Uttarakhand
Located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain ranges, Uttarakhand is largely a hilly State. Apart from the Terai region in the Shivalik foothills, the entire state is a part of the Himalayan ranges. Ancient holy places, mountains, rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna, forests, valleys and an abundance of trekking options are some of the attractions that make travel to Uttarakhand worthwhile. It is also home to the Char Dhams, the four most holy sites of pilgrimage revered by the Hindus – Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Thousands of tourists visit Uttarakhand annually to pay homage to the Char Dhams. Beauty is so inherent to almost all things Uttarakhand stands for – the magnanimous Himalayas, the holiest of the rivers, the spiritual mystery, stunning landscapes, the incessantly colorful play of nature, enchanting history carved in ancient stones, a mesmerizing floral and faunal plethora and the simplest of the people. Uttarakhand offers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of its natural splendor, grand in its wild denizens, and simplicity in its people, the region is a unique experience to your senses. Apart from being a unique tourism destination, Uttarakhand is a goldmine for anthropologists, historians, ornithologists, linguists, geologists. No words can ever be enough to perfectly describe this blessed land. The incredulous variety of experiences – both spiritual and sensory – goes beyond any language or dialect.
Ranikhet
Uttarakhand’s stunning little hill town Ranikhet lies in Almora district of Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. It is a gem of a place that is just so serene and wonderful that it has a sense of sublimity about it. When in Ranikhet, you are surrounded by misty mountains and long winding roads. Charmingly unspoilt natural beauty, screne and quiet, this is Ranikhet. Perched admist “Dev Bhumi” a visit to the numerous ancient temples built from the 6th to 12th century sets the tone of love, peace, contentment and happiness. Driving along gentle slopes and pine covered hillsides, leading to picnic spots in shady glens or to sheer cliffs with breath taking views of the snow covered Himalayas, offering various moods and colours, from the misty morning sun to pink, gold and cobalt blue in all their majestic glory. Natural treks, amazing views of snow covered Himalayan hillocks and Nanda Devi Peak, picturesque views of down valleys and the excellent secluded cool environment make Ranikhet a much sought Holidaying spot in India.
Kausani
Kausani is a hill station and Village situated in Bageshwar district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Unblemished by modernity’ is a fitting first impression of the sparsely populated town of Kausani. Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India’, Kausani is a picturesque hill station famous for its scenic splendor and its spectacular view of the Himalayas. A perfect getaway for honeymooners, nature lovers and vacation makers, this beautiful place offers a picture perfect view of snow clad peaks. The beauty of the Himalayan snow covered mountains was surely created by the gods, especially at sunrise when the sunrays turn them into gold and the sky orange and pink at sunset. At the hills of Kausani the mountains rise so dramatically as if to reach the heavens. In fact not just Kausani the entire Kumaon Hills have been known for their idyllic beauty with the huge mountains silhouetted against the sky. You may enjoy the endless stretch of famous peaks like the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and the Nandakot. Splendour of the place seems to call you more than one time to this place and makes you bask in the glory of the great mountains.
Nainital
The Nainital tourist district is the pride of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. It is a pleasant hill station. Jewelled around the periphery of Nainital Lake, from all sides, is the charming town that is often drenched with the evening lights. Peaceful, open, and invigorating – Nainital has several lakes close by- Bhimtal,Sattal, Naukuchiatal, Khurpatal, Malwatal, Harishtal and Lokhamtal. While its numerous lakes and stunning mountain vistas offer a paradise for nature lovers, a journey to Nainital is a fairytale panoramic tour through the Himalayas. Nainital is sure to leave an imprint on you that will last a lifetime.
Haridwar
Haridwar is an ancient holy city in the state of Uttarakhand on the bank of river Ganges. Haridwar acts as a ‘Gateway to The Lord’ with numerous sacred temples, shrines, and abodes in its bounty. It has earned fame as being the place which has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is also one of the major Shaktipeeths. It is also the backdrop of the revered Kumbh Mela. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath takingly beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the ‘place of the sages’ is a celebrated spiritual town located on the banks of the Ganga. It is one of the most popular pilgrim centres and gateway to the Himalayan Shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. From this point on, the great Ganges leaves behind her mountain home and enters the vast plains of Northern India. Rishikesh is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. Tranquillity meets adventure at this enchanting place. The solitude and sense of calm that it exudes is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Rishikesh sees the most beautiful evening aarti on the banks of the river Ganga. Since it is a religious town, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited here.
