Land of untouched natural beauty and spirituality, Uttarakhand is a Himalayan state of North India, famously known as Devbhumi (or the Land of the Gods). Carved out from Uttar Pradesh, the state, formerly known as Uttaranchal, is a place that not only boasts of a scintillating view of the Himalayas but also exhibits a cultural ethos which speaks of a harmonic coexistence with nature.
Uttarakhand is a popular pilgrimage site, as it is the originating spot of the Ganga and the Yamuna, two of the most sacred rivers for Hindus. Uttarakhand is home to the Char Dhams, the four most holy sites of pilgrimage revered by the Hindus – Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Thousands of tourists visit Uttarakhand annually to pay homage to the Char Dhams.
With oaks, birches, silver firs and rhododendrons adorning the steep mountain slopes, Uttarakhand offers you a glimpse into an untainted and idyllic world.
Dehra Dun, city, capital of Uttarakhand state, northern India. It lies in the northwestern part of the state in the foothills of the Himalayas at an elevation of about 2,200 feet (670 metres)
The Jolly Grant Airport, also known as Dehradun Airport is the major airport in Uttarakhand. Located about 25 km east of Dehradun, the airport is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas. Jolly Grant Airport serves as the primary airport for reaching cities and towns of Rishikesh, Haridwar, Mussoorie, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath and Gangotri. Buses and taxis are available just outside the airport. Waiting Lounge, ATM, restaurants and trolleys are a few of the facilities at the airport. There are also a few shops where tourists can indulge in their free time.
March to April and mid-September to mid-October are considered as the Best time to visit Uttarakhand.
Summers in Uttarakhand are very pleasant as the temperature never crosses 40 degrees Celcius. This season is the best time to visit and explore Uttarakhand. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the state along with various adventures.
July marks the beginning of monsoon season in the state. Incessant downpours are witnessed till September. It is better to avoid visiting Uttarakhand during this time as the weather is very humid and wet. Hilly regions are also precarious for driving.
Winter season starts taking over from October, and it lasts till February. The mercury takes a dip, and in some areas, it goes as low as 0 degrees Celcius. Snowfall is also observed in these regions. Usually, the days are pleasant but, the nights are cold. If you don’t mind the cold temperature, you can enjoy the snowfall and captivating views.
Laksar Junction railway station is a railway station located in Laksar, which is a small city in Haridwar district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Laksar Junction railway station, station code LRJ, is one of the major railway stations in Uttrakhand. It is the largest railway junction in the state.
Nainital is a charming hill station located at the foothills of the Kumaon ranges in Uttarakhand. Located close to Dehradun and Delhi, it is the most visited hill station in North India. Nainital is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi and the nearby places.
Nainital experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a popular hill station for families, couples and even solo travellers. It is easily accessible from nearby major cities by road and is ideal for a 2-day visit. The Naina Lake is the centre of Nainital with Mall Road on one side, Thandi Sadak on the other side, and the bus stand opposite it.
Founded by the British due to its resemblance to the Cumbrian Lake District, Nainital brims with elegant colonial structures that amplify the beauty of this place. There are some small hill towns near Nainital like Pangot, Ranikhet, Almora, which remain comparatively unexplored. Nainital also has some small trekking trails.
Whether you want to go boating in the beautiful Naini Lake, relish some Garhwali and Kumaoni delicacies, shop for mementoes, or take a ropeway ride to soak in the beauty of the Himalayas from Snow View Point, Nainital is sure to leave an imprint on you.
Situated in the centre of Nainital, Naini Lake (short for Nainital Lake) is a beautiful natural fresh body lake. The lake is in crescent or kidney shape and is one of the most famous lakes of the Kumaon region. Bounded by Naini Peak on North West, Tiffin Point on the South West and snow-capped peaks on the north, the Nainital Lake offers a breathtaking view, especially during early morning and sunset. It is most famous for boating, picnic and evening walk.
You can also visit Naina Devi Temple on the shores of the lake. A pretty lake that once a European man fell in love with, Naini Lake today serves as a major tourist spot for people from all over the country.
