Uttarakhand: The Land of Gods and Natural Beauty.
Uttarakhand is a haven of mesmerizing sights, religious sites and adventure in the lap of Himalayas. This state in Northern India is a destination to every tourist – whether they are pilgrims who want to be blessed by deities or are adrenaline junkies who want to experience adrenaline rush, and tourists who love nature and peace in the mountain scenery. This is a complete list of the best sites which must be included in your Uttarakhand itinerary.
Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital
Rishikesh is one of the most symbolic places of the state of Uttarakhand as it is the place where spirituality and adventure collide. This town is situated in the shores of the holy Ganges and has grown to be a yoga and meditation center in the world. The notorious visit of the Beatles in 1968 placed it on the global map, and nowadays, ashrams and yoga centres are spread across the land, and they provide classes, such as weekend retreats, month-long courses to train teachers.
In addition to being spiritual, Rishikesh is full of adventure. The town is also known to have the white-water rafting adventure, which goes up to Grade IV which is very difficult. Lakshman jhula and Ram jhula suspension bridges are the iconic bridges that provide great views of the river and the hills around. It is not to be missed that in the evenings there is the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat where the river is alive with floating diyas and devotional songs that provide a memorable spiritual environment.
Mussoorie: The Queen of Hills
Mussoorie is located at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters and since the colonial age the place has been enthralling tourists. This hill station is a good combination of both nature and antique atmosphere. The meeting point of the town is Mall Road, which is surrounded by stores, bars and architectures of the colonial era. The Cable Car ride to Gun Hill offers scenic views of doon valley and Himalayan ranges particularly at sunset.
Kempty Falls is a picnic site found some 15 kilometers outside the main town where you can take pleasure of the falling water. The Camel’s Back Road is a three kilometer road walk that is peaceful and spectacular in its mountain views to those who want to experience silence. Mussoorie is also the entrance to some other not so popular hill stations such as Dhanaulti and Kanatal.
Nainital: The Lake District
Nainital is located around a lake named Naini which is an emerald lake that is covered by seven hills forming a natural amphitheater. You can hardly pass the reminder of boating on this clean lake be it in a paddle boat or in an old wooden row boat. The Mall Road that passes next to the lake is bustling with activities, providing options of shopping, eating and watching people.
The ride in a ropeway to Snow View Point pays you off with amazing views of snow-capped mountain ranges such as Nanda Devi. The most popular peak in Nainital is Naina Peak which can be reached through a short trek but the best views of the sunrise can be seen here. The town also has other few other lakes around, like the Bhimtal, the Sattal and the Naukuchiatal, each of which possesses its own beauty and has significantly less number of people.
Jim corbett national park-wildlife heaven.
Jim Corbett is the oldest and the oldest national park in India and is worth visiting by the wildlife lovers. This is a protected zone with the grand Bengal tiger, the elephants, leopards, deer, and more than 600 species of birds spread on an area that covers more than 500 square kilometers. The park is subdivided into various zones, with each having a different experience in safari. The most popular one is Dhikala zone which needs advance booking and staying overnight in the park.
The most appropriate time to visit the park is during November to June when the park is open. Different views on the biodiversity of the forest are offered by jeep safaris and elephant safaris. The Kosi and Ramganga rivers which pass through the park contribute beauty to the park and attract different types of wildlife to both the rivers.
Auli: Skiing Haven
Auli has become the best skiing resort in India and the slopes there match the resorts in other countries. Auli has a great view of the highest peak of Uttarakhand Nanda Devi, and it is located 2,800 meters above the ground. Skiing season starts late in December and continues till the beginning of March, there are slopes that are considered to be friendly to both novices and experienced skiers. There are ready rentals of professional instructors and equipment.
Although you are not a skier, the cable car at Auli is one of the longest in the whole of Asia and the 20min ride on the cable car gives spectacular views. During summer the fields turn into wild flower carpets, therefore, it is ideal camping and hiking. Auli is also the starting point of a difficult trek of the Kuari Pass.
Valley of Flowers: Nature Ubermasterpiece.
The Valley of Flowers is a high-altitude Himalayan valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that changes into a colorful carpet of alpine flowers one can see between July and September. This national park, which is 87 square kilometers in size, exhibits more than five hundred species of flowering plants that form a fantastic world of the surreal landscape of colors in contrast to snow-capped mountains.
The walk to the valley starts at Govindghat and goes through Ghangaria, the final village. The moderate 17-kilometer walk can be available to fairly fit trekkers. The sacred Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib is located next to a glacial lake right next to Hemkund at an even higher elevation of the Spur.