Badrinath
Badrinath Temple is located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It is known for the sacred Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage yatras and is one of the most visited pilgrimages in India. Badrinath Temple is believed to be originally established by the saint, Adi Shankaracharya. The idol depicts Vishnu sitting in a meditative posture, rather than his far more typical reclining pose. The Temple remains closed in winter for six months from November to April each year due to extreme weather conditions in the Himalayan region. Badrinath Temple has a Tapt Kund, a hot sulphur spring which is considered to have medicinal values. A scenic place with picture book sceneries, undulating peaks, sacred ponds and water bodies, Badrinath makes the visitor spellbound with its unparalleled gorgeousness.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath temple is one of the sacred pilgrimage centre in Northern India, located on the bank of Mandakini river. It is one of the most sacred temples and the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in India. It is the most important among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva, the protector, and the destroyer, and it’s believed that a journey to Kedarnath provides one “Moksha” or salvation. During the winters from November to May, the diety is shifted from Kedarnath Temple to Ukhitmath and is worshipped there. It is not just temples and shrines that Kedarnath is famed for. This lovely land on the majestic backdrop of the lower Himalayas is naturally bestowed with some of the wonderful vistas of nature. The undulating landscapes of this snowy region offer delightful time of escapades.
Gangotri
Gangotri temple is located in Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand. The temple is nested amidst the beautiful surroundings of deodars and pine trees. The main origin of the river is Gaumukh which is a glacier located 19 km away from gangotri temple. The river Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier. Just the perfect destination to breath in a serene and pious atmosphere, Gangotri has the charm to attract people from all over. The striking presence of the snow-clad mountains in the vicinity and the pure crystal clear water of the Ganges flowing around add to the sanctity of the place. One feels close to God in the high altitude of Gangotri. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are a strict no-no.
Yamunotri
The Shrine of Yamunotri at the source of river Yamuna. The actual source, a frozen lake of ice and glacier (Champasar Glacier) is about 1 km further up is not easily accessible. Hence the shrine has been located on the foot of the hill. Yamunotri is naturally bestowed with abundant beauty and charm. This sacred home of sage Asti is surrounded by undulating peaks, Himalayan glaciers and thermal springs. It appeals to all sorts of tourist from the pilgrims, to the ones in search of a romantic destination as well as adventure enthusiasts who are sure to find abundance of thrill and excitement in its grand and awe inspiring sceneries. A legendary place, which demands lots of courage and stamina to reach, Yamunotri would be a perfect place for those who love escapades. The trek to Yamunotri is magnificent, subjugated by mind stilling views of craggy peaks and intense forests. From the snow-clad summits to the turquoise lakes, Yamunothri has unbelievably romantic allures on store for those who are young at heart. Its imposing walking trails beside the gushing streams presents some spectacular moments that one could never forget. The best period to visit Yamunotri is during May to June and September to November.
Chopta
Chopta Hill Station is located in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand State. Home to mesmerizing variety of rare birds, flowers and alpine vegetation Chopta Valley is a mountain lover’s paradise. It is a picturesque hamlet which is still unexplored by travelers, is also famous as “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”. Wake up with cool salubrious breeze and chirping of birds in Chopta which is a far cry from the blaring horns of the cities and other hill stations. Morning view from Chopta is invigorating when the crimson rays of sun kisses the snow-laden Himalayas. Chopta is an ideal destination for intermediate trekkers to go on a guided trek and brush up their skills. Camping in the open grassy meadows of Chopta that slopes on softly, among alpine, pine, deodar and rhododendron trees is soul-fulfilling. Chopta is the base for various trekking destinations like Tungnath, Chandrashila and more.
Chakrata
Chakrata is a cantonment town in Dehradun district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated between the Tons and Yamuna rivers. Chakrata is known for its coniferous forest, treks, caves and ancient temples. Located in the terrains of Uttarakhand, the tourist places in Chakrata make for an exploratory and adventurous eye. This quaint and charming hill retreat is best known for its serenity and spellbinding views around. The forests of Chakrata is home to diverse wildlife like wild fowls, panther and spotted deer. The northern sloppy regions of Chakrata are ideal for trekking and skiing. Nature lovers, Trekkers, bird watchers and wild life enthusiasts can spend days together here in the lap of Chakrata exploiting the nature’s hidden treasures and beauties.
