Nature's Paradise: Discovering the Best Things To Do in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, a state known for its scenic beauty and pilgrimage sites, offers many activities for tourists looking for adventure, spirituality, or relaxation. One can indulge in trekking, camping, whitewater rafting, paragliding, and wildlife safaris in the beautiful mountains and forests of Uttarakhand. The state is also home to several ancient temples and religious sites like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kedarnath, which attract devotees from all over the country. The serene hill stations of Nainital, Mussoorie, and Ranikhet provide a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind amidst nature. Uttarakhand truly offers something for everyone, making it a popular tourist destination year-round.
Here are Some Top Things To Do In Uttarakhand
If you are a first-time visitor to this region of the country, you must not miss out on these beautiful things to do in Uttarakhand to experience the country’s beauty at its finest. Take a look at this list of Best things to do in Uttarakhand and choose the best things to do for your next Uttarakhand Trip
1. Zip-lining
One of the most popular activities in Uttarakhand is ziplining. In Rishikesh, partake in this activity across the holy Ganges River. You’ll be able to see the breathtaking views on this unforgettable experience. Enjoy the lovely moment and let the refreshing breeze caress you.
Best time to visit: All year round (except during the monsoon)
2. Rafting
The most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand is white water rafting, which is made possible by the region’s majestic mountains and swiftly flowing rivers. One of the things to do in Uttarakhand is white water rafting, which is a group of people floating down a river on rafts. The greatest places to enjoy this pastime are in the foothills and on whitewater; Uttarakhand has many such locations.
best period for rafting: Late September through mid-October to mid-November is the ideal time for river rafting, while early March through the first week of May is the finest time to visit Rishikesh.
3. Wildlife Safari
Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries, designed to conserve the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. This sanctuary is the largest attraction in Uttrakhand, with over 500 species of birds, 50 types of trees and animals, and 25 reptile species. It allows visitors to experience the forest on an exciting jungle safari. On this safari, you’ll see gorgeous jungle wildlife and see North India’s wild side.
Best time to visit: The Jim Corbett National Park is best visited between October and February when the animals come out of the shelter and can be seen on the trail.
4. Trekking
Uttarakhand’s steep landscape offers numerous options for day hiking, exploring the difficult terrain, and admiring the stunning grandeur of the Himalayan range. Soak up the natural beauty around you, travel with your buddies, and discover every nook and crevice of the gorgeous mountains. It is undeniably one of the most thrilling things to do in Uttarakhand.
The best time of year to visit are April through June, and October and November.
5. Bungee Jumping
A journey to Uttarakhand is incomplete without stopping in Rishikesh to undertake the adrenaline-pumping Bungee jumping adventure. Many adventurers enjoy participating in this adventure sport, which is erected at Mohanchatti over an iron cliff and overlooks a rocky river and stunning scenery. The 83m high jump requires a strong heart and a daring soul. This is one of the few bungee leaps in India developed by David Allardice from New Zealand.
Best time to visit: March to June, October, and November.
6. Yoga
Rishikesh is famous as the birthplace of yoga; this activity is most commonly practised in the hills and valleys of Uttarakhand, and the quiet it delivers is both mind-calming and therapeutic. It is one of the most important things to do in Uttarakhand. Discover the ancient gems and science underlying the secrets to healthy living. Yoga is a vital source of spirituality for many devotees and seekers, and Uttarakhand is the ideal location to practice the skill in isolation and serenity. Parmath Niketan is a well-known yoga centre in Rishikesh, located on the banks of the Ganges.
The best time to visit is during the International Yoga Festival in March.
7. Cable car ride
The hills are ideal for cable car trips, as well as for adventurers who appreciate the adrenaline rush and a faint chill down their spine as they zoom through the cable while admiring the magnificent vista. The rope lines are connected to the mountains’ high points, allowing you to go from one vantage point to another in a matter of minutes.
Popular locations for cable car rides:
Auli and Nainital offer Asia’s longest cable car, covering a distance of 4 kilometres.
8. Evening Aarti in Haridwar
The nightly aarti on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar is the most spiritual experience in India. People from all around the world gather to observe this auspicious activity, which takes place at dusk, as the sun sets. The aarti ritual is Haridwar’s most popular attraction in Uttarakhand; the larger-than-life atmosphere of this auspicious rite will fill you with celestial energies and make you feel connected to the divine. The singing of hymns, the floating lamps on the river, and the enticing aroma of incense sticks will all be a visual delight, making it one of the most photographable moments of your life.
Location: Harkipodi, near Krishna Dham, Kharkhari, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401.
9. Boat ride in Naini Lake
This classic boat trip on Naini Lake is one of the must-do activities in Uttarakhand. This boat trip in Nainital, Uttarakhand’s gorgeous hill station, will enchant you with the calming air in your face, the mesmerizing hills surrounding you, and the clear blue skies, making it the ideal setting for a fanciful boat ride with your loved ones.
Location: Nainital Lake, Uttarakhand.
