1.Almora
Kilmora, a small shrub widely found here that was allegedly used to cleanse the equipment of the sun temple at Katarmal, is thought to be the source of the name Almora. Almora is a charming town with the snow-capped Himalayas in the background, located on a 5-km-long ridge at the southern end of the Kashyap hills in the shape of a horse saddle. the former seat of power for the Chand dynasty. Almora is renowned for its enticing foods, distinctive handicrafts, and rich cultural heritage.Over the years, Almora has drawn a number of notable figures, including Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, Uday Shankar and his group, which included Guru Dutt and Zora Sehgal for a performance, and Ravi Shankar, who helped to develop the local culture. Govind Ballabh Pant, a well-known liberation fighter who subsequently served as India's Home Minister, was born in Almora.Sir Ronald Ross, who received the Nobel Prize for Physiology (or Medicine) for his path-breaking discovery of the malaria parasite, was born here in 1857. The town also serves as the starting point for many treks like Jageshwar, Pindari, Mornaula, Mukteshwar, Binsar, and Ranikhet among others.
WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to visit Almora is from March to May and mid-September to December.
2.Auli
Auli, which is located at a height of around 2,800 metres and is encircled by acres of oak and coniferous forests, provides sweeping views of some of India's tallest mountains, including Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in the country (7,816m). The Hemkund Sahib gurdwara, the Nanda Devi and the Valley of Flowers National Parks, as well as well-known trekking locations like Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit, and Tapovan can all be reached via Auli. Along with Auli, Uttarakhand is home to a number of other ski resorts, including Dayara Bugyal, Munsiyari, and Mundali.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
For skiing enthusiasts, January to March is the best time to visit. For nature lovers, October to March is the most appropriate time.
3.Badrinath
One of the Char Dhams (four significant pilgrimage sites) in the state of Uttarakhand is the Badrinath Temple, also known as the Badrinarayan Temple, which is situated in Badrinath town. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are the four pilgrimage sites that make up the Char Dham. These pilgrimage sites gather a sizable number of travellers each year, making them the most significant centres for religious travel in all of Northern India.
Badrinath is located at an elevation of around 3,100 m. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, on the banks of the Alaknanda river, this sacred town lies between Nar and Narayana mountain ranges. The temple is believed to have been established by sage Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. With Lord Vishnu as its presiding deity, the temple remains open for six months in a year. In winter it becomes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. To register for a pilgrimage, visit
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time to visit Badrinath Temple is from May to October. The temple is closed from October/ November, and is reopened around April.
4.Bageshwar
The charming temple town of Bageshwar is hidden away in the lush Kumaon region. The town is located at the junction of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, surrounded by the magnificent Bhileshwar and Nileshwar mountains. Bageshwar is not just home to beautiful natural scenery; it is also the location of the famed Bagnath temple. This temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, receives a lot of foot traffic throughout the year but especially during the Shivratri celebration. According to legend, the temple is located where Lord Shiva is said to have appeared here in his tiger (bagh) avatar to bless the sage Markandeya, who had worshipped the deity.
At the meeting of the rivers Saryu and Gomti on Makar Sankranti, the annual Uttarayani fair is a great event that draws people from all over the world. This fair is regarded as one of Uttarakhand's historic occasions. The titular town, which serves as the administrative centre of the Bageshwar district, draws year-round visitors and hikers in large numbers.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
September to June is the best time to visit Bageshwar. In winter, the town is covered in snow.
5.Baijnath
Baijnath, a small yet historic hamlet located deep within the Garur valley, served as the seat of the former Katyuri dynasty. Even now, the temples on the banks of the Gomti river still contain traces of that time period. The most well-known feature in this town is the major temple, which gives Baijnath its name. It is a shrine to Lord Shiva that dates back to the 12th century. There are several legends associated with the shrine. The Archaeological Survey of India has protected the magnificent temple complex as a monument. One of the four locations in Kumaon connected by the "Shiva Heritage Circuit" is Baijnath.
