20 Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
Welcome to Top 20 places to during Chardham Yatra Tour blog post. Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is often called the "Land of the Gods" due to its abundance of sacred temples and pilgrimage sites. Known for its stunning landscapes ranging from snow-capped peaks to lush valleys. Uttarakhand is a haven for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. If you’re planning a trip to this breathtaking state, here are 20 of the best places you must visit!
1. Nainital
Nainital, a charming hill station in the Kumaon region, is famous for its picturesque Naini Lake and the surrounding Himalayan views. Established by the British in 1841, it remains a popular escape for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Activities like boating in Naini Lake, trekking to Naina Peak, and visiting historical spots like the Snow View Point and Tiffin Top are among the highlights. The town is also home to several temples and ashrams. Plan
Chardham Yatra Package from Haridwar.
Don’t Miss: Naina Devi Temple, High Altitude Zoo, and Snow View Point.
2. Mussoorie
Known as the "Queen of the Hills," Mussoorie is one of the most beloved hill stations in India. Situated at 1,880 meters, this quaint town offers cool weather, stunning views, and colonial charm. Visit during the summer months (April to June) for the best experience. Key attractions include Camel’s Back Road, Kempty Falls, and the Lal Tibba peak.
Best For: Leisurely walks, scenic viewpoints, and shopping at Mall Road. Visit here during your
Chardham Yatra packafe from Delhi.
3. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a spiritual hub, often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Situated along the Ganges River, it’s a perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. Besides yoga and meditation, Rishikesh offers thrilling activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking. The iconic Lakshman Jhula and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple are must-visit landmarks. Plan for best
Luxury chardham yatra package.
Activities: Yoga retreats, white-water rafting, bungee jumping.
4. Haridwar
Haridwar, one of India’s seven holiest cities, is a prime pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The Ganges River flows through this city, and millions of devotees visit each year to bathe in its sacred waters. The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is an unforgettable experience. Other spiritual sites include Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple.
Don’t Miss: Ganga Aarti, Har Ki Pauri Ghat, and the numerous temples.
5. Auli
Auli is a ski lover's paradise, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters, Auli is a serene destination known for its peaceful atmosphere and adventure sports. Skiing, trekking, and camping are popular here, while the panoramic views from the Auli chairlift are stunning. Book
Chardham Yatra Family Package.
Best Time: October to February for skiing and snow activities.
6. Kedarnath
The Kedarnath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and draws thousands of devotees each year. Located at 3,583 meters above sea level, Kedarnath offers a spiritual experience amidst dramatic mountain scenery. The trek to Kedarnath Temple is a challenging yet rewarding journey.
Must-Visit: Kedarnath Temple and the nearby Bhairav Temple.
7. Badrinath
Badrinath is another key pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Situated at 3,133 meters, the Badrinath Temple is a must-visit for devotees, surrounded by stunning mountain views. The town is also home to other temples, like the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and Saraswati Temple.
Best For: Pilgrimage, temples, and the serene atmosphere. Go for
Chardham Yatra package from Haridwar.
8. Uttarkashi
Uttarkashi, located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, is known for its religious significance and serene natural beauty. The Vishwanath Temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas, is a major attraction. Uttarkashi is also a gateway to several trekking routes, including the Dodital Lake and the Banderpooch Peak.
Popular Activities: Trekking, visiting temples, exploring the Bhagirathi River.
9. Chopta
Chopta, often called "Mini Switzerland of India," is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains, Chopta is famous for trekking and camping. The Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila Peak are among the popular trekking destinations.
Activities: Trekking to Tungnath, birdwatching, and camping. Visit here durung
Chardham Yatra package from Delhi.
10. Dehradun
Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is a picturesque city located in the Doon Valley. Known for its pleasant climate and historical sites, Dehradun is a popular base for exploring nearby areas. Visit the Sahastradhara Springs, Robber’s Cave, and the Malsi Deer Park for a relaxing experience.
Must-Visit: Sahastradhara, Robber’s Cave, and Tiger Falls.
11. Ranikhet
A quaint hill station surrounded by towering mountains, Ranikhet is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Famous for its scenic views, forests, and temples, Ranikhet is also home to the Kumaon Regiment and offers plenty of trekking opportunities.
Best For: Nature walks, religious sites, and panoramic views. Visit here during
Chardham Yatra Family Package.
12. Almora
Almora is a beautiful hill station that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is famous for its unique townscape, with terraced fields, oak forests, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Don't miss a visit to the ancient Kasar Devi Temple and the charming Lala Bazaar.
Top Highlights: Kasar Devi Temple, Almora Market, and the scenic viewpoints.
13. Nanda Devi National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nanda Devi National Park is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers. This park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard. The breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi peak make it a popular trekking destination.
Activities: Trekking, wildlife watching, photography. Book
Luxury Chardham Yatra package from EpicYatra.
14. Tehri Lake
Tehri Lake, formed after the creation of the Tehri Dam, is artificial reservoir that has become a popular destination for water sports. The lake offers activities like boating, kayaking, and parasailing, and it is surrounded by scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Best For: Adventure water sports and sightseeing.
15. Pithoragarh
Often called the "Gateway to the Himalayas," Pithoragarh is a scenic hill station known for its picturesque valleys and pristine beauty. It’s the perfect spot for trekking, with trails leading to areas like Munsiyari and the glaciers of the Milam Valley.
Top Attractions: Pithoragarh Fort, Munsiyari, and the beautiful valleys.
16. Bageshwar
Bageshwar, located at the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers, is an important religious town in Uttarakhand. It is known for the Bageshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is also a gateway to treks in the Kumaon region.
Best For: Pilgrimage and scenic beauty. Explorer
Chardham Yatra packages from Haridwar.
17. Harshil
A small, lesser-known town, Harshil is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand. Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, it is a peaceful place surrounded by pine trees and snow-capped peaks. Harshil is famous for its apple orchards and serene ambiance.
Activities: Nature walks, camping, and apple picking.
18. Kausani
Kausani offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. Known for its tea gardens and serene beauty, Kausani is an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind amidst natural beauty.
Don’t Miss: Sunrise views of the Himalayas, Baijnath Temple, and the Anashakti Ashram. Book best
Chardham Yatra package at best prices.
19. Srinagar (Uttarakhand)
Not to be confused with Srinagar in Kashmir, this quaint town in Uttarakhand is known for its scenic beauty and historic temples. The town is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River, offering serene views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visit the famous Golu Devta Temple for a spiritual experience.
Highlights: Golu Devta Temple, picturesque river views, and scenic trekking routes.
20. Bhimtal
Bhimtal, located just 22 km from Nainital, is known for its beautiful lake surrounded by lush green hills. The Bhimtal Lake is ideal for boating, and the town has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere perfect for a peaceful retreat. The Bhimeshwar Temple, located near the lake, is also worth visiting. Book best
Chardham Yatra package at best prices.
Must-Do: Boating on Bhimtal Lake, visiting the Bhimeshwar Temple, and hiking around the area.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand is a state where nature’s beauty, spirituality, and adventure seamlessly converge. Whether you seek a spiritual journey, a trekking expedition, or simply a peaceful retreat, the diversity of destinations offers something for everyone. Each place, from the serene hill stations to the sacred temples, holds its own charm, making Uttarakhand an unforgettable experience for travelers.
