Uttarakhand Travel Guide: Top Destinations for an Unforgettable Experience
Uttarakhand, located in the northern part of India, is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance. One of the best activities in Uttarakhand. The serene and picturesque town offers a peaceful environment for meditation and yoga practices. Another must-visit destination is Nainital, a charming hill station surrounded by majestic mountains and a tranquil lake. It is a popular tourist spot for its pleasant weather and scenic views. For adventure enthusiasts, Auli is the place to be, with its thrilling skiing slopes and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Lastly, Jim Corbett National Park, the oldest national park in India, is a paradise for wildlife lovers, offering the chance to spot tigers, elephants, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat. Uttarakhand truly has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual seekers alike. Apart from these popular destinations, Uttarakhand also offers a multitude of other attractions that are worth exploring. For nature enthusiasts, the Valley of Flowers National Park is a must-visit, with its vibrant meadows filled with a variety of alpine flowers. The majestic Kedarnath and Badrinath temples, two of the holiest sites in Hinduism, are also located in Uttarakhand and attract thousands of pilgrims every year. For those seeking tranquillity, the hill stations of Mussoorie and Ranikhet offer breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Uttarakhand truly captures the essence of natural beauty and spirituality, making it a destination that promises a memorable and enriching experience for all travellers.
Here are Some Best places to visit in Uttarakhand
If you are a first-time visitor to this region of the country, then you must not miss out on these beautiful places in Uttarakhand to experience the beauty of the country at its finest. Take a look at this list of Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand and choose the best places for your next Uttarakhand Trip
1. Nainital
Nainital, India’s lake city, is ranked as one of the top tourist places in Uttarakhand. The magnificent natural magnificence, pleasant weather, lively marketplaces, delectable cuisine, and majestic Himalayan mountains can never fail to lift your spirits. It is a popular religious tourism destination because the Naina Devi Temple, set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan mountains, will mesmerize you. It is one of India’s most prominent and revered Shakti Peethas, devoted to the Goddess Naina, who is symbolized by her two eyes. The eyes of Goddess Sati’s charred body are reported to have fallen here.
Furthermore, Nainital is a beautiful hill station to visit throughout the year. You’ll see the seven hills known as Sapta-Shring. The calm Lake of Naini will entice your senses with attractive sailboats. Nainital has all you need for the perfect getaway in Uttarakhand. There are numerous hotels and resorts for a pleasant stay, the laid-back atmosphere of Mall Road, cafes and restaurants for fun moments, and breathtaking adventurous activities such as mountaineering, boating, water sports, paragliding, trekking, golfing, hot air ballooning, and so on.
2. Kausani
Kausani is a popular honeymoon resort in Uttarakhand, recognized for its rustic charm and magnificence. The icy landscapes of Kausani easily entice travellers who come here for a respite from the hectic pace of metropolitan life. During your nature walks, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli peaks.
Keep in mind that Kausani, one of the top things to do in Uttarakhand, during the summer, has been transformed into an eco-friendly tourism attraction where you can learn about rural life and culture.
Why You Should Go: Kausani is the best for families and couples seeking a tranquil environment in which to unwind and relax.
How to get there: The best method to get to Kausani is by vehicle. It takes 11 hours from New Delhi to reach here. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, 132 kilometres from Kausani. You can take a shared or private taxi from the railway station.
3. Lansdowne
Lansdowne, a picturesque cantonment town set on a hilltop, is one of the few places in India that still retains the old-world charm of the British Era. The hill station provides all of the peace and serenity you’d expect from a retreat. The sunset views from Tip n Top Point are breathtaking. And you will be shocked at how clean the town is.
Keep in mind that, as a cantonment town, everything closes early. But there’s plenty of sightseeing to do.
Why you should go: If you want to spend your holiday lying back, relaxing, and doing nothing, Lansdowne is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand.
The most convenient method to get here is via vehicle. Lansdowne is 270 kilometres from Delhi and needs an overnight trek to get.
