IRCTC Uttarakhand Tour Packages

IRCTC offers an option of Uttarakhand tour packages that are tailored to the various demands of visitors wishing to discover the stunning beauty of this northern Indian state. Uttarakhand, famous for its amazing scenery, religious value, and adventure options, welcomes travellers all year. The tour packages typically include visits to popular destinations such as Rishikesh, known for its yoga retreats and thrilling river rafting; Mussoorie, also known as the "Queen of Hills," with its stunning views and pleasant climate; and Nainital, known for its picturesque lake and warm weather. Many packages also include guided treks in the Himalayas, which allow visitors to see the region's natural beauty up close. IRCTC Uttarakhand tour packages also offer packages for spiritual seekers that include excursions to the famed temples of Haridwar and Badrinath. With customized itineraries, luxurious accommodations, and simple transport, these packages promise a memorable and rewarding experience for every traveller, whether they seek adventure, religion, or relaxation amid nature's beauty.

Best places to visit in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a beautiful state in northern India known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual significance. Here are some of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand:

Rishikesh: Often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh is famous for its yoga ashrams, serene Ganga river, and adventure activities like white-water rafting. The evening Ganga Aarti is a must-see.

Haridwar: A major pilgrimage site, Haridwar is where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. The Kumbh Mela is held here every 12 years, but the city is vibrant with spirituality year-round.

Mussoorie: Famous as the "Queen of Hills," Mussoorie offers stunning views, pleasant weather, and colonial architecture. Don’t miss Kempty Falls and the panoramic views from Gun Hill.

Nainital: Famous for its beautiful lake, Nainital is perfect for boating and trekking. The Naina Devi Temple and the observatory at Snow View are popular attractions.

Dehradun: The capital city offers a blend of urban life and natural beauty, with points of interest such as Robber’s Cave, Mindrolling Monastery, and the scenic Malsi Deer Park.

Auli: A skiing destination in winter, Auli is known for its slopes and stunning views of the Nanda Devi and other peaks. It’s great for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Kausani: A lesser-known gem, Kausani offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and is ideal for peace and tranquillity. The sunrise views are particularly spectacular.

Badrinath: One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Badrinath is known for the Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It's a serene location set amidst the mountains.

Kedarnath: Also part of the Char Dham, Kedarnath is another significant pilgrimage site, known for the Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is accessible by a trek that offers incredible views.

Jim Corbett National Park: The oldest national park in India, it is a haven for wildlife lovers. You can go on safaris to spot tigers, elephants, and various species of birds.

Top Things To Do In Uttarakhand

Here are some of the top things to do in Uttarakhand that will enhance your experience in this beautiful state:

White-Water Rafting in Rishikesh: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Ganges River. Various packages cater to both beginners and experienced rafters, with stunning river views and rapids.

Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Join a yoga or meditation program in Rishikesh or Haridwar to rejuvenate your mind and body. Numerous ashrams offer courses for all levels.

Trekking in the Himalayas: Explore scenic trails in places like Auli, Nainital, and Mukteshwar. Popular treks include the Valley of Flowers, Roopkund Trek, and Har Ki Doon.

Visit the Char Dham: Embark on a spiritual journey to the Char Dham (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath), essential pilgrimage sites offering divine experiences amidst stunning landscapes.

Safari in Jim Corbett National Park: Go on a wildlife safari to observe the diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and various bird species in their natural habitat.

Exploring Mussoorie: Stroll along Mall Road, visit Kempty Falls and enjoy panoramic views from Gun Hill. The pleasant weather and colonial architecture add to the charm.

Boating in Nainital: Rent a boat and enjoy the serene waters of Naini Lake, while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Don’t forget to visit the Naina Devi Temple located on the lake's edge.

Visit the Mindrolling Monastery in Dehradun: Experience Tibetan culture and architecture in this serene monastery, which offers beautiful gardens and meditation spaces.

Skiing in Auli: If you're visiting in winter, Auli is a fantastic destination for skiing, with well-maintained slopes and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Hot Air Ballooning: Enjoy a unique aerial view of the landscape with hot air balloon rides offered in various locations, mostly around tourist spots like Mussoorie.