Baijnath, which is surrounded by verdant forests and fruit orchards, offers amazing nature paths and a great chance to see uncommon kinds of birds, butterflies, and flowers.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The summer season (April-June) is the best time to visit Baijnath. But if you travel in winter (October-March) you can enjoy snowfall.
6.Bhimtal
An beautiful vacation destination is Bhimtal, a lake town next to the well-known hill resort of Nainital. The lake overflows in the monsoon, creating a stunning scene against the lush hills. Bhimtal is ideal for a peaceful vacation because it is dotted with charming residences along the hills. Bhimtal transforms into a bird-paradise watcher's in the winter as migratory birds arrive.
According to legend, the gorgeous lake got its name when Bhima, one of the Pandava princes from the Mahabharata, built it. According to historians, the old silk route may have passed through Bhimtal, which was utilised as a rest station on the way from India to Nepal and Tibet. There are a number of educational institutes in the town.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
April to June and October to December are the best months to enjoy this beautiful town
7.Chakrata
The woodlands surrounding this hilly town are home to a variety of animals, including wild birds, spotted deer, and panthers, making it a refuge for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and ornithologists alike. More than one species of medicinal plant can be found in Chakrata. In the Deoban region, birdwatchers can go (about 13 km from Chakrata). A thick deodar forest and unobstructed views of the Himalayan peaks may be found in the Deoban area, which is located at an elevation of around 9,400 metres. Chakrata's Tiger Falls is another well-liked tourist destination. A rocky pool is where this waterfall, which is roughly five kilometres from the town, plunges from a height of almost 300 metres.
Only citizens of India can enter Chakrata due of its high level of security. Foreign visitors are permitted up to Kalsi with a permit that must be obtained from the Commandant 22 Force c/o 56 APO.
When to visit
The best time to visit Chakrata is between April and June, and from September to November. In the rainy season, the routes tend to become slippery and are prone to landslides. During winter, temperature can dip as low as negative 5 degree C.
8.Chamba
The lovely town of Chamba in Uttarakhand is located at a height of 1676 metres above sea level, on the foothills of the Himalayas, and is drenched in old world charm.
Chamba is unknown and unspoilt, overlooking snow-covered mountains on one side and providing a spectacular view of the valley on the other, and gives the most breathtaking views of the towering peaks, mist-covered deep ravines, and lush valleys. As a result of the engulfment of old Tehri, Chamba is now a quickly developing tourist destination in Tehri Garhwal. Without a doubt, this is a paradise for anyone looking for a break from the monotonous rush of daily life.
When to visit
The best time to visit Chamba is between March to June, and September to December.
9.Chamoli
The home of the Chipko Movement, Chamoli is surrounded by virgin greenery, undulating valleys, spectacular views, breathtaking landforms, and a wide variety of flora. It appeals to both nature enthusiasts and those with a strong religious conviction. According to history, the former Garhwal district was divided into the Chamoli region in 1960.
It is essential to sample the regional and traditional cuisine while visiting Chamoli. The recipes, which are primarily grain and cereal-based, are straightforward and nutrient-rich and use seasonal local vegetables.
Shops in Chamoli provide a variety of regional goods, including pickles and jams, ornamental and practical items, handcrafted items, and warm clothing made of Angora wool, which comes from the local Angora rabbit. Chamoli is a shopper's paradise.
When to visit:
Chamoli can be visited at any time of the year; the best months to visit are between November and mid-March when the weather is pleasant.
10.Champawat
Champawat, the Chand dynasty's capital from the 10th to the 16th century, is rich in legacy and history. It is today most renowned for its temples, many of which are older than the Chand dynasty. According to Indian mythology, Lord Vishnu arrived here as "Kurmavatar," a tortoise. The temples' architecture is impressive and a testament to the artistry and complexity of the time. The Nagnath Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is the foremost of these. One of the best examples of Kumaon architecture is the well-known temple. The Lord Shiva-dedicated Baleshwar Temple is another important temple. Another spiritual landmark in this area and one of the most renowned in the area is Kranteshwar Mahadev.
