Devbhumi is a well-known nickname for Uttarakhand. This location not only offers a mesmerising view of the Himalayas but also shows a certain cultural ethos. Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, the four holiest pilgrimage destinations worshipped by Hindus, are located in Uttarakhand. Every year, thousands of tourists come here to visit the Char Dhams. There are many tourist places in Uttarakhand, and the well-known places from them are described below.

1. Nainital

This is the most popular hill station in North India. Nainital is situated in the Kumaon ranges' foothills. Nainital is a well-liked hill station for couples, families, and lone travellers because of its lovely year-round climate. Elegant colonial buildings are everywhere in Nainital, which increases the area's natural charm. Whether you wish to take a boat ride out on the lovely Naini lake, enjoy some Garhwali and Kumaoni cuisine, go souvenir shopping, or ride a ropeway.

This place is very close to Dehradun and Delhi. Nainital is an ideal weekend vacation spot from Delhi and the surrounding areas. All year long, Nainital has a lovely climate. This is a convenient place for a two-day visit and can be reached by car from the larger adjacent cities. Nainital will undoubtedly leave its impression on you.

Things to Know Before Visiting Nainital:

Itinerary: Two days are plenty to explore Nainital fully. Two to three more days are necessary to see the surrounding locations.
One day budget is from rupees 6000 to rupees 7000. This includes INR 1500–2000 for lodging, INR 1000 for eating, INR 2000 for local transportation, and INR 1000 for entrance fees to various attractions.
Local transportation options include the rental of bikes and scooters. The daily cost of a bike is roughly 1500 rupees, whereas the cost of a scooter is roughly 600 rupees.
Make reservations in advance if you are going between May and June; because these are the busiest months.
Purchase wax candles, shawls, and wool clothing from Mall Road.
There are cheap and luxurious hotel choices available for visitors. Mall Road and the Bus stand are the main areas for hotels.
Bhowali is the ideal place to stay at a homestay, which is eleven kilometres away from Nainital.

2. Dehradun

The biggest city in Uttarakhand is Dehradun, which also serves as its capital. Dehradun is 1400 feet above sea level. Dehradun is regarded as the entryway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar because it is only 30 kilometres from Mussoorie. Dehradun is sometimes referred to as the "Educational Hub of Uttarakhand" and has the most famous boarding schools and colleges.

There are many caves, waterfalls, and freshwater springs available in Dehradun. Robber's Cave is a well-liked location here, and it is a cave that naturally exists surrounded by hills. Robber's Cave is one of the most well-liked picnic areas in the city. People can sit here and enjoy tranquil sunset while surrounded by a man-made lake and rich vegetation. Lacchiwala is a popular location for birdwatching and hiking.

3. Haridwar

Haridwar is one of India's seven holiest towns. It is located in the state of Uttarakhand, and this is a place where the holy River Ganga initially meets the Indo-Gangetic plains. Haridwar is a well-known Hindu temple town, with its streets lined with temples, ashrams, and other religious buildings where numbers of worshipers travel to take a bath in the sacred Ganges. It is said that bathing in the holy Har Ki Pauri cleanses one of all sins. The famed Ganga Aarti performed at the Har ki Pauri Ghat every evening is a highlight of Haridwar. Thousands of worshippers assemble to offer prayers to the Ganga and float diyas.

The Kumbh Mela takes place every twelve years and is held in four cities: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nasik, and Allahabad. Additionally, it serves as a starting point for some other tourist destinations, like Rishikesh and Devprayag, and is the entrance to Uttarakhand's Char Dham.

Haridwar is dedicated to the Pancha Tirth, or five pilgrimages, in accordance with Hindu tradition. These are Gangadwar, Kushwart, Kankhal, Bilwa Tirth and Neel Parvat. Since it is a religious institution, alcoholic beverages are not allowed.

4. Lansdowne

Lansdowne is a charming little hill town. This town is 258 kilometres away from Delhi and this town is situated in Uttarakhand's Pauri district. This hill station is a sanctuary for bird watchers, casual hikers, and weekend visitors from NCR. This hill station is filled with colonial-era structures. Places to visit in Lansdowne are Bhulla lake, Bhim Pakora, Kalagarh Tiger Reserve, St. John's Church, Tip N Top, and Kanvashram.

