation and penance
One of the most sought after pilgrim centres on the Indian subcontinent is Badrinath in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. In the background of the colossal Neelkanth mountain top, Badrinath is beautifully set and never fails to make the visitor spellbound with its unparalleled gorgeousness. A derivative of badri is the word Badrinath, which means the place where beries grow abundantly.
Badrinath, a location that houses so many myths and legends, gains predominance in a pilgrim’s travel itinerary. The common belief is that Badarinath was Lord Shiva’s realm, and from here to Kedarnath, Lord Vishnu managed to unseat Shiva. Another belief is that she broke up into twelve streams and one between the channels when Ganga made her descend to earth, Alakananda felt on Kedarnath that gives it a majestic look to Badrinath.
Badrinath does not deliver only leisure sports, shrines and pilgrimage. It offers the amazing beauty of the mountain peaks clad in snow and the surging landscapes of the Garhwal area.
Dehradun – the capital city of the Uttarakhand
Dehradun, nestled in the mountain ranges of the Himalayas, is one of India’s most beautiful sub-mountain towns, renowned for its scenic surroundings. The Dehradun name is a series of two words that mean “dera” meaning camp and “dun” meaning valley.
Also known as one of India’s oldest cities, Lord Rama and his brother are believed to have done penance here for killing the demon king, Ravana.
Under the British, Dehradun became an elite city with many fine institutions such as the Forest Science College, Doon School and Welham Schools for girls and boys, and many more have been added in time, such as the ONGC and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Studies. Dehradun has now become an important destination for tourists.
- Must visit: Don’t miss the beautiful Forest Research Institute campus in Dehradun.The colonial building is very picturesque. They are open between 9.00 am to 5.30 pm.
- Things to do: Shop for pretty woollens, handicrafts, handlooms, juices, jams, jellies and clothes in the local market. Don’t forget to try out the delicious Garhwali food at the local restaurants.
- Best time to visit: Plan a trip between March to June to beat the summer heat as the weather is pleasant. March to June is the best time to visit this beautiful place in Uttarakhand and to beat the summer heat as the weather is pleasant.
Nainital – gets its identity from mesmerizing Naini Lake
Nainital is one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India, widely known as the “Lake District of India”. Nainital is situated around the magnificent Naini Tal lake, surrounded by mountains on three sides. This resort on the lake is located at a height of 1,938 metres. The location has many storeys associated with it. According to one, Nainital derived its name from the goddess Naina, while the other legend says that Lord Shiva carried her when the goddess Sati lost her eyes, and a lake was created. (‘Naina’ means eyes and ‘Tal’ means lake.) This beautiful little town, popularly known as ‘Sapta-Shring’-Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta and Sher-Ka-Danda, is surrounded by seven hills. The majestic mountains and the lake’s sparkling waters add an enormous amount to the town’s charm.
- Must visit place: The sparkling Naini Lake offers a grand boating ride which is unmissable.
- Things to do: Shop for woollens, handicrafts, jewellery and soveniour in the shops on Mall Road. If you love adventure, then there are options for trekking. .
- Best time to visit: Nainital has good weather throughout the year, but people mostly come to this hill station between March to June.
Lansdowne – Picnic Destination
At an altitude of 1780 m above sea level, the beautiful town of Lansdowne is located. It is on the Kotdwar route in the south of Pauri and is surrounded by dense oak and blue pine forests that give great views of the mountains. As it is devoid of the normal hustle-bustle of other hill stations in Uttarakhand, it is a charming place for a peaceful holiday. Originally, Lansdowne was a popular hill station among the British.
They set up a cantonment here, attracted by its good environment and natural beauty. The famous Indian Army Garhwal Rifles have their command office here.
- Must visit places: Head to the Gharwali Museum that houses a collection of arms, rifles, army uniforms, and some rare photographs of the days gone by. The museum is open from 9.00 am to noon and 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm.
- Things to do: Enjoy a peaceful walk or simply sit and stare at the beauty of nature. You can also go on the forest trail to explore the wilderness of this beautiful place.
- Best time to visit: July to September is one the best times to visit, apart from the summer season. Winters can be extremely cold. So plan your Uttarakhand trip accordingly.
Auli – best skiing destination
At an average height of 2800 metres, Auli is renowned for its fascinating ski resorts and breathtaking natural vistas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This hilly landscape, bordered by the snowy peaks of the mighty Himalayas, offers scenery of oak fringed hills, coniferous forests, apple orchards and fine deodar trees, and stunning views of lofty mountain ranges such as Nanda Devi, Mana Paravat and Kamat Kamet.
