Uttarakhand is a North Indian state that is rich in culture, history, and mystery. For most people, Uttarakhand is a place of pilgrimage and for others, it’s a great travel destination with a great variety of tourist experiences. The majesty of the great Himalayas in the background and nature at its best is a great foundation for a wonderful vacation.
Uttarakhand got its international fame because of it being one of the best Yoga tourism destinations in the world. Along with Yoga, there are many significant religious sites in Uttarakhand that make it a popular choice among domestic and international travelers.
21 Best Places To Visit In Uttarakhand in 2021
With the great river of the Ganges flowing through it, it has managed to attract thousands of visitors who consider Uttarakhand as a place of pilgrimage. Among the Uttarakhand points of interest, the available destinations include religious sites, Yoga centers, adventure tourism destinations, and family vacation destinations. You can find many tourist places in Uttarakhand that fit the needs of all types of travelers.
Uttarakhand is a rich and bio-diverse landscape that serves as home to hundreds of rare species of wildlife, plants, and trees. The spiritual vibe of Uttarakhand can be felt by pilgrims who visit this state regularly to offer prayers to their respected deities.
You can find many exotic places to visit in Uttarakhand that are blessed with natural beauty. You can find rich lush green valleys, beautiful forest areas, crystal clear rivers, and ancient temples to visit in Uttarakhand. Many places in Uttarakhand have a story and a legend attached to them. Local people have many interesting stories to tell about the Gods and Goddesses that reside in the mountains. All the local people in Uttarakhand have attached religious importance to certain places and temples and consider these places sacred.
The lives of people are interwoven with the reverence they have for the land of Uttarakhand. It is quite popularly known as the ‘Land of Gods’. There are well-documented cases of early pilgrims who visited these mountains more than 1000 years ago. A whole lot of Hindu mythology is interwoven with the places in Uttarakhand.
On the other hand, Uttarakhand is also among the best places to experience adventure sports such as river rafting, mountain climbing, trekking, skiing, mountain biking, and many more. In recent years, many efforts were made to make Uttarakhand one of the best adventure tourism destinations in India.
Also, if you are a couple looking for a travel destination then you can find some of the best Uttarakhand honeymoon packages from your travel agent. You can find some of the most scenic tourist places in Uttarakhand to make your honeymoon a memorable and photo-worthy experience.
Uttarakhand is another hill state in northern India and the second one is termed as “Dev Bhoomi’ abode of Gods. It is blessed with a number of quaint and spectacular hill stations that are ideal for vacations, holiday or weekend trips. It has been very rightly been given the status of Dev Bhoomi as there are a number of places of pilgrimage, in fact, it is also the home to the all-important Char Dham Yatra that people aim to undertake once a year and seek blessings of the Gods and the Goddesses for a painless end and deliverance from all sins.
If, other than Himachal Pradesh, you have been looking forward to planning a visit to the hill stations of Uttarakhand If you have been looking at the hill stations in Uttarakhand and are wondering where to go for a weekend trip r a short 2 – 4 day trip, then it would be worthwhile browsing through the Uttarakhand travel packages to decide on the hill stations that appeal to you the most. Although there are multiple hill stations in Uttarakhand, both, the regular ones as well as the offbeat ones
We have created a list of some of the most magnificent places to visit in Uttarakhand that are suited for any travel need you might have. The places mentioned in the list are among the best destinations you can explore and discover with your friends, family, or significant other. Some of the places on the list are also great destinations for a solo traveler who is on the path of spiritual discovery or a solo adventure. , here below, we discuss a few for a quick weekend getaway for you to be able to plan out your trip.
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1. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is most probably one of the most popular tourist places in Uttarakhand. Famously known as the ‘Yoga capital of the world’, Rishikesh is one of the top destinations visited by international tourists who wish to learn Yoga in India. There are many Yoga schools available in Rishikesh offering teacher training courses and Yoga retreats for people to learn and practice Yoga.
Rishikesh is situated in the Tehri-Garhwal area of Uttarakhand and is located on the shores of the river Ganges. Rishikesh is an ancient city with a lot of historical and mythological legends built around it. As a solo traveler, Rishikesh is a great destination to experience Hindu traditional rituals and see the many temples here.
You can also find many adventure activities such as kayaking, cliff jumping and river rafting to satisfy your adrenaline needs. Near the main city of Rishikesh, you can also find some of the best natural locations with beautiful waterfalls, a scenic view of the city along with several places for silent nature walks.