5. Jim Corbett National Park

This is the world's oldest park. Jim Corbett National Park is located in Uttarakhand's Nainital district amid the Himalayan foothills. Corbett National Park is famous for sheltering the threatened Bengal tiger.

This park has many riverside hotels and is well-known for its animal safaris. The most well-known destination in Corbett National Park is Dhikala; this place is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and abundant animals.

From July to October, this park remains closed. However, Jhirna, Dhela, and Sitabani are year-round tourist destinations. The jungle staff arrange safaris in each zone in 2 shifts. The five zones of the park are Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Domunda, and Sonanandi. The total park is more than 500 square miles and is split into zones to encourage tourism.

6. Mukteshwar

This place is well-known for its extreme activities and stunning Himalayan mountain views. This small town's name derives from the myth that Lord Shiva defeated a demon here and granted him Mukti, or salvation. The charming orchards, evergreen forests, rolling meadows, and tiny cottages and homes constructed in beautiful colonial style are the main draws in this area. The charm of Mukteshwar is found in taking peaceful strolls through nature and hearing birds' chirps.

Attraction in Mukteshwar:

1. Sitla: Sitla is a hill town well known for its colonial-style houses.

2. Peora: Peora is the best place to visit in Mukteshwar. Peora is tucked between the Kumaon hills. This location is peaceful, with a lot of natural beauty, and Peora is the ideal location for relaxing.

3. Ramgarh: Ramgarh is known for its untouched natural beauty and quaint old-world charm. Ramgarh is also known as the "Fruit Bowl of Kumaon" because of its lush orchards of apples, plums, peaches, and apricots.

7. Chopta

Chopta is a small village situated in Uttarakhand. Chopta is the starting point for treks to Deoria Tal, Tugnanath, and Chandrashila, making it the perfect place for beginner hikers to go on a guided trek and sharpen their skills. The temple of Panch Kedar is about 3.5 kilometres from Chopta. Camping is possible in the open, grassy meadows of Chopta, which are surrounded by alpine, pine, deodar, and rhododendron trees. Places to visit in Chopta are Tungnath Temple, Ukhimath, Deoria Tal, and Kanchula Korak Deer Musk Sanctuary.

8. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is situated in the Himalayan foothills near the banks of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga. Rishikesh is located in the Dehradun district, and Hrishikesh is another name for Rishikesh. Rishikesh is renowned for its adventure activities, historic temples, and cafes. This serene town has long been a centre for meditation, and it is also famous for activities like whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and camping.

Rishikesh is a centre for Sadhus (saints) with various ashrams that teaches spirituality, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda. Visitors can see the most stunning evening aarti at Rishikesh along the banks of the Ganges.

Attractions in Rishikesh:

1. Lakshman Jhula:

Lakshman Jhula is a renowned hanging bridge over the Ganga. The bridge is entirely built of iron. This bridge is located 70 feet above the river and has a length of 450 feet. Tapovan village and Jonk village are connected by this bridge. According to myths, Lord Lakshman once crossed the Ganga at the location where the current bridge is now built. Lord Lakshman crossed the river with just two ropes, according to the myth. To honour Lord Lakshman's courageous act, this bridge was constructed.

2. Triveni Ghat:

In Rishikesh, Triveni Ghat is the largest ghat. Every evening, "Maha Aarti" is performed here. The ghat is considered the place where Lord Krishna was cremated. In addition to offering milk to the river, worshippers also feed the fish in the ghat. Devotees visit the Triveni Ghat to perform a ritual known as "Pindha Shraddha."

3. Neer Garh Waterfall:

Neer Garh Waterfall is a stunning tiny stream of cold water that cascades over a rocky landscape in the middle of a thickly forested area. Visitors can enter into water to take a refreshing bath in the pools.

4. Jadh Ganga Trek:

Jadh Ganga Trek is the most challenging and difficult trek in north Uttarakhand. This gorgeous location has become even more charming due to gushing streams, pure glaciers, and a magnificent environment.

