Uttarakhand, a North Indian state in the Himalayan region, is immensely blessed with nature and cultural diversity. This Indian state offers Israeli cuisine, Tibetan culture, colonial architecture, world-famous pilgrimage sites, and views of glorious Himalayan peaks, wildlife sanctuaries, caves, and waterfalls, among other things. Uttarakhand is home to a great number of hill stations that are close to each other and have distinct titles such as "India's Skiing Capital," “Queen of the Hill stations,” “Yoga capital of the world,” etc. The state is sometimes referred to as "Devbhoomi," which means "Land of God." No number of words can adequately depict the awe-inspiring beauty that this state possesses. As a result, we've assembled the top 10 destinations of Uttarakhand that could show you what this state holds!

Top 10 Places To Visit In Uttarakhand

Here are the top 10 places suggested by our local travel experts - Let’s begin!

1. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is also known as the “Yoga capital of the world.” It is located 340 meters above sea level by the side of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga rivers in the Himalayan foothills. This small town of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, is dedicated to the study of yoga and meditation around the world. Rishikesh is popular among travelers who seek tranquility and adventures. The town offers various outdoor activities such as river rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, firefox, waterfall trekking, kayaking, swing, rock climbing, and more.

Places to visit in Rishikesh:

Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, The Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri, Ram Jhula, Kaudiyala, Jadh Ganga Trek, Kuari Pass, Neer Garh Waterfall, Swarg Ashram, Rishikund, Geeta Bhawan, Muni ki Reti, Byasi, Piran Kaliyar Sharif, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Garud Chatti Waterfalls, Patna Waterfalls, Himshail Waterfalls, Phool Chatti Waterfalls, and more.

How to reach Rishikesh:

• Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport to Rishikesh.
• Rishikesh is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, Tehri, and more by road.
• Haridwar is the nearest railway station (25 kilometers away), and Haridwar is connected to major places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

Best time to visit Rishikesh:

The best time to visit Rishikesh is September to June and November for white water rafting. You can also visit Rishikesh from February to early May for various other activities and the International Yoga Festival.

2. Auli

Auli is one of the prime destinations for skiing in India, located at an elevation of 2505 meters close to Badrinath in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. This stunning town is lined with dense apple orchards, old oaks, and pine trees. Auli is home to the majestic Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamat Kamet mountain ranges. You can go trekking to Kwani Bugyal, Gurso Bugyal, and several other trekking destinations for a stunning view of the Himalayan range. You can also participate in skiing or have wonderful moments from the viewpoints of the town.

Places to visit in Auli:

Trishul Peak, Auli Ropeway, Joshimath, Kwani Bugyal, Gurso Bugyal, Viewpoint, Rudrapyarag, Nandaprayag, Chenab Lake and more.

How to reach Auli:

• The nearest airport is in Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport (298 kilometers away).
• The closest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh Railway Station (235 km).
• Buses run to Joshimath (13 kilometers away), and passengers can then take a taxi to Auli.

Best time to visit Auli: 

Throughout the year - April to June (summer), July to September (monsoon), and November to February (winter).

3. Mukteshwar

The small town of Mukteshwar is named after the 350-year-old Shiva Temple, Mukteshwar Dham. Mukteshwar is located at an altitude of 2171 meters in Kumaon Hills, around 50 km from Nainital in Uttarakhand. This destination is extremely popular for its captivating Himalayan views and outdoor sports activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling. Dense orchards, coniferous forests, meadows, and little residents built in quaint colonial style complete the vacation theme of the Mukteshwar.

Places to visit in Mukteshwar:

Sitla, Chauthi Jaali, Mukteshwar Temple, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow, Nanda Devi View Point, Kilmora Shop, Peora, Ramgarh, and more.

How to reach Mukteshwar:

• Kathgodam is the closest railway station (70 kilometers away)
• Pantnagar is the nearest airport to Mukteshwar (100 kilometers away)
• Mukteshwar is connected to almost all major cities by road.

Best time to reach Mukteshwar:

March and June are considered the best months to visit the destination. However, you can visit Mukteshwar all year round.

4. Dehradun

Located in the lap of Doon Valley, at an altitude of 426 meters, Dehradun lies in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The city of Dehradun is known as the “Winter Capital of Uttarakhand” and is well known for its caves, waterfalls, and natural springs. This destination offers amazing bird-watching and trekking opportunities as well as family-friendly tourist spots.

Places to visit in Dehradun:

Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Temple, Malsi Deer Park, Mindrolling Monastery, Forest Research Institute, Lacchiwalla, Assan Barrage, Tapovan Ashram, Rajaji National Park, Ram Rai Gurudwara, Fun Valley, Kalinga War Memorial, Shikhar Falls, Maldevta, Har Ki Dun, Tiger View Jungle Camp, Bali Pass, and more.