Tourist attractions: Adventure sports, sightseeing, Yoga, witnessing ‘Aarti’ at the Ganges
Best time to visit: March-June and October-February
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2. Auli
Auli is among the list of most beautiful visiting places in Uttarakhand. Famously known as the ‘Skiing Capital of India’, Auli is also a great summer destination. However, it is best to visit Auli in the winters because of the snow cover and to witness the snowfall.
Auli has many great trekking trails which are an adventure to explore. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli is also among the best tourists activities popular among the people. If you are traveling with your family, then you will find plenty of activities you can engage in.
Any Uttarakhand tour package for couples would always include Auli as a winter honeymoon destination. It is a perfect honeymoon destination for newly married couples. During the summer season, the whole meadow of Auli is blooming with flowers. Auli is among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand with your family as well.
A ski destination in the hills of Uttarakhand, Auli is tagged to be one of the top hill stations of this state. Once here in summers or peak winters, to enjoy the skiing season, it does not fail to mesmerize you with the spectacular views that it has to offer of the mighty snow-capped Himalayas, and the second-highest peak of India, the Nanda Devi peak. In the Chamoli district of the state, this hill resort is an ideal location for those looking forward to some adventure or a laid-back holiday while capturing some enchanting views.
Tourist attractions: Cable Car ride, Skiing, Trekking Visit to Narsingh temple and Chenab Lake.
Best time to visit: All year except the monsoon months
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3. Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a beautiful hill station situated at the height of around 1700 meters above sea level. It is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand which is also a favorite among trekking enthusiasts.
Lansdowne is also a great destination to be included in your Uttarakhand honeymoon package. Silent nature walks through the dense Oak forests with magnificent views are something couples can enjoy. This hill station is a great place to spend your time in nature to relax from the hustle of city life.
Lansdowne is located in the district of Pauri and this region is known for its exotic wildlife and natural beauty. People traveling to Jim Corbett National Park can also visit Lansdowne as they are quite close to each other. Lansdowne is a great weekend destination and also it is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand.
Tourist attractions: Trekking, sightseeing, camping, visiting temples, photography
Best time to visit: Winter months (best to watch snowfall) and March-June.
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4. Munsiyari
Munsiyari is another great destination for trekking enthusiasts and for people who wish to unwind from the city’s anxieties. This destination is popularly known as ‘Little Kashmir’ because of its breathtaking views. The natural beauty of Munsiyari is very much similar to that of Kashmir.
Some of the best attractions in Munsiyari are Panchchuli, Birthi Falls, Nanda Devi Temple, and Maheshwari Kund. If you are looking for an offbeat destination then Munsiyari is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand.
There are a variety of adventure activities you can enjoy in Munsiyari and it has become a favorite destination for people looking for adventure tourism destinations. The weather during the summer season is quite pleasant in Munsiyari and winters are equally good because of serene views of the snow-covered mountains. Many available Uttarakhand tour packages for couples include Munsiyari among its top destinations.
An epitome of adventure destination Munsiyari, besides being a picturesque hill retreat, surrounded by mighty snow-capped mountains and dense green forests, happens to be one among the top offbeat destination in Uttarakhand and is most popular among trekkers and other adventure buffs. The selection of a Uttarakhand adventure tour package would be a perfect choice to visit this place. Incidentally, this place also happens to be the base camp for treks to Ramalam, Khalika Pass, Milam, Namik, and Chiplakot Bugyal. While here you could also enjoy visiting the Birthi Falls, Tribal Heritage Museum, etc., and indulge in nature walks.
An epitome of adventure destination Munsiyari, besides being a picturesque hill retreat, surrounded by mighty snow-capped mountains and dense green forests, happens to be one among the top offbeat destination in Uttarakhand and is most popular among trekkers and other adventure buffs. The selection of a Uttarakhand adventure tour package would be a perfect choice to visit this place. Incidentally, this place also happens to be the base camp for treks to Ramalam, Kalika Pass, Milam, Namik, and Chiplakot Bugyal. While here you could also enjoy visiting the Birthi Falls, Tribal Heritage Museum, etc., and indulge in nature walks.
The above are some of the regular and offbeat weekends and extended or long weekend getaway hill stations of Uttarakhand which you should not miss whenever planning to visit Uttarakhand on any of the related tour pack
The above are some of the regular and offbeat weekends and extended or long weekend getaway hill stations of Uttarakhand which you should not miss whenever planning to visit Uttarakhand on any of the related tour packages.
Tourist attractions: Trekking, Birthi falls, Thamri Kund, Nanda Devi Temple, Skiing, rafting, and other adventure activities.
