Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is famous for its peaceful mountains, calm lakes and refreshing climate. which include peaceful hill towns like Nainital, Mussoorie and Auli. The state offers beautiful locations like Kausani, Lansdowne, Dhanaulti and Chakrata. A perfect place for nature lovers, winter travelers and those looking for quiet escapes.

Uttarakhand

Explore Cities in Uttarakhand

Discover the amazing cities of Uttarakhand and explore their unique attractions, culture, and experiences.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh

Renowned as the Yoga Capital of the world, Rishikesh located in Uttar Pradesh is a complete package of spiritual, adventurous, holy, and/or romantic destinations for all kinds and age groups of travelers. It is also acknowledged as an entryway to the Char Dham. The adventure activities like propelling, camping, hiking, bungee jumping, and river rafting are offered here under the guidance of experts.

Taste the Masala Chai, Samosa, Banana Curry, and Dal Makhni with Butter Roti when you are here. Celebrate the International Yoga and Music Festival, International Kayak Festival, Holi, and Basant Panchmi here with altogether different enthusiasm and zeal.

If you want complete peace and not much crowd then visit Rishikesh in January & February month because at that time tourists are very less there and you can enjoy the true beauty of the place.

Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh:

Things to do in Rishikesh:

  • Yoga and Meditation: Rishikesh is a haven for yoga enthusiasts. Here many ashrams and yoga centers offer classes and retreats for all levels.
  • Ganga Aarti: Ganga Aarti is a must-see activity in Rishikesh. This is an evening aarti performed on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar.
  • Adventure Activities: People can do many adventurous activities like rock climbing, white river rafting, bungee jumping, and many more.
  • Trekking: Explore the scenic beauty of the Himalayas with a trek to nearby trails like Rajaji National Park or Kunjapuri Devi Temple.
  • Visit Temples and Ashrams: People can visit ancient temples and ashrams like Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, and Parmarth Niketan.

Best Hotels in Rishikesh:

Rishikesh offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious riverside resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some popular choices based on people's reviews:

  • The Oberoi Vanyavilas
  • Ananda in the Himalayas
  • Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa 
  • Divine Resort & Spa
  • Parmarth Niketan
  • Zostel Rishikesh

Rishikesh Weather:

Rishikesh enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year.

Summers (April-June): In Summer, the weather is warm. The average temperature is between 25-35°C. 

Monsoons (July-September): Moderate rainfall is expected, which will make the surroundings lush and green.

Winters (October-March): Winters are mild with temperatures dipping as low as 10°C. 

Best time to visit Rishikesh:

You can visit Rishikesh throughout the year except during Monsoon because you can’t do some adventurous activities during this time. May and June months are pretty hot in Rishikesh when the temperature goes up to 35 °C. Try River Rafting here from late September to October and mid-November. Alternatively, you can visit Rishikesh from early March to April and at the beginning of May. If you want complete peace and not much crowd then visit Rishikesh in January & February month because at that time tourists are very less there and you can enjoy the true beauty of the place.

Dehradun

Dehradun

If you are planning for a trip to Uttarakhand, Dehradun is the only airport that will connect you from all over India. Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand is full of tourist attractions, adventure activities, trekking and mountains along with religious centers. The scenic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, wildlife in Rajaji National Park, and religious centers like Buddha Temple make it a popular tourist places near Dehradun. It is also the base city from where majority of the winter trek operator functioning and considered as the most happening city in Uttarakhand.

Haridwar

Haridwar

Haridwar is located on the bases of the Shivalik range of Himalayas. It is a place of enormous natural exquisiteness and home to the Holy River Ganges. Also recognized to Hindus as Mayapuri, Gangadwara and Mokshadwar, it is one among the most blessed cities in India. It is correspondingly a significant pilgrimage town for the Hindus. Sumptuous green forests and sparkling pure water of river Ganges with background of mountains creating the enchanting beauty of this holy city invites 1000s of tourists every year. Ghats looks striking as hundreds of deepaks (lamps) and marigold flowers glide and light up the river Ganges in evening hours.

