Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, offers a serene and picturesque getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. From bustling hill stations to tranquil lakes and wildlife sanctuaries, there's something for everyone. Here are some must-visit places that you should include in your travel itinerary when visiting Uttarakhand.
Mussoorie, known as the "Queen of Hills", is a popular hill station offering picturesque views of the Shivalik ranges and the Doon Valley.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Mall Road, explore the Kempty Falls, or take a cable car to Gun Hill.
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun (34 km)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (60 km)
Nainital, famous for its emerald-colored Naini Lake, is a serene hill station that attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Boating on Naini Lake and visiting the Naina Devi Temple are among the top activities here.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (34 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (65 km)
Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World", is renowned for its spiritual significance, adventure sports, and serene ashrams.
Visitors can practice yoga at various ashrams, experience white-water rafting, or visit the iconic Laxman Jhula bridge.
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (0 km)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (20 km)
Haridwar is a significant pilgrimage site where the Ganges River exits the Himalayan foothills, famous for its Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
Tourists often take a dip in the holy Ganges and visit the numerous temples scattered across the town.
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Junction (0 km)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km)
Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park, renowned for its rich flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger.
Safaris offer a chance to see tigers, elephants, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Nearest Railway Station: Ramnagar (15 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (81 km)
Auli is a premier ski destination known for its stunning slopes and views of the surrounding peaks like Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat.
During winter, Auli attracts skiers, while in summer, it offers excellent trekking routes.
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (260 km)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (286 km)
Ranikhet, meaning "Queen's Meadow", is a hill station with beautiful views of the Himalayas, lush forests, and ancient temples.
It is home to the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum and Chaubatia Gardens.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (80 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (115 km)
Almora is a cultural hub with ancient temples, charming cottages, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
It's known for its rich history and the famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (82 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (116 km)
Binsar is known for its wildlife sanctuary and stunning views of the Himalayan peaks like Kedarnath and Nanda Devi.
It is an ideal spot for nature walks, bird watching, and enjoying a peaceful retreat.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (105 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (143 km)
Kausani is famed for its panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, tea gardens, and serene environment, ideal for nature lovers.
Visit the Anasakti Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed, and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (132 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (162 km)
Dhanaulti is a quiet hill station known for its natural beauty and proximity to Mussoorie.
Visitors can explore Eco Park, enjoy treks, and experience the tranquility away from bustling tourist spots.
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun (60 km)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (82 km)
Bhimtal is named after the mythological character Bhima from the Mahabharata and is famous for its lake, which is larger than Naini Lake.
Enjoy boating, visit the island aquarium, and explore the ancient Bhimeshwar Temple.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (22 km)
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (58 km)