14 Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand during your holiday

Uttarakhand ‘Dev Bhoomi’ snuggled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a bounty of interesting holiday destinations in India. The places to visit in Uttarakhand range from hill stations, honeymoon spots, pilgrimage sites, breathtaking beauty, adventurous experiences, and serene ashrams. A holiday trip to the mountain state is a perfect mélange of relaxation, spiritualism, and adventure.

You can find people of all ages engaged in something or the other here. Whatever allures you to this place, be it the faith in God, the natural mysteries, or an adventurous thrill, you can’t miss spending your vacations at these top destinations of Uttarakhand.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand

• Rishikesh – the adventure and Yoga capital
• Haridwar – Blessed by Ganga
• Kedarnath – the lord of the field
• Badrinath – the land of meditation and penance
• Dehradun – the capital city of the Uttarakhand
• Nainital – gets its identity from mesmerizing Naini Lake
• Almora – commercial headquarters of Kumaon
• Auli – best skiing destination
• Lansdowne – known for its historical and architectural legacy
• Mussoorie – a trip to Uttarakhand is never complete without visiting here
• Jim Corbett National Park – the natural habitat of Royal Bengal Tigers
• Binsar – the perfect fusion of mythology and nature
• Ranikhet – Behold the breathtaking views of the Himalayas
• Munsiyari – a paradise for bike riders

Rishikesh – the adventure and Yoga capital

Rishikesh, at the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of River Ganga, is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Go for exhilarating river rafting in Rishikesh, stay at beach camps, practice Yoga Asanas at ashrams with a perfect backdrop of the mighty Himalayas, or explore the mountains. This ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ holds International Yoga Festival and will never cease to amuse you with surprises at every turn.

What not to miss?

• Ram and Laxman Jhula – Experience the thrill of swaying over the swiftly flowing Ganga.
• The Beatles Ashram – Witness the best of the graffiti artwork.
• Swarg Ashram – Meditation ground of famous Rishis.
• Rajaji National Park – An expedition is incomplete without a jungle safari at this park.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Pay homage to Lord Shiva at this famous sacred place.
• Triveni Ghat for Ganga Aarti
• Water sports adventures
• Trekking up in the hills

[ Plan your holiday in Rishikesh with these customized tour packages ]

Also Read: 10 Best Camping Sites In India Where You Can Connect With Nature

Haridwar – Blessed by Ganga

Wash away all your sins by taking a holy dip in the sacred Ganges River, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest cities for Hindus. Although the city remains vivacious throughout the year, the footfall is maximum during the Kumbh Mela and the month of Saavan. Pilgrims from far and wide visit the Temples in Haridwar.

Har ki Pauri, the river, is also one of the best places to visit in the town. It is the site of the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in Haridwar. Every evening, there is a worship ritual for the River Goddess. A million tiny flickering lamps are floated in the river, with the sounds of bells, devotees, and priests singing praises with full devotion.

What not to miss?

• Ganga Aarti
• Delicious food at the famous Chotiwala
• Ropeway ride to Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi
• Boat Ride
• Visit various temples with unique features of their own

[ Plan your holiday in  Haridwar with  our well-customized tour packages ]

Kedarnath – the lord of the field

Are you planning on taking the Kedarnath Yatra? If yes, ensure that you are equipped with the right knowledge about your destination, which will take you through one of the most divine and holy pilgrimages to this blessed temple.

Kedarnath is the highest and utmost among all Jyotirlingas. Kedarnath is a holy Hindu town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand in India. It has gained importance because of Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath has been a pilgrimage center since the olden times. It is one of the Char Dhams situated in the Himalayas. Kedarnath is located at an astounding height of 3584 meters above sea level near the head of the Mandakini River. On the way to Kedarnath, you will spot several striking sights, including the Vasuki Tal Mountain Lake and Gauri Kund. The Kedarnath Temple lies amongst the magnificent snow-capped Garhwal Himalayan ranges and is thronged by thousands of tourists yearly.

Explore customized Kedarnath tour packages

What not to miss?

•  Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi
• Visit Sunset Point at the Chopta Valley
• Gaurikund- the lake of compassion
• Pray at Anusuya Devi Temple
• Trek to Vasuki Taal
• View the Himalayan Ranges
• Pay a visit to the Triyuginarayan Temple
• Enjoy Camping

Badrinath – the land of meditation and penance

An old Indian proverb goes, there are many sacred spots of pilgrimage on the earth, but there has been none equal to Badrinath. Indians, known for their religious fervor, lay special significance to this holy town. Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage Yatra and the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. According to the Hindu fable, God Vishnu sat in meditation at this place. Positioned at the height of 10,279 feet, the temple is encircled by lofty snow-clad Himalayas with the Alaknanda River flowing by. The spiritual significance and purity of Badrinath Temple appeal to scores of devotees. Explore Packages

What not to miss?