Best time to visit: Mid-October-February and March - June
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5. Chopta Valley
The picturesque beauty of the magnificent Chopta Valley cannot simply be described in words. You have experience Chopta valley to know that it is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand. This valley is surrounded by pine and deodar forests and beautiful flowers that bloom during the spring season.
Chopta valley is a great starting point for many amazing trekking trails such as the Tunganath trail. The uncorrupted beauty of the Chopta valley is simply captivating and this is what makes this valley so special.
Nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers will find Chopta valley to be one of the best tourist places in Uttarakhand. Chopta valley is a great starting point for many other popular destinations including pilgrimage sites of Tunganath and Kedarnath.
It is scenic and an offbeat hill station of Uttarakhand where you can visit on an extended or a long weekend is the quaint town of Chopta, a perfect place for a break from the busy city life. Moreover, if you are the adventurous type you can also undertake a trek to the Tunganath temple or the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary. Other activities that you could indulge in, while here, is outdoor camping, enjoy a laid-back weekend; nature walks, etc., so remember to include a visit to this when selecting one of the Uttarakhand tour packages.
Tourist attractions: Trekking, rafting, camping, skiing, and photography.
Best time to visit: March-June and October-February
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6. Ranikhet, Almora
Ranikhet is one of the most popular tourist places in Uttarakhand because it being a very tranquil destination situated in the lap of nature. You will find many military camps and settlements in the nearby areas of Ranikhet along with beautiful natural scenes of pine forests and gorgeous mountains.
Ranikhet is located in the city of Almora which is a beautiful destination that attracts hundreds of tourists every year. Almora is known for its temples that are significant to the Hindu tradition and history.
For the families traveling through Uttarakhand, Ranikhet is a perfect destination to spend time with your loved ones in a natural setting. You can take enjoy nature walks, picnics, and relaxing vacations with your loved ones. There are temples that you can visit with your older family members. Among the most beautiful Uttarakhand tourist places, the beauty of the Almora region cannot be denied.
Tourist attractions: Chaubatia Garden, Jhula Devi Temple, Tarikhet
Village, Trekking, camping, and picnic.
Best time to visit: March-June, October-February
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7. Binsar
Binsar is considered one of the most exotic places to visit in Uttarakhand because of its rich historical significance and its natural beauty. Binsar is a great summer destination for all kinds of travelers. You can enjoy your stay in Binsar as a family, as a solo traveler, or as a couple.
Binsar is a great destination for trekking enthusiasts from all over India. The lush bio-diverse landscape of Binsar is home to many rare plants and bird species. You can take silent nature walks with your significant other. Binsar is without a doubt one of the most scenic tourist places in Uttarakhand. Its natural beauty alone is enough to make your vacation memorable.
The area of Binsar is surrounded by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which is a favorite destination for all wildlife photographers and nature lovers. The beautiful view of the majestic Himalayas surrounds you from all sides.
Tourists attractions: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Trekking, Photography, and Kasar Devi Temple.
Best time to visit: All through the year except monsoons.
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8. Uttarkashi
The famous town of Uttarkashi is considered one of the most significant places to a Hindu pilgrim. Uttarkashi is considered a holy city that has its roots in Hindu mythology and history.
The area around Uttarkashi is full of breathtaking views and beautiful natural elements. This town is the starting point for the pilgrimage of Yamunotri and Gangotri. It is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand if you are on your pilgrimage.
Also, if you are looking for some adventure activity then there are several trekking trails you can enjoy in Uttarkashi. Your trekking experience will be memorable because of the beautiful scenes you see on your way. The landscape is full of views of beautiful valleys, alpine forests, and snow-covered mountains.
Tourists attractions: Trekking, Gaumukh glacier, Gangotri Temple, mountain biking.
Best time to visit: March-June
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9. Tehri Garhwal
Tehri Garhwal is one of the most popular and best Uttarakhand destinations for tourists. It is one of the most visited summer destinations in North India. The New Tehri area has a wonderful and pleasant climate with views of the beautiful landscape full of colors.
Tehri is among the important Uttarakhand points of interest relevant for tourism and adventure sports. Hundreds of tourists visit every year to photograph the beauty of this region. The popular Tehri Lake Festival happens every March that attracts many tourists from all over India to enjoy water sports.
Adventure sports are the key highlight of this tourist destination. If you are traveling with your family, you can always enjoy some moderate physical activity that all family members can enjoy. If you are a couple on your honeymoon, you can always find something simple like trekking or something challenging like river rafting to make your vacation memorable.
