Himalayas stand guard over a land of enchanting beauty and spiritual serenity. From the sacred banks of the Ganges to the snow-capped peaks of Auli, this guide tells you 10 Places to visit in Uttarakhand to embark on a mesmerizing journey through one of India’s most captivating regions. Uttarakhand offers an experience that will captivate your soul and leave an indelible mark on your heart, here’s a comprehensive guide to 10 Places to visit in Uttarakhand, along with their significance, transportation options, accommodations, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and seasonal considerations.
Table of Contents
Rishikesh
- Significance: Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and a major pilgrimage spot for Hindus. It’s famous for its spiritual ambiance, Ganga Aarti, and adventure sports like river rafting and bungee jumping.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Rishikesh ranges from ₹400 to ₹800, train fare from ₹250 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Options range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Recommended stays include Aloha on the Ganges, Ganga Kinare, and The Glasshouse on the Ganges.
- Local Cuisine: Try traditional North Indian dishes like Rajma Chawal, Chole Bhature, and local Garhwali cuisine like Phaanu and Kafuli.
- Cultural Experiences: Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, visit ancient temples like Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and participate in yoga and meditation sessions.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from September to November and February to June to avoid heavy rainfall and extreme temperatures. The International Yoga Festival in March is a major attraction.
Dehradun
- Significance: Capital of Uttarakhand and a gateway to famous hill stations like Mussoorie and Landour. Known for its pleasant climate, educational institutions, and colonial architecture.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Dehradun ranges from ₹400 to ₹1000, train fare from ₹250 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Choose from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Recommended options include Hotel Madhuban, Ramada Dehradun, and Four Points by Sheraton.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in Garhwali cuisine like Gahat Dal, Aloo Ke Gutke, and Jhangora Ki Kheer. Don’t miss the famous Ruskin Bond’s favorite snacks at Chaar Dukaan in Landour.
- Cultural Experiences: Explore Robber’s Cave, visit Mindrolling Monastery, and stroll down Rajpur Road for shopping and dining.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from March to June and September to November for pleasant weather. Mussoorie Winterline Carnival in December is a must-attend event.
Mussoorie
- Significance: Popular hill station known as the “Queen of Hills,” offering stunning views of the Himalayas and lush greenery. Famous for its colonial charm, Mall Road, and scenic viewpoints like Gun Hill and Lal Tibba.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Dehradun to Mussoorie is around ₹200 to ₹300, while taxis are also available. Train fare to Dehradun from Delhi ranges from ₹250 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Options include budget hotels, luxury resorts, and colonial-era properties. Recommended stays include JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, The Claridges Nabha Residence, and Rokeby Manor.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy Tibetan delicacies like Momos and Thukpa, along with traditional North Indian dishes. Try local Garhwali snacks like Singodi and Bal Mithai.
- Cultural Experiences: Take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, visit Kempty Falls, explore Landour and its colonial heritage, and shop for souvenirs at Mall Road.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from March to June and September to November for pleasant weather. The Mussoorie Summer Festival in May-June showcases local culture and traditions.
Nainital
- Significance: Famous hill station nestled around the emerald Naini Lake, surrounded by mountains. Known for its picturesque beauty, boating, and vibrant markets.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Nainital ranges from ₹500 to ₹1000, while taxis are also available. Train fare to Kathgodam (nearest railway station) from Delhi ranges from ₹300 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹3000 to ₹6000.
- Accommodations: Options range from lakeside resorts to budget guesthouses. Recommended stays include The Naini Retreat, The Manu Maharani, and Shervani Hilltop.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in Kumaoni cuisine like Ras, Bhatt Ki Churkani, and Aloo Ke Gutke. Don’t miss the famous Nainital Momos and local sweets like Bal Mithai and Arsa.
- Cultural Experiences: Boating on Naini Lake, visit Naina Devi Temple, take a ropeway ride to Snow View Point, and shop for handicrafts at Mall Road.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from March to June and September to November for pleasant weather. The Nainital Winter Carnival in December-January offers cultural performances and adventure activities.
Haridwar
- Significance: One of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism, situated on the banks of the Ganges. Known for its religious significance, Ganga Aarti, and Kumbh Mela.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Haridwar ranges from ₹300 to ₹700, while trains are also available. Train fare from Delhi to Haridwar ranges from ₹100 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Options include ashrams, budget hotels, and luxury resorts. Recommended stays include Hotel Ganga Lahari, Haveli Hari Ganga, and Radisson Blu.
- Local Cuisine: Savor traditional North Indian dishes like Chole Bhature, Aloo Puri, and local street food like Jalebi and Aloo Tikki. Also, try the famous Haridwar ke Pede and Kachoris.
- Cultural Experiences: Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, take a dip in the holy Ganges, visit Mansa Devi Temple, and explore local markets.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from October to March for pleasant weather. The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world.
