Uttarakhand in next 3 month
December in Uttarakhand is cold with occasional snowfall in higher altitudes and moderate air quality.
Usual trip duration
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
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.
Uttarakhand is well-connected to the rest of India via various modes of transport:
Mode of Transport | Details |
---|---|
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. |
Uttarakhand offers a plethora of attractions to suit every traveler's taste. Here's a glimpse of some of the must-visit places:
Attraction | Highlights |
---|---|
Nainital | Scenic 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. |
Haridwar | One of the holiest cities in India, known for its ghats, temples, and Kumbh Mela. |
Auli | Popular skiing destination with stunning views of the Himalayas. |
Valley of Flowers National Park | UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its alpine flowers and scenic beauty (open during specific months). |
Jim Corbett National Park | India's oldest national park, known for its tiger population and diverse wildlife. |
Char Dham Yatra | Pilgrimage circuit comprising Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. |
Uttarakhand offers a wide range of activities for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers:
Uttarakhand's strategic location allows for easy access to several other interesting destinations:
Destination | Approximate Distance | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Delhi | 200-300 km (depending on the location in Uttarakhand) | Historical monuments, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine. |
Shimla | 250-350 km | Colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather. |
Amritsar | 450-550 km | Golden Temple, Wagah Border, and rich cultural heritage. |
Agra | 400-500 km | Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mughal history. |
Uttarakhand offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local markets to government-run emporiums. Here are some popular shopping spots:
City/Location | Specialties |
---|---|
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. |
Uttarakhand offers a variety of culinary experiences, from traditional Kumaoni and Garhwali dishes to international cuisines. Here are some recommendations:
Cuisine Type | Restaurants/Locations | Recommended Dishes |
---|---|---|
Kumaoni Cuisine | Machan (Nainital), Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) restaurants | Bhatt ki Churkani, Aloo ke Gutke, Singal, Bal Mithai |
Garhwali Cuisine | Garhwal Bhawan (Dehradun), local dhabas | Kafuli, Phaanu, Chainsoo, Dubuk |
Street Food | Mall Road (Mussoorie & Nainital), Paltan Bazaar (Dehradun) | Momos, Thukpa, Chowmein, Bun Tikki |
Fine Dining | The Claridges Nabha Residence (Mussoorie), Jaypee Residency Manor (Mussoorie) | International cuisines, Indian specialties |
Depending on the region you plan to visit in Uttarakhand, certain permits may be required, especially for protected areas and border regions:
It is crucial to check the specific permit requirements for your intended destinations well in advance and apply accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
Uttarakhand experiences a diverse climate due to its varied altitude and geography. Understanding the weather patterns is essential for planning your trip:
Season | Months | Temperature | Weather Conditions |
---|---|---|---|
Summer | March to June | 15°C to 30°C | Pleasant and sunny, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
Monsoon | July to August | 18°C to 25°C | Heavy rainfall, landslides are common, not ideal for travel. |
Autumn | September to November | 10°C to 20°C | Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, excellent for trekking. |
Winter | December to February | -5°C to 15°C | Cold, snowfall in higher altitudes, suitable for winter sports. |
Uttarakhand is known for its vibrant culture and numerous festivals. Experiencing these events can add a unique dimension to your trip:
Check the local calendars for specific dates and event details before planning your visit.
Traveling to Uttarakhand requires some precautions, especially concerning altitude sickness and safety:
Uttarakhand is increasingly focusing on eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices. You can find several initiatives that promote responsible tourism: