Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand being the abode of gods is rightly named the ‘Dev Bhoomi’ of India. The places to visit in Uttarakhand include many astounding hill stations, pilgrimage sites, and romantic places for couples. Entrust yourself to mother nature and experience the breath-taking beauty of the majestic hills of Uttarakhand.
This State in Northern India, illuminated by the robust Himalayan range is the perfect holiday destination to experience the rich and nurturing culture, mystical spirituality, Yoga, and last but certainly not the least – overwhelming adventure sports.
Whatever beguiles you to the ‘Land of Gods’, be it the exquisiteness of nature, enthralling activities, or faith in the almighty, you will have the experience of your lifetime. Keep on reading to know about all the wonderful places to visit in Uttarakhand.
Nainital
A land cradled in the enveloping sights of seven mountains, Nainital has always been one of the top hill stations in India. There is no escape from the mesmerizing views that nature has to offer here. The immediate draw is the crescent shapes of Naini Lake from which the name Nainital has been derived. The experience of boating in the wonderful weather with enchanting sights all around is something difficult to forget Uttarakhand Tour Packages.
Another lure is the exotic Nainital Zoo, with its many exquisite species. Some other attractions such as the Eco Cave Garden and the Astronomy Institution ARIES identify Nainital with nature studies and exploration. Located at a height of 1,938 meters above sea level, Nainital is also famously referred to as the Lake District of India.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Couple and families, Honeymooners, Office Goers
- Best time to Visit: April to June
- Things to do: Boating at Naini lake, Trekking, Tiffin top, Land ends, Nainital zoo, Himalayan viewpoint, Paragliding, Naina Peak, Ropeway
Mussoorie
Located at a stunning height of 6000 feet, Mussoorie is one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, being called the “Queen of hills”. With snow-covered Himalayan peaks on view, the land is abundant in opulent natural beauty and has an incredible climate too. While the summers are pleasant, the winters are chilling. The beauty of the Mussoorie was such that it mesmerized Captain Young of the British army who in 1820, made this place his residence.
Since the destination lies on the top of the charts of the travelers, the charms are definitely unique and blissful. One can see and touch the trail of clouds passing by. Kempty Falls is unmistakably worth visiting. Mussoorie is a place where everyone can enjoy wonderful holidays. The place is especially popular with Honeymooners.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Romantic Couples, Honeymooners, Family, Friends, Nature and Photography lovers.
- Best time to Visit: March to June and September to November
- Things to do: Kempty Falls, Gun hills, Camel’s back road, Mall Road, Company Garden
Haridwar
One of the most revered and most visited pilgrimage destinations in India, Haridwar is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges and furnish ethereal sights. Haridwar literally means “a gateway to God” and marks the place where River Ganges descends from the mountains into plains. Following the age-old traditions and legacies, a large number of Hindus could be seen offering prayers and oblations to their ancestors and departed loved ones.
A lot of significance has been attributed to Haridwar in Hindu religious scriptures and texts. It is believed to be the same place where the celestial nectar fell from the heavens in the clash between the gods and the demons.
Har-ki Pauri is the most famous spot from where maximum people take a dip in the Ganges. The temples of Chandi Devi, Maya Devi, and Mansa Devi are situated in famous locations. The sight of evening aarti is simply amazing with the view of golden earthen lamps against the rapidly flowing Ganges is breathtaking beyond words.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Friends, Family, Couples, Devotees, Pilgrims
- Best time to Visit: All around the year, except on Monsoons.
- Things to Do: Ganga Aarti
Dehradun
In the capital city of the Uttarakhand State, the charm of this amazing destination has not abated notwithstanding the ever-increasing graph of tourism and rapid commercialization. Located in the Doon Valley, on the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Dehradun lies curled up between India’s two splendid rivers-Ganga and the Yamuna. Full of most picturesque landscapes with incredible weather and ambiance, Dehradun is a cherished location, irresistible to all kinds of travelers.
