17 Best Places To Visit In Uttrakhand
Interested in visiting places in Uttarakhand? Here is a list of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand for a unique experience and a fun-filled vacay amidt the snow-capped mountains and the serene landscape. Experience heaven as we bring you the best places to visit in this piece of paradise nestled in Northern India. Take a look at the best Uttarakhand tourist places!
Dehradun And Mussoorie – Picturesque Location
Nainital And Ranikhet – Popular Getaway
Rishikesh And Haridwar – Adventure Capital
Jim Corbett – Wildlife Heaven
Almora – Famous Offbeat Places
Auli – Ski Enthusiasts
Chakrata – Secluded Hilltown
Chopta – Serene Quaint Hills
Lansdowne – Picnic Destination
Valley Of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib – Paradise For Nature Lovers
Chardham (Yamnotri, Gangotri, Badrinath And Kedarnath) – Diverse Spiritual Essence
Dhanaulti – Gorgeous Snowfall
Kanatal – Serene Village
Mukteshwar – Fun Adventure Sports
Binsar – Spell Binding Views
Bhimtal – Offbeat Version Of Nainital
Uttarkashi – Quaint Hill Town
1. Dehradun And Mussoorie – Picturesque Locations.
The capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun has a picturesque location with a beautiful view of the Himalayan ranges and river Ganga flowing on either side of the city. Mussoorie is located at a distance of about 38 km from Dehradun. It is touted to be the ‘Queen of Hills’ and attracts many tourists every year to visit famous Uttrakhand destinations which also makes this the places to visit in Uttarakhand for 2 days.
Why to visit: The delightful weather and natural landscapes.
Ideal for: Peace lovers, honeymooners, family and friends
Best time to visit: All around the years
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 Days
How to reach: It takes around 5 hours to reach Dehradun from Delhi via road. From Dehradun, Mussoorie is just an hour journey away. The nearest airport is in Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport.
Things to do: Visit the National Parks, Lakes, Kempty Falls, Benog Hill & Jwalaji Temple. Monastery, Resorts and Forest research institute in Dehradun.
2. Nainital And Ranikhet – P Hilltown
Getaway
One of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand and a popular getaway for couples and families is Nainital. Located by the famous Naini Lake in the valley, surrounded by mountains on all sides where one can enjoy majestic vistas of nature here. Plus, there is plenty to explore with some interesting tourist places in Nanital. Also these are two of the places to visit in Uttarakhand in monsoon!
Why to visit: The lush green sight of Nainital offers an exotic view of the Himalayan ranges. Enjoy the trekking trails in Ranikhet and go camping in the main sight of the location.
Ideal for: Honeymoon couples, office goers, couples and Families
Best time to visit: All around the years
Ideal duration: 4 to 5 Days
How to reach: Nainital does not have direct access to air connectivity. The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 km at Kathgodham. It takes about 7 hours from Delhi to reach Nainital.
Things to do: Visit the host of temples at Ranikhet, go trekking, and visit the Nainital zoo and Naini Lake. Enjoy the wildlife sanctuary and the wonderful climate of the hill station.
3. Jim Corbett – Wildlife heaven
If looking for famous Uttarakhand tourist places then this pace is a must visit. Formerly known as Haley’s National Park, Jim Corbett was established in 1938 and attracts visitors for its Royal Bengal Tigers.
The park is home to some 600 species of birds, an equal number of animals and around 488 different types of plants and trees and is amongst the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Jim Corbett organises safaris and hiking trails through the dense forest’s buffer zones all through the year. Safari tour also remains one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett.
Why to visit: This is the place you can’t miss if you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer and nature lover.
Best time to visit: All year-round, except Monsoon (June to August)
Ideal for: Nature enthusiast, photographers, excursionists
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 Days
How to reach: Ramnagar is the nearest railway staion while Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport. It is well connected by road and there are regular bus services from Ramnagar and Delhi.