Haridwar: Gateway to the Gods
Haridwar is a very religious place that has the highest religious importance among the seven holy places of the Hindu faith. The evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri makes the city alive as thousands of faithful people are now present to observe the priests performing well coordinated rituals by use of fire lamps that make a spectacular view reflected by the sacred waters.
Other than the ghats, Haridwar has a number of temples, ashrams and it gives one a chance to have a holy dip in the Ganges. The Char Dham Yatra to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath the four holy shrines of millions of pilgrims every year is also initiated in the city.
Badrinath and Kedarnath: Himalayan Holy places.
The two temples are included in the Holy Circuit of Char Dham and are down to earth the spiritual core of Uttarakhand. Kedarnath is a place devoted to Lord Shiva and is at an elevation of 3, 583 m which can be reached by 16 kilometer walk at Gaurikund or helicopter. The grandiose location of the temple on top of towering mountains produces a sense of extreme religiosity. The walk is difficult but worthwhile and traverses beautiful mountainous landscapes and miniature villages.
Badrinath is more open to road access; it is located at an altitude of 3300 meters and dedicated to God Vishnu. The temple is closed during winter periods except between April and November as there is a lot of snowfall. The Mana Village located nearby is the last village in India before the border with Tibet, giving one an insight into the traditional life of the Himalayans. The pilgrims believe that the hot springs at the Tapt Kund, where they take a bath before visiting the temple, are medicinal.
Chopta and Tungnath: The Mini Switzerland.
Chopta is frequently called the Mini Switzerland of India and is an untouched heaven of trekkers and nature lovers. The Tungnath- Chandrashila trek is one of the most rewarding treks of brief duration which bases at this small region in the state of Uttarakhand. The highest Shiva temple in the world is Tungnath that is 3,680 meters. The adventure proceeds to Chandrashila peak, where one gets a 360 degree view of such Himalayan giants as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
The Chopta meadows are breathtaking at all times of the year, during summer when it is full of wildflowers, and in winter when it is turned to a snow wonderland. Bird watching is also a great activity in the area and birds such as Himalayan monal (state bird) are commonly seen. Stargazing and camping in the middle of the woods in Chopta is something you will never forget.
Ranikhet: The Hilly Resort of Peace.
As compared to Mussoorie or Nainital, Ranikhet is less commercial, which means it is a peaceful destination with breathtaking Himalayan sceneries. The town is called Queen Meadow and it is told that a local queen was so in love with the place made it her home. The Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army has its presence in the town and the regimental museum is an interesting source of knowledge about military history.
Approximately 10 kilometers to the main town are Chaubatia Gardens which are known to have orchards of apples, plums, peaches and apricots. The Jhula Devi Temple that is devoted to Goddess Durga is considered to be special because of thousands of bells that have been hung by the devotees. Golfers can have the pleasure of the Upat Golf Course, which is located in one of the mountain ranges as one of the highest golf courses in Asia.
Almora: Cultural Heritage Town.
Almora is full of culture and its view of Himalayas is spectacular with a view of more than 300 kilometers. The small, paving of the streets of the town is covered with wooden houses and carved ornaments. The Bright End Corner is a spectacular sunset and sunrise view on top of the peaks.
The temple of Kasar Devi, an area of 8 kilometers known as Almora, became famous around the world in the 1960s and 1970s as it had received visitors such as spiritual seekers such as Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and Timothy Leary. It is estimated that the place has a huge geomagnetic field like Stonehenge and Machu Picchu. The location of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary has great possibilities to see a leopard, barking deer, and more than 200 bird species.
Lansdowne: The Quiet Retreat
Lansdowne is the place to go when you need a break and you are not interested in being surrounded by tourists. This town of cantonment has retained its old world charm and serene environment. No malls or multiplexes, only here over-white forests, churches of the colonial period, and calm lakes.
Bhulla lake is ideal in boating and picnics and viewpoint- Tip-n-Top has a panoramic view of the valley. The Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial is one of the depressing memorials of the soldiers. Birdwatching is also the Lasdonne paradise, as there are several species of birds that dwell in the oak and pine forests. The town is a great weekend destination when one is in need of unwinding and a refreshed mind.
Binsar Wild life and Wilderness.
The elevation of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary at 900-2500 people consists of a 47 square kilometers of safeguarded jungle. Leopards, Himalayan bears, barking deer, jungle cats, and more than 200 varieties of birds are found there. Nevertheless, the majority of the guests visit the amazing Zero Point, where they can see the Himalayan range extending 300 kilometer without any obstacles.