Snow View Point in Nainital stands at a dizzying altitude of 2270 meters above sea level and is one of the most attractive tourist spots of the area. As the name suggests, Snow View Point offers a panoramic view of the mighty Himalayas draped in a blanket of milky-white snow. One can see a picturesque view of all three important peaks- Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot peaks together from this point.
Naina Devi Temple located in Nainital is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site and one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas in India. The presiding deity of the Naina Devi Temple is Maa Naina Devi or Mata Sati. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is built on the spot where Goddess Sati’s eyes fell when Lord Vishnu cut her body into 51 different parts.
The Mall Road of Nainital, which runs parallel to the Naini Lake, connecting the two ends of the hill town (Mallital and Tallital), is the prime shopping, food and cultural centre of the wonder that is Nainital. Whether it is digging into some luscious food or shopping for the cutest local woollens that are to be found, Mall Road is your go-to for it all.
Tiffin Top is a viewpoint in Nainital, also popularly called Dorothy’s Seat. A popular picnic spot, it offers a 360-degree view of Nainital. An easy hike is required to reach the top.
A fantastic picnic spot in its own right, one gets a complete view of the town of Nainital and its surrounding hills in the Kumaon region from this location. Adventure activities such as rappelling and rock climbing are conducted at Tiffin Top as well. The beautiful Tiffin Top is surrounded by trees of Cher, Oak, and Deodar. Naini Lake and Kumaon Hills look lovely when seen from here. On clearer days, one can also get hold of the majestic view of Nanda Devi.
Pangot is a small village near Nainital, which is well known for its rich and exotic birdlife. Camping and trekking are other popular activities here. Pangot also houses budget accommodation options for night stay near Nainital.
Pangot also becomes a hub for photography enthusiasts when hundreds of different species of birds flock here during the harsh winters in the upper Himalayas and settle down here temporarily
Ranikhet is a quaint hill station near Nainital with undulating Himalayan hills and forests. It is popular for its views of the Nanda Devi Peak, trekking ranges, mountainous climbs, golf courses, orchards and temples.
“Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger”
Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park set amidst the foothills of the Himalayas in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Known for housing the endangered Bengal tiger, Corbett National Park is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Famous for its wildlife safaris, Jim Corbett National Park has multiple resorts set on the riverside. Home to more than 650 species of rare and migratory birds, it is a haven for bird watchers. The most popular attraction at Corbett National Park is Dhikala, a forest lodge located on the border of Patil Dun Valley, which is known for the stunning location and rich wildlife.
Only 180 vehicles are allowed to enter the national park in a day. Jim Corbett National Park remains closed from July to October during the monsoons. However, Jhirna, Dhela and Sitabani tourism zones remain open for tourists throughout the year. Safaris are organised in all the zones by two shifts by the forest officials in all the zones.
Located on the way between Dehradun-Mussoorie roads, Kempty Falls is a beautiful location to take a dip in water falling from an altitude of 40 feet. It is a perfect place to take a short swim or fish.
A small hamlet towards East of Landour, Dhanaulti houses the Sukhanda Devi shrine amidst the lushness of Himalayan greenery and attracts numerous pilgrims to its site. You must also visit the Eco Park on the way to Chamba.
“The queen of hill-stations”
Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations located at a distance of 290 km from Delhi in Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. With a backdrop of Shivalik range of Himalayas and doon valley, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level and has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year. Once the British summer capital, Mussoorie is a popular getaway for honeymooners and families.
Untouched by commercialisation, Lal Tibba is located on the top of Depot Hill in Landour. It is one of the most stunning viewpoints in the region. From the telescope installed here, one can have panoramic view of Nilkantha peak in Badrinath, Kedarnath peak, and Banderpoonch range of three peaks.
The pristine Lake Mist is among the most beautiful destinations in Mussoorie. The emerald waters are covered by green forest terrains from sides giving the whole scenario a resplendent image making it an ideal for spending the moments of repose with your family and friends.