Things to do: Elephant rides, elephant safaris, Jeep safaris, photography, and unplanned excursions.
4. Rishikesh And Haridwar – Adventure Capital–Haridwar
Another place you definitely must visit in Uttarakhand is the adventure capital–Rishikesh and pilgrim capital–Haridwar. Haridwar is a place where tourists get enchanted by rustic touch and spiritual energy of the place and its surroundings. Rishikesh is considered to be one of the best exotic places to visit in Uttarakhand. Some of the thrilling things to do in Rishikesh include river rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking and many more.
Why to visit: Rishikesh as it is the adventure capital of India; Haridwar for the tranquility and religion.
Ideal for: Everyone – friends, couples and families.
Best time to visit: Anytime of the year is good except monsoons.
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 Days
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Dehradun. Trains connect both Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Things to do: Take part in the Ganga aarti in Haridwar, a holy dip in the river Ganga, go for a boat ride, eat the local delicacies and talk to the spiritual gurus. Visit the ashrams in Rishikesh; go for water sports adventures in Rishikesh and trekking up in the hills.
5. Almora – Famous Offbeat Places
From Uttarakhand points of interest, Almora is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, especially in summer to escape the heat. The picturesque views of Almora are especially recommended to the mountain lovers. The romantic destination allures you with its magnificent beauty. This is one of the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand.
Why to visit: Because the serenity and peace that Almora offers is hard to find so easily.
Ideal for: Romantic couples, solo travelers, adventure film's.
Best time to visit: Anytime throughout the years except monsoon.
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 Days.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pantnagar, at a distance of 116 km away from Almora and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam 90 km away.
Things to do: Shop for handicraft products, enjoy the natural setting, go for trekking.
6. Auli – Ski Enthusiasts
Looking for the best tourist places in Uttarakhand? Auli is adjacent to the religious shrine of Badrinath, and offers a panoramic views of the great Himalayas. The breath-taking view of snow-capped peaks around give an astounding view of the place. Auli definitely has to be on your list of places to visit in Uttarakhand. This is one of the most beautiful Uttarakhand tourist places.
Why to visit: Visit to Auli is highly recommended to mountain lovers. The mountain sports activities can be enriching to the spirit of an adventure sports lover.
Ideal for: Mountain lovers, friends, couples and ski enthusiasts.
Best time to visit: April – June and November – February for Snowfall.
Ideal duration: 5 Days.
How to reach: The nearest airport to reach Auli is located in Dehradun. Nearest railway station is also at Dehradun located at a distance of about 6 hours from Auli.
Things to do: Skiing – it is one of the best for snowboarding and skiing in India, mountaineering and enjoying the serenity of the beautiful place.
7. Chakrata – Secluded Hill Town
The small and secluded hill town of Chakrata is an ideal place for those who are looking for a place to be silent and enjoy the beauty of the hills, it certainly is one of the best places to see in Uttarakhand. Postcard size houses, serene quaint hills with the birds chirping in the background — Chakrata is a peace lover’s dream destination. This is certainly amongst the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand.
Why to visit: For those looking for a simple and quiet place where they can just enjoy the view of the nature and amazing climate.
Ideal for: Solo travelers, couple's
Best time to visit: All through the years
Ideal duration: 3-4 Days
How to reach: Nearest railway is at Dehradun at a distance of 2 hours from the station.
Things to do: Visit Tiger waterfall and Budher Caves, stay and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
8. Chopta – Serene Quaint Hills’
Image Source Chopta is one of the least explored hamlets in the Himalayas. At an elevation of 2,680 m, it serves as a base point to famous treks to Tungnath and Chandrashilla and is amongst the best places to see in Uttarakhand . It also offers some amazing 360 degree panorma of majestic mountains through the Trishul, Nanda devi and Chaukhambha peaks and trekking to these places is one of the most preferred things to do in Chopta. This is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in September.
Why: Chopta is one of those hill stations which will tempt you for life. With a blend of adventure and tranquility, it suits almost everyone’s taste.