10. Paragliding
This adventure activity is a favourite among adventure seekers since it allows you to float upwards and touch the soaring sky. Savour the exhilaration of soaring like a raptor while taking in expansive vistas of Uttarakhand’s magnificent terrain. One of the most well-known and popular adventure activities in Uttarakhand is paragliding, which is popular among tourists and is made possible by the beautiful mountains.
best time to go: March through June and mid-September through October are the greatest times to attempt paragliding.
11. Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is an exciting pastime, especially in the state of Uttarakhand, which has numerous opportunities to participate in this adventurous sport and enjoy it. It is one of the most thrilling and enjoyable methods to explore the mountains and travel their entire length and breadth. It’s one of the best methods to discover hidden gems and spend quality time with friends.
Best time to visit: The cycle trails in this area are best explored between October and December.
12. Camping
Camping is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand because nature provides it abundantly. Forget about your problems and unwind in the broad green spaces, valleys, and open blue skies with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. At night, enjoy a bonfire, wonderful food, and fantastic company. On a clear night, you might be able to see stars.
The best time to go: the summer months from April to September.
13. Skiing
What are the other best things to do in Uttarakhand? Skiing in Auli is one of the most exhilarating winter activities. The snow-covered hill station is India’s most popular skiing resort. The ideal setting and the thrill of trying the adventurous sport attract people from all around India. To add to the fun, a skiing festival is held every year in February/March.
The best time to go is from November to February.
14. Rappelling
Another popular things to do in Uttarakhand is rappelling. It is a relatively recent addition to the spectrum of adventure sports available in Uttarakhand. It is a thrilling and entertaining activity in which you are strapped to a rope and climb down a rocky rock. The optimum months to participate in this activity are March-October.
The best time to go is between March and October.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the stunning natural beauty of its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to embarking on adventurous treks in the majestic Himalayas, there is something for everyone. The state is also home to numerous spiritual and religious sites, such as the holy town of Rishikesh and the famous Char Dham Yatra. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the serene hill stations of Nainital and Mussoorie provide a perfect escape. Uttarakhand truly has it all, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers alike. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Uttarakhand also offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The state is known for its thrilling adventure sports, including river rafting, paragliding, and skiing. With its diverse terrain and abundant rivers and lakes, Uttarakhand provides ample opportunities for adrenaline-pumping experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, Uttarakhand promises a memorable and fulfilling experience for all who visit.
You can also check our Uttarakhand Tour Package
People also ask about Things to do in Uttarakhand
1. Which part of Uttarakhand is the most beautiful?
This hill station, nestled in the gorgeous Garhwal Himalayas, is one of Uttarakhand’s most picturesque tourist destinations. Since its discovery in the late 1800s, Mussoorie has been a popular resort for leisure travellers and honeymooners.
2. What is the ideal time to visit Uttarakhand?
March to April and September to October are considered the ideal months to visit Uttarakhand. The state boasts beautiful weather throughout the year. Trekking, paragliding, and the Char Dham Yatra are the most popular activities during the summer, which is also Uttarakhand’s peak season.
3. What is popular in Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand is notable for Jim Corbett National Park, which was originally known as Haley’s National Park. Tourists from all around India visit this park to see the Royal Bengal Tigers. Aside from tigers, this national park is home to around 600 kinds of animals and birds.
4. What was the old name of Uttarakhand?
On November 9, 2000, Uttaranchal was formed as India’s 27th state by separating from Uttar Pradesh. The name was changed to Uttarakhand in January 2007.
5. What are the fruits of Uttarakhand?
Kafal is the state fruit of Uttarakhand. It is the most famous fruit in Uttarakhand. It is most commonly grown in steep places with cool climates.
6. Why does Uttarakhand have two capitals?
It is being considered the future permanent capital of Uttarakhand. During the statehood agitation, Gairsain was proposed as the state capital. However, following the state’s creation on November 9, 2000, Dehradun was designated as the state’s provisional capital.
7. What is the nickname for Uttarakhand?
It is often referred to as the “Devbhumi” (lit. ‘Land of the Gods’) because of its religious significance and the abundance of Hindu temples and pilgrimage centres throughout the state. Uttarakhand is well-known for its natural environment in the Himalayas, Bhabar, and Terai areas.
8. What is the flower of Uttarakhand?
The pink Brahma kamal, often known as the “king of Himalayan flowers,” is the state flower of Uttarakhand. The Chamoli region in Uttarakhand is home to breathtaking landmarks such as the Badrinath Temple, the Roop Kund ice sheet, and the Nanda Devi summit, as well as a variety of beautiful Brahma kamal flowers that cover the area.
9. What is the national sweet of Uttarakhand?
Bal Mithai (Kumaoni: Bāl Mithai) is a brown chocolate-like fudge made with roasted khoya and covered with white balls of sugar-coated roasted poppy seeds.
10. Which is Uttarakhand's highest waterfall?
Which is Uttarakhand’s highest waterfall? The highest direct waterfall is Tiger Falls, which is located in Uttarakhand’s Chakrata town. Tiger Falls stands 312 feet tall, making it the country’s highest direct waterfall.