Uttarakhand
Key Geographical and Administrative Tourism Details: Uttarakhand is a majestic northern state of India that was carved out of Uttar Pradesh in November 2000. Geographically, it is divided into two main regions known as Garhwal and Kumaon, each offering unique landscapes and cultures. The state share s international borders with China and Nepal, making it a strategically vital region for the Country. Administratively, the capital of Uttarakhand is Dehradun, which serves as a major hub for education and research. The state is home to some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including the sacred Nanda Devi. It is world-renowned for the Char Dham Yatra, which attracts millions of pilgrims to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri every year. The administrative body, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, actively promotes eco-tourism and adventure sports across its thirteen districts. With over 65% of its area covered by forests, the state is a biodiversity hotspot containing several national parks like Jim Corbett. The holy rivers Ganga and Yamuna originate here, giving the state a deep spiritual significance in Indian culture. Tourists find a perfect blend of high-altitude adventure and peaceful spiritual retreats within this Himalayan paradise.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
7 to 14 DaysPlace Type:
Pilgrimage, Adventure, Hill Station, Wildlife, YogEntry Fees:
National Parks: Entry to Jim Corbett National Park costs around 200 for Indians and 1000 for foreigners, plus safari vehicle charges. These fees are utilized by the forest department for the conservation of wildlife and maintenance of the forest tracks.
Read MoreNational Parks: Entry to Jim Corbett National Park costs around 200 for Indians and 1000 for foreigners, plus safari vehicle charges. These fees are utilized by the forest department for the conservation of wildlife and maintenance of the forest tracks.
Trekking Permits: For high-altitude treks like Valley of Flowers, a nominal entry fee of 150 for Indians is charged for a three-day pass. Foreigners are required to pay around 600, and these permits are obtained at the forest check post.
Temple Entries: Most temples in Uttarakhand like Kedarnath and Badrinath do not charge an entry fee for darshan. However, special puja bookings and fast-track entries may involve specific donations or charges as prescribed by the temple committees.Timing:
Regular Timings: Most temples in Uttarakhand open at 4:00 AM and close by 9:00 PM, with a short break in the afternoon. Markets in hill stations like Mussoorie typically operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM for tourists.
Ideal Visit Time: The ...Regular Timings: Most temples in Uttarakhand open at 4:00 AM and close by 9:00 PM, with a short break in the afternoon. Markets in hill stations like Mussoorie typically operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM for tourists.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit the shrines is early morning to avoid long queues and experience the peaceful morning prayers. For adventure activities like rafting, the slots between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM are considered the safest and most enjoyable.Special Events:
Kumbh Mela: This massive religious gathering in Haridwar occurs every 12 years and is the largest congregation of pilgrims on Earth. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges to wash away sins, creating a spectacle of faith and culture.
Nanda Devi...Kumbh Mela: This massive religious gathering in Haridwar occurs every 12 years and is the largest congregation of pilgrims on Earth. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges to wash away sins, creating a spectacle of faith and culture.
Nanda Devi Raj Jat: This unique 280-km long pilgrimage takes place once every 12 years in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Thousands of people accompany a four-horned ram to the high-altitude lake of Roopkund in honor of Goddess Nanda Devi.
Phool Dei: Celebrated in the month of March, this harvest festival sees young girls flower-decorating the doorsteps of houses to welcome spring. It is a beautiful local tradition that showcases the deep bond between the mountain people and nature.
Harela: This festival marks the beginning of the monsoon and the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati in the Kumaon region. People plant seeds in small baskets and celebrate the greenery and fertility of the land with traditional folk songs.Best Photo Spots:
Valley of Flowers: This spot offers a vibrant palette of colors with over 500 species of flowers blooming against the rugged Himalayas. Photographers find the monsoon months of August perfect for capturing the ethereal mist and the colorful floral landscape.Valley of Flowers: This spot offers a vibrant palette of colors with over 500 species of flowers blooming against the rugged Himalayas. Photographers find the monsoon months of August perfect for capturing the ethereal mist and the colorful floral landscape.
Auli Meadows: The panoramic view of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks from the meadows of Auli is a dream for landscape photographers. Sunrise and sunset here provide golden lighting that highlights the sharp contours of the snow-capped mountain ranges.
Har Ki Pauri: Capturing the evening Ganga Aarti in Haridwar requires a fast lens to freeze the motion of the fire lamps against the dark river. The reflection of thousands of lights in the water creates a mesmerizing and soulful photographic composition.