This Lord Shiva temple, which is located on top of a hill east of Champawat, is also known by the names Kurmapad or Kandev. The Ek Hathiya Ka Naula is a wonderful piece of architecture outside from temples. Ek Hathiya Ka Naula is a magnificently carved piece of stone that is located around 5 kilometres from Champawat and is supposed to have been constructed in a single night by a one-handed artist. According to locals, princess Champawati, the daughter of King Arjun Deo, who governed the area and had his capital here, gave the place its name.
According to folklore, the Hindu epic Mahabharata makes reference to Champawat. The bustling town serves as the administrative centre for the Champawat district and is surrounded by lush tea gardens that yield some of the best tea in the area.
Best Time to Visit
Champawat is pleasant year-round, except in monsoons. It's covered in snow in winter.
11.Chopta
Chopta, sometimes referred to as the "little Switzerland" of Uttarakhand, lies tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas at a height of about 2,608 metres. Chopta is a popular vacation spot all year round since it is surrounded by bugyals, or velvety meadows, and immaculate snow-capped peaks. It is pleasant in the summer, rainy in the monsoon season, and a snow-covered fairyland in the winter. Chopta is the hub of the Panch Kedar, the state's five most revered Shiva temples. The temples of Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar are to its left, Rudranath and Kalpeshwar to its right, and the Tungnath temple is immediately above.
More than 240 species of birds may be found in Chopta, including migratory and native species such the Himalayan monal, Himalayan swiftlet, Himalayan griffon, scarlet finch, hill partridge, and others. The greatest spots to see our feathery companions are in close proximity, such as Dugalbitta, Mandal Village, Makkumath, and the Tungnath Trek route. National and international conservation and biodiversity organisations have designated Chopta as a significant bird-watching location.
When to visit
Chopta is ideal for vacations all over the year but November to May are the best months to visit.
12.Corbett National Park
The first national park in India was created in 1936. It bears Jim Corbett's name, a renowned naturalist and conservationist. The stunning Jim Corbett National Park, which is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas close to the well-known hill town of Nainital, is well-known for having the highest concentration of tigers of any Indian national park. The park is dispersed among the magnificent landscapes of Pauri Garhwal, Almora, and Nainital, covering a total area of 1318.54 sq km, of which 520 sq km is the primary region and the remaining is a buffer. A must-do activity is the jeep safari into the thick forest to view wild animals in their natural setting.
And if you're fortunate, you could even have a chance to see a tiger. Enjoy the views of the beautiful, green forest, with its streams, rivers, and a few waterfalls, as you go through it in a jeep safari. You can stay overnight inside the park in hotels that provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Tourist zones
You can go on a wildlife safari in the several zones of Corbett National Park.
Zones: Bijran Jhirn Dhikala Durgadevi Dhela Garjiya Sonanadi Pakhro
13.Dehradun
This stunning hill-station, one of the most well-known in the nation, sits at the intersection of fascinating mythology and fascinating history. Dehradun, which is located 240 kilometres from Delhi in the gently rolling Doon Valley and at the foot of the Himalayas, is encircled by tall mountains and dense Sal woods. The city, which is well-known for having great weather all year long and beautiful surroundings, serves as a starting point for various well-liked hill towns like Mussoorie and holy places like Haridwar and Rishikesh.
The city is the centre of education in northern India and is home to illustrious schools like Welham and Doon School, which produced luminaries including former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, Olympian Abhinav Bindra, and well-known author Amitav Ghosh. Here is also where the Indian Military Academy is. The city is also recognised as the home of Dronacharya, the illustrious teacher from the Mahabharata epic, and is thought to have been founded by Sikh guru Ram Rai in 1675. The intersection of this picturesque town, one of the most well-liked holiday destinations in the nation, where fascinating history and interesting mythology collide.