Gun Hill is the second highest peak of Mussoorie and one of the most famous destinations. It offers an enchanting view of some of the highest Himalayan ranges namely Bunderpunch, Srikantha, Pithwara and the Gangotri group, along with a picturesque view of the Mussoorie town and the Doon Valley.
Said to be an extinct volcano, the Gun Hill is the second-highest point in Mussoorie, situated at an altitude of 2024 meters. The scene from the top of this hill is a panoramic view of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges right beside the widespread Doon Valley and a full view of the hill station of Mussoorie.
The Gun Hill, located 400 ft above the Mall Road, is a popular attraction, especially amongst the photographers and nature lovers.
Located at a distance of 6 kms on the Mussoorie- Dehradun highway, Mussoorie Lake is an artificial lake developed and maintained by the City Board and the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority.
Situated near Mussoorie, Nag Tibba is a relatively unknown and a very exhilarating trekking trail. Known as one of the best weekend treks, the place offers a climb of about 10,000 ft amid the snowclad mountains.
Mussoorie’s is a good place for adventure Sports like paragliding as well. There are some trekking opportunities also available here.
Located in the heart of Mussoorie, the Mall is a colonial relic with benches and lampposts filled with modern shops, video game parlours and skating rinks.
You can often find the author Ruskin Bond browsing the Cambridge Bookstore. There would be a lot of local vendors around including photographers who can click awesome photographs for you. Do try out a photograph in local traditional attire here.
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh (also called as Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. Gateway to Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh is also a pilgrimage town and one of the holiest places for Hindus.
As it lies on the holy banks of river Ganga, Rishikesh has been a hub of Sadhus (saints) with numerous ashrams teaching spirituality, yoga, meditation and Ayurveda springing up. Since it is a religious town, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited here. Rishikesh sees the most beautiful evening aarti on the banks of the river Ganga, which is not too crowded unlike its contemporaries in Varanasi, and Haridwar. The International Yoga Festival is organised here in the first week of March which sees yoga enthusiasts from all over the globe.
Rishikesh is divided into two main areas – the downtown area known as Rishikesh town which is where the popular Triveni Ghat is situated. 2 km upstream from the popular Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula is the other side of Rishikesh where most of the popular ashrams, cafes, accommodation and tourists can be found. Haridwar and Rishikesh are the first Indian cities to be given the title of “twin national heritage cities”.
The Lakshman Jhula is a famous hanging bridge across the river Ganga that connects two villages, Tapovan in the Tehri Garhwal district and Jonk in the Pauri Garhwal district. Sadly, it has been closed permanently owing to the risk to the safety and security. A new glass bridge is set to come up adjacent to Lakshman Jhula. However, it is still used by pedestrians but bikes are strictly not allowed.
Triveni Ghat is a confluence of three holy rivers of India – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. One of the biggest and most famous ghats in Rishikesh, it is also one of the most revered sacred bathing spots. Triveni Ghat is where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place every evening
Camping along the banks of Ganga is a popular thing to do in Rishikesh. Numerous camping sites are located on the banks, and beaches here serve as great locations to indulge in various sports. During the day, a lot of adventure sports are organised for the travellers.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the most revered Hindu sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Pauri Garhwal region, the temple is around 7km from Swarg Ashram. It is one of the most popular Shiva temples and is visited by devotees from all over the world.
Flying Fox is an exciting adventure sports and top thrilling things to do in Rishikesh. You are harnessed to a rope and literally sent ‘flying’ on a cable. The speed is accelerated or slowed down through machinery.
One of the top exciting adventure sports in Rishikesh is Bungee Jumping. It involves jumping off from a very tall structure (usually a building), flying freely in the air in the air before being restrained and pulled up. This activity can also be carried out from hot air balloons or helicopters
The Kuari Pass is an alpine meadow pass, attracting backpackers and trekkers from around the globe. The beautiful camping grounds of Gulling, Chitrakantha & Tali are the key attraction of the trek. The trails leading from Tali Top to Kuari Pass gives an impression of doing a full scaled Himalayan alpine expedition in truck loads of snow.
