Best Tourism Places to Visit in Uttarakhand – The Devbhoomi of India
Uttarakhand, popularly known as Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods), is one of the most geographically rich and spiritually rich federal states of North India. To enter in the majestic Himalayas offers a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, wilderness, nature and culture. Whether you are a pilgrim, a nature lover, an adventurer or a wedding traveller – Uttarakhand has something magical to offer.
Here is a curated list of the most beautiful travel destinations in Uttarakhand, that speak to unforgettable memories.
1. Nainital – The City of Lakes
- Ideal for: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, October to February
Nainital is situated on the beautiful Naini–Lake and is one of the most popular mountain ranges in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by steep hills, the city offers breath-taking views and colonial charm. Boat trips on the Naini–Lake, a visit to the Naina Devi Temples and a cable car ride are a must.
Top Attractions:
- Naini Lake
- Snow View Point
- Nainital Zoo
- Mall Road
2. Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills
- Ideal for: Honeymooners, Families, Solo Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
Mussoorie is located just 35 km from Dehradun and is a picturesque mountain with a panoramic view over the Doon-Tal and the Shivalik-Mountain Range. Known for its colonial roots and its cool climate, it is an ideal summer resort for urban living.
Top Attractions:
- Kempty Falls
- Gun Hill
- Camel’s Back Road
- Mussoorie Mall Road
3. Rishikesh – Yoga Capital of the World
- Ideal for: Spiritual Seekers, Adventure Enthusiasts
- Best Time to Visit: September to November, March to May
Rishikesh is a unique mixture of spirituality and physical -adventure. The city is world famous for Yoga, Meditation and the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Adventure seekers come here for Wild water-Rafting, Bungee-Jumping and Camping.
Top Attractions:
- Laxman Jhula
- Triveni Ghat
- Parmarth Niketan
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
4. Haridwar – Gateway to the Gods
- Ideal for: Pilgrims, Spiritual Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Haridwar one of the holiest cities of India, is located where the Ganga meets the plain. The Ganga Aarti at Har ki Pauri is a spiritual experience like no other. The starting point of Char Dham Yatra is also different.
Top Attractions:
- Har Ki Pauri
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Bharat Mata Mandir
5. Jim Corbett National Park – Wildlife Haven
- Ideal for: Wildlife Enthusiasts, Families
- Best Time to Visit: November to June
Jim Corbett, India’s oldest national park, is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. It covers 500 square kilometres and is home to Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and hundreds of bird species.
Activities:
- Jungle Safari
- Bird Watching
- River Rafting (in Kosi River)
- Nature Walks
6. Auli – Skiing Capital of India
- Ideal for: Adventure Lovers, Snow Seekers
- Best Time to Visit: December to March (snow), May to October (for trekking)
Auli, surrounded by coniferous forests and apple orchards, is a picturesque winter destination. When it snows, it transforms into a ski paradise. The Auli cable car is one of the longest in Asia and offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.
Top Attractions:
- Auli Ski Resort
- Gurso Bugyal
- Joshimath
- Auli Artificial Lake
7. Badrinath – Sacred Pilgrimage Site
- Ideal for: Pilgrims, Spiritual Tourists
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Badrinath is one of the Char Dhams and a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Located at an altitude of 3,300 meters, it is dedicated to the god Vishnu. With the Nar-Narayan Mountains as a backdrop, the temple is both spiritually and visually fascinating.
Top Attractions:
- Badrinath Temple
- Tapt Kund
- Mana Village (Last Indian Village)
- Vasudhara Falls
8. Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Ideal for: Trekkers, Botanists, Nature Lovers
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
This alpine valley is a colourful paradise of endemic flora. The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open only during the monsoon months. The tour is often combined with a visit to Hemkund Sahib.
Highlights:
- Over 500 species of wildflowers
- Rare fauna including snow leopards and blue sheep
- Trekking trails
9. Chopta – Mini Switzerland of India
- Ideal for: Trekkers, Nature Lovers, Photographers
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chopta is a quiet village that serves as the starting point for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks. It’s a hidden gem with stunning meadows and dense forests.
Top Attractions:
- Tungnath Temple (World’s Highest Shiva Temple)
- Chandrashila Peak
- Deoria Tal
10. Ranikhet – The Queen’s Meadow
- Ideal for: Couples, Peace Seekers
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
Ranikhet, meaning “Queen’s Meadow,” is a peaceful mountain resort known for its pine forests, colonial bungalows, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. It’s an ideal place for those seeking solitude in nature.
Top Attractions:
- Jhula Devi Temple
- Chaubatia Orchards
- Golf Course
- Bhalu Dam
Travel Tips for Uttarakhand Tourists
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November for most places. December to February for snow.
- Local Cuisine to Try: Aloo ke Gutke, Bhatt ki Churkani, Gahat Soup, Bal Mithai
- Safety Tip: Always check weather conditions before heading to high-altitude or snow-prone areas.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- By Rail: Major stations: Dehradun, Haridwar, Kathgodam
By Road: Well-connected by national highways and state transport buses, Cars.