Tourist attractions: Tehri Lake Festival, Trekking, Skiing, Boating, Jet Skiing, Paragliding, Rowing, Canoeing, River rafting, and other adventure activities.
Best time to visit: March-May and October-January
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10. Nainital
Situated in the lush green forested valley in the Kumaon foothills, at an altitude of 2,084 meters, Nainital is one of the most famous tourist getaways for a pleasant weekend trip into the hills. Roughly 300 km from New Delhi and approximately 250 Kms from the state capital Dehradun it gets its name from the famous Naini Lake here, surrounded by deodar forests and vegetation and the beauty of which is further enhanced by the ambient aroma and fragrance of the flowering blossoms, is tagged as the most visited, of all the tourist places in Uttarakhand, by tourists from and outside India ever since the British era. Radiates like a jewel in the hills on any full moon night.
It happens to be an ideal destination for honeymooners, who choose to visit here have opted for the Uttarakhand Honeymoon package, and enjoy a stroll along with the walkways and explore the city while shopping for souvenirs in the local market.
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11. Mussoorie
Following close at the heels of Nainital is yet another nature lover’s paradise, “Queen of Hills” Mussorie. Barely 50 kms from Dehradun and roughly 300 Kms from the Indian capital New Delhi, honeymooners paradise and a weekend getaway destination, offers you spectacular, rejuvenating, and mesmerizing views of the snow-capped Himalayan Ranges and the adjoining Doon Valley. At an altitude of 2005 mts, the inherent cool breeze and mountain air is a welcome change from the daily suffocating city life. Mussorie too is an ideal location for those planning their honeymoon trip having selected a suitable Uttarakhand honeymoon tour package. Having visited the kaleidoscopic hills once, you are bound to hunger for more of it.
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12. Dehradun
Dehradun the capital of Uttarakhand, sandwiched between the famous Shivalik Ranges and the mighty Himalayan foothills, actually serves the purpose of a brief stopover for the people on their way to Mussorie, Haridwar, or Rishikesh, on their various Uttarakhand tour packages The places of attraction at Dehradun basically are the Forest Research Institute Museum, Robber’s cave, Clock Tower, and the Tapkeshwar Temple.
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13. Bhimtal
Close to Nainital, a mere 22 Kms, Bhimtal is more of an offbeat location that could be of interest to those seeking some tranquil time away from the hustle and bustle of the routine city life. The Bhimtal town surrounding the lake in itself offers you some picturesque settings that compel you to become one with nature, when there. It is worth the money spent when visited on any one of the Uttarakhand tour packages.
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14. Naukuchia Tal
Although not a very popular and more of an offbeat hill station, Naukuchia Tal, literally translated it means a “lake with nine corners”, is a perfect setting for an extended laid-back weekend getaway. A quaint hill station is established around the periphery of this large lake, there would be nothing better than just sitting on the banks of this lake and cherishing the tranquil and lush greenery that surrounds the lake or a boat ride in this lake on a Uttrakhand holiday tour package.
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15. Mukteshwar
At a distance of roughly 50 odd Kms from Nainital stands this spectacular hill station Mukteshwar, the memories of which are bound to linger on after your visit and leave you hungry for more. A small-time haven for the adventure buffs, who, on their visit here, having chosen the Uttarakhand adventure tour package, for some unlimited fun and an extended stay, can enjoy some rock climbing, rappelling, coupled with some other adventurous activities. This place is also ever so popular among the devotees, for the Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple that is located here, who could possibly make it a part of their Uttarakhand pilgrimage tour package, if they so wish.
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16. Kausani
Fed up of the daily rigmarole and are no a lookout for peace, tranquility, and solitude then this quaint little hill station needs to be on the top of your itinerary on your Uttarakhand holiday tour package. Sitting at an amazing 1890 meters, this hill town of Kausani is synonymous with peace, tranquility, and solitude. All with its lush green dense pine forests, meandering creeks, the sprawling tea estates, and the all mesmerizing views of the Himalayan ranges, compels you to go for long nature walks among the pines, and the cool mountain breeze, that you are bound to feel on your face is rejuvenating and relaxing, to say the least.
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17. Almora
Located at an altitude of 1062 mts, the horseshoe-shaped town of Almora, is a legendary hill town in the state of Uttarakhand, having a long and interesting history of its own. Traveling through Uttarakhand on any of the Uttarakhand tour packages, once you enter Almora you become witness to the pre-historic British era and an ethereal vibe that ties you down to the place for as long as you stay here. Other than boasting of being a cantonment town it is also home to temples like the Nanda Devi and Golu Devta, where you can pay your respects while here. Another USP of the town is owing to its being a cantonment; it has a peaceful and tranquil ambiance around it.