The only place to learn Osho Active Meditation in Rishikesh, Osho Ganga Ashram is a spiritual sanctuary for those seeking to nourish and tune their body, mind and soul. The ashram has workshops and extensive programs that teach stress relieving and relaxation techniques through meditation, massages, yoga and spiritual activities.
The Geeta Bhawan is a vast and spacious ashram located on the banks of Ganga in Swargashram. It is renowned as an important institution that preserves Hindu literature since it houses the Gita, which symbolizes the Hindu Vedas and epics. The Geeta Bhawan is visited by a large number of people each year.
Rafting in Rishikesh particularly is hands down the best; one could endeavour in India. From the gifted natural circumstances to the top professional assistance, the place has just the best to offer. There are some certified operators, whose safety arrangements are well in place, and there are customised packages for camping and rafting at Rishikesh
Cliff Jumping is a popular adventure activity in Rishikesh. It primarily involves jumping from a 30-40ft high cliff in icy cold water. The most well-known cliff jumping site in Rishikesh is the lower part of Brahmapuri Stretch.
“Winter Capital of Uttarakhand”
Nestled amidst the Doon Valley in the state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun city is a very popular hill station that beckons solo travellers, families and couples alike. Winter Capital of Uttarakhand, it proudly boasts of a scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas. Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. Regardless of whether you want to explore family-friendly tourist spots, try thrilling adventure activities with your friends, or watch a mesmerizing sunset with your partner amidst the mountains, Dehradun is the answer.
Rajaji National Park is home to the Tiger, Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Cheetal, hog deer, barking deer, Sambar deer, wild boar, antelopes such as the Nilgai, Goral , Jackal, Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Civets, Himalayan Yellow-Throated Marten, Sloth Bears, Pythons, King Cobra, Common Krait, Indian Cobra and the Monitor Lizard and above All the Asian Elephant
Nestled within a suburb of Dehradun, Robber’s Cave is popularly called Guchhipani or Guchu Pani. It is a magnificient gorge between a limestone formation. Surrounded by majestic hills and offers a glorious trek up the mountains, it makes for one of the best attractions near Dehradun.
Paonta Sahib is a vibrant, industrial town located in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, a few kms from Dehradun. Apart from hosting significant industries, it is also a prominent place of worship for the Sikh community. The noted Gurudwara Paonta Sahib, built in the memory of Shri Guru Gobind Singh, is situated on the banks of the River Yamuna in this town and attracts many pilgrims round the year.
Sahastradhara meaning ‘thousand fold spring’ is popular for its ecstatic beauty and therapeutic value since its water contains Sulphur. While the place can be visited any time during the year, you would love the charming beauty of the waterfall during rainy season when the stream proposes the appearance of a gushing torrent.
Malsi Deer Park is a zoological garden and it is home to two horned Deer, Tiger, Neelgai, Peacock and many other animals. This well maintained zoological garden is an ideal place for picnic.
Fun Valley’s reputation as a fully-fledged entertainment venue for families and friends to spend a cheery and exhilarated day is unshakeable. Located within Uttarakhand’s Golden Triangle – Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh, this amusement park cum resort is the perfect arena for a bonding experience with your loved ones. Housing a vast interior complex, multi-cuisine restaurant and kiosks, thrilling rides that include an exciting water park, deluxe rooms and a motel, Fun Valley is the largest amusement and water park in North India.
One of the least explored treks in the Indian Himalayan region that connects the Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri, the Bali Pass Trek is a beautiful journey that one should try at least once in a lifetime.
Paltan Bazaar is located in the heart of Dehradun, spanning a 1.5km stretch between the Clock Tower and the railway station. From local spices, confectionery items & street food to goods like apparel, appliances and artefacts, this busy market has it all. Considered as Dehradun’s main bazaar, it is the best place for shopping in Dehradun.
A picturesque valley, surrounded by lush greenery and calm meadows, Tapovan is a delight to the sense, to visit anytime of the year. Situated just above the Gangotri Glacier, the place also attracts trekking activities. The ashram also holds periodic yoga courses for its visitors to attend. Placed along the banks of Ganga, this place radiates an air of spirituality.