How to reach Dehradun:

• Dehradun railway station connects Dehradun to the rest of India.
• The town has excellent roadway service from various major cities.
• Jolly Grant Airport is Dehradun's very own and the largest airport in Uttarakhand.

Best time to visit Dehradun:

April to June is the peak season for visiting Dehradun since the weather remains pleasant. Plus, you can also visit between November to March experience winter and snow, which makes the valley look at its best.

5. Lansdowne

Lansdowne was founded by the Viceroy of India during the British period and is considered the most amazing destination for picnics, bird watchers, and hikers. The region is famous for its calm and intact atmosphere. Lansdowne is located at an altitude of 1,780 meters in Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. The town has historical significance dating back to the Pre-Independence period of India, which is portrayed in the streets itself. The Garhwali Museum in the city traces the history of the Garhwal Rifles Regiment of India, and it is highly recommended to visit the museum on your trip to Lansdowne or nearby cities.

Places to visit in Lansdowne:

Bhulla Lake, Bhim Pakora, Tip n Top (Tiffin Top), Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Snow Viewpoint, Darwan Singh Regimental Museum, Kalagarh Tiger Reserve, St. John's Church, Lansdowne Trip- Travel Cafe, and more.

How to reach Lansdowne:

• Kotdwar is the nearest railway station (40 kilometers away) from Lansdowne.
• The nearest airport is Dehradun (83 kilometers)
• Lansdowne is very well-connected to Delhi and Uttar Pradesh via road.

Best time to visit Lansdowne:

November to February is the best time since it is winters in Lansdowne and it can get extremely cold as the temperature drops to 0 degrees Celsius, but you can still explore the place in the snow. However, the best time to visit the town is in summer - April to June, with a temperature around 25 degrees Celsius.

6. Binsar

Binsar is famous for its green atmosphere, Himalayan views, Zero Point, temples, and Binsar wildlife sanctuary. The town is situated 33 kilometers away from Almora in Uttarakhand at an elevation of 2420 meters. Binsar is well suited for trekkers and laid-back travelers; the surroundings of this amazing town will either capture your soul to stay and admire the beauty or excite you to explore the unexplored.

Places to visit in Binsar:

Golu Devata Temple, Zero Point, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bineshwar Temple, Khali Estate, Gananath Temple, Pariyadeva Pashan, and more.

How to reach Binsar:

• The closest airport to Binsar is Pant Nagar, which is about 139 kilometers away.
• Binsar is 105 kilometers from Kathgodam, the nearest railway station.
• The roadways travel facility, however, is convenient if you take ISBT buses from Haldwani (112km), Nainital (86km), and Almora (24km).

Best time to visit Binsar:

The best time to visit Binsar would be from October to March. Summers are best for trekking, while winters are amazing for snowfall and romantic vacations.

7. Kedarnath

Kedarnath doesn’t need elaboration since it is one of the Char Dham of the North. This holy shrine is dedicated to lord Shiva and is the most important among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Kedarnath is located at a height of 3584 meters in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is situated near Chorabari Glacier next to the Mandakini River in the Garhwal Himalayan range. This pilgrimage site is supreme among the Panch Kedar.

Places to visit in Kedarnath:

Shankaracharya Samadhi, Vasuki Tal, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan, Bhairavnath Temple, Agastyamuni, Chorabari Lake, Gaurikund, Rudra Meditation Cave, Phata, Chandrashila and more.

How to reach Kedarnath:

• You can take airways from Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh to Kedarnath helipad.
• Gaurikund is the last road to be traveled by motor vehicle. You can take roadways to Gaurikund from anywhere in India. Some states offer bus services to Sonprayag. From Sonpyarag, you can take a cab or a local bus to Gaurikund.
• Trekking is the only mode of transportation from Gaurikund towards uphill. Although you can take private services of Palki/Dandi, Kandi or Poni at various price ranges to reach Kedarnath

Best time to visit Kedarnath:

Kedarnath is mostly visited between the months of April and November each year, according to the state government's approved dates. Due to heavy snowfall, this destination remains closed for the rest of the year.

8. Chakrata

Chakrata is situated at an elevation of 2117 meters, approx. 98 kilometers from the state capital, Dehradun. The city was a cantonment of the British Indian Army in the past. Chakrata is well known for its astounding coniferous forest, treks, caves, and ancient temples. This is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the natural realms and stay among birds and mother nature. Along with this, Chakrata also provides trekking and skiing possibilities 16 kilometers away from the city of Mundali.

Places to visit in Chakrata:

Tiger Falls, Deoban, Budher caves, Mundali, Chilmiri Neck, Ram Tal Horticultural Garden, and more.