The entire Haridwar is alienated in various small areas such as Bhupatwala, Brahampuri, Devpura,HaipurKalan, Har Ki Pauri, Jwalapur, Mayapur, Motichur, Ranipur, and Shivalik Nagar. Being a popular tourist destination it has some amazing food joints to eat at. Kashyap Kachori Bhandar, Mohan Ji Puri Wale, Bhagwati Chhole Bhandar, Mathura Walo Ki Pracheen Dukan, Pandit Sevaram Sharma Doodh Wale are few places that you must visit.

The Ardh Kumbh Mela, Dipawali, Holi, Kanwar Mela, Ganga Dussehra, Kartik Poornima, Kavad Mela, Somvati Amavasya Mela are among few festivals and fairs that are celebrated with utmost zeal and passion in Haridwar. An essential part of Haridwar's ethos is its Yoga Ashrams. The place is an abundant source of Ayurvedic medications and herbal therapies. Take part in Ganga Aarti, Yoga Sessions, and Meditation Sessions compulsorily when you are here. Pay visits to the Ashrams and attend lectures by Gurus to learn newer aspects of life

Best Time to Visit Haridwar:

February, March, August, September and October are best months to visit Haridwar. The summer months amid March and June are when the days get hot but the nights remain pleasant. One way to cool off is by taking a dip in the holy Ganges.

Places to Visit in Haridwar:

Har ki Pauri, Rajaji National Park, Bhramapuri Rafting Point, Mansa Devi Temple, Daksh Mahadev Temple, Pavan Dham and more

How to reach Haridwar:

  • The nearest domestic airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located around 20 kilometers from Haridwar however Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi is the nearby International Airport.
  • Through rail route Railway Station(s) Haridwar Junction, Motichurand Landaura would be the nearest.
  • Buses to Haridwar from major cities of the country are also available.

Weather in Haridwar:

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Top Uttarakhand Tour Packages

Explore the vibrant Uttarakhand with our thoughtfully curated tour packages, showcasing its rich culture, historical marvels, and natural beauty.

Kedarkantha Winter Trek Tour Package (5 Nights - 6 Days)

3(1 Reviews)

6D/5N

Kedarkantha Winter Trek Tour Package (5 Nights - 6 Days)

locationUttarakhand, India

₹ 7,499

Memorable Dehradun Nainital Corbett Tour Package (7 Nights-8 Days)

5(1 Reviews)

8D/7N

Memorable Dehradun Nainital Corbett Tour Package (7 Nights-8 Days)

locationUttarakhand, India

₹ 45,000

About Uttarakhand

If you’re planning your next holiday and wish to find a place filled with peace, nature, and adventure, then Uttarakhand is the perfect destination for you. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, this beautiful state in North India offers everything a traveller dreams of from snow-covered mountains and green valleys to holy rivers and ancient temples.

Uttarakhand, also called Devbhoomi or the "Land of Gods," is home to heavenly temples, thrilling trekking routes, and beautiful hill towns. From religious towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Badrinath to hill stations like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Auli, every corner of Uttarakhand has its own charm and story to tell. Truly, it’s one of the best places in Uttarakhand for people looking for both peace and thrill.

Why Rishikesh is So Famous

Rishikesh is famous for its spiritual energy, yoga centers, and adventure activities. Situated on the banks of the holy River Ganga, it is also the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Famous Attractions in Rishikesh

  1. Triveni Ghat – Holy evening Ganga Aarti
  2. Ram Jhula & Laxman Jhula – Iconic suspension bridges
  3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Famous Shiva temple in the hills
  4. Kunjapuri Temple – Sunrise viewpoint
  5. Beatles Ashram – Peaceful meditation spot
  6. Dhari Devi Temple, Vashishta Gufa, Rudraprayag Sangam, and Devprayag Sangam – holy sites of great importance

Most Popular Places in Uttarakhand

  1. Nainital – Lake views, boating, shopping at Mall Road
  2. Mussoorie – Kempty Waterfall, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Nag Tibba Trek
  3. Auli – Skiing slopes, cable car rides, snow adventure
  4. Dhanaulti – Quiet nature spot near Mussoorie, Surkanda Devi Temple
  5. Kanatal Hill Station – Forest treks and valley views
  6. Kausani – Known for Himalayan sunrise and tea gardens
  7. Lansdowne – Calm hill town, Tip-n-Top viewpoint
  8. Chakrata – Hidden hill retreat surrounded by pine forests

These are some of the top places to explore in Uttarakhand for a refreshing mountain getaway.

