Tired of the hustle and bustle of typical city life? Want to retreat amidst some breathtaking landscapes accompanied by the backdrop of verdant mountains? If you say yes, then Uttarakhand must be your go-to destination this time.
A place so full of mythological sagas, adventurous activities, incessant natural beauty and an inexplicable serenity all around, spending a few days effectively in Uttarakhand means taking back home lots and lots of indelible memories to cherish for years to come.
So, want to explore Uttarakhand to the full? In that case, make sure that you explore these 15 places to visit in Uttarakhand for sure.
Let’s begin!
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
You are never short of reasons when visiting a mind-bogging tourist destination such as Uttarakhand. Since the entire place is divided into two individual regions, Kumaon and Garhwal, each of them offer a picturesque viewpoint to all their visitors.
Nestling along the towering Himalayan ranges, every person who marvels around Uttarakhand would fall for it instantly and feel the harmony of nature over here every step of the way.
Coming to its major tourist attractions, Chopta, Auli, Nainital and Mussoorie are a few jaw-dropping spots, perfect for a hill station vacation for a week or two. Besides, since the Char Dhams or four sacred shrines are situated in the province, they’ve earned Uttarakhand the sobriquet of Devbhoomi or Land of Gods as well.
So, if you want to witness Mother Nature and religious fervor at the pinnacle of their aesthetics, then you got to visit Uttarakhand at least once in your lifetime. However, don’t miss out on including these places to visit in Uttarakhand the next time you are in the state.
1. Kedarnath
Get an amazing travelling experience in Kedarnath aside from sensing spirituality at its peak. This is all due to the presence of the holy Kedarnath Temple that is situated at the heart of this place, hence is frequented by myriads of tourists from all over the world.
It is particularly situated near the Mandakini River, and the majestic view of the lofty Himalayan ranges will surely bring out that shutterbug in you and you can’t wait to take a few snaps of the entire scene.
So, to seek some spiritual solace for a while, visiting Kedarnath for a couple of hours must definitely be on your bucket list.
2. Lansdowne
A spectacular hill station situated near the Garhwal region, Lansdowne has been named after Lord Lansdowne in the year 1887. Before that, the locals out here would call this place Kaludana, ‘’Kalu’’ meaning black and ‘’Dana’’ meaning hills as per the indigenous dialect of Uttarakhand.
Established by the colonial rulers during the British Raj, this cantonment town shares close proximity with the major cities of India. So you can reach here quite easily. Hence, if you are a sheer mountain lover, then visit Lansdowne this time around without a miss.
Major attractions:
Some of the spots that you must arrive at while being here include the Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, St. John’s Church, Tip N Point, Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple and Bhim Pakora etc.
3. Almora
Almora is yet another charming hill station, perfect for a summer getaway. It was once the empire of the Chand Dynasty that ruled the entire region of Kumaon for at least one thousand years and not less.
Encompassed by cascading waterfalls, snow-clad mountains and verdant forests, Almora situates at a distance of 60 km from the main city of Nainital. So, if you are looking for an extempore retreat amidst the lap of nature, then come all along to Almora and your desire is satiated.
Major attractions:
It’s a place that both adventure lovers and spiritual seekers would love alike, the most notable tourist attractions being the Nanda Devi Temple, Katarmal Sun Temple, Kasar Devi Temple, Jagdeshwar Dham, Zero Point, Bright End Corner, Martola and so on.
4. Mukteshwar
If a vacation in quietude is what you are up to, then Mukteshwar situated in the Nainital District would serve you the much-needed purpose. Take a look around and you will come across the bewitching sight of lush green forests, fruit orchards, verdant meadows and slender lanes with the backdrop of dazzling mountain ranges.
In fact, the moment you will come here, the incessant serenity and calmness that surround the whole of this place will surely take your breath away. Also, if you are a buccaneer at heart, then do try out a little bit of rock climbing, paragliding, camping, trekking and all of that.
Moreover, the 22 snow-capped mountains that encircled the Kumaon region take the overall beauty of Mukteshwar a notch higher. Besides, a favourable climate prevails here throughout the year and it’s surely an added advantage.
Nonetheless, try and come to this mesmerizing spot during summer to relish its true beauty every step of the way.