4. Jim Corbett National Park
Nainital is famous not only for its amazing vistas but also for its exciting wildlife chances. It is a fantastic habitat for gorgeous wild creatures. Yes, Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital requires no introduction when it comes to fantastic wildlife vacations. It is a prominent wildlife site in Uttarakhand. This oldest national park in India, known for its abundance of tigers, has long captivated wildlife enthusiasts. It is separated into five tourism zones, each having its own unique species and natural beauty. Open grasslands and amazing floral and faunal species will make your nature excursion enjoyable. You will see Royal Bengal Tigers, a variety of deer, bears, Asiatic Elephants, and around 650 species of domestic and migratory birds. It is one of the best tourist destinations in Uttarakhand
5. Joshimath
This is one of the nicest hill villages to be found surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayas coated in snow. This is one of the things to do in Uttarakhand, located at an elevation of 6,000 feet. You can even travel from here to the nearby Valley of Flowers. This location has significant mythical significance as it is related to the Hindu book Atharva Veda.
Why to visit: It is considered a holy hub for Hindu pilgrims and is close to Badrinath, one of the maths founded by Adi Guru Shri Shankaracharya.
6. Dehradun
Blue skies, steep mountains, and lovely valleys with innumerable rooftops characterise Dehradun, the largest city in the Himalayan foothills. Geographically, it is located in the Doon Valley, between the rivers Song and Asan. It is known as the gateway to Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region since people meet here first before travelling to the surrounding areas. Since the nineteenth century, Dehradun has been known as a ‘changing air’ destination for Indians. Its picturesque vistas, agreeable weather, and fresh air were thought to have a beneficial influence on health. As previously stated, Dehradun serves as the gateway to Uttarakhand’s other gorgeous tourist sites. It is nearby and well-connected to Uttarkashi, Mussoorie, Chopta-Tungnath, Harsil, Auli, Dhanaulti, New Tehri, and Chakarta. Travellers also opt to travel to Dehradun for the Chota Char Dham Yatra and hikes like as Kedarkantha, Har ki Dun, and others because it is the nearest large city. Aside from these nearby places, people like visiting various locations in Dehradun itself. Tapkeshwar Temple, Robber’s Cave, Zonal Museum, Tibetan Buddhist Temple, Forest Research Institute, and Rajpur Road Market are among Dehradun’s most popular tourist attractions. Dehradun is a budget-friendly destination that offers a variety of tourist activities. It is always one of the first choices for those looking for a relaxing yet fun-filled vacation.
7. Ranikhet
Ranikhet, which translates as “Land of the Queen,” is a picturesque hill station in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand. One of the best locations in North India for a summer getaway is Ranikhet, a cantonment town nestled between the snow-capped western peaks of the Himalayas. It is situated in the Almora neighbourhood and draws a lot of tourists, rock climbers, and birdwatchers due to the many opportunities it offers, including trekking in the Himalayan foothills, paragliding, and birding. Ranikhet, a well-liked tourist location in Kumaon and Uttarakhand, is famous for housing Asia’s tallest golf course. Ranikhet was named after Queen Padmini, who was enthralled with the beauty of this place. Ranikhet means “The Queen’s Land.” Travelling to this charming hill station has its best rewards when you sit on a verdant meadow in Ranikhet and take in the stunning vistas of Trishul Peak on a clear day. In addition, some well-liked activities in Ranikhet include hiking from Chaubatia Orchards to Holm Farm and fishing in Bhalu Dam, as well as Meghdoot to Jhula Devi Temple.
8. Mukteshwar
Located in Uttarakhand’s Nainital District, Mukteshwar is among the lesser-known tourist spots in North India that offer serene vacation experiences. Known for its many fruit orchards, lush forests, green meadows, and narrow lanes with views of the mountains, Mukteshwar can captivate the heart of anybody with its serenity and natural beauty. For those who value adventure above all else, it’s a less congested location. Adventure seekers come here for hiking, camping, rock climbing, paragliding, and many other available activities. In the Kumaon region, this picturesque hill station is surrounded by about twenty-two snow-capped mountains. It is very close to Nainital City—just 50 kilometres away—so you may include it in your tourism itinerary. Mukteshwar is a hidden treasure in Uttrakhand, perched at 2,171 meters above sea level. The icing on the cake is the year-round beautiful weather, which allows visitors to Mukteshwar to explore the area at any time of the year. But the greatest season to take in its quiet would be in the summer. Chauli ki Jali, Mukteshwar Dham Temple, Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, and Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls are a few of the wonderful places to visit in Uttarakhand, offering an abundance of activities.