If you have experience and courage then get ready to raft on India’s one of the wildest river Ton and get on a nerve wrecking ride of your life.
Rafting is an adrenaline gushing roller coaster journey on the white water of River Ton flowing through the western part of Himalayas. Considered as one of the most untamed and technical rivers of India, it gives you a lifetime experience of hard core rafting amid the wilderness of Tons Valley. Beginning from Lunagad, it goes on till Tiuni including a drop of 78 kms just prior to Tiuni and then further, with only middle and lower section of Ton river applicable for the expedition. The rapids descend at an average rate of 32 ft. per kilometer at the middle ton, making it quite an exhaustive yet exhilarating affair. Rafting on one of the biggest tributary of Yamuna River is definitely not for the first timers or novice
“The skiing destination of India”
Auli is a popular skiing destination in India because of its glittering slopes and clean environment. Dotted with apple orchards, oaks and deodars, Auli is a popular hill town with numerous ski resorts situated amidst the Himalayan range. Located at 2800 meters above sea levels, it is home to mountain ranges of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat and Kamat Kamet. Many religious destinations are also scattered around Auli. It is believed that Shankracharya had blessed Auli with his visit.
Skiing in Auli offers beautiful views of peaks such as Mt Nanda Devi Kamet, Mana Parwat, Dunagiri, Beethartoli, Nilkanth, Hathi Parbat, Ghori Parbat and Nar Parbat. The snow-covered hill station of Auli covered with evergreen conifers and the oak forest is located at an altitude of 2000 -3000 metres above sea level and is an ideal place for skiing in India.
While skiing in Auli in the Gorson Reserve forest (part of the Nanda Devi National Park) is habituated by some of the widely rare Himalayan wildlife in ample. These include snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Wild Boar, Wild Cat, Wild Rabbit, Jackal, Fox, Hyena and Bear. The snow dressed slopes of Auli which once offered the training grounds for the Paramilitary forces was adjudged by the French and Austrian experts who declared it as the best skiing grounds of the world. In the summer season, hikers may find numerous marked walks and there also are mountain bike trails.
Auli offers some of the finest slopes of the Himalayan range where you can trek. Peaks ranging from about 2500 to 3000 m, Auli has some well defined trekking routes. You can trek up to Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri and Joshimath from Auli.
Gurson Bugyal is a picturesque wide meadow known for its lush green pasture land and oak trees. It affords stunning panoramic view of imposing Himalayas like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Dron. 3 km trek from Auli will lead you to this scenic location.
Auli has some well defined trekking routes. You can trek up to Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri and Joshimath from Auli.
Camping is one of the sought after activities or top things to do in Auli. After spending the evening by a bonfire, lounging on camping chairs – with fun & games and delicious food, you would sleep under the stars and wake up to enticing sunrise views. Some of these camps also let you enjoy adventure activities like trekking, hiking and wandering the woods with the help of a professional guide.
Kwani Bugyal is a very popular destination for trekking. Offering mesmerising view of snow-capped mountains like Nanda Devi and Dunagiri, it is also a favourite camping destination.
Chenab Lake is an artificial lake that serves as a reservoir for the people of Auli. It is a small crystalline lake that is still less explored and in its purest state, holding the sights of tourists and making it an enchanting spot. The trek to Chenab lake is for those who truly want to have a crude and authentic trekking experience.
The panoramic views in Auli can be astonishing as it is surrounded by very high peaks including Nanda Devi (7817 m).
The Hanuman Temple is supposed to be the place where Hanuman took some rest when he had come to the Himalayas to procure Sanjivani to rescue Laxman, the younger brother of Rama. Visitors can also enjoy a cable car here which can give them a beautiful view of the surroundings.
There is an artificial lake as well in Auli which is the world’s highest man-made lake.
The three Himalayan mountain peaks of western Kumaun as a whole forms the Trishul peak, at a height of 7120m. It is the place where most tourists gather for skiing in Auli as it is the only place in India where skiing is carried on at a professional level. The peak can be best viewed from Kausani or during the Roopkund Trek.