9. Auli

This is a hill station that is situated in Uttarakhand. Auli is full of beautiful scenery. Apple orchards, pine trees, and old oaks are found all across Auli. Visitors can participate in many adventures in the Garhwal Himalayas in addition to skiing and also take in the breathtaking vistas of the mountains covered with snow. Auli is a popular hill town with many ski resorts located in the Himalayan range.

Attractions in Auli:

1.Skiing in Auli:

Skiing in Auli offers breathtaking views of peaks, including Mt. Nanda Devi Kamet, Hathi Parbat, Beethartoli, Mana Parwat, Nilkanth, Ghori Parbat, Dunagiri, and Nar Parbat. While skiing in Auli in the Gorson Reserve forest, you can see widely rare Himalayan wildlife. Snow leopards, Foxes, Wild Rabbits, Musk Deer, Jackals, Wild Cats, Hyenas, Wild Boars, and Bears are a few of them. The snow-covered slopes of Auli originally served as a training ground for paramilitary forces. Bring a camera, a torch, suitable clothing, snacks, drinks, and water with you.

2. Gurso Bugyal:

Gurso Bugyal is a beautiful large meadow in Uttarakhand. Gurso Bugyal is well-known for its verdant pastureland that is covered in huge conifer and oak trees. A beautiful view of Nanda Devi, Dron, and Trishul is enjoyed by the Gurso Bugyal. The snow's white blankets melt throughout the spring, making space for shrubs and plants to bloom. The area transforms into a natural garden with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. Take the trek from Auli and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain ranges, and you can travel towards the lush green region of Gurso Bugyal to see the vista in the most spectacular way.

3. Nandaprayag:

River Alaknanda and river Nandakini meet in Nandaprayag. Nandaprayag is surrounded by magnificent mountains and picturesque landscapes. The town served as the capital of the former Yadu Kingdom, whose ruler constructed the well-known Nanda Temple and was also its capital. The main tourist destinations and religious sites of the town are the Nanda shrine and the meeting place of the Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers. Visitors should Enjoy some delectable Garhwali and Kumauni dishes like aloo ke gutke, chainsoo, and kaapa here.

4. Chenab Lake:

It is a little, crystal-clear lake that is still relatively unexplored and is at its most pure form and holding the attention of travellers and creating a charming location.

10. Mussoorie

Mussoorie is one of the most well-known hill stations. This location is 290 kilometres away from Delhi. The city's historic hotels and churches are examples of British remains. Visitors should enjoy some Phaanu, Kali/Kappa, cakes, Bhang Ki Chutneym, Chains, chicken and Pork Momos, Omelets, Aloo Ke Gutkha, Chaats, Garhwal Ka Fanna, Kabab, and chilli chicken.

Places to visit in Mussoorie are Jharipani Falls, the Mall, Cloud's end, Landour, Bhatta falls, Lal Tibba, Dalai Hills, Kempty Falls, Nag Tibba, Library Bazaar, Bhadraj temple, Gun Hill, Company Garden, Devalsari, Dhanaulti, Char Dukan, Lake Mist, Mossy Falls, Happy Valley, Mussoorie Lake.

11. Badrinath temple

It is a Hindu temple. This is the temple of lord Vishnu. This temple is located in Badrinath town. Every year this temple is open for six months only. It is situated on Garhwal hill and on the opposite side of the temple, Nar Parbat is situated. The size of the main god in the temple is 1 foot, and the idol of the god is made of black granite.

Temple structure:

The temple has three sections. The sections are darshan mandap means worship hall; garbhagriha means sanctum, and sabha mandap means convention hall. The height of the garbhagriha is 49 feet (15 meters). The roof of the garbhagiha is of conical shape. The large pillared hall is constructed inside the mandap, and from there, a path leads to the main temple.

In the main temple, there are feet-tall idols of the god Badrinarayana. The two hands of the god Badrinarayana is in the lifted posture and holding the chakra and shankha. The god Badrinarayana's other two arms are in Yogamudra posture. In the garbhagriha, there are the idols of the god sage Narada, god Kubera, god Uddhava, god Nar and Narayan.