Major attractions:
However, while unravelling every nook and cranny of Mukteshwar, make it a point to visit the Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls, Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, Mukteshawar Dham Temple and Chauli Ki Jali without fail or else your trip to this destination would totally remain incomplete.
5. Ranikhet
A stunning cantonment town, nestling along the Western Himalayan Peaks, Ranikhet, literally meaning ‘’Land of the Queen’’, is a surefire destination for those who are looking for a summer escape this time.
Situated particularly within Almora, birders, adventurers and hikers would equally fall for this place as it has everything to satisfy their needs. So, once you are here, do give a whirl to activities such as rock climbing, paragliding and birdwatching etc. whatever you feel like it.
Since Queen Padmini loved the enchanting ambience of this region, that’s why this name. Golf aficionados would also grow a fondness for Ranikhet since it is considered one of the top Golf courses in the whole of the Asian subcontinent.
However, don’t fail to perch on a verdant meadow and watch the breathtaking sight of the Trishul Peak on a clement day and be assured that you can’t stop gazing at its beauty for many hours to come.
Major attractions:
Amidst all these, turn up at areas such as the Jhula Devi Temple, Meghdoot or Chaubatia Orchards aside from experiencing hiking trails at Holm Farm and fishing at Bhalu Dham for a while.
All in all, a sojourn to an idyllic hill station like Ranikhet would surely let you have a whale of a time.
6. Dehradun
The entire of Dehradun is encompassed by majestic valleys, towering mountains and an azure blue sky teamed up with umpteen rooftops. Perching at the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun is so far regarded as the biggest city in the Uttarakhand region.
So, make sure that you include Dehradun in the checklist of your go-to places to visit in Uttarakhand and that’s for sure. Coming to its Demographics, it lies between the Asan and Song Rivers, specifically within the Doon Valley.
In fact, many consider it the gateway to the Garhwal region, hence is frequented by most travellers first before they explore the rest of the tourist sites in Uttarakhand. Besides, the favourable weather condition, mind-blowing landscapes and nascent air wavering all around in Dehradun make it a great haven for those who want to de-stress themselves to the full after being fed up with their mundane lifestyle.
As already said, Dehradun shares close proximity with many other tourist sites in Uttarakhand. And you can surely trot around these places during your tip this time. The most prominent of them include Dhanaulti, Auli, Harsil, Chopta Tungnath, Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Chakarta and New Tehri etc.
Major attractions:
If you want, you can also trek along regions such as Har Ke Dun, Kedarkantha and so on aside from indulging in a short trip to the Chota Char Dham Yatra and rest assured that the entire experience you will have is going to be one-of-its-kind.
7. Bhimtal
Renamed after the Pandava brother Bhima, Bhimtal is definitely a historically prominent region in the whole of Uttarakhand. In fact, many believe that Bhima along with his four brothers would frequent the Bhima Sarovar during the time of their exile, hence this sobriquet.
Since the Pandavas were in search of a water genesis but were not getting one, Bhima the mightiest of all punched into the ground with his powerful fist and created a hollow over there, subsequently unravelling the underground water so as to quench their thirst.
So, we can say that Bhimtal as a destination shares a deep connection with this white hat from our revered epic Mahabharata. And to get clear evidence of that, don’t forget to pay a visit to the Bhimeshwar Temple and the sight of the pristine Bhimtal Lake is enough to steal your heart.
More so, there are many other shrines over here and as you explore each of them back-to-back, you will attain an indescribable peace and calmness from inside. Also, if you feel like it, you can hop on a boating ride to perceive the true bliss of the Bhimtal Lake provided you have a penchant for this activity.
Pedestrians and long-drive enthusiasts would equally fall for Bhimtal as it offers an amazing road connectivity. So, to have a gala time solo or with your friends or family, a sojourn to the ravishing Bhimtal must definitely be on your Uttarakhand itinerary.
Again, a gentle reminder, you can come here at any point in time since the weather remains favourable in Bhimtal all through the year.
8. New Tehri
Are you a sheer nature Aficionado? Do you love sightseeing lush green landscapes while indulging in various thrill-filled activities? If the answer to all these questions is yes, then visiting New Tehri must be your top priority while wandering every length and breadth of Uttarakhand.