Badrinath, known for the sacred Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the four Char Dham and Chota Char Dham pilgrimage yatras. Perched on the Garhwal hill tracks, near the Alaknanda River, Badrinath is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Placed between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, Badrinath Temple is situated in the backdrop of the mighty Neelkanth mountain and is known for stunning natural beauty.
Badrinath Temple or the Badrinarayan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the four Char Dham and Chota Char Dham pilgrimage yatras. It finds its mention in the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Lord Vishnu in India. Situated at the height of 10,279 feet, the temple is surrounded by lofty snow-clad Himalayas with Alaknanda River flowing by.
Badrinath Temple has a Tapt Kund, a hot water spring which is considered to have medicinal values. River Alaknanda is known to originate from here. The vibrant festivals of Mata Murti Ka Mela and the Badri Kedar Festival give you another reason to visit the temple.
From November to April end, the temple remains closed due to extreme weather conditions. Badrinath is accessible by road and therefore driving up to this pilgrim spot is not difficult
Believed to be the home of Lord Agni, Tapt Kund is a natural hot water spring near the Badrinath Temple, heating to 45 degrees Celsius. Located by the Alaknanda riverbank, visitors take therapeutic baths here. The water of the kund is believed to have medicinal properties, curing various skin diseases. Devotees take a dip in the Tapt Kund before visiting Badrinath Temple.
With imprints of what is believed to be Lord Vishnu’s footprints, Charanpaduka is a rock atop 3380 ft, located 3 km from Badrinath. It can be reached after an arduous trek. This boulder stone is deemed as a religious site visited by hundreds of pilgrims and tourists every year. People believe that Lord Vishnu set his foot first on earth here.
Brahma Kapal is a religious site in Uttarakhand near Badrinath, where Lord Brahma is believed to exist to this day. It is said that those who perform funeral rituals for the deceased in their family themselves attain Nirvana. Many visit the sacred site to immerse the ashes of their deceased family member in River Alaknanda, on the banks of which Brahma Kapal is located.
Bheem Pul is a natural stone bridge on River Saraswati near Badrinath, Uttarakhand that is believed to be discovered by Bheem, one of the Pandav brothers while they were passing by. Some say the bridge was created by a stone Bheem threw between the mountains to create a path to cross the river. Nevertheless, the stunning natural bridge and the fierce River Saraswati gushing through it is a breathtaking sight.
Originating from the Nar Narayan Peak of Himalayas at 400 ft, Vasundhara Falls is a waterfall located in Mana Village, 9km from Badrinath. The fall meets with the Alaknanda river at an altitude of 12,000 feet. It is believed to have been the resting place of the Pandavas. People also believe that the waterfalls turn away from visitors impure in thoughts and heart.
Nilkantha, Neelakant, Neelkanth, Nilkanth or Nilkanta is a major peak in the Garhwal division of the Uttarkhandi Himalayas. At a height of 6507 masl, it is one of the most important and religiously revered peaks of the region due to its close proximity to Badrinath. It overlooks the lovely valley of the Alaknanda River.
Haridwar, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is an ancient city located on the banks of River Ganga in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Dotted with temples, ashrams and narrow lanes across the city, Haridwar is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges. It’s believed that taking a dip in the holy Har Ki Pauri relieves you of all your sins.
Every evening, Haridwar is witness to a set of rituals for the famous Ganga Aarti at the Ghats (River Banks) where thousands of devotees come together to pray to the river. Once in every twelve years, Haridwar is host to the mega-gathering during the world famous Kumbh Mela which sees millions of visitors from all over the country. Along with Prayagraj, Nashik and Ujjain, Haridwar is one of the only four cities in India which can host the Kumbh Mela.
Haridwar also acts as the base destination for some of the other tourist towns of Rishikesh and Devprayag as Hardwar is well connected by trains and roads. Apart from the religious angle, Haridwar is also now developing as a multifaceted cultural and spiritual centre. It’s also known for its food and some of the must-try dishes include kachoris at Kashyap Kachoriwala and the aloo puri at Mohanji Puriwale.