9. Almora
Almora is one such location in Uttarakhand and North India, particularly among summer retreats; it was not established by the British. Instead, it’s a hill station where you may experience tranquillity and history. Almora was the capital of the Chand Dynasty, which ruled the Kumaon Region for about a millennium, to mention a few instances. Another is that Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, was imprisoned in Almora during the British colonial era as a punishment. Winter, the post-monsoon season, and summer comprise the best times to visit Almora. Avoiding the monsoon is advised due to factors including severe rains and damaged roads. Situated approximately 60 kilometres away from Nainital City, Almora is encircled by snow-capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls, and verdant woods. This is one of the best time to visit Uttarakhand, for a weekend getaway because of the welcoming locals and the stunning scenery. Furthermore, tourist locations with strong historical, spiritual, and natural components, such as Jageshwar Dham, Kasar Devi Temple, Katarmal Sun Temple, Zero Point, Nanda Devi Temple, Bright End Corner, and Martola, have made Almora a popular destination.
10. Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti, a small town in Uttarakhand, is drawing tourists with its beautiful terrain and quiet atmosphere, surrounded by rich woods of oak, deodar, and rhododendrons. Dhanaulti, located near Mussoorie, is an ideal hiking destination due to its rocky topography and lush green panoramas that soothe both the body and the soul. A visit to this little village will undoubtedly provide the respite you need. At Dhanaulti, you should visit the Goddess Parvati Temple, the Surkanda Devi Temple, or Lord Vishnu’s Dashavatar Temple, which are both holy and exquisite in design. For history aficionados, Dhanaulti also has the Deogarh Fort and its several palaces. Built in the 16th century, the fort is a famous tourist destination in town, with multiple Jain temples on its grounds. The town of Dhanaulti also includes an Eco Park where you may watch the sun set or rise while enjoying a picnic among the park’s magnificent trees. The Dhanaulti Adventure Park caters to the adventurous soul, offering a variety of activities such as skywalking, zip line, rock climbing, paragliding, and more.
11. Kedarnath
Kedarnath will not only enhance a holiday experience with its enticing beauty, but it will also lift your spirit with its spiritual energy. It is undoubtedly one of Uttarakhand’s most popular tourist attractions. Devotees from all over the world flock here to experience the ethereal feelings at Lord Shiva’s sacred temple, known as Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site in India and one of the principal temples of the Chota Char Dham Yatra. The steep Himalayan peaks, located near the sacred Mandakini River at an elevation of 3584 meters, will undoubtedly tickle your camera lens, allowing you to capture spectacular images. Once in a lifetime, devotees must visit Kedarnath to satisfy their spiritual desire. You should not pass up the opportunity to visit this beautiful spot in Uttarakhand.
12. Chopta Valley
Chopta, a picturesque village in Uttarakhand, is undulating with large meadows and abundant flora. The location falls under Kedarnath National Park and is rich in flora and fauna. If you don’t mind waking up to the sounds of birds and breathing in the fresh air, you’ll like spending your vacation at this energizing hill station. It is one of the nicest destinations in Uttarakhand to visit during the summer.
Highly recommended: The trek to Tungnath can be completed with children. If you have an extra day, go all the way to Chandrashila Top.
Why you should go: For the variety of experiences it has to offer. There are endless activities to do here, from photography to bird viewing, trekking, and meditation.
How to get there: Chopta is well connected by motorable roads and even has a bus service from Rishikesh. Major destinations such as Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Uttarkashi also provide shared cab services.