WHEN TO VISIT
Dehradun is pleasant throughout the year but is ideal from March to June and October to December. Summer temperature peaks at 36°C and the mercury dips to 5°C in winters.
14.Devprayag
Devprayag is a unique pilgrimage destination since it is where the holy rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet, combine, and take the name Ganga. It is a stunning display of customs, mythology, and mysticism. It is thought that Lord Rama and King Dasharath, both characters from the epic Ramayana, offered sacrifices here. Raghunathji Temple, which is devoted to Lord Rama, is the town's most important temple. One of the Panch Prayag, or five holy confluences of the Alaknanda river, is Devprayag. The rivers merge to form the River Ganga, which empties into the plains. Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag are the five sacred locations.
The priests of the Badrinath Dham temple also spend the winter in the town. Devprayag, which is on the Chardham yatra route, draws a large number of pilgrims, particularly during the yatra season.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Devprayag is an all-time favourite destination among explorers. Summers are pleasant with ample amount of sunshine. The winters are quite cold and freezing. Monsoons are pleasant too.
15.Dharchula
Culturally-rich On the historic trade route that connected the Kumaon region to Nepal, Dharchula is a charming hill town found in the Pithoragarh district. The village is located in a lush valley on the banks of the raging Kali river, encircled by high mountains. It draws a lot of tourists and devotees due to its location along the pathways leading to Kailash Mansarovar and the Chota Kailash yatra. Dharchula is located on various trekking routes and provides a panoramic view of the impressive Panchachuli summit to its west. Here, the unusual Kangdali festival only occurs every 12 years. Interestingly, a bridge over the Kali river connects Dharchula to Nepal.
When to visit:
Summers are pleasant and the ideal time to visit is between March and June, and September and December.
16.Gangotri
Gangotri, in Uttarkashi, is a little village with the temple of Goddess Ganga at its centre. It is one of the four holy locations that make up the most revered pilgrimage circuit in northern India, known as the char dhams. One of India's holiest pilgrimages, Gangotri is located a 12-hour drive from Rishikesh and is surrounded by the tall Garhwal Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and deep forests (approx 3,415 m). In addition to its exquisite ambiance, Gangotri has breathtaking views all around. Hindu mythology holds that the Ganges (or Ganga), the holiest of all rivers, came to earth at Gangotri when Lord Shiva freed the powerful river from his bonds.
The river's actual source is located in Gaumukh in the Gangotri glacier, 19 kilometres from Gangotri, and is reachable by hiking. The river is known as Bhagirathi once it emerges from Gaumukh, and it is given the name "Ganga" after the river Alaknanda joins it close to the town of Devaprayag. Darshan is currently available at Kapat.
When to visit
Gangotri becomes a bustling hub of devotees during the Char Dham Yatra season (May to October).
17.Haridwar
Haridwar, also known as the "portal to gods," is one of India's holiest pilgrimage sites and is situated where the Ganga, the most revered of all Indian rivers, meets the Indo-Gangetic plains. Haridwar, a city of temples and ashrams, is situated at the foot of the Himalayas, and its religious atmosphere permeates the entire city. The Kumbh Mela, an austere gathering of millions of Hindu pilgrims every twelve years, is held in four sacred places in India, one of which is Haridwar. Here, the Ardh Kumbh is held every six years. Every year during the rainy season, it also hosts the Kanwar mela.
Gangadwara (Har Ki Pauri), Kushwart (Ghat), Kankhal, Bilwa Tirtha (Mansa Devi Temple), and Neel Parvat are the "Panch Tirth," or the five pilgrimage sites, that are situated on the outskirts of Haridwar (Chandi Devi). The entrance to Uttarakhand's Char Dham is located at Haridwar.