Spiritual seekers are also welcome here due to the appeasing temple tours offered in the region. Besides, you can certainly give a whirl to activities like loft trekking trails and various aqua stunts etc.
Also, don’t miss out on viewing the pristine Bhagirathi River as well as the Tehri dam and lake, the latter being the largest hydroelectric project in the province, and be assured that such a sight is enough to leave you lost for words.
So, if you are visiting Uttarakhand with your full family or a battalion of friends, then New Tehri is an appropriate destination to take back home some fond memories ahead as you will enjoy some of the finest times over there in the companion of your near and dear ones.
Though you are free to turn up at this region throughout the year, to relish the true festive fervour amongst the locals here, it is best advised to come during the Tehri Lake festival. Not only this but New Tehri is an ideal spot for couples too and if you want you can surely spend some romantic moments with your partner here as you reside in the afloat huts for a day or two.
9. Kausani
A small hamlet in Uttarakhand, Kausani definitely makes an amazing hill station zone for individuals looking for an impromptu retreat. Also regarded as the second Switzerland of India after Chopta, the sight of the lofty Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchachuli Peak and most importantly the Himalayan ranges will surely get you goosebumps.
Aside from that, tourists get enticed by the diverse avian species, alpine hills, eye-appealing creeks, spectacular sunsets smudged in a deep orange all around and verdant landscapes to say the least.
Interestingly, Mahatma Gandhi also paid a short visit to this place, fell for its captivating beauty right then and called it mini-Switzerland instantly, that’s why this name. However, you can’t go back without trekking along the Rudrani Cave Temple, discovering the nature-studded villages aside from shopping for some wow Kausani Shawls.
Needless to say, an ecstatic encounter of this sort would compel you to frequent Uttarakhand a couple of times more, and it’s a bet.
10. Jim Corbett National Park
Don’t think that Nainital located in Uttarakhand has nothing to offer to wildlife Aficionados as the Jim Corbet National Park is a prominent instance of that. In fact, this place is home to some of the finest wildlife creatures, primarily tigers and this is the sole reason why tourists frequent here every now and again.
The main Park area is divided into five individual segments, each of them being a safe haven for various kinds of flora and fauna. In particular, the sight of Asiatic elephants, a diverse range of bears, deer and Royal Bengal Tigers striding imperiously at times will surely give you an exhilarating sensation.
Coming to its avian habitation, the Jim National Park is also a living space for around 650 types of birds. So, even if you are an ardent bird watcher, you will never be short of visual entertainment while trotting every nook and cranny of this destination.
In a word, a visit to this phenomenal Uttarakhand tourist site would let you spend some of the most delightful moments with your beloved ones.
11. Rishikesh
If there is a home to River Ganga, it’s undoubtedly Rishikesh backdropped by the spellbinding vistas of the snow-clad Himalayas. So, the moment you will come here, inexplicable tranquillity and divine ambience will enthral you every step of the way and you will feel like residing in a dreamy world that doesn’t even exist on earth.
Also, the place is alternatively known as the world capital of meditation and yoga, hence is an ideal go-to point for those who wish to relax and rejuvenate themselves for a while alongside spending some beautiful moments in seclusion.
So, if you are a yoga freak, then do hit any of the Ashrams out here and learn the several Asanas, imperative for inner healing. Besides, if you are more into adventure and kinds of stuff, then why not indulge in a spree of rock climbing, giant swing, trekking zip lining, bungee jumping and rafting for that matter?
Major attractions:
Amidst all this, spiritual seekers would surely find some solace in Rishikesh, since the sight of the evening Ganga Aarti or the holy shrines scattered everywhere in the city are enough to satiate their desire.
So, to come across a unique solo or family outing, arrive in Rishikesh at least for once while you travel around Uttarakhand.
12. Mussoorie
Encompassed by the breathtaking Shivalik peaks, lush green landscapes and a pleasant weather around the year, a sojourn to Mussoorie during your Uttarakhand itinerary will surely gratify your soul.
