Best places to visit in uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is like the finest Chivalric Romance poetry when narrated, it melts the heart of the listener. A perfect mélange of surreal high and lowlands, this priceless little North Indian state has such divine beauty that even the Gods decided to call it their abode. A progenitor of rivers like Ganga and Yamuna, which are not only revered sacred but also attribute benefits across the country, Uttarakhand exhibit itself as a land of ‘Omnibenevolence’. Its scenic snow-clad mountains; sturdy and majestic glaciers; sweet fruits yielding terrace farms and forests that nurture rich biodiversity are significant places of sightseeing, which are further underlined by the humility and hospitality of the beautiful people of this state. The biodiversity in the state volunteers for some exhilarating wildlife tourism opportunities whereas adventure tours are a way to get intimate with the nature of Uttarakhand. The dreamy ambiance that is further adorned with nature’s incredible serenity in the hill stations make holidays in Uttarakhand is an unforgettable experience. Despite the fact the state is divided into two distinct regions (Kumaon and Garhwal); the culture, nature, and adventure enjoy a harmonious cohabitation here. The ever grateful people of Uttarakhand do not miss out on a single opportunity to celebrate even the petty moments of their lives. Therefore the state boasts celebrating some vivacious festivals and fairs including the Kumbh Mela (Haridwar). Often paired with dance and heart-warming music and delectable delicacies, these festivities display a sound reflection of unity in amongst its people.
The tourism in Uttarakhand is an opportunity to explore as well as to soak the culture of a state that is adorned with significant nature’s beauty and charming traditions. The state also renders an excellent chance to attain the complete rejuvenation of body, mind, and soul. For those who seek adventure tourism, the jagged trails, lofty mountains, the deep forests and whimsical rivers become a way to attain the unprecedented thrill. The state offers some incredible trekking trails, mountain climbing challenges, white water rafting opportunities and several other activities that can get the blood pump faster in the body. For nature lovers seeking, the same trails, mountains, forests, and rivers open the door for achieving peace of mind. Uttarakhand is replete with such picturesque and isolated places that are entitled to offer solace and tranquility to even the most distressed souls. To those, who anticipate seeking the blessing of the Supreme and head out for spiritual tourism, the state becomes a portal to enter the earthly abodes of Gods and Goddesses. A large number of religious places and shrines are seen tucked in the state. And finally for those who come here ‘Seeking Nothing’, it becomes a puddle of unsurpassed experiences that can be only relished once one decides to plunge into it. Tour My India presents Uttarakhand travel guide that can assist in planning interest based tours in the state. Complete information on places to visit, things to do and shop, places to eat and how to reach are articulately provided. Information on varied holiday packages in Uttarakhand is also dissimilated so that prudent choices can be made.
The state is termed as Devbhumi (Land of God), as it has embraced numerous important pilgrimage sites in it. Uttarakhand was formerly known as Uttranchal, and its beauty has always been intact. Deodar, oak, silver fir, chestnut, poplar, birch, rhododendron and many other species of trees are popped everywhere; even in steep slopes. This bountiful greenery is scattered all over Uttarakhand, in the hills and plains. Two most sacred rivers of India, Yamuna and Ganga (Ganges) are originated in this state. There isn’t much of an argument needed to proof why Uttarakhand is a must-visit destination; but to draw forth some solid reasons, I have listed some of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand.
Haridwar
Evening Aarti at Har Ki Pauri Ghat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Haridwar is the city of pilgrims and spirituality. As it is located in the banks of River Ganga, Hindus come from different regions to take a dip and make their sins wash away. The city is also considered a mandate place for the rituals of death and birth. This is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. As the dusk knocks in, the river banks get illuminated and evening arti is performed; and to attend this arti thousands of people gather. There are four venues for Kumbha Mela (Grandest Fair of India that takes place once in every three year), and out of these four, Haridwar happens to be one.
Jim Corbett National Park
Jeep Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett is the oldest national park of India, well known to be a Tiger Reserve as well. This park indeed was the first one to come under The Project Tiger Initiative. Jim Corbett is located in Nainital and was named after the person who played key role in its establishment. It is home to 488 different species of flora and fauna, 50 species of mammal, 25 species of reptile and 580 species of birds. As a whole, the park covers an area of 580 km sq; comprised of grasslands, marshy depressions, rivers and hills. Since its inception, Jim Corbett National Park has become a wildlife enthusiast’s top interest.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as The Gateway of Garhwal Himalayas and is located at a distance of 25 km from Haridwar. However, the divinity of Haridwar is living here equally, as Rishikesh too has sacred Ganga River flowing through it. The spiritual importance of Rishikesh is that people believed Lord Rama underwent penance and practiced for killing the demon Ravana. Famous bridges Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula are the highlights of the city. These bridges offer a magnificent view of the hillocks and the river. Over the years, Rishikesh came more into the limelight because of its river rafting activities; so today not just pilgrims but groups of adventurers too seek a visit to Rishikesh.
Nainital
Naini Lake in Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is located on the foothills of Kumaon, in an elevation of 2048 meters above sea level. This location indeed owes to the awe-inspiring view of the giant mountains with iced top. The pear shaped Naini Lake makes this hill station look even more magnificent. And boating in this clear lake is one favorite activity of the visitors. Let alone leading in tourism industry, Nainital has India’s best educational institutes as well. What adorns the city further is the British architecture, standing strongly and alluringly since decades.
Valley of Flowers
The Valley of the flowers – One of the Natural wonders of the world
Valley of flowers has different species of flowers blooming in abundance. These alpine flowers are eye-catching. It has managed to preserve its pristine nature and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located 3658 meters above sea level, Valley of Flowers is home to some of the most endangered species like Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, red fox and brown bear. This colorful valley not only attracts the travelers but birds from faraway lands.
Ranikhet
Ranikhet – A celestial Land of Uttarakhand
Ranikhet has served as a summer retreat for the British, and they established their headquarters of Kumaon Regiment here. It is situated at an altitude of 1869 meters and is brimming with Pine, Oak and Deodar Forests. These forests are comfortable abode of red-faced monkeys, jackals, langur, red fox, porcupine, sambar, pine marten, barking deer, leopard, leopard cat, and mountain goats. Pilgrims visit Ranikhet to have darshans in the Rama Mandir and Jhula Devi Temple. Chaubatia Garden is a retreat having plantation of apricots, peaches, almonds, chestnuts, apples and with a wide variety of Himalyan flowers.