Ideal for: Adventure bugs, photography enthusiasts, friend's
Best time to visit: Winter months of December, January and February.
Ideal duration: 5 to 6 days
How to reach: The nearest airport Jolly Grant is at a distance of 221 km. The nearest railhead is Rishikesh at a distance of 202 km. It is well connected by road from all the major cities like Rishikesh, Srinagar,and Pauri.
Things to do: Trekking, camping and photography
9. Lansdowne – Picnic Destination
The cantonment town of Lansdowne was founded by the Viceroy of India, during the British period and is considered to be the best in terms of Uttarakhand points of interest. The city is known for its serene and quiet atmosphere. It is mainly a picnic destination for those who wish to have a quiet time in the hills. Other popular things to do in Lansdowne are trekking, camping and nature walk.
Why to visit: For those who wish to enjoy the beauty of nature
Ideal for: Everyone – Family, friends, and couples Best time to visit: April to June
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
How to reach: Kotdwar is the nearest railway station at a distance of 1 hour.
Things to do: Enjoy the nature, walk and discover the nearby towns, museums, viewpoints.
10. Valley Of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib – Paradise For Nature Lover’s
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand is the Valley of Flowers. For those who admire the beauty of nature, the valley of flowers near Hemkund Sahib is a paradise. Other than that, it is a great place for trekking. Hemkund Sahib is a holy place for the Sikh community and amongst the best Uttarakhand destinations.
Why to visit: Visit this place to combine your vacation with a blend of nature and spiritual worship.
Ideal for: Families and couple's
Best time to visit: July to September
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
How to reach: Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 149 km from Hemkund shrine. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. Things to do: Visit the valley of flowers, trek, go to Hemkund shrine.
11. Chardham (Yamnotri, Gangotri, Badrinath And Kedarnath) – Diverse Spiritual Essence
If you are looking for a vacation to experience the diverse spiritual essence of India whilst exploring these fascinating Uttarakhand tourist places then nothing is better than the visit to the Chardham- Yamnotri, Gangotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath. This is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand with family.
Why to visit: It is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimage sites according to the Hindu mythology. Ideal for: Religious Travellers and tourists seeking an insight into Hindu Mythology.
Best time to visit: Anytime throughout the years except monsoons
Ideal duration: 5 to 6 Days
How to reach: Badrinath and Gangotri are accessible by road. The remaining two destinations of Kedarnath and Yamnotri require extensive trekking. There’s also a Himalaya Darshan helicopter service that allows people to cover the trip in two days. Nearby railway station is at Rishikesh. From there on, tourists will have to hire a vehicle or bus service to reach the site.
12. Dhanaulti – Gorgeous Snowfall
Nestled amid the lofty Himalayan peaks, Dhanaulti is just about 60 km from the popular hill station called Mussoorie. Dhanaulti may not have grand tourist attractions and many things to do, but those who are looking for a peaceful weekend getaway near Delhi, must pay a visit. It is probably one of the most scenic tourist places in Uttarakhand for family trips.
Why to visit: If you’re visiting in winter, then for a gorgeous snowfall. If you’re planning a trip in summer, then for the cool and pleasant weather. Ideal for: Families and friend's
Best time to visit: October to January and April to June
Ideal duration: 2 days
How to reach: Dhanaulti is about 60 km from Mussoorie, and it’s also easily accessible from Dehradun. There isn’t frequent public transport facility, but you can take a shared/private taxi. Things to do: Watch a perfect sunrise and sunset, jungle camping, and long walks through dense pine & deodar forests
13. Kanatal – Serene Village
A serene and picturesque village in Mussoorie, Kanatal is quietly located on the Chamba-Mussoorie road. At an elevation of 8,500 feet, the village offers mesmerizing views of the Shivalik mountain range and lush green & brown pine forests. Among the most fun Uttarakhand destinations, Kanatal make a perfect weekend getaway. Its is among the best tourist places in Uttarakhand for 2 days.
