Uttarakhand, a state in northern India crossed by Himalayas , is known for its Hindu pilgrimage sites. The state is popularly known as the “Devbhumi” known as “Land of Gods”. It is divided into two regions—Garhwal in the north, and Kumaon in the south. Each of these offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, wildlife and tourism.
Rishikesh, a major centre for yoga study, was made famous by the Beatles’ 1968 visit. The city hosts the evening Ganga Aarti, a spiritual gathering on the sacred Ganges River. The state’s forested Jim Corbett National Park shelters Bengal tigers and other native wildlife.
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For those who seek adventure tourism, Uttarakhand offers some incredible trekking and mountain climbing opportunities. Here are six places to visit in Uttarakhand if by any chance you are in mood of taking your mind off and just want to enjoy the nature.
- Haridwar
It is situated on the right bank of the holy Ganga and is regarded among the seven sacred cities of India. Haridwar is also, the gateway to the four major pilgrimages – the Char Dham – Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. It’s particularly popular with Hindu pilgrims who come to take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga River and wash away their sins.
- Rishikesh
Rishikesh, not located far from Haridwar, is also known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” because of the large number of ashrams teaching meditation and yoga. For the adventurous, Rishikesh is the place for starting their trekking expeditions and excursions towards the Himalayan peaks.
- Nainital
Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in India, located in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas. It is surrounded by seven hills and snow-capped peaks. Nainital is an all-year destination but the weather is best between March and June.
- Dehradun
Dehradun also spelled Dera Doon, is the capital of Uttarakhand and a lively city surrounded by charming views of the mountains of Mussoorie. It is primarily known for the number of elite boarding schools it has like Doon School and the Indian Military Academy. March to June is the best time to visit and to beat the summer heat as the weather is pleasant.
- Mussoorie
Mussoorie, known as the Queen of the Hills, and famous for its scenic beauty, is located 34 km from Dehradun. Mussoorie gets its name from the Mussoorie plant that grows in abundance here. It is famous for its scenic beauty and superb view of the Himalayas. If you want to see snowfall, you can visit during the winter months.
- Jim Corbett National Park
One of India’s most popular national parks, Jim Corbett National Parks is named after hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. Located at the Himalayas foothills, near the popular hill station of Nainital, is famous for being home to a large number of tigers. The park is explored by jeep safaris. It offers the best chance of animal sightings. And if you are lucky, you might spot a tiger.
There are many other places to visit such as Almora, Auli, Chopta, Munsiyari, Kausani etc.
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