Naini Lake: The bird's-eye view of the mango-shaped Naini Lake from Tiffin Top provides a classic shot of the hill station. The surrounding colorful colonial houses and the blue water make for a perfect postcard-worthy photograph of Uttarakhand.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
Auli, often dubbed the "Skiing Capital of India," is a breathtaking hill station and premier ski resort located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Perched at an elevation of around 2,800 meters, it offers unparalleled panoramic views of majestic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet. Beyond its renowned snow-covered slopes, Auli transforms into a vibrant meadow (bugyal) in summer, adorned with diverse flora. It's a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering skiing, trekking, and serene natural beauty.
Rajaji National Park, encompassing an area of over 820 sq km, is a prominent national park and tiger reserve in Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1983 by merging three wildlife sanctuaries ? Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla ? it's named after C. Rajagopalachari, a renowned freedom fighter. The park is nestled in the Shivalik hills, representing a significant portion of the Shivalik ecosystem. It's renowned for its thriving population of Asian Elephants and is one of the northernmost homes for Bengal Tigers in India. Beyond large mammals, it boasts an incredible diversity of flora and over 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Rajaji National Park is divided into several zones, each offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities and accessibility. The park is generally open from Mid-November to Mid-June, remaining closed during the monsoon season (July to mid-November) for safety reasons. Safari timings vary slightly depending on the season, but generally, morning safaris are from 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and evening safaris from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Entry Fees (Approximate and subject to change): Indian Nationals: Entry Fee: ?150 per person Road Tax & Entry Fee (for private vehicles): ?250 Private Gypsy Safari (up to 6 persons): ?2,500 - ?5,000 per vehicle (depending on zone and duration) Shared Gypsy Safari: ?500 per person Guide Charges: ?1,000 (general), higher for expert birding guides. Foreign Nationals: Entry Fee: ?600 per person Road Tax & Entry Fee (for private vehicles): ?500 Private Gypsy Safari (up to 6 persons): ?2,500 - ?5,000 per vehicle (depending on zone and duration) Shared Gypsy Safari: ?500 per person Guide Charges: ?1,000 (general), higher for expert birding guides. Camera Charges: Still cameras are usually free for Indians, ?50 for foreigners. Video cameras require higher permits (e.g., ?2,500 for Indians, ?5,000 for foreigners). It's highly recommended to book safaris online in advance, especially during peak season, as the number of vehicles allowed per day is limited.
Almora is a historic hill station and the cultural capital of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, India. Perched on a horseshoe-shaped ridge, it's renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Kumaoni architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views of the central Himalayas. The town offers a serene escape, distinct from the bustling lake cities, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its vibrant local life, ancient temples, and unique handicrafts. Its elevation ensures pleasant weather for most of the year, making it a beloved destination for those seeking tranquility and a glimpse into authentic Himalayan culture.
Yamunotri, nestled in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 ft), is one of the four sacred sites of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Revered as the source of the holy Yamuna River, it is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, believed to be the daughter of the Sun God, Surya. The arduous but spiritually rewarding journey to Yamunotri Temple is typically undertaken via a trek from Janki Chatti. Pilgrims are drawn to its serene beauty, the powerful gush of the Yamuna, and the numerous hot springs, including Surya Kund, where offerings are traditionally cooked. The surrounding landscape, with its majestic peaks and tranquil ambiance, provides a profound spiritual experience, marking the westernmost point of the Char Dhams and a vital pilgrimage for Hindus.
Badrinath is one of the four most important pilgrimage sites (Char Dham) in India, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,133 meters (10,279 ft) on the banks of the Alaknanda River, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Shri Badrinath Temple, the primary attraction, is an ancient and revered shrine housing a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative posture. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks like Neelkanth, Badrinath offers a spiritual retreat amidst breathtaking natural beauty, attracting millions of devotees and tourists annually. The temple's doors open for pilgrims typically from April-May to October-November, remaining closed during the harsh winter months.