• Enjoy the amazing scenic beauty
• Explore the beauty of Vasundhara Falls
• Skiing in Auli
• Sightseeing in Badrinath
• Trekking in Badrinath
• Glare at the Neelkanth- a major peak of the Garhwal region
• Pay homage at the Charanpaduka
• Bheem Pul – a natural stone bridge on River Saraswati
• Visit Valley of Flowers National Park – a paradise for nature
• loversSatopanth Lake – an enchanting water body

Dehradun – the capital city of the Uttarakhand

Dehradun grabs much of the attention due to its picturesque location. The capital has many beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand. Snuggled in the Doon Valley, between the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, it’s a city of unmatched picturesque beauty. It’s the gateway to the scenic hills of Uttarakhand. The town has several monuments from the colonial days of the British Raj. It has many options to explore and serves as a picnic spot for many. It is well connected with other destinations and thus is a halting point for a short yet sweet getaway. Explore holiday packages for  Dehradun

What not to miss?

• Visit 6-sided Ghanta Ghar
• Shopping at the Paltan Bazaar
• Bow down at Nanaksar Gurdwara
• Get the feel of Buddhism at Mindrolling Monastery
• Take a dip at Sahastradhara to eliminate any skin disease
• Spend time with family at Lacchiwalla
• Paragliding
• River rafting
• Angling

 Nainital – gets its identity from mesmerizing Naini Lake

The City of Lakes, Nainital in Uttarakhand, is one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand. The city gets its name from Naini Lake, an awe-inspiring lake at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas that presents an exotic view. Nainital is a natural majesty. Snow-covered mountains in the backdrop, scenic beauty, lovely lakes, and lush flora grab your attention instantly. Preferred by honeymooners and families alike, this serene hill station offers the best snowfall experience. It’s one of the best hill stations in India, ideal for honeymoon couples, families, and nature lovers.

What not to miss?

• Romantic boat rides
• Visit to Naina Devi Temple
• Ride in the cable car
• Yachting
• Savor Pahari cuisine or authentic Tibetan food
• Angling
• Enjoy snowfall at Snow View
• Visit China Peak
• Go to Tippin Top
• Shopping at the local markets

[ Plan your holiday in Nainital with our best-customized tour packages ]

Almora – commercial headquarters of Kumaon

A magnificently beautiful offbeat place in Uttarakhand is Almora. Offering a soothing respite from the scorching heat, it is amongst the best summer destinations in India. Boasting the architecture of the colonial era, this commercial center is worth exploring. Nestled in the shape of a horse saddle, this hillock is dotted with Fir and Pine Trees.

What not to miss?

• Pay homage at the Kasar Devi and Nanda Devi Temple
• Shopping at 200-year-old Lala Bazaar
• Buy Angora clothes
• Witness the splendid views of sunrise and sunset at Bright End Corner
• Visit Deer Park

Auli – best skiing destination

Auli can be titled the ‘skiing capital of India’. Beguiling snowfall lovers and adventure enthusiasts equally, it is the best place to learn skiing. This white wonderland is an ideal destination for a romantic honeymoon that lasts forever. And if you are planning a trip to Auli, don’t miss one of these honeymoon places in Uttarakhand for couples. It can also be visited for the never-ending fun and frolic with the family. Bounded by tall oak and coniferous forests, this Bugyal draws a scenic picture of the nearby mountain ranges.

What not to miss?

• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Mountaineering
• Ride Asia’s longest cable car that starts from Joshimath to Auli and vice-versa
• Visit Trishul Peak
• Unravel the secrets of Vansh Narayan Kalpeshwar
• Visit the world’s highest manmade lake

[ Enjoy Skiing in Auli with our best customized holiday packages ]

Lansdowne – known for its historical and architectural legacy

Ideal for spending summer vacations, Lansdowne was founded by the Viceroy of India and also named after him. Bestrewed with pine forests, it is a tranquil and pollution-free destination. Being the Cantonment Area of Garhwal Rifles, this hill station is very clean and well-maintained. Pristine Himalayan beauty, snow-cladded peaks, and fresh air are some of the compelling factors to visit this place.

What not to miss?

