Uttarakhand, often called the ‘Land of Gods’, is a destination of unparalleled beauty that draws visitors from across the globe. Formerly known as Uttaranchal, this Indian state boasts majestic snow-capped mountains, lush forests, expansive meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient temples that captivate the soul.
If you’re planning a getaway to this scenic paradise, this blog highlights the top 20 must-visit tourist destinations in Uttarakhand. Be sure to include these remarkable spots in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
15 Top Places To Visit In Uttarakhand
1. Chopta: A Hidden Gem in the Himalayas
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of the Himalayas, Chopta is a stunning destination for trekkers and nature lovers alike. This serene location offers a breathtaking view of the mountains, making it a sought-after spot for both young families and adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
Average Expense: ₹4,200 for 2 Nights/3 Days for 2 to 4 people
Key Attractions:
- Kedarnath Temple
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Valley of Thangu
- Tungnath Temple
- Deori Tal
Things to Do:
- Camping at Baniyakund
- Trekking
- Bird watching
- Nature walks
- Exploring local culture
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (97 km).
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station is about 100 km away.
- By Road:Chopta is connected to Rudraprayag and Kedarnath by the NH58. For transportation, regular buses and taxis are available..
2. Mussoorie: The Queen of the Hills
Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie is one of Uttarakhand’s most captivating hill stations.
Popular among leisure travelers and honeymooners, this charming destination has been a favorite since the late 19th century. Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie offers scenic beauty and a tranquil retreat for visitors.
Best Time to Visit: September to June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
Average Expense: ₹6,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Kempty Falls
- Gun Hill
- Mussoorie Lake
- Company Garden
- Clouds End
Things to Do:
- Hiking
- Trekking
- Rock-climbing
- Rafting
- Horse-riding
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant International Airport in Dehradun (60 km away).
- By Train: Dehradun Railway Station is 34 km from Mussoorie.
- By Road: Major cities like Chandigarh, Saharanpur, Shimla, Chamba, Rishikesh, and Haridwar are all easily accessible by road from Mussoorie, and buses and taxis are available for transportation.
3. Munsiyari: A Hidden Paradise in Uttarakhand
Perched at an altitude of 2,298 meters, Munsiyari is a picturesque village that draws trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, and solo travelers. Known for its stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush green forests, Munsiyari has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Uttarakhand.
Best Time to Visit: April to June; October to November
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
Average Expense: ₹7,500 for 2 Nights/3 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Panchachuli Peaks
- Thamari Kund
- Maheshwari Kund
- Birthi Falls
- Balanti Potato Farm
Things to Do:
- Trekking
- Skiing
- Nature walks
- Bird-watching
- Exploring the region’s rich flora and fauna
How to Reach:
- By Air:Pantnagar Airport is the closest airport, 249 kilometers distant.
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (275 km) and Tanakpur Railway Station (286 km) are the closest major stations.
- By Road: Buses from Almora, Champawat, Tanakpur, and Haldwani go to Munsiyari, which is connected by well-kept highways. To get to the village, you can also rent taxis.
4. Kausani: A Serene Hill Station in Uttarakhand
Situated on a ridge surrounded by chir and pine forests, Kausani is a peaceful hill station that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. The tranquil sunrise and picturesque landscape make Kausani a perfect destination to refresh and rejuvenate your spirit.
Best Time to Visit: September through December, April through June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
Average Expense: ₹9,450 for 2 Nights/3 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Rudradhari Falls
- Kausani Tea Estate
- Anasakti Ashram
- Someshwar
- Pinnath
- Bajinath Temple
- Kausani Planetarium
Things to Do:
- Rock-climbing
- Mountain biking
- Trekking
- Touring museums and ashrams
- Watching the mesmerizing sunset
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 162 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Kathgodam, located 132 km from Kausani.
- By Road: Kausani is well-connected by the Uttarakhand Roadways, with buses available from Ranikhet, Almora, and Haldwani. Private buses also run from New Delhi to Kausani.