Adventure Activities in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a true heaven for adventure lovers. With its mighty rivers, snowy peaks, and green valleys, this state offers endless excitement for adventure lovers of all kinds. If you love water sports, trekking, or flying in the open sky, you’ll find something that fills your heart with thrill.

1. River Rafting – Rishikesh

Enjoy thrilling white-water rafting on the Ganga River in Rishikesh, surrounded by beautiful mountains and peaceful ghats.

2. Bungee Jumping – Rishikesh

Feel the rush as you jump from great heights near Mohan Chatti in Rishikesh, one of India’s best spots for bungee jumping.

3. Trekking Kedarkantha, Nag Tibba, Har Ki Dun

Walk through pine forests, snowy peaks, and mountain villages on famous treks like Kedarkantha, Nag Tibba, and Har Ki Dun Valley.

4. Skiing – Auli

Experience the joy of skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Auli, a winter paradise offering views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.

5. Paragliding – Mussoorie, Dhanaulti and Nainital

Fly high and enjoy bird’s-eye views of green valleys and lakes with paragliding adventures in Mussoorie, Dhanaulti, and Nainital.

6. Rock Climbing & Rappelling – Mussoorie, Chakrata

Challenge your limits with rock climbing and rappelling on natural cliffs in Mussoorie and Chakrata—ideal for both beginners and pros.

7. Mountain Biking – Rishikesh, Nainital, Kaudia Range

Explore hidden tracks and forest paths on a mountain bike ride through Rishikesh, Nainital, or the scenic Kaudia Range.

8. Camping & Wildlife Safari – Chopta, Jim Corbett, Rajaji National Park

Stay close to nature with camping in Chopta and wildlife safaris in Jim Corbett or Rajaji National Park, where you can spot elephants and tigers.

Spiritual Tourism in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a major hub for spiritual journeys, attracting devotees and peace tourists from around the world. The spiritual atmosphere, holy rivers, and ancient temples make it truly special.

Famous Spiritual Destinations

  1. Haridwar One of India’s holiest cities where thousands gather at Har Ki Pauri to take a holy dip in the Ganges.
  2. Rishikesh Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is famous for its peaceful ghats like Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Beatles Ashram, Kunjapuri Temple, and Vashishta Gufa.
  3. Char Dham Yatra Includes the sacred shrines of Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple, Shree Badrinath Temple, Yamunotri, and Gangotri, visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year.
  4. Hemkund Sahib (Chamoli) A famous Sikh shrine located near the Valley of Flowers.
  5. Devprayag & Rudraprayag Sangam The confluence of holy rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi that form the Ganga.
  6. Kartik Swami Temple Known for its high-altitude views and spiritual peace.
  7. Dhari Devi Temple A powerful shrine located on the Alaknanda River.

Food in Uttarakhand

The food of Uttarakhand is simple yet full of flavor, made with fresh mountain ingredients and traditional recipes.

Popular Dishes

  1. Aloo ke Gutke – Spicy potato dish served with puri or roti.
  2. Kafuli – Nutritious spinach-based curry made with local herbs.
  3. Phaanu and Chainsoo – protein-rich lentil curries cooked slowly for rich taste.
  4. Gahat ki Dal – Made with horse gram, a staple in mountain diets.
  5. Bal Mithai and Singori are famous sweets from the Kumaon region.

In Rishikesh and Haridwar, travellers enjoy delicious vegetarian thalis, chaat, and sweets near temples and ghats—making food a soulful part of their spiritual journey.

Shopping in Uttarakhand

Best Shopping Spots

  1. Nainital – Woolen shawls, handmade candles, and wooden gifts.
  2. Mussoorie – Local jams, honey, and handicrafts.
  3. Dehradun – Popular for brass artifacts and spices.
  4. Rishikesh – Yoga mats, rudraksha malas, organic oils, and Ayurvedic items.

Buying local products supports regional artisans and keeps Uttarakhand’s traditional artistry alive.

Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand

The best time to visit depends on the type of trip you want to enjoy:

Summer (March–June): Perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and visiting mountain towns.

Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery everywhere, ideal for photographers (but some areas may have landslides).

Winter (October–February): Best for snow activities, honeymoon trips, and spiritual experiences.

So pack your bags and get ready to visit the best places in Uttarakhand—a land where peace, spirituality, and adventure come together in a perfect blend.