Kanatal
Kanatal is a tiny village situated on the Chamba-Mussoorie highway in the Tehri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand. If you’re looking for exciting activities, Kanatal is the place to be. Encircled by the sun-kissed peaks and the velvety coniferous trees, Kanatal still remains relatively unexplored. The mystical magic of Kanatal is truly witnessed at the onset of winter when the festival of Dussehra coincides with the snowfall. The celebrations are worth being a part of, and the chilly weather makes for an exemplary holiday experience. Today Kanatal is a usual haunt for those travelers who seek peace and solitude. Apart from peace, the place exhibits a charm in form of majestic hills, fruit trees, apple orchards and lush green forests. It is undoubtedly a piece of paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Exploring Kanatal is like experiencing the Heaven on Earth where you can rejuvenate your soul and can find a new you.
Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a small town, and one of the most-sought tourist destinations, in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand. This little beautiful town adorned with cute homes of reddish roofs, ancient style window frames made of wood and picket barriers brings the reminiscences of British Raj. It is rich in eye-dazzling scenic beauty and you will get to witness the magnificent views of the great Himalayas along with a sneak peak of India’s second-largest peak, Nanda Devi. Mukteshwar offers distinctly visible 180 degree views of the majestic Himalayan range. The untouched and pristine beauty of Mukteshwar has a lot to offer to the travelers who come here in search of tranquility and peace. A dream destination for photographers, the small town also witnesses glorious twilights with crimson and maroon streaks spattered across the evening sky.
Binsar
Binsar is a small town in Uttarakhand known for the surreal beauty of the snow-laden Himalayan peaks. The hill station is just about 100 km away from Nainital. Set amid forests covered with oak, pine, rhododendrons and deodar trees, Binsar is home to beautiful green meadows, temples and the famous Binsar wildlife sanctuary. A trekker’s paradise, Binsar has a Zero point that provides the 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges, which includes Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Shivling and Trishul. This itself is quite enough to fill your minds and hearts with wonder. Watching sunrise and sunset are must-experience. On a sunny day, one can have a glimpse of the holy shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath and Gangotri. A destination for all the lost souls in the world this is one place that is capable of restoring peace in your life.
Hemkund Sahib
Sri Hemkunt Sahib is a sacred pilgrimage revered by thousands of Sikhs every year. Located in the Chamoli district Hemkund literally means the lake of snow, and it is the truth . The lake here, covered with snow most of the years is as freezing as ice and as beautiful as a splash of colours to sore eyes. This highest Gurudwara in the world is perched at an altitude of 4329 m above the sea level and lies in the backdrop of snow – clad mountains. In spite of its relatively perilous terrain and harsh cold climate, thousands of pilgrims visit the Hemkund Sahib every year to witness the crystal clear water of the lake and to seek the blessings of the Almighty.
Chamoli
Chamoli is a beautiful nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The pilgrimages, hill stations, advantageous sports spots, beautiful river banks and amazing climatic conditions makes the Chamoli as world famous and a favorite tourist destination. Enriched with flora and fauna, this village offers mesmerizing panoramic vistas that evidence depth and devotion to nature. When in Chamoli, expect to have a rendezvous with some of the exotic sights of the pristine valleys fringed by the gigantic snow-capped mountains and the vast expanse of flower-strewn meadows. Due to its surroundings, Chamoli attracts explorers and nature-lovers.
Rajaji National Park
Around 20 km from Rishikesh, situated along the hills and foothills of Shivalik ranges in the Himalaya, Rajaji is a hidden gem in the form of a Wildlife sanctuary. It is abundantly rich in flora and fauna and proves a great holiday destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The Park is at the northwestern limit of distribution for both elephants and tigers in India, and has the largest population of elephants in Uttarakhand. You should explore the wilderness and rich diversity of Himalayan lives here with a Jeep Safari or Elephant Safari organised by the Forest Department. Best season to visit here is from October to June.