Attend Ganga Aarti in Haridwar: Experience the spiritual atmosphere during the evening Ganga Aarti, where devotees gather by the riverside for a beautiful ceremony.

Visit Local Markets: Explore local markets in towns like Rishikesh and Dehradun for handicrafts, woollen garments, and organic products to take home as souvenirs.

Famous food in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand boasts a rich culinary heritage that reflects its diverse culture and natural bounty. Here are some famous foods you should try when visiting the state:

Aloo Ke Gutke: This popular dish consists of boiled potatoes sautéed with local spices, herbs, and mustard oil. It's often served with a side of dal and rice.

Chainsoo: A flavorful dish made from black gram dal (urad dal), which is roasted and ground before being cooked with spices. It's nutritious and usually served with rice.

Bhang ki Chutney: A unique chutney made from hemp seeds, green chillies, garlic, and spices. It adds a distinct flavour to meals and is often enjoyed with rice or chapati.

Ghat Ki Dal: Made from horse gram, this lentil dish is rich in protein and has a robust flavour. It is typically prepared with spices and served with rice or chapati.

Swala: A traditional meat dish, often made from goat or lamb, which is cooked with local spices and served with rice or roti.

Farsan: Various types of crispy snacks, such as aloo tikki (potato patties) and Shasta, are enjoyed as appetizers or evening snacks.

Kumaoni Raita: A refreshing yoghurt-based side dish that usually includes cucumber, mint, and other spices, making it a perfect complement to spicier foods.

Sooji Ki Kheer: A sweet dish made from semolina, milk, sugar, and flavoured with cardamom and nuts. It’s a popular dessert, especially during festivals.

Bal Mithai: An iconic sweet from the region, bal mithai is made from khoya (dried milk) and coated with sugar balls. It has a unique texture and flavour.

Singhori: A delightful local dessert, Singhori is made from grated coconut and khoya, wrapped in a leaf and then steamed or cooked.

ALu Badi: This dish includes fried or steamed dumplings made from ground urad dal and is often served with rice or chapatis as a side dish.

Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand

The best time to visit Uttarakhand largely depends on the activities you plan to engage in and the regions you wish to explore. Generally, the ideal seasons are:

Spring (March to June): This is one of the most popular times to visit Uttarakhand. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and participating in outdoor activities. Rishikesh and Nainital are particularly inviting during this time, with clear skies and blooming flora.

Monsoon (July to September): While the monsoon season brings lush greenery, heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and travel disruptions. If you enjoy the beauty of rain-soaked landscapes and fewer crowds, you might consider visiting during this season, but it's important to check weather conditions beforehand.

Autumn (October to November): Another great time to explore Uttarakhand, autumn features clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The views of the Himalayas are spectacular, and it's an excellent time for trekking in the high-altitude regions and visiting pilgrimage sites.

Winter (December to February): If you're a fan of snow and skiing, winter is the perfect season, especially in places like Auli. Temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the higher altitudes, so it's vital to be prepared for cold weather. Popular pilgrimage sites can also be visited, though accessibility may vary due to snow.

How To Reach Uttarakhand

Reaching Uttarakhand is quite convenient as it is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the primary modes of transportation to get to this beautiful northern state:

By Air

The nearest airport to Uttarakhand is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 25 kilometers from the city. This airport has regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach your destination in Uttarakhand.

By Train

Uttarakhand has several railway stations, with Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh being the primary ones. Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India. Once you arrive at any of these stations, you can take local transportation like buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws to reach your specific destination.

By Road

Uttarakhand is accessible via a network of highways. Several state-run and private buses operate services from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby regions to various places in Uttarakhand. If you prefer driving, you can easily hire a taxi or drive your vehicle, as well-maintained roads lead to key destinations such as Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Nainital.

By Bus

There are various state-run buses, including Swift and deluxe options, that connect major cities to different parts of Uttarakhand. Buses from Delhi to popular spots like Rishikesh and Haridwar run frequently, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option.