Besides, the satiating nature walks, mind-boggling sceneries, view of the idyllic Doon Valley, buzzing markets and snow-topped Himalayan ranges are some of the compelling factors that will make you fall for this majestic town over and over again.
On top of everything, you will find Mussoorie an utterly romantic destination too and that’s the primary reason why couples are seen frequenting this place throughout the year.
So, if you have tied the knot very recently and indulged in a Uttarakhand tour, make it a point to visit a surreal region like Mussoorie for sure.
13. Nainital
Alternatively known as the Lake City of India, Nainital must surely be on your go-to wish list when planning a trip to Uttarakhand. So, be it the verdant landscapes, snow-clad Himalayan ranges, delectable cuisines or of bustling bazaars, everything that you will experience in Nainital is worth relishing and feeling gratified at.
Also, the revered Naina Devi Temple over here is considered one of the Shakti Peethas, as many believe that the eyes of the ablaze body of Goddess Sati fell here. So, if you are on the lookout for some spiritual comfort, then this holy shrine will certainly actualize your desire.
Besides, the vistas of the seven hills or Sapta-Shring are enough to take your breath away. Not only that, but you can hop on a boating ride as well across the pristine Naini Lake and rest assured that you can’t forget this experience for the rest of your life.
In case, you are an adventure enthusiast, then giving a whirl to a spree of hot air ballooning, golfing, paragliding, watersports, boating or of mountaineering will make your day.
14. Auli
Travelling around Uttarakhand and not visiting Auli means doing sheer injustice to your trip to this province. In fact, whether it’s climbing the Pangarchulla Summit, trekking along the enigmatic Gorson Bugyal, beholding the ethereal floral valleys, experiencing spiritual fervour at the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, relishing the sight of the majestic Nandi Devi, also the second highest Himalayan Peak in Uttarakhand, beholding the verdant coniferous and Oak forests or stealing a glance of the divine landscapes out here, Auli has several wonders and amazements to offer you down the road.
Also, if skiing unapologetically is more your thing, then Auli is a place considered second to none. So, no matter whether you are an adventurer or snow lover at heart, you will surely fall for Auli, the moment you are at this awe-inspiring destination of Uttarakhand.
On top of everything, a cable car ride on the snow-clad slopes is a one-of-its-kind experience that you can’t afford to miss out on, with Auli cable car drives being the longest in India.
So, do come to Auli once you have hopped on your Uttarakhand journey and it’s a bet that the moments you will spend here will have a lasting impact on you.
15. Chopta Tungnath
Have you always longed for visiting surreal Switzerland but have never been able to do so? Well, as of now, you don’t have to because a trip to Chopta Tungnath would be sufficient for its identical resemblance with the former.
This is the reason it’s also called the mini-Switzerland of India. Nestling along the Garhwal Himalayas, the sight of the lush green meadows, arresting valleys, snow-clad Peaks and jaw-dropping hiking trails will compel you to visit Chopta Tungnath times and again.
Since the weather here remains clement all through the year, you can arrive in this spot at any given point in time; be it during summers, winters, monsoons, spring or fall for that matter. Besides, the place also serves as a wonderful trekking zone to get to Tungnath and Chandrashila, the former being the third holiest shrine amongst the revered Panch Kedar Temples.
Also, on the right-hand side are the temples of Kalpeshwar and Rudranath and Madmeshwar and Kedarnath on the left and you can certainly pay a visit to them whenever you feel like it or get the urge to seek some spiritual solace for a while.
Not only that, but Chopta is also an apt destination for avid birders as the place is home to nearly 240 species of avian creatures to be precise. Hill Partridge, Himalayan Monal and Himalayan Griffon are the most prominent of them.
So, no matter whether you are a birdwatcher, nature lover or adventure aficionado, Chopta Tungnath has everything to quench your thirst to the full.
Unravel the exquisite Uttarakhand!
Uttarakhand has a hell lot of compelling sites to please you visually and gratify you mentally. Amidst all of them, there are certain spots in the destination that set them apart from others, ensuring some of the finest and oh-so moments for their visitors.
Needless to say, the 15 places to visit in Uttarakhand that have been elucidated above surely fall under this checklist and you must include them in your Uttarakhand itinerary too in order to relish a rapturous trip down the road.