There is plenty to sightsee and enjoy in Dehradun. Brimming with unique views, adventures and inexhaustible fun is the Robber’s cave. Buddha’s temple is another fantastic and famous structure that visitors can access. It draws thousands of tourist pilgrims and Buddhism lovers from across the world every year. Besides, there is Malsi Deer Park, Tapkeshwar Mandir, and Paonta Sahab Gurdwara which can be visited and admired.
The best time to visit Dehradun is during the spring season while the charms of the autumn season are also great to enjoy and relish.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Family, Friends, Romantic Couples, Nature, and peace lovers.
- Best time to Visit: March to April and October and November
- Things to Do: Robber’s Cave, Mindrolling Monastery, Sahastradhara, Rajai National Park
Rishikesh
This Yoga capital of the world is one of the most sacred destinations in Uttarakhand. The rapid rush of the Ganges, surrounded by enchanting snow and lush green hills is one of the most enchanting sights to witness. In the evening, the spectacular Ganga Arti is truly breathtaking as the experience transports you into a heavenly ecstasy which is simply incredible to realize.
While the presence of saffron-clad monks and sadhus, the innumerable temple bells and sounds of the cymbals and gongs, the hymns and chants render Rishikesh a spiritual connotation, the presence of diverse water sports, especially rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping gives an altogether different meaning to Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is also one of the best places for adventure trekking in Uttarakhand as well. The destination is suitable for both – those coming for relaxation and those coming for adventure, thus it is quite a popular site. The best time to visit Rishikesh is from May to November.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Friends, Family, Couples, Devotees, Pilgrims
- Best time to Visit: All around the year, except on Monsoons.
- Things to do: Triveni Ghat, Swarg Ashram, Camping, Rafting, bungee jumping, Yoga, Ram Jhula
Jim Corbett
One of the most favorite places in Uttarakhand and in India for lovers of wildlife and tigers, in particular, Jim Corbett is home to a bountiful wealth of flora and fauna Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
Spread in the vast expanse of 520 square kilometers, the landscape around the park comprises of riverine belts, grasslands, large lakes, marshy depressions, and surrounding hills. The sights and sounds of Royal Bengal tigers in all their majesty ring in the mind long after one’s visit to this house of natural exoticness.
Plus, you can also stay inside the confines of the National Park itself at one of the forest rest houses which are present at all zones in Jim Corbett, Dhikala being the prime one.
Jim Corbett also happens to be one of those National Parks in India which are best visited during winter for an enthralling wildlife vacation in India due to its diverse topography.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Wildlife and Nature enthusiasts, Photography enthusiasts, adventure travelers, family, and friends.
- Best time to Visit: December to February.
- Things to do: Elephant rides, Jungle safari, photography, sightseeing
Auli
One of the best skiing destinations in India, any tour to Uttarakhand is incomplete without visiting Auli. Perched at a height of 2,519 to 3,050 meters above sea level, Auli is often called as “Bugyal” which literally translates as a meadow. During winters, the place literally gets covered in thick sheets of snow providing enough scope for world-class winter sports.
Auli played host to the First SAF winter games in 2011 and since then quickly acquired prominence in the world charts as a destination of international significance. Some of the other important attractions in this small hill town are Auli Artificial Lake, Gorson Bugyal and Kauri Pass, etc., all famous for their wonderful scenic views Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
With wonderful weather pervading all over the town throughout the 12 months, Auli can be easily categorized as a year-round destination. Auli also happens to be one of the best honeymoon places to visit in India in winter.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Friends, Romantic Couples, Mountain and Nature Lovers, and Ski Enthusiasts.
- Best time to Visit: All year-round destination. November to February for snow.
- Things to Do: Skiing, enjoying the natural beauty and artificial lake, Mountains
Lansdowne
One of the still lesser-known tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is adorned with guileless beauty and a quiet and serene atmosphere.
Although perched at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level, Lansdowne is well linked to other nearby towns by good motorable roads.
Surrounded by a rich thicket of oak and pine trees, the town got its name from Lord Lansdowne, who was the Viceroy of India during the time Lansdowne was founded Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
Due to its relatively remote location, the town still harbors many unexplored charms and un-spoilt locations. The environment is relatively much cleaner and due to the presence of some military institutions, is better planned and maintained. This is a great place to spend some peaceful holidays in Uttarakhand.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Couples, Honeymooners, Families, and Friends.