The sanctuary is also equipped with good nature walks and treks. The complex of the ancient Bineshwar Temple, which holds temples that are dated 9th-10th centuries, offers some historical value. March through June and September through November are the months when wildlife can best be seen and the weather is pleasant.
Pithoragarh: the Little Kashmir.
Pithoragarh is situated in the eastern region of Uttarakhand, bordering Nepal and Tibet which is commonly referred to as the Little Kashmir due to its picturesque view. The town acts as a starting point of treks to Panchachuli peaks, Milam Glacier and the ancient trading road to the Kailash Mansarover.
The Pithoragarh Fort has the most spectacular views of the adjacent valleys and snow-capped peaks. It is near Asaskot Wildlife Sanctuary home to musk deer and the lovely complex of Thal Kedar temples. The area is not quite exploited, and thus is ideal to adventure tourists who may wish to go off-road.
Munsiyari: Trekking Base of the High Altitude Treks.
Munsiyari at an altitude of 2,200 meters is a picturesque place with great views of the Panchachuli range, and starting point of various high altitude treks. Khaliya Top trek is also a beginner friendly walk that provides a stunning mountain view. The Milam Glacier trek and Ralam Glacier trek are also not as easy as they are more challenging.
The town in itself is very charming with its tradition Kumaoni culture that still lives. Tribal Heritage Museum represents the way of life of native Shouka tribes. During winter, Munsiyari becomes a snow-quality magical land, but it becomes limited.
Kausani: Switzerland of India.
This is where Mahatma Gandhi wrote Anashakti Yoga because he was so impressed by the beauty of Kausani. This is a small hill station that is located at a height of 1,890 meters above sea level with the panoramic views of 300 kilometers of the Himalayas, such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli mountains.
The Ashram of the Anashakti where Gandhi was staying is presently a meditation center. The Baijnath Temple which was constructed in 1204 AD is exquisitely carved on stone. According to them Kausani Tea Estate is a good place to visit as they have been given tours and you can learn how tea is grown and processed and enjoy fresh brews with the mountain range.
Unspoilt Secret and Must-Have in Uttarakhand.
Mukteshwar: The garden of Eden.
Still standing at 2,285 meters, Mukteshwar is one of the best secrets that are kept at Uttarakhand. This small hill station boasts of fruit orchards- there are apples, plums, peaches and apricots growing all over the hills. The Mukteshwar Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva stands on the top most point and has a spectacular 180 degree views of the Himalayan range.
The Chauli Ki Jali is a dramatic rock structure which has an aperture within its mass through which the committed people used to be to be tested by going through the holes to get breathtaking glimpses of the glades beneath. The Adventure enthusiasts are able to have fun in rock climbing and rappelling on the natural rock face. The campus of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute is a good place to visit due to its colonial architecture and well-maintained gardens. The peaceful atmosphere of Mukteshwar puts it in the right place of meditation retreat and nature photography.
Chakrata: The Paradise of the Untouched.
Chakrata is one of the most unexplored places in Uttarakhand, which the mainstream tourism has not invaded yet. This is a cantonment town that is 2,118 meters that has pure forests, waterfalls that flow, and total peace. On an adventure journey, the 4-kilometer walk through a forest reachable by foot makes the top of uttarakhand Tiger Falls, the highest direct waterfall that offers a breathtaking view to the visitors.
Its Deoban (meaning forest of God) at 2,900 meters is a panorama of the Himalayan ranges where one can camp in the sky studded weather. The Budher Caves, the longest in India, is a spelunking expedition and appears to be the adventure of the adventurous. The remoteness of Chakrata also guarantees clean air, serene environment and pure interaction with locals Jaunsari tribes that preserve their own cultural traditions.
Kanatal: Adventure and Beauty in One.
Kanatal is the best place to combine adventure with calmness as it lies between Mussoorie and Chamba and stands at 2,590 meters. The temple of Surkanda Devi is among the Shakti Peeths, and one will need a 2-kilometer hike up the hill, but the views of sunrise at the hilltop are spectacular. The temple becomes particularly important with Ganga Dussehra where thousands of devotees meet.
One of the highest dams in the world is Tehri Dam, approximately 30 kilometers that provides water sports, such as jet skiing and kayaking on the large reservoir. The apple orchards and pine forests of Kanatal are a good camping location. Some of the activities promoted in adventure camps include activities such as zip-lining, valley crossing as well as experiences in Burma bridge with mountainous background.