Why to visit: For some thrilling water activities and camping
Ideal for: Adventure lovers, families, and friends
Best time to visit: October to January and April to June
Ideal duration: 2 days
How to reach: Dehradun is just about 75 km from Kanatal. One can either take a city or a private taxi from Dehradun ISBT.
Things to do: Trekking, bird watching
14. Mukteshwar – Fun AdventureS Sports
Located around 50km from Nainital, Mukteshwar is a small hill town in Uttrakhand. It is known for its awesome views of Himalayan ranges and fun adventure sports. With, lush greenery and narrow lanes, the major attractions here are coniferous forests, rolling meadows, picturesque orchards and little cottages. This is undoubtedly counted among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in April.
Why to visit: If you are an adventure enthusiast and experience seeker, this is a must-visit place for you. Ideal for: Trekking, rock climbing and rappeling
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal duration: 1 to 2 Days
How to reach: Kathgodam Railway station is the nearest railway station to Mukteshwar (62kms away) and the nearest airport is Dehradun. You can easily get taxis from the airport to Mukteshwar.
Things to do: Visit Mukteshwar temple, enjoy trekking, rock climbing, soak yourself in the splendid view of Himalayan R ranges
15. Binsar – Spell Binding Views
Binsar is located amidst an entire wildlife sanctuary. It is among the most popular tourist places in Uttarakhand. At an elevation of some 2,400 m, it is a slightly cut off travel destination offering majestic views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Kedarnath and Chaukhambha. Like several others, even binsar has a mythological connect as the local gods Golu devta had a fight with the king of Binsar. Homestays in Binsar are among the best homestays in the Himalayan region.
Why to visit: If you are looking for a break from the noise of the city life, this is the place to be.
Best time to visit: Summer months; October & November
Ideal for: Writers, nature lovers, peace Seekers
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
How to reach: The nearest airport is Pant Nagar airport at a distance of 143 km from Binsar. Kathgodam is the nearest railway station (110 km) and is well connected to major cities. If travelling on personal vehicle, the town charges INR 50 as entry charge.
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography, lazing around, trekking, safaris to the wildlife sanctuary
16. Bhimtal – Offbeat Version Of Nainital
This location too is at a height of 1370 meters from the sea level and is known for its temples that are located amidst breathtaking mountains. The town of Bhimtal is well known since the olden times.
The nature is at its best here and your travel experience here will be all about peace and serenity. The whole town is sheltered within dense oaks, pines, and shrubs – an amazing place to get closer to nature. Bhimtal is literally one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand for one day.
Why to visit: If you’re traveling from Delhi, then this can be a perfect getaway from the bustling city life Ideal for: weekend getaways
Best time to visit: March to June and September to December
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
How to reach: Located at a distance of 58 kilometers from Bhimtal, Pantnagar airport is the closest. Railway station thai is considered the nearest is in Kathgodam. Cabs are available from both locations.
Things to do: visit temples, go for boat king
17. Uttarkashi – Quaint Hill Town
Still looking for Uttarakhand tourist places? One of the younger parts of Uttrakhand, Uttarkashi is one of the most visited sites due to its religious relevance. The religious site houses two of the total four holy shrines of Hindu mythology. This is not all, the entire place also boasts of natural beauty and opportunities for trekking and other adventure activities. You can also visit the lakes here which are in large numbers. This is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in February.
Why to visit: this place is a must-visit to rejuvenate yourself inside out. It is not only for religious travelers but also attracts non religious tourists due to the various adventure activities it offers.
Ideal for: Religious travelers and adventure enthusiasts
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal duration: 1 to 2 days
How to reach: the nearest airport and rail connectivity to UTtarkashi is Dehradun. The best option is to take bus which regularly ply from major cities of the country.
Things to do: Visit Dodital Lake, Nachiketa Lake, Shakti Temple and enjoy Trekking