13. Hemkund Sahib
Hemkunt Sahib, a prominent Sikh and Hindu shrine is like heaven on Earth. The gurudwara is positioned in a gorgeous setting, with a clean lake in front and snow-capped mountains in the background. The entire walk seems enchanting, surrounded by deep trees and various waterfalls. The weather here quickly varies from sunny to misty. It is one of the locations to visit in Uttarakhand in July because the place opens its doors throughout this month.
Keep in mind that the area is not connected by motorable roads. You’ll have to walk for days to get here. But the stunning sights are worth the effort.
Why you should go: The entire location oozes peace. As soon as you walk in, you’ll feel a sense of calm and positivity.
How to get there: Govindghat is the last motor head. From this point forward, you will have to walk 13 kilometres to arrive here. Porters and mules are available for hire at the base point.
14. Auli
Auli, known as India’s Mini Switzerland, is a centre of pulchritude and beauty. The area is well-known for its snowy slopes in the winter and is equally enticing in the summer. The hill station is bordered by renowned peaks such as Nanda Devi, Hathi Ghoda, and Kamet, and it offers a variety of hiking and trekking trails. The main attraction is the manmade lake of Auli, which shines sapphire blue in the sunlight. Auli is one of the top places to visit in Uttarakhand in June.
Highly recommended: Badrinath is around an hour away from Auli. Try to make time to visit one of the Hindu dams.
Why You Should Go: The temperature here is lovely and chilly throughout the year. As a result, it is among the best spots to visit in Uttarakhand during the summer.
How to get there: Auli is well accessible by road. You can take a shared taxi from Haridwar or Dehradun to Joshimath. From here, you can take a shared taxi to Auli or Badrinath.
15. Uttarkashi
Uttarkashi, a small town near Yamunotri and Gangotri, is a religiously significant place. The location is on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by extensive forests of fur, pine, and deodar. It also serves as the starting point for numerous high-altitude excursions. It’s where you feel close to the majestic Himalayas. There is a reason why you will see so many sadhus in this area. It is because of the consolation and knowledge that this area provides.
Highly recommended: Make it a point to visit Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams to seek divine blessings. The breathtaking views will capture your heart anyway.
Why you should go: If you need to conduct some soul searching, Uttarkashi is the best place to do it. Go on a trek to Gomukh, the birthplace of the Ganges, which begins in Uttarkashi.
How to get there: This location can only be reached by car. You can take a shared taxi from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
16. Guptakashi
Guptakashi, 47 kilometres from Kedarnath, offers a breathtaking view of the snow-covered peaks of the Chaukhamba highlands and is unquestionably one of the best tourist destinations in Uttarakhand.
The town is an ideal vacation location since it houses two old temples: the Vishwanath Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, and the Ardhnareshwar Temple. The site has enormous religious significance, attracting people from all over. Manikarnik Kund is another renowned tourist spot in the town.
Why to visit: For a fantastic holiday destination that includes temple visits and natural beauty.
17. Munsiyari
Munsiyari, a lovely hill station in Uttarakhand’s backyards, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Treks to the Milam, Ramik, and Namik glaciers begin from here. The snow-covered peaks in the background provide an appealing aesthetic to the location. Rhododendron, pine, and deodar forests can be found along the banks of the Goriganga.
Highly recommended: Visit the Birthi Falls, which are a breathtaking natural wonder.
Why you should go: If you want adventure, you should come here to explore Milam’s virgin glacier excursions. Ramik and Namik.
How to get there: There are excellent road connections. There are no direct busses available. You can take a bus to Almora or Nainital, then book a cab or taxi to Munsiyari.
18. Mussoorie
Mussoorie, also known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, is a must-see destination in Uttarakhand. Resting amidst the Himalayan peaks, it provides quiet and stunning vistas that will steal your heart. If you love tranquillity, here is the place for you.
Remember that the Mussoorie Sanctuary’s first night safari is a unique experience.
Why You Should Go: If you enjoy both adventure and calm, this is the place for you.
How to go There: The best method to go to Mussoorie is by vehicle. The journey from Delhi to Mussoorie takes approximately 6 hours and 37 minutes by car.