How to reach Chakrata:

• The nearest railway station is the Dehradun Railway Station.
• Buses are available from Dehradun and Mussoorie on a regular basis.
• Nearest Airport is Dehradun (46 kilometre away)

Best time to visit Chakrata:

March to June is the best time to visit this wonderful hill station.

9. Mussoorie

This delightful destination is located at an altitude of 2133 meters in the Shivalik Range of the great Himalayas. It is situated in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. Mussoorie is often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Mussoorie was once a summer capital during the British era, and its glimpse can still be found in the architecture of the town. This wonderful place offers mesmerizing mountain views along with green valleys and stands out as the perfect destination for wedding trips and family trips. The city provides various trekking, rafting, paragliding, skywalks, and opportunities, along with vinification workshops.

Places to visit in Mussoorie:

Kempty Fall, Lal Tibba, Gun Hills, Lake Mist, Landour, Camel’s Back Road, Cloud’s End, Jharipani Falls, Shedup Choepelling Temple, Bhatta Falls, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, George Everest's House, Jwala Devi Temple, Company Garden, Soham Heritage Centre, Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve, Mossy Falls, Happy Valley and more.

How to reach Mussoorie:

• Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Mussoorie (60 kilometers away).
• Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railway station (36 kilometers away) from Mussoorie.
• Mussoorie is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, Tehri, and more by road.

Best time to visit Mussoorie:

April to mid-July for Sightseeing since the weather remains pleasant. September to mid-November for breathtaking Himalayan views. December to February for Snowfall. 

10. Nainital

Nainital is a popular destination in Uttarakhand, formerly a British hill station, situated at an elevation of 2000 meters. It is also known as the “city of lakes.” The town is located around the Nainital Lake in the Kumaon region. It is close to Dehradun and Delhi, which is why it is the most visited hill station in the north. Nainital offers beautiful colonial structures from the British era, such as boating at Naini Lake, a Ropeway ride, an Adventure Park, Temples, and delightful evenings at the Mall Road.

Places to visit in Nainital:

High Altitude Zoo, Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Eco Cave Garden, Snow View Point, Nainital Ropeway, Tiffin Top, Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, Viewpoints, Naina Peak, Bhimtal, Raj Bhawan, Pangot, Gurney House, Tibetan Market, Jeolikot, St John Wilderness Church, Khurpa Taal, Astronomical Observatory, Bhowali, Jim Corbett National Park, Land’s End and more.

How to reach Nainital:

• Kathgodam Railway Station, located around 34 km away, is the nearest railway station. From Kathgodam, you can take roadways to reach Nainital.
• Pantnagar Airport, located at a distance of 65 kilometers, is the nearest airport to the town.
• Some states offer roadway services to Nainital as well.

Best time to visit Nainital:

The weather is pleasant year-round; you can visit any time of the year. But the best time to visit Nainital is from March to June.

Uttarakhand is a truly amazing place with its beautiful mountains, diverse cultures, and stunning scenery. From the peaceful town of Rishikesh to the snowy slopes of Auli, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to visit old temples, try exciting activities, or just enjoy nature, Uttarakhand has it all.

For a memorable trip to this incredible state, book your tour package with Connecting Traveller. We offer well-planned tours to help you explore the best of Uttarakhand, including its famous spots and hidden treasures. Contact us now to start planning your perfect vacation.

FAQ

Q: Which is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand?

A: The most beautiful place in Uttarakhand is Nainital. This lovely hill station is known for its stunning lake, surrounded by green hills. The peaceful environment and great views make it a popular spot for visitors.

Q: What is very famous in Uttarakhand?

A: Haridwar is very famous in Uttarakhand. It's known for the Ganga Aarti, a special evening ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River. People come from all over to experience this spiritual event.

Q: Which is the best in Uttarakhand?

A: Rishikesh is often considered the best place in Uttarakhand. It’s famous for its yoga centers and adventure activities like rafting. Many people visit Rishikesh for both spiritual growth and outdoor fun.

Q: Which is the coldest place in Uttarakhand?

A: Auli is the coldest place in Uttarakhand. It is high up in the mountains, and during winter, it gets very cold with lots of snow. It’s a popular spot for skiing.

Q: Where is the winter capital of Uttarakhand?

A: Dehradun is the winter capital of Uttarakhand. It has milder winters compared to other parts of the state, making it a comfortable place during the colder months.

Q: Where is there heavy snowfall in Uttarakhand?

A: Munsiyari gets heavy snowfall in Uttarakhand. Located in the Pithoragarh district, it’s high in the mountains and experiences a lot of snow during winter.

Q: Which is the hottest month in Uttarakhand?

A: The hottest month in Uttarakhand is usually June. During this month, temperatures can get quite high, especially in the lower parts of the state, before the cooler monsoon season begins.

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