Auli, blessed with the holy visit of Sankaracharya, offers a reliable history dating back to the 8th century. The harsh frosty storms, the sylvan peaks and the long stretch of snowy valleys, aptly named as the refuge for skiing activities, will make an idyllic setting for a skier.
In a short span of time, Auli, the former training ground of the Indo-Tibetan Police Force, has acquired the status of a renowned hill resort because it is equipped with everything that is enough to thrill the onlookers. Nature offers a sense of an awe-inspiring time at its full bloom, which can not be washed out of our wildest dreams.
- Must visit place: A trip to the beautiful Chattrakund lake should be on your places to see here.
- Things to do: Auli is the skiing and snowboarding hub of India. You can try your hand at skiing here. There are different courses to learn the sport. Try your lick at mountaineering here and you will have an unforgettable experience.
- Best time to visit: You can visit Auli anytime of the year. However, winters can be extremely cold and you will need to bundle up.
Ranikhet – Behold the breathtaking views of the Himalayas
Ranikhet is a location that is synonymous with Himalayan legends. Historical accounts tell us that Queen Padmini of Kumaon was enchanted by the paradise of this tiny hill. By building a palace here for the queen, King Sudhardev obliged her, and called the place Ranikhet (the fields of the queen).
No sign of the palace can be found today, but the place remained the same: captivating, abounding in the heavenly Himalayan climate with flowers, trees and green meadows. Lost in oblivion for a long time the British have rediscovered the picturesque hill station. Apart from setting up an army recruiting centre, they bought the land from the native villagers and turned it into a summer resort. The headquarters of the gallant Kumaon Regiment still remain in Ranikhet. Located at 1,829 metres in height, with an area of 21.76 sq. A healthy environment, high coniferous trees, vast green meadows, peaceful surroundings, perfect peace and warm, open-hearted people, km Ranikhet has too much to offer to tourists. Every season has an enticing appeal of its own. This is what makes it an all-season destination for Ranikhet. In the country, Ranikhet also boasts one of the best hill golf greens (9 holes).
- Must visit place: Tour the British Era buildings here found in plenty. There are also a host of beautiful temples in and around Ranikhet which is very charming and should not be missed.
- Things to do: Ranikhet has several tiny local off-road trekking routes offering scenic vistas. A trek here can be very refreshing and enjoyable.
- Best time to visit: Early winters, starting from September until November is the best time to visit Ranikhet.
Mussoorie – trip to Uttarakhand is never complete without visiting here
One of the most famous hill stations in the country is Mussoorie, the Queen of the Hills, located some 290 km north of New Delhi. For leisure travellers and honeymooners, it is a captivating paradise. One centre has been rolled into a great summer destination and a big educational and cultural centre. The colonial hill resort of Mussoorie is situated on a 15 km long horseshoe ridge with the great Himalayas as a backdrop, at an altitude of 2,005.5 m above sea level. Mussoorie provides superb scenic views of the peaks of the Himalayas in western Garhwal from this vantage point.
Mussoorie boasts some of the Himalaya’s most stunning views. Irregular in shape and partially wooded, hill ridges form layer by layer to the horizon, where snow-capped mountain peaks are visible as if they can be reached. The mighty peaks of Bandar Poonch, Srikantha, the Gangotri party and Chaukhamba offer a fascinating panorama from west to east. Mussoorie overlooks the magnificent Doon valley to its south and the stunning Himalayas up north, 34 km from Dehradun. The mountains draw climbers, trekkers and fans of adventure sports. Trekkers launch their journey from Mussoorie to the famous Har Ki Dun trekking area with its snowscapes and verdant-forested slopes.
From one end of the ridge and Yamuna from the other, the holy river Ganga is visible, a distance of around 20 km in all from the end of the Cloud in the west to Jabarkhet in the east. During the peak tourist season, Mussoorie becomes a buzzing resort with crowds of holiday-makers ambling down the central Mall, one of the most easily accessible hill stations in Northern India. Situated about 300 m from the main town, the suburban area of Landour is quieter and has managed to maintain some of its old colonial charm. It provides unique opportunities for peaceful walks, surrounded by lush wooded expanses and winding streets. It overlooks the wide valley of Doon and the town of Dehradun, the gateway to Mussoorie and Garhwal as a whole.
- Must visit the place: Don’t miss the stunning Kempty Falls near Mussoorie.
- Things to do: Walk through the winding lanes of the tiny town and explore its beauty. Also, try your luck in spotting resident author Ruskin Bond, who enjoys a stroll through the markets
- Best time to visit: April to June are the best months to come here. If you want to see snowfall, plan a trip during the winter months.
