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17°c

AQI 129

Uttarakhand, India

Uttarakhand is known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes and is a popular destination for trekking and pilgrimage to the sacred Char Dham sites.

Uttarakhand is popular for

Jim Corbett National Park

Himalayan Peaks

Valleys and Rivers

Yoga Retreats

Pilgrimage Sites

Uttarakhand in next 3 month

jan

-4/14°C

AQI 64
feb

-5/16°C

AQI 26
mar

-2/15°C

AQI 39
apr

-1/20°C

AQI 49
may

3/22°C

AQI 48
jun

8/22°C

AQI 31
jul

11/21°C

AQI 19
aug

10/21°C

AQI 30
sep

9/21°C

AQI 30
oct

2/19°C

AQI 50
nov

1/16°C

AQI 45
dec

3/9°C

AQI 65

June in Uttarakhand is warm with occasional rain showers and moderate air quality.

Usual trip duration

3-4 days

A 3-4 day trip to Uttarakhand allows you to explore the natural beauty of the region, visit famous hill stations like Nainital and Mussoorie, go for trekking or wildlife safari, and experience the serene environment of the Himalayas.

💰

Moderate to expensive

Places to Stay
Things To Do

Ideas To Plan Your Trip

Yoga Retreat: Find inner peace surrounded by nature 🧘

Trekking in the Himalayas: Conquer new heights 🏔️

Wildlife Safari: Encounter exotic creatures 🐅

Local Cuisine Tasting: Delight your taste buds 🍛

Camping Under the Stars: Embrace the night sky 🏕️

River Rafting: Ride the untamed waters 🚣

Ayurvedic Spa Experience: Rejuvenate the mind and body 🌿

Cultural Homestay: Immerse in local traditions 🏡

Handicraft Workshops: Discover creative skills 🎨

Mountain Biking: Explore rugged terrains 🚵

Places To Visit

national park

lake

waterfall

hindu temple

Jim Corbett National Park

NATIONAL PARK

Home to Bengal tigers

Valley of Flowers

NATIONAL PARK

Colorful alpine flowers

Nainital Lake

LAKE

Scenic boat rides

Kempty Falls

WATERFALL

Refreshing natural pool

Gangotri Temple

HINDU TEMPLE

Sacred pilgrimage site

Kedarnath Temple

HINDU TEMPLE

Located in the Himalayas

Jageshwar Temple

HINDU TEMPLE

Ancient stone temples

Bhimtal Lake

LAKE

Island in the middle

Places To Eat

Wanderers Terrace & Cafe - Corbett

SHIVANI'S Cafe ( Spiritual & healing Cafe)

South Indian Vibes

The Sitting Elephant - A Rooftop Restaurant Overlooking River Ganga

Kalsang Cafe and Restaurant

The Arches Cafe & Bakery

Vj's giardino by the Ganges

The Pahadi House

Café LakeSide

Barbeque Nation

Café De Piccolo

GANGA VIEW CAFE

Hotel Raghuvanshi Gujrati Bhojanalay

MUSEE Art Café

Giannis Pure Veg Restaurant

Rustic House - Best Bar and Pubs | Restaurants in Roorkee

Balli Da Dhaba(Pure Veg)

Hoshiyarpuri

First Gear Cafe

Little Buddha Cafe

How to Reach
More About Uttarakhand

Frequently Asked Questions about Uttarakhand Travel

What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand, the 'Land of Gods'?

The best time to visit Uttarakhand depends on your interests. For general tourism and pleasant weather, March to June and September to November are ideal. These months offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and are perfect for exploring hill stations and engaging in outdoor activities. If you're interested in snow and winter sports, December to February is the best time. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential road closures due to snowfall, especially in higher altitudes. Monsoon season, from July to August, brings heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides and disruptions in travel. While the landscapes are lush and green during this time, it's generally not recommended for tourism.

Ultimately, consider your priorities and what you want to experience in Uttarakhand when planning your trip.