Details: Jim Corbett National Park, India's oldest and most prestigious national park, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, who played a crucial role in its establishment. Spanning approximately 520 square kilometers, the park is a captivating blend of dense sal forests, grasslands, riverine belts, and a diverse ecosystem that supports a remarkable array of flora and fauna. It's particularly renowned as a prime habitat for the majestic Bengal Tiger, offering one of the best opportunities for tiger sightings in India. Beyond the tiger, Corbett is home to elephants, leopards, deer, and over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Nanda Devi National Park is a breathtaking high-altitude national park nestled around the peak of Nanda Devi (7,816 m), India's second-highest mountain entirely within the country. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, it is renowned for its unparalleled mountain wilderness, pristine alpine meadows, and exceptional biodiversity. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and later expanded to include the Valley of Flowers National Park, it forms the core zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The park is characterized by rugged terrain, deep gorges like the Rishi Ganga, and a diverse range of high-altitude flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Musk Deer. Access to the park is highly restricted to preserve its fragile ecosystem, making it an exclusive and profoundly immersive experience for those few allowed to enter.Show All
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages in India, encompassing four holy sites nestled high in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This arduous journey, undertaken by millions of devotees annually, is believed to cleanse sins and bestow moksha (salvation). Each shrine is dedicated to a specific deity: Yamunotri to Goddess Yamuna, Gangotri to Goddess Ganga, Kedarnath to Lord Shiva, and Badrinath to Lord Vishnu. The pilgrimage typically follows a specific circuit, starting from Yamunotri and proceeding clockwise, reflecting the ancient spiritual paths to divine blessings amidst the majestic and challenging Himalayan landscape.Information
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Why Famous:
Spiritual Epicenter: Uttarakhand is famous for being the Devbhoomi, housing the Char Dham pilgrimage sites that are essential for Hindu devotees. Millions visit Haridwar and Rishikesh to witness the Ganga Aarti and seek spiritual enlightenment by the holy river.Spiritual Epicenter: Uttarakhand is famous for being the Devbhoomi, housing the Char Dham pilgrimage sites that are essential for Hindu devotees. Millions visit Haridwar and Rishikesh to witness the Ganga Aarti and seek spiritual enlightenment by the holy river.
Yoga Capital: Rishikesh is globally recognized as the Yoga Capital of the World, attracting international seekers to its numerous ashrams and meditation centers. The serene environment and the presence of the Ganges make it the ultimate destination for mental and physical well-being.
Adventure Hub: The state is a paradise for thrill-seekers, offering world-class white water rafting in Rishikesh and skiing in Auli. It also boasts some of the most challenging trekking trails in India, such as the Roopkund and Valley of Flowers treks. -
Architecture:
Himalayan Vernacular Architecture: The traditional houses in Uttarakhand are built using the Koti Banal style, which is earthquake-resistant and uses thick stone walls and wooden beams. These structures often feature a height of 7 to 12 meters with multiple floors to separa...Himalayan Vernacular Architecture: The traditional houses in Uttarakhand are built using the Koti Banal style, which is earthquake-resistant and uses thick stone walls and wooden beams. These structures often feature a height of 7 to 12 meters with multiple floors to separate cattle from living quarters.
Panchayatana Temple Style: Many ancient temples like Jageshwar follow the Nagara style with a dimensions of approximately 15x15 meters for the main sanctum. The intricate stone carvings on the shikharas represent the heights of medieval Himalayan craftsmanship and devotion.
Colonial Architecture: Cities like Mussoorie and Nainital showcase British-era buildings with sloping slate roofs and wide wooden verandas spanning 10 to 20 feet. These structures were designed to withstand heavy snowfall and maintain warmth during the freezing winters of the Himalayas. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The primary gateway is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which connects Uttarakhand to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, taxis and buses are easily available to reach nearby destinations like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Mussoorie.
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Near Tourist Places:
1. Rishikesh (25km), 2. Mussoorie (35km), 3. Dhanaulti (60km), 4. Haridwar (50km), 5. Chakrata (90km), 6. Kanatal (75km), 7. Lansdowne (150km), 8. Tehri Dam (110km), 9. Corbett (240km), 10. Nainital (280km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Always carry basic medicines for motion sickness and altitude sickness as the mountain roads are very curvy. It is important to stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water; always opt for bottled or purified water during your travel.
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Information about New and Updated Locations(769+) of Uttarakhand Has Been Added :-
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Geeta BhawanPiran Kaliyar SharifBrahmeswara TempleGagarJageshwar DhamKarkotaka Devi TemplePeoraSitlaChilmiri NeckKalsiKanasarLakhamandal TempleSankri VillageBigul VillageDangoli Garud Ganga TempleGauri Udiyar Cave TempleKafni Glacier TrekMore PlacesNote:-
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