• Bhulla Lake – enjoy boating at this untouched and serene Lake
• Set out for an exciting Jungle Safari
• Bhim Pakora – Get astonished to see the perfect balance of two huge stones placed on each other
• Darwan Singh Regimental Museum – Visiting this Museum is a matter of pride
• Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Siddha Peeth of Lord Shiva

Mussoorie – a trip to Uttarakhand is never complete without visiting here

Mussoorie is the hotspot and one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. This ‘Queen of Hills’ is the ultimate choice for honeymooners. The exotic views of the Shiwalik range and Doon Valley are a visual treat to the eyes. A perfect confluence of natural splendour, stunning waterfalls, and impressive colonial architecture, this hill station will never fail to amuse you.

What not to miss?

• Lal Tibba – Get panoramic views of mountain trails
• Lake Mist – One of the many examples of nature’s blisses
• Kempty Falls ­– Dare to feel the chilly water from the snow-covered mountains fall on your head.
• Cloud’s End – The end point of Mussoorie
• Gun Hill – Delight in a cable car ropeway ride to this place
• Paragliding
• Nag Tibba Trek – Famous for trekking
• Soham Heritage & Art Center – Get a glimpse of Himalayan culture
• K Dev Bhoomi Wax Museum – Take a pic with the political leaders and celebs from all around the world

[ Plan your holiday in Mussoorie with our best-customized tour packages ]

Also Read: 10 Most Popular Treks In India

Jim Corbett National Park – the natural habitat of Royal Bengal Tigers

Noted for its Bengal Tigers, Jim Corbett National Park has rich flora and fauna. Spot the leopards, wild elephants, and tigers wandering in the Dhikala Zone. Bountiful of nature and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, this wildlife sanctuary is bliss for nature buffs and wildlife enthusiasts. Exquisitely engrossed by reverie belts, emerald hills, grasslands, and waterholes, Corbett makes an ultimate kingdom of animals.

What not to miss?

• Garjiya Devi Temple – Worship the Garjiya Devi at this Shakti Peeth
• Jim Corbett National Museum
• Corbett Falls – a small yet scenic waterfall
• Elephant Safari
• Jeep Safari
• Canter Safari

[ Enjoy jeep safari in Corbett National Park with these customized packages ]

Also Read: Where to go for Jungle Safari in India

 Binsar – the perfect fusion of mythology and nature

The spectacular view of the Nanda Kot, Nanda Devi, Chaukhambha, and Kedarnath will make you fall in love with this Binsar. It is a superb and serene getaway from the honking buzz of the city. Offering the best homestays, it is the ultimate place to get complete insights about the ‘Dev Bhoomi’. Zero Point steals the limelight for providing enthralling views of the Himalayan peaks.

What not to miss?

• Sightseeing – Go for a nature walk and experience the one-of-a-kind sightseeing
• Photography – ‘Shoot’ anything and everything you like
• Lazing around – Holidays are all about relaxing
• Trekking – get engaged in trekking
• Safaris to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – This jungle ride will give you some of the best views of your life

 Ranikhet – Behold the breathtaking views of the Himalayas

You are welcome in the snowy world of Ranikhet. Watch the backpackers wandering around the town, families having fun in the snow, and newly wedded couples enjoying a romantic getaway. Being the Kumaon Regiment Centre, it has an unspoiled natural beauty. Lined with trekking trails, ancient temples, and mountain peaks, this hill station can also be visited in summer.

What not to miss?

• Indulge in long walks visiting local tourist attractions
• Partake in some popular tourism activities like adventure sports
• Visit Jhula Devi Temples, which consists of numerous bells
• Trekking
• Mountain biking
• Rock climbing
• White water rafting
• Rappelling

[ Explore the tourist attractions in Ranikhet with these packages ]

 Munsiyari – a paradise for bike riders

Munsiyari is the place to be for seclusion seekers and bikers. Being one of the offbeat destinations of India, this hill town offers supreme peace. Being the very own Kashmir of Uttarakhand, it pleases its tourists with a revitalizing environment, numerous tremendous attractions, and a silent whisper of wind. Fringed with Pine, Rhododendron, and Deodar forests, this calm destination is apt for couples who don’t want any disturbance in their privacy.

What not to miss?

• Trekking
• Beautiful sunset from the viewpoint at Panchchuli Peak.
• A hot water natural spring in Madkot
• Bird watching
• Skiing at Khalia Top
• Kalamuni Temple – A Kali temple dedicated to the goddess Naga God
• Tribal Heritage Museum – a perfect showcase of the culture, history, lifestyle, and traditions of the Bhotia people

Regardless of your interests or idea of amusement, these places to visit in Uttarakhand offer the most otherworldly experiences in India.

[ Explore Well Customized Uttarakhand Tour Packages ]

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