How can I reach Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand is well-connected to the rest of India via various modes of transport:

Mode of TransportDetails
By Air Jolly Grant Airport (DED) near Dehradun is the primary airport, connecting Uttarakhand to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Pantnagar Airport (PGH) serves the Kumaon region, but with limited flights. From these airports, you can hire taxis or take buses to reach different parts of the state.
By Train Uttarakhand has several railway stations, with Dehradun, Haridwar, and Kathgodam being the major ones. These stations are well-connected to cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Kathgodam serves as the gateway to the Kumaon region, including Nainital and Almora.
By Road Uttarakhand is easily accessible by road, with a well-maintained network of national highways and state roads. You can take state-run buses or hire private taxis from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities. The road journey offers scenic views, but be prepared for hilly terrain and winding roads. Self-driving is also an option, but ensure you are comfortable driving in mountainous areas.
What are the must-visit attractions in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand offers a plethora of attractions to suit every traveler's taste. Here's a glimpse of some of the must-visit places:

AttractionHighlights
NainitalScenic hill station with Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, and Snow View Point.
Mussoorie'Queen of the Hills,' known for its colonial charm, Kempty Falls, and Lal Tibba.
Rishikesh'Yoga Capital of the World,' famous for its ashrams, Ganga Aarti, and adventure sports.
HaridwarOne of the holiest cities in India, known for its ghats, temples, and Kumbh Mela.
AuliPopular skiing destination with stunning views of the Himalayas.
Valley of Flowers National ParkUNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its alpine flowers and scenic beauty (open during specific months).
Jim Corbett National ParkIndia's oldest national park, known for its tiger population and diverse wildlife.
Char Dham YatraPilgrimage circuit comprising Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
What activities can tourists enjoy in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand offers a wide range of activities for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers:

  • Trekking: Explore numerous trekking trails, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Popular treks include Valley of Flowers, Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila, and Har Ki Dun.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Participate in yoga and meditation retreats in Rishikesh and other serene locations to rejuvenate your mind and body.
  • River Rafting: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting in the Ganges River in Rishikesh.
  • Skiing: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Auli during the winter months.
  • Wildlife Safaris: Embark on wildlife safaris in Jim Corbett National Park to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
  • Camping: Camp amidst nature in various locations, including Chopta, Pangot, and Dhanaulti.
  • Pilgrimage: Undertake the Char Dham Yatra or visit other sacred sites like Hemkund Sahib and Badrinath.
  • Birdwatching: Uttarakhand is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous species found in different regions.
What are some popular nearby destinations to visit from Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand's strategic location allows for easy access to several other interesting destinations:

DestinationApproximate DistanceHighlights
Delhi200-300 km (depending on the location in Uttarakhand)Historical monuments, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine.
Shimla250-350 kmColonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather.
Amritsar450-550 kmGolden Temple, Wagah Border, and rich cultural heritage.
Agra400-500 kmTaj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mughal history.
Where can one go shopping in Uttarakhand for local handicrafts and souvenirs?

Uttarakhand offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local markets to government-run emporiums. Here are some popular shopping spots:

City/LocationSpecialties
Nainital (Mall Road)Woolen garments, candles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Mussoorie (Mall Road)Wooden artifacts, Tibetan artifacts, clothing, and jewelry.
Dehradun (Paltan Bazaar)Basmati rice, spices, woolen garments, and handicrafts.
Haridwar (Bara Bazaar)Religious items, Ayurvedic medicines, sweets, and clothing.
Almora (Lala Bazaar)Angora wool garments, copperware, and local sweets.
Government Emporiums (across Uttarakhand)Handloom and handicraft items made by local artisans.
What are some of the best restaurants and local food experiences in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand offers a variety of culinary experiences, from traditional Kumaoni and Garhwali dishes to international cuisines. Here are some recommendations:

Cuisine TypeRestaurants/LocationsRecommended Dishes
Kumaoni CuisineMachan (Nainital), Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) restaurantsBhatt ki Churkani, Aloo ke Gutke, Singal, Bal Mithai
Garhwali CuisineGarhwal Bhawan (Dehradun), local dhabasKafuli, Phaanu, Chainsoo, Dubuk
Street FoodMall Road (Mussoorie & Nainital), Paltan Bazaar (Dehradun)Momos, Thukpa, Chowmein, Bun Tikki
Fine DiningThe Claridges Nabha Residence (Mussoorie), Jaypee Residency Manor (Mussoorie)International cuisines, Indian specialties
What permits or permissions are required to visit certain areas in Uttarakhand?