18.Hemkunt Sahib
This stunning gurudwara, also known as Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Ji, is located on the shore of the pristine Hemkund Lake at a height of roughly 4,329 metres. Hemkunt Sahib, also known as Hemkund Sahib, is one of the most revered Sikh shrines and welcomes thousands of pilgrims each year. In one of his past lives, Guru Govind Singh, the tenth guru of the Sikhs, is said to have pondered beside the tranquil banks of Hemkund Lake, according to the sacred Granth Sahib. The gurudwara's stunning natural settings, especially the walk route to the Valley of Flowers, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks make it a well-liked tourist and trekker destination. A little brook called Himganga emerges from the lake.
Lakshmana, Lord Rama's younger brother from the epic Ramayana, is claimed to have recovered his health by doing meditation on the banks of Hemkund after suffering terrible wounds in battle. Lakshmana is reported to have meditated where the Lakshmana temple now stands.
The gurudwara remains covered in snow throughout the winter and reopens every summer for the Hemkunt Sahib Yatra, an annual pilgrimage.
19.Kailash Mansarovar
According to estimates, the Kailash Range, one of the most sacred mountain ranges to Hindus, was formed during the early stages of the Himalayan mountain development 30 million years ago. Kailash, its tallest peak at 6,675 metres, is thought to be Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati's sacred home. The mountain has drawn pilgrims from different religions for millennia and is of great significance to both Tibetans and Jainists. Mansarovar, a holy peak and lake, are in Tibet; paths leading from Uttarakhand connect it to India. Indian pilgrims can access Mount Kailash via Kumaon's Lipulekh pass.
Only government entities, such as the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, manage the pilgrimage to Kailash and the revered Mansarovar lake.
20.Kedarnath
Kedarnath village, one of India's most respected religious locations, lies tucked away in the formidable Garhwal Himalayas. The village, which is centred around the famed Kedarnath temple, is situated close to the Chorabari glacier, which is where the Mandakini river originates, at an elevation of 3,580 metres. The magnificently designed old temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is made of extraordinarily big but uniformly shaped grey stone slabs. Within the temple, a conical rock formation is revered as Lord Shiva in his "Sadashiva" form. One of Lord Shiva's 12 Jyotirlingas in India is the Lord Shiva temple in Kedarnath, which is a stop on the Char Dham pilgrimage route. The Kedarnath mountain, Kedar Dome, and other Himalayan peaks are located behind the Kedarnath temple.
The region was once known by the name "Kedar Khand," and according to tradition, the Pandavas from the Mahabharata epic felt bad for having slain so many people after defeating the Kauravas and begged Lord Shiva's forgiveness. The Lord continuously evaded them before seeking sanctuary as a bull at Kedarnath. At Kedarnath, the Lord dove underground, leaving his hump visible. Lord Shiva's remaining components made their appearances in four further locations, where they are revered as his incarnations. At Tungnath, the Lord's arms appeared, at Rudranath, his face, at Madmaheshwar, and at Kalpeshwar, his belly. The renowned Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit includes Kedarnath as well as the four sites mentioned above.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
From May to October is the best time to visit Kedarnath. During winter months, the town remains closed due to heavy snowfall. The temple has been shut for the winter of 2021-22.
21.Mussoorie
One of the most well-known hill resorts in the nation is Mussoorie, sometimes referred to as Queen of the Hills. In 1827, a Britishman named Captain Frederick Young and an official by the name of FJ Shore walked up the hill from the Doon valley and discovered that this ridge had fantastic vistas and a healthy environment. This trip served as the inspiration for this opulent mountaintop station.
It is the ideal summer getaway and a mesmerising sanctuary for leisure travellers and honeymooners. Mussoorie extends over at a height of 2,000 m above sea level and is situated on a 15 km long horseshoe ridge with the majestic Himalayas in the background. It provides picturesque views of Western Garhwal's Himalayan peaks from this vantage point.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Mussoorie is during summers, as it offers respite from the scorching summer heat. However, if you are looking for a secluded holiday, come here during winters to witness the snowfall.