Auli
- Significance: Picturesque hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and skiing opportunities. Offers stunning landscapes, meadows, and tranquil surroundings.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Dehradun to Auli is around ₹500 to ₹800, while taxis are also available. Train fare to Dehradun from Delhi ranges from ₹250 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Options include ski resorts, guesthouses, and luxury hotels. Recommended stays include The Royal Village Auli, Clifftop Club Resort, and Auli Resort by Leisure Hotels.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy Garhwali cuisine like Mandua Ki Roti, Chainsoo, and Kafuli, along with Tibetan dishes. Don’t miss the famous Garhwali snacks like Roat and Gulgula.
- Cultural Experiences: Skiing and snowboarding in winters, trekking to Gorson Bugyal and Kwani Bugyal, and enjoying the breathtaking views of Nanda Devi Peak.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from December to February for skiing and snow activities. Summers (April to June) offer pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing.
Jim Corbett National Park
- Significance: Oldest national park in India, known for its rich biodiversity and tiger conservation efforts. Offers thrilling wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature walks.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Ramnagar (nearest town) ranges from ₹300 to ₹700, while taxis are also available. Train fare to Ramnagar from Delhi ranges from ₹300 to ₹1500, and plane tickets to Pantnagar Airport from ₹3000 to ₹6000.
- Accommodations: Options include forest lodges, luxury resorts, and eco-friendly camps. Recommended stays include The Gateway Resort Corbett National Park, Aahana Resort, and Namah Resort.
- Local Cuisine: Relish North Indian cuisine like Dal Makhani, Paneer Tikka, and local Kumaoni dishes. Also, try the delicious jungle-themed meals served at resorts and lodges.
- Cultural Experiences: Jeep safaris, elephant safaris, birdwatching, visit Corbett Museum, and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from November to June for wildlife sightings. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall and park closures.
Valley of Flowers National Park
- Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and stunning alpine meadows. Offers breathtaking landscapes, rare Himalayan flowers, and trekking opportunities.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Haridwar to Govindghat (nearest town) ranges from ₹400 to ₹800, while taxis are available. Train fare to Haridwar from Delhi ranges from ₹100 to ₹1500, and plane tickets to Dehradun from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Basic guesthouses and lodges are available in Govindghat and Ghangaria. Recommended stays include GMVN Tourist Rest House and Hotel Nanda Devi.
- Local Cuisine: Limited dining options available; mostly simple North Indian meals are served. Carry packed meals or snacks for the trek.
- Cultural Experiences: Trekking to Valley of Flowers, visit Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, and explore nearby attractions like Badrinath Temple and Mana Village.
- Seasonal Considerations: Valley of Flowers is open from June to October. The best time to visit is from July to September when the flowers are in full bloom.
Chopta
- Significance: Scenic hill station known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and lush green meadows. Popular for trekking and camping.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Haridwar to Chopta via Ukhimath ranges from ₹500 to ₹1000, while taxis are available. Train fare to Haridwar from Delhi ranges from ₹100 to ₹1500, and plane tickets to Dehradun from ₹2000 to ₹5000.
- Accommodations: Limited options include guesthouses and campsites. Recommended stays include Magpie Camps, Himalayan Eco Lodge, and Tungnath Nature Camp.
- Local Cuisine: Basic North Indian meals are available; some guesthouses offer homemade Garhwali dishes. Carry packed meals or snacks for trekking and camping.
- Cultural Experiences: Trekking to Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, and Deoria Tal Lake. Enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and stargazing in the serene surroundings.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from March to June and September to November for pleasant weather. Avoid monsoon season (July to September) due to landslides and heavy rainfall.
Binsar
- Significance: Picturesque hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and rich biodiversity. Offers tranquil surroundings, wildlife sanctuary, and trekking trails.
- Transportation: Bus fare from Delhi to Almora (nearest town) ranges from ₹500 to ₹1000, while taxis are available. Train fare to Kathgodam (nearest railway station) from Delhi ranges from ₹300 to ₹1500, and plane tickets from ₹3000 to ₹6000.
- Accommodations: Options include resorts, guesthouses, and forest lodges. Recommended stays include Club Mahindra Binsar Valley, Grand Oak Manor, and Mary Budden Estate.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in Kumaoni delicacies like Bhatt Ki Churkani, Aloo Ke Gutke, and Bal Mithai. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste locally grown fruits and preserves.
- Cultural Experiences: Explore Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species. Visit ancient temples like Jageshwar Temple complex and interact with locals to learn about their traditions.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited from March to June and September to November for pleasant weather. Winter months offer opportunities for snow activities and birdwatching, while monsoon season should be avoided due to landslides.
These 10 Places to visit in Uttarakhand , From the spiritual ambiance of Rishikesh to the scenic beauty of Binsar, Uttarakhand is a land of myriad experiences waiting to be explored. Here are the 10 Places to visit in Uttarakhand you can considered. Whether you’re seeking adventure, solace, or simply a retreat amidst nature’s embrace, Uttarakhand promises to leave you spellbound with its timeless charm. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the magic of these 10 Places to visit in Uttarakhand – the Himalayan paradise awaits!