12. Kedarnath

The Kedarnath Temple is situated in the Garhwal Himalayan Range. One of India's most renowned temples and most important sites for Hindu pilgrims is Kedarnath. This is the temple of lord Shiva. Kedarnath Temple is only open from April to November. The deity was moved from Kedarnath Temple to Ukhimath and worshipped there from November to May. In these months, the temple is closed because the area receives a lot of snowfall.

Advice for visitors:

Bring adequate wool clothing with you because the temperature drops once the sun goes down.
Alcohol is absolutely forbidden.
Bring some emergency medicine with you.
To prevent illnesses like malaria, carry mosquito repellent.
Avoid consuming cold and uncooked foods. Cooked food is safer.
Avoid relaxing during the yatra in areas where caution signs are present.
Apply sunscreen frequently to avoid getting sunburned.
Don't consume tap water.

13. Gangotri

Gangotri is situated in Uttarkashi. The sacred river Ganga originates from here. This is India's most renowned pilgrimage. The Gangotri Temple is devoted to Ma Ganga, and the Gangotri Temple is only open from May to November. Due to its origin in Gaumukh, the river Ganga is often referred to as Bhagirathi. At Devprayag, when it merges with the River Alaknanda and receives the name Ganga.

Places to visit in Gangotri are Gangotri temple, Dharali, Gangotri Glacier, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, Kedar Tal, Kalindi Khal Trek, Gangotri National park, Surya Kund, Gaumukh, Vishwanath temple, Auden's Col, Dodi Tal, Pandav Gufa, Dayara Bugyal, Tapovan, Uttarkashi, and Maneri.

14. Yamunotri

The river Yamuna originates from Yamunotri. It is located 30 kilometres from Uttarkashi. This is India's most renowned pilgrimage. The Yamunotri temple is devoted to Ma Yamuna. Every year, Yamunotri temple is open for six months. The Janki Chatti, Barkot, Surya Kund, Divya Shila, Yamunotri Temple, Kharsali, Saptarishi Kund, and Hanuman Chatti are some of Yamunotri's other tourist attractions.

15. Kausani

This is a hill station that is situated in Bageshwar. Trisul, Nanda Devi, and Panchuli peaks are the most prominent features of Kausani's vast snow-covered Himalayan panorama. Kausani is the perfect destination for honeymooners, nature lovers, and travellers. The old name of Kausani was Valna. This location is blessed with numerous attractions and an alluring sunset view, and it will leave you absolutely spellbound. Oak and pine trees cover the surrounding massive, majestic mountains, creating a stunning scene.

Places to visit in Kausani are Rudradhari falls, Starscapes observatory, Anashakti Ashram, Trek to Pinnath, Sumitranandan Pant museum, Baijnath, Someshwar, Kausani Tea Estate, and Gwaldam.

16. Kanatal

Kanatal was a formerly deserted area and is now a popular destination for vacationers looking for peace and quiet. According to legend, Kanatal was formerly home to a lake that inspired its name. Along with tranquility, the area is charming with its towering hills, farms of fruit trees, and beautiful green woodlands. This charming village is dotted with numerous wildflowers and tiny temples. Kanatal is close to other notable hill stations; it is 78 km from Dehradun, 12 from Chamba, and 33 km from Mussoorie. Places to visit in Kantal are New Tehri, Chamba, Kodai Jungle, Dhanaulti, and Surkanda Devi Temple.

17. Bhimtal

Bhimtal is a picture-perfect, less-populated version of Nainital. Bhimtal is a picturesque hill station that draws visitors with its unique, peaceful atmosphere. The Bhimtal Lake is a well-liked location for bird watchers, nature walks, and paddle boarding. Places to visit Bhimtal are Hanuman Garhi, Victoria Dam, Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, Nal Damyanti, Hidimba Parvat, Karkotaka Temple and Bhimtal Lake.

18. Munsiyari

Munsiyari's nickname is "Little Kashmir". Munsiyari is a cosy village situated in the Pithoragarh. The charming tiny hill hamlet is well-known for its views of the snow-capped Himalayan range and its challenging hiking trails. Places to visit in Munsiyari are Birthi falls, Darkot, Thamari Kund, Khaliya Top, Maheshwari Kund, Betulidhar, Kalamuni Top, Panchachuli Peak, and Nanda Devi Temple.

Miscellaneous