- Best time to Visit: April to June
- Things to do: Enjoy the natural beauty, Museums, Tip-in-top point, Bhulla Tal lake
Kausani
One of the most distinguished tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, for its vast panoramic views and lush nature, Kausani is a wonderful picnic spot for an exotic holiday. Everything associated with Kausani seems enchanted.
The mesmerizing snow-clad hills, bubbling creeks, silent valleys, and dense forests with monumental coniferous trees are sights to behold. The heavenly sights of peaks such as Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and Trishul are also clearly visible.
Kausani is filled with delightful refreshing weather and a captivating climate. The hill station is located at an impressive altitude of 1890 meters above sea level. Its fascinating ambiance also charmed Mahatma Gandhi, who stayed at the Anashakti Ashram while penning down his book” Anasakti Yoga” Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
Kausani, one of the popular honeymoon places to visit in Uttarakhand has an all-year-round allure although, the best time to visit the place is often perceived to be between April and June and then from September to November. Nevertheless, with charms like it, the place is a great relaxing spot for taking your family and friends along.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Nature lovers, Romantic Couples, Photography Enthusiasts, Friends
- Best time to Visit: March to May
- Things to do: Anasakti Ashram, Baijnath Temple, Tea Estate
Valley of Flowers
There are few places in India that exude such a breathtaking charm as the Valley of Flowers. Covering a wide expanse of 87.50 square kilometers, this incredible destination is perched at a height of 3,658 meters above sea level. Valley of Flowers was accidentally discovered by the British mountaineer duo- Frank. S. Smythe and RL. Holdsworth. The valley now forms the part of the second core zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
The views of the Valley of flowers appear like straight out of some heaven. Even before that there are exotic waterfalls, wonderful glaciers, and lush forests en route to the valley Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
The Valley is filled with almost a bewildering variety of flowers such as Saxifrags, lilies, daisies, zinnia, geranium, calendula, etc.
Due to its incomparable beauty and sheer grace, the region has been declared a UNESCO world heritage. One of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand, the site is must-visit destination in the state.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Family, Friends, Romantic Couples
- Best time to Visit: July to August
- Things to do: Trekking, photography
Chamoli
Also referred to as the “Abode of Gods”, Chamoli is a wonderful tourist destination, dispersed with shrines, temples, and many other alluring draws and attractions. Birthplace of the renowned Chipko movement, Chamoli is famous for its traditions and rich Garhwal culture. The town is a part of “Kedar Khand” and is beautifully located in the central Himalayas, perched at a height of 1,300 meters.
The best part about Chamoli is its weather, which remains pleasant and salubrious throughout the year. With the presence of colorful flora and fauna, the town attracts plenty of tourists every year. Tourists can find many places of interest in Chamoli. Other important tourist places such as The Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, Auli, Badrinath, etc. are located nearby Chamoli. It’s a wonderful place for friends and family outings Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Photographers, adventure lovers, pilgrims, and peace lovers.
- Best time to Visit: All around the year except monsoons.
- Things to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, photography, skiing, and cable car rides
Almora
Almora is an amazing destination, known far and wide for its exquisite beauty, lush verdure, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering cuisines. Located at an elevation of 1,638 meters above sea level, Almora is surrounded all over by beautiful picturesque districts Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Bageshwar and is a great place to absorb natural views and scenic ambiance Top 12 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand.
Established by the kings of the Chand dynasty, Almora attracts hundreds and thousands of tourists every year and is perceived as an important business hub of the Kumaon region. Some important attractions like the Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Katarmal Sun Temple, and Govind Ballabh Pant Museum are also famous spots for spiritual and tourist activity.
- Ideal Destination to Visit for: Romantic Couples, Honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts, solo travelers.
- Best time to Visit: All throughout the year except monsoons.
- Things to do: Bright End Corner, Kasar Devi Temple, Jageshwar Dham, Trekking