Pangot and Kilbury: Heaven of Birdwatchers.
Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary are just 15 kilometers off Nainital which was the heaven of ornithologists and nature lovers. More than 580 species of birds have been listed in this place such as: Himalayan rare birds like; the Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Himalayan Griffon and Koklass Pheasant.
The Kilbury Forest provides good nature walks of oak and rhododendron forest. These places are in stark contrast to congested Nainital with visitors being able to get in touch with nature. Early in the morning between March and June is the most ideal time to view birds because the migratory birds come.
Dhanaulti: The Silent neighbor.
Dhanaulti is only 24 kilometers away (Mussoorie) and has the same views without the large numbers. This is a new attraction site at the height of 2,286 meters, consisting of the Eco Park and the Amber Eco Park- twin parks that boast of dense deodar trees, children playground and stunning views of the valley.
Surkanda Devi Temple, which is shared by Kanatal is accessible too. The Apple Orchard Resort region presents an opportunity to the visitor to take a stroll through the working orchards and be informed of how the fruits can be grown. Dhanaulti as a base location is a good place to journey out in the surrounding locations as well as to spend the evenings in a quiet and serene surrounding with transparent night skies that can be utilized to engage in stargazing.
Culinary Tourism: Local Cuisine.
Garhwali and Kumaoni cuisines of Uttarakhand are worth special mentioning. Such foods as kafuli (spinach-based curry), Phaanu (mixed lentil dish), Chainsoo (black gram paste curry), and Bhatt ki Churkani (black soybean curry) are the representations of the simple but tasteful cuisine of the region.
Bal Mithai and Singori are some of the sweets that should be tried. The former is fudge chocolate-brown covered with balls of sugar and Singori-a cone forming sweet wrapped by maalu leaf. One such breakfast meal is Aloo ke Gutke (spicy potatoes). Madua ki Roti (finger millet bread) is a healthy local food. The Bhang ki Chutney is an original hemp seed chutney, and it is legal and non-intoxicating.
Exclusive Festivals and Traditions.
The Kumaoni Holi in the Kumaon region is very different as compared with other parts of India-it is musically inclined whereby the classical ragas and folk songs are heard taking the center stage. In January, at Makar Sankranti, there is the well-known Uttarayani Fair in Bageshwar and thousands of people attend and take a holy dip.
Once in every twelve years, is Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra where followers transport a four horned ram and the god over mountainous villages to Roopkund on their heads. Ghee Sankranti is a festival that marks the first day of agricultural year in which special rituals and traditional foods are followed.
These are some of the diverted experiences worth seeking.
Village Tourism in Satoli, Jilling, and Munsyari provides the real homestay experience with the opportunity to engage in such traditional activities as milking cows, farming and traditional cooking. Interactions are a real immersion in culture.
Beyond Rishikesh Yoga and Meditation Retreats are in quieter places such as Anandam Resort near Tehri and Vana Retreat in Dehradun, and although they also provide complete yoga offerings, also include holistic wellness in their programs.
There are also other wildlife Safaris in other states such as the Rajaji National Park near Haridwar with wild elephants and the not so well known Askot Wildlife Sanctuary with musk deer and snow leopards at an elevation.
Temple Circuits: In addition to the well known Char Dham, visit Panch Kedar (five Shiva temples such as Kedarnath) as well as Panch Badri (five Vishnu temples) circuit where one can experience spiritual journeys of the Himalayan Topography by means of remote nature and distant segments.
The STPs of sustainable tourism.
Uttarakhand is a sensitive ecosystem that needs tourism responsibility. Use water bottles that are reused, avoid using plastics and discard waste. Shopping in small markets and dining out in local restaurants will help support the local award-winning businesses. Wildlife should be respected, and safe distances and non-feeding should be kept.
Several villages are currently involved in community-based tourism in which the families gain profits. This would reduce the use of big hotels and in the process, promote sustainable development. In hiking expeditions, the principles of
involving leaving no trace, bring back everything that is not biodegradable.
Photography Hotspots
In addition to this, Chopta meadows in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom are beautiful foregrounds in the mountain photography. Deoria Tal offers ideal images of Chaukhamba mountains during the sunrise. The prayer flags on the snow peaks on the Tungnath Temple form dramatic compositions.
An abandoned colonial hamlet is the Abbott Mount surrounding the Champawat which gives spooky, atmospheric shots. The Khaliya Top at Munsiyari offers the unhindered Panchachuli range. Gwaldam is a place of blend of Garhwal and Kumaon ranges.