Regarded as one of the most sacred Ghats in Haridwar and India, Har Ki Pauri is a revered landmark and is visited by devotees and visitors in large number seeking the blessings of Holy Ganga by offering their prayers. Har Ki Pauri which literally translates to ‘Steps to Lord Shiva’ is situated in the holy city of Haridwar which is considered as one of the seven holiest places in the country. A dip in the river Ganges here is believed to wash away one’s sins and according to the Indian mythology, it is one of the four places where the drops of elixir (‘Amrit’) were accidentally spilled by the celestial bird Garuda. The river is filled in a golden hue of countless diyas offered by devotees floating along the river.
One of the famous Siddhapeeths atop Shivalik Hills, the temple dedicated to the companion of Nag King Vasuki, Goddess Manasa, this is another temple believed to grant devotees wishes. Mansa Devi temple is one vertex of the Siddhapeeth triangle formed by Chandi Devi and Maya Devi temples.
Maya Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Maya in the holy city of Haridwar of Uttarakhand state in India. It is believed that the heart and navel of goddess Sati fell in the region where the temple stands today and thus it is sometimes referred to as a Shakti Peetha. (br) Goddess Maya is the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. who is a three-headed and four-armed deity, believed to be an incarnation of Shakti. Haridwar was previously known as Mayapuri in reverence to this deity. The temple is a Siddh Peetha which are the places of worship where desires get fulfilled. It is one of three such Peethas located in Haridwar, the other two being Chandi Devi Temple and Mansa Devi Temple.
Haridwar in Uttarakhand is an important pilgrimage town for the Hindus. The place is a perfect escape from the cacophony of urban life and a beautiful amalgamation of old and new, replete with beauty, culture, history and spirituality. Haridwar is known as the ‘Abode of God’ because of its serenity and scenic beauty by the River Ganga. The most famous fair in the world – Kumbh Mela is celebrated here once in twelve years. It’s a sight that should never be missed.
Crystal World Water Park boasts of over 18 thrilling water rides. They also have the very famous 5D water ride in addition to several other games and activities. The park is also known to host private parties, weddings and other functions.
Fun Valley is a gorgeous water park nestled in the valley of Haridwar. It offers close to 21 thrilling water rides, roller coasters, aqua dancing, DJ etc. In addition to that, it has an amusement park which boasts of a plethora of adventure activities to give you an adrenaline rush.
Located on the Garhwal Himalayan Range in the Rudraprayag District, Kedarnath is one of the most sacred temples and the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in India. A part of Chhota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one of the most important among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath Temple can only be reached from Gaurikund through a trek and remains open only for six months from April to November, due to heavy snowfall in the region during the rest of the months.
Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred temples and the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in India. A part of Chhota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is the amost revered among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple can free them from the cycle of life. The inner walls of the temple are carved with figures of various deities and scenes from mythology.
Atop 1829 m. Sonprayag is a tiny hamlet on the confluence banks of rivers Mandakini and Basuki. Devotees take a dip in the holy waters with the faith to attain nirvana.
A lake at an altitude of 4135 meters, Vasuki Tal offers a view of the neighbouring Chaukhamba peaks. Trekkers would find this an ideal range to climb up. The Chaturangi and Vasuki glaciers can be found en-route to the lake.
Situated at a distance of 500 m from the Kedarnath Temple on the southern side, Bhairavnath Temple is enshrined by the revered Hindu God – Lord Bhairav. It is perched on top of a hillock and offers magnificent views of the surrounding Himalayas and the entire Kedarnath valley below. Lord Bhairav is believed to be the main gana of Lord Shiva and hence the temple is all the more important.
Located atop 3679 m. Chandrashila offers an excellent trekking range and skiing tracks throughout the year except in December and January. A Shiva temple adorns the peak of this mountain
Tungnath, a quaint village in Uttarakhand, is known as the starting point of the popular Chopta Chadrashila Trek. At a height of 2680m, this village is surrounded by evergreen forests of pine, deodar and rhododendron. This is one of the easier treks in the Himalayan region and hence, recommended for first timers. The trek covers a large region, starting from Haridwar and ending at Chandrashila.