19. Binsar
Located within a vast nature refuge lies Binsar. It is one of Uttarakhand’s favorite tourist destinations. Situated at an approximate elevation of 2,400 meters, this site is isolated and has breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Kedarnath, and Chaukhambha. Like many other places, Binsar has a legendary connection since the local deity Golu Devta engaged in combat with the Binsar ruler. The Himalayan region’s best homestays can be found in Binsar.
Why to go: This is the ideal location if you want to get away from the bustle of the city.
The best times to go are summer, October, and November.
20. Chamoli
Chamoli is commonly referred to as the ‘adobe of Gods’. Chamoli is famed for its shrines, temples, and linkages to Hindu mythology and tales. It is also the town that launched the famous Chipko movement. Tourists come here to see the villages and learn about the rich Garhwal customs.
Chamoli is the ultimate vacation destination with something for everyone. It is the perfect combination of pilgrimage, adventure, and natural peace.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year, except during heavy rainfall.
Conclusion
If you are planning to visit Uttarakhand, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand include the hill stations of Nainital, Mussoorie, and Ranikhet. You can also visit the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, which are known for their spiritual significance and offer a range of adventure activities. Other popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand include the Jim Corbett National Park, Valley of Flowers, and the historical town of Almora. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Uttarakhand is a great destination for travellers of all kinds.
You can also check our Uttarakhand Tour Package
People also ask about the Best places to visit in Uttarakhand
1. Which is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand?
Khirsu is an excellent destination for those seeking peace of mind. Surrounded by thick Deodar and green Oak woods, as well as apple orchards, this lovely hamlet in the Garhwal Himalayas is one of the most interesting places to visit in Uttarakhand.
2. Which is the most popular destination in Uttarakhand?
Kedarnath is one of India’s most revered temples and Hindu pilgrimage sites. Kedarnath, located in Uttarakhand as part of the Chhota Char Dham Yatra, is one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas devoted to Lord Shiva.
3. What are the two most famous places in Uttarakhand?
Nainital is one of the nicest destinations to visit in Uttarakhand, as well as a famous romantic and family vacation destination. Located in the valley of the famed Naini Lake, it is flanked by mountains on all sides and offers breathtaking views of nature.
4. Which places in Uttarakhand experience snowfall?
In the Dehradun district, snow covers Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers, Nanda Devi National Park, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri shrines, as well as Chakrata.
5. What is Dehradun famous for?
Dehradun, also known as the ‘Adobe of Drona’, had long been an important centre for Garhwal rulers before being taken by the British. Many national institutes and organizations, including ONGC, Survey of India, Forest Research Institute, and Indian Institute of Petroleum, have their headquarters in the city.
6. When not to go to Dehradun?
Because Dehradun is located in Uttarakhand’s hilly region, the risk of landslides during the monsoon season discourages tourists and visitors from visiting this location, although it is the greatest time to visit Dehradun to see the thriving nature.
7. Is Dehradun a hill station?
Fascinating history and intriguing mythology collide at the crossroads of this picturesque hill station, one of the most popular in the country. Dehradun, located at 240 kilometres from Delhi in the rolling Doon Valley in the foothills of the Himalayas, is flanked by steep mountains and rich Sal woods.
8. Which foods are popular in Dehradun?
Mutton curry is Dehradun’s most popular meal, and it is served at practically every restaurant. Dehradun offers a variety of mutton curries. Mutton curry can be served with ‘chawal’, ‘poha’, ‘tarkari’ (stuffed flatbreads), or ‘pachadi’ (leavened flat breads).
9. Why is Dehradun special?
Dehradun, also known as the ‘Adobe of Drona’, had long been an important centre for Garhwal rulers before being taken by the British. Many national institutes and organizations, including ONGC, Survey of India, Forest Research Institute, and Indian Institute of Petroleum, have their headquarters in the city.
10. Where do the wealthiest people in Dehradun live?
What is the most affluent neighbourhood in Dehradun? Sahastradhara Road, Vasant Vihar, Rajpur Road, and Nehru Colony are some of Dehradun’s upscale areas.