Depending on the region you plan to visit in Uttarakhand, certain permits may be required, especially for protected areas and border regions:

  • Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for Indian citizens visiting areas close to the Indo-China border, such as Mana village near Badrinath. You can obtain this permit from the District Magistrate's office in Joshimath or through online portals.
  • Protected Area Permit (PAP): Required for foreign nationals visiting certain protected areas and border regions. Apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
  • Forest Department Permits: Necessary for trekking and camping in certain forest areas. Obtain these permits from the Uttarakhand Forest Department.
  • Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve Permit: Required to enter the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Obtain this permit from the Chief Wildlife Warden, Uttarakhand.

It is crucial to check the specific permit requirements for your intended destinations well in advance and apply accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

What is the typical weather like in Uttarakhand throughout the year?

Uttarakhand experiences a diverse climate due to its varied altitude and geography. Understanding the weather patterns is essential for planning your trip:

SeasonMonthsTemperatureWeather Conditions
SummerMarch to June15°C to 30°CPleasant and sunny, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
MonsoonJuly to August18°C to 25°CHeavy rainfall, landslides are common, not ideal for travel.
AutumnSeptember to November10°C to 20°CClear skies, comfortable temperatures, excellent for trekking.
WinterDecember to February-5°C to 15°CCold, snowfall in higher altitudes, suitable for winter sports.
Are there any specific festivals or events that I should consider experiencing in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand is known for its vibrant culture and numerous festivals. Experiencing these events can add a unique dimension to your trip:

  • Kumbh Mela: A major Hindu pilgrimage held every 12 years in Haridwar (next Kumbh Mela is in 2027).
  • Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra: A unique pilgrimage held every 12 years, involving a long trek through the Garhwal Himalayas.
  • International Yoga Festival (Rishikesh): A week-long festival in March, attracting yoga enthusiasts from around the world.
  • Basant Panchami: Celebrates the arrival of spring with kite flying and cultural performances.
  • Phool Dei: A harvest festival celebrated in March, primarily by young girls offering flowers to households.
  • Uttarani Mela (Bageshwar): A large trade fair held in January, showcasing local products and cultural performances.

Check the local calendars for specific dates and event details before planning your visit.

What are some essential travel tips for visiting Uttarakhand, especially regarding altitude sickness and safety?

Traveling to Uttarakhand requires some precautions, especially concerning altitude sickness and safety:

  • Altitude Sickness: If traveling to high-altitude areas (above 8,000 feet), acclimatize gradually. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity, and avoid alcohol. Consult a doctor about medication for altitude sickness if needed.
  • Road Safety: Roads in Uttarakhand can be narrow and winding. Drive carefully, especially during the monsoon season. Hire experienced drivers for mountain roads.
  • Weather: Carry appropriate clothing for all types of weather, as conditions can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
  • Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
  • Cash: Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be readily available in remote areas.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local police and hospitals.
Are there specific eco-tourism initiatives or sustainable travel options available in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand is increasingly focusing on eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices. You can find several initiatives that promote responsible tourism:

  • Home Stays: Opt for home stays in villages to support local communities and experience the local culture. Many villages offer eco-friendly home stay options.
  • Eco-Camps: Stay in eco-camps that follow sustainable practices and promote responsible tourism.
  • Support Local Businesses: Buy local products and handicrafts to support local artisans and businesses.
  • Responsible Trekking: Choose trekking operators that follow responsible trekking practices, such as waste management and environmental conservation.
  • Reduce Plastic Use: Carry reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Respect the Environment: Avoid littering and disturbing wildlife.
  • Learn about Local Culture: Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions and customs.