22.Meetha Reetha Sahib
This captivating white gurudwara is situated in the Champawat district's Dyuri small hamlet, about 72 kilometres from Champawat town, against a backdrop of green and brown hills. It is reported that when the respected Guru Nanakji visited this location, he magically made a soap-nut tree's bitter fruit delicious. At the meeting of the Lodhiya and Ratiya rivers, the Gurudwara of Reetha Sahib was built in 1960. The well-known reetha or soap-nut trees that grow nearby gave this Gurudwara its name. The Dhernath temple is next to it. On Baisakhi Poornima, the Gurudwara hosts a sizable fair.
23.Nainital
The picturesque Himalayan lake town of Nainital is one of the most well-liked hill towns in Northern India. Nainital, also referred to as the "Lake District," is tucked away high in the Kumaon Himalayas at a height of about 2,000 metres above sea level. Seven hills, collectively known as "Sapta-Shring," or Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta, and Sher-Ka-Danda, round this lovely town. The gorgeous mountains and the lake's brilliant waters significantly enhance the town's charm. According to folklore, the lake is thought to have been created when the goddess "Sati's" eyes fell here when Lord Shiva was carrying her body after she passed away.
Best Time to Visit
Nainital is an all-year destination but the weather is the best between March and June. It receives heavy snowfall in winter and turns into a white wonderland, making it a popular Christmas and New Year destination.
24.Rishikesh
Rishikesh is frequently referred to be the "capital of yoga" and for good reason. Visitors that come to the location to learn yoga and meditation are everywhere. There are many ashrams in Rishikesh, some of which are renowned internationally as centres for philosophical research, yoga, and other traditional Indian health practises. The annual International Yog Festival (IYF), which is hosted here by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, draws tens of thousands of yoga devotees. Rishikesh has a number of legends attached to it. According to legend, Rishikesh is mentioned in the epic Ramayana and the ancient scripture Skanda Purana. After defeating Ravana, it is stated that Lord Rama and his brothers travelled to Rishikesh to perform atonement.
25.Ranikhet
There once was a plan to make Ranikhet the summer headquarters of British India, a designation that was given to Shimla. According to a tale, a Kumaoni queen fell in love with this solitary mountaintop paradise and, in her honour, a palace was constructed there, giving the area the moniker "queen's land." Even though there is no longer any sign of the palace, Ranikhet is nonetheless charming and teeming with flowers, trees, and green meadows in the midst of the divine Himalayan surroundings. Unusual for Asia, the nine-hole Ranikhet Golf Course is one of the highest, and the course's undulating meadows are stunning.
26.Uttarkashi
The district's administrative centre, Uttarkashi, is a historic location with a rich cultural past and a picturesque setting with sweeping mountain views. It is renowned for having an old Lord Shiva temple that attracts a large number of tourists every year. It is regarded as the Kashi of the north, which is another name for Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, the location of one of the most revered Lord Shiva temples (uttar). Numerous temples honouring Lord Hanuman, Goddess Durga, Parshuram, Dattatrya, Bhairav, Annapurna, Laksheswar, Ekadashrudra, etc. are scattered across Uttarkashi. High Himalayan peaks, lush meadows, and a number of hot springs surround it. It is covered in snow during the winter.
There are also ohter beatiful destinations lake:
Abbott Mount
Asan Bird Santuary
Barkot
Bhowali
Binsar
Choukari
Darma Valley
Devalgarh
Dhanaulti
Gangotri National park
Gartang Gali
Ghangaria
Gopeshwar
Govind National Park
Gutpkashi
Gwaldam
Harsil
Jageshwar
Jeolikot
Kanatal
Kasauni
Kedarnath Wildlife Santuary
Kedartal
Khirsu
Lohaghat
Mana
Madhyammaheshwar
Mukta Top
Mukteshwar
Munsiyari
Manakmatta
Nanda Devi National Park
Nandaur Wildlife Santuary
New Tehari
Panch Prayag
Pantnagar
Pauri
Piran Kaliyar Sharif Dargah
Pithorgarh
Rajaji National Park
Raamgarh
Rudraprayag
Sattal
Udham Singh Nagar
Tanakpur
Valley of Flowers
Yamunotri
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