Munsiyari
Munsiyari is a comely hamlet situated in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand state, nestled in the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas. The region is a paradise for the nature lovers and adventurous souls. Munsiyari is as beautiful as it sounds. The pretty little hill town is known for its panorama of snow-capped Himalayan Range and some adventurous high altitude trekking trails. One can have the breathtaking view of the Himalayan peak, Panchchuli from here. Munsiyari offers splendid vistas of natural beauteousness.
Valley of Flowers
With the majestic Zanskar range in the backdrop, the World Heritage Site of Valley of Flowers is located in Chamoli Garhwal, close to Nanda Devi National Park. In August and September, the valley comes alive when thousands of flowers are in full bloom. This is a place that will readily take your breath away by its beauty. The valley is highly spectacular because it has a wonderful combination of snow covered mountains, frequent water falls and lush green valley full with flower bad on the both side of flowing river. The gentle cool breeze and musical sound of the streams and water falls seem like heaven on the earth. The Valley has been associated with Lakshman. The ‘Sanjeevani Buti’, which revived him when he was wounded in battle with son of Ravana, is said to have been from here.
Jim Corbett National Park
Corbett has the glory of being India’s oldest and most prestigious National Park. It was the first place where Project Tiger was launched in 1973. The magical landscape of Corbett is well known and fabled for its tiger richness. Located in the Nainital district of Uttaranchal, this is one place which not only offers a diverse wildlife and plants but the perfect weather to let them thrive. Home to more than 650 species of rare and migratory birds, it is a haven for bird watchers. The most popular attraction at Corbett National Park is Dhikala, a forest lodge located on the border of Patil Dun Valley, which is known for the stunning location and rich wildlife. Jim Corbett National Park remains closed from July to October during the monsoons.
Lansdowne
A quiet and enchanting hill-station set up by the British before independence. This beautiful hill station is part of the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Lansdowne is famous for its pristine Himalayan beauty, oak and pine forests, snow-covered peaks and lovely fresh air. The area is home to some of the most mystical and breathtaking views. This beautiful hill station witnesses pleasant summers and freezing winters. March to November is usually considered to be the best time to visit this place.
Mussoorie
Deemed as the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie is a dreamland of gorgeous landscapes. Situated about 32 km of Dehradun, It is a wonderful place to unwind. Here you do what Mussoorie encourages you to do to your heart’s content. The town has unavoidable romance in the air – an excellent breathing space for tourists and people who seek relief from the hot sultry conditions of the plains. Nature has gifted Mussoorie everything, which makes a place charming and cherubic. Once you visit here you cannot wipe off the memories from your heart as the kaleidoscopic hills will always remind you of your betrothal.
Dhanaulti
Situated on the Mussoorie – Chamba route, Dhanaulti is 24 kms. from Chamba. Set amidst thick virgin forests of Deodars, Oaks and Rhododendrons, it is an ideal location that ensures absolute peace of mind and soul. The green meadows, towering trees, breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks, make Dhanaulti an enticing hideaway for tourists. Best time to visit Dhanaulti is between March and June. The constant melody of the birds and the quixotic location makes for a perfect honeymoon getaway. The snow clad mountains, the colourful birds, the smell of the pine and the swish of the cool breeze blowing here make you feel like the most pampered person in the world.
Auli
Auli is nestled in the lap of snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Auli’s well-dressed slopes are flanked by coniferous and oak forests, which offer a panoramic view of Mountains. Feel the rush of air on your face, blaze a defiant trail as you go skiing on the well-dressed snow slopes. Or pelt each other with snow-balls on a blanket of snow. And if you’re a lover of natural splendour let your eyes feast on the breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks all around you. The snowfall has been a blessing at Auli, India’s skiing paradise. While its slopes beckon daring and gallant skiing enthusiasts, its pristine natural beauty and its alpine atmosphere lure many tourists. A haven for those who want to escape the humdrum of everyday life, conquer their fear of heights and savour nature in its purest form. One of the stunning experiences that you should not miss out on is travelling on the ropeway from Auli to Joshimath. This is the highest ropeway in Asia and you will be right in the middle of the Himalayan range at an incredible height on this 15 to 20 minute journey.