While talking of weekend getaway hill stations of Uttarakhand I feel we are doing injustice to the ones that can be visited on a long or an extended weekend, of which we do have more than a few, in our country.
These destinations are truly offbeat that are bound to rejuvenate and replenish your energy after having spent time in the city. So, to know about some of them just read on.
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18. Dodital
At 3085 meters, Dodital, a freshwater lake, in Uttarakhand, is literally a treat to your eyes. As per the local legend, Lord Ganesha chose this pristine place as his abode and you will also find a temple, here, dedicated to him, where you could pay your obeisance to the Lord. An ideal offbeat destination for seekers of peace and solitude and also the honeymooners, on their respective Uttarakhand tour packages. As in the case of all the above hill stations, as discussed, the ones that follow are a bit off the regular track. This one can be approached by road from Uttarkashi.
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19. Abbott Mount
Nestled at 7000 feet, with some amazing and spectacular views of the snow-capped mighty Himalayan Ranges, Abbott Mount, literally speaking, is a world of its own, an equaled extended weekend getaway from the busy city life. Established by a famous British, it’s known by his name. Abott, who made this retreat way back in the 20th century, still retains its old-worldly charm. Blessed with pictorial surroundings, when visiting here, having chosen the Uttarakhand holiday tour package, you have an option of some adventure sports like trekking, bird watching, picnicking, angling (fishing), and nature walks.
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20. Chaukori
Among one of the best lesser-known tourist destinations, and truly offbeat, this dreamy town of Chaukori happens to be an ideal getaway destination for an extended weekend visit on a Uttarakhand holiday package. Nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas, at an altitude of roughly 2,010 mtrs, this place offers you magnificent views of the snow-capped ranges, the Panchachuli, and the Nanda Devi peaks. Far from the madding crowd of the cities, a place, where you can enjoy nature walks and a laid-back weekend holiday while experiencing some rustic and peaceful life among the local people.
Located at an altitude of 6,600 feet, between Nainital and Almora, offering some spectacular views of the Kumaon Himalayan ranges and the mighty snow-capped Himalayan ranges as well, Peora, with its fruit orchards of plums and apples is an ideal weekend getaway from the busy city life, and a perfect place for eco-tourism. Once here, having chosen any one of the Uttarakhand tour packages, you can enjoy nature walks in the forest trails, do some bird watching along with some photography and enjoy a laid back rejuvenating holiday.
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21. Khirsu: Nature thy name is Tranquility
19 Kms from Pauri, literally a haven for trekkers, solo travelers and backpackers Khirsu happens to be the best place to be at. In the midst of lush green Deodar and Oak forests and apple orchards this picture-perfect hamlet, in the lap of Gharwal Himalayas is a place where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snowcapped Himalayas, and trekking and nature walks, etc. While here you visit the Ghandiyal Devi and the Kandoliya Devta temples.
22. Peora: The Gem of Uttarakhand
Located at an altitude of 6,600 feet, between Nainital and Almora, offering some spectacular views of the Kumaon Himalayan ranges and the mighty snow capped Himalayan ranges as well, Peora, with its fruit orchards of plums and apples is an ideal weekend getaway from the busy city life, and a perfect place for eco-tourism. Once here, having chosen any one of the Uttarakhand tour packages, you can enjoy nature walks in the forest trails, do some bird watching along with some photography and enjoy a laid back rejuvenating holiday.
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Conclusion
All in all, Uttarakhand has plenty of travel experiences that are waiting for you to explore. The beauty of the landscape of Uttarakhand cannot be stressed enough and yet it cannot be explained in words. You can truly find a sense of calm within in the tranquil atmosphere that Uttarakhand has.
There is a feeling of serenity that is somewhat associated with our inner spiritual nature that Uttarakhand brings out from within. The reason that Uttarakhand is a place of pilgrimage also makes it an important destination for people searching for inner harmony.
Adventure tourism activities are always available all over Uttarakhand and it has become one of the best states in India to experience the adrenaline rush associated with some of the adventure sports. With more and more adventure sports events getting hosted in Uttarakhand, the state is on its way to becoming India’s best adventure sports destination.
The destinations mentioned in the list above are some of the most magnificent destinations in Uttarakhand you can travel to. If are unsure of where to travel in Uttarakhand, this list of destinations will help you make a good decision.