5. Auli: A Winter Wonderland in Uttarakhand
Nestled in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli offers visitors spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, lush coniferous forests, and pristine landscapes. Known for its winter sports, Auli is a popular destination for thrill-seekers, offering exciting opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Best Time to Visit: November to March (for skiing), April to June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
Average Expense: ₹10,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Jyotirmath
- Auli Artificial Lake
- Nanda Devi Peak
- Chenab Lake
- Trishul Peak
Things to Do:
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Trekking
- Camping
- Bird-watching tours
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 149 kilometers distant, is the closest airport.
- By Train:The nearest train station, Rishikesh, is 209 kilometers from Auli.
- By Road: Auli is accessible by bus or cab from Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Srinagar, Ukhimath, Chamoli, and Pauri. Additionally, cable cars operate from Joshimath to Auli.
6. Harsil: A Tranquil Escape in Uttarakhand
Located at an altitude of 2,620 meters above sea level, Harsil is a peaceful destination known for its stunning landscapes and serene beauty. Situated along the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Harsil offers a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the fast pace of city life and immerse themselves in nature.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
Average Expense: ₹1,880 per night per person (hotel cost)
Top Attractions:
- Dharali
- Kedar Tal
- Gangotri Glacier
- Dayara Bugyal
- Dodital Lake
Things to Do:
- Trekking
- Sightseeing
- Photography
- Exploration
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 232 km away.
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station is about 215 km from Harsil.
- By Road: Harsil is well-connected to other major tourist destinations in Uttarakhand. The nearest bus station is Uttarkashi, from where buses or taxis can be taken to reach Harsil.
7. Dehradun: A Charming Capital of Uttarakhand
Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the state. Famous for its pleasant weather year-round and picturesque landscapes, Dehradun also boasts several prestigious institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Survey of India, Wildlife Institute of India, and other renowned educational establishments.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
Average Expense: ₹18,000 for 6 Nights/7 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Tiger Falls
- Malsi Deer Park
- Robbers’ Cave
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Sahastradhara
Things to Do:
- Trekking
- Camping
- Paragliding
- Picnicking
- Exploring museums
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, 29 km from Dehradun.
- By Train: Dehradun has its own railway station.
- By Road:Dehradun is well-connected by bus and cab from major cities including New Delhi, Shimla, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
8. Almora: A Cultural Gem in the Himalayas
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas, Almora is a charming hill station that combines rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and exquisite handicrafts. It is a popular location for both adventure seekers and history buffs due to its varied offerings.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Ideal Vacation Duration: 3-4 days
Average Expense: ₹12,000 for 3 Nights/4 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Zero Point
- Nanda Devi Temple
- Jageshwar
- Deer Park
- Simtola
Things to Do:
- Rock climbing
- Trekking
- Nature walks
- Picnicking
- Witnessing spectacular sunrises and panoramic Himalayan views
How to Reach:
- By Air: The closest airport is 115 kilometers distant in Pantnagar.
- By Train: Almora is 81 kilometers from Kathgodam, the nearest train station.
- By Road: Almora is well-connected via National Highways 87 and 87E. Buses frequently operate from New Delhi, Kathgodam, and other parts of the Kumaon region. Taxis are also available for convenient travel.
9. Landour: The Crown Jewel of the Queen of Hills
Landour, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, is famed for its serene beauty and tranquil ambiance. Often referred to as the “Tiara of the Queen of Hills,” this charming destination offers visitors an escape from the chaos of city life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
Average Expense: ₹3,000 per day per person
Top Attractions:
- Lal Tibba
- Landour Bakehouse
- Rokeby Manor
- Nag Tibba
- St. Paul’s Church
Things to Do:
- Visiting historic churches
- Relishing freshly baked treats at Landour Bakehouse
- Shopping for local crafts
- Sightseeing and exploring the serene mountain landscapes
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 61 km away.
- By Train: Dehradun Railway Station is 36 km from Landour.
- By Road: Landour is easily accessible by rented vehicles from nearby towns like Mussoorie and Dehradun.
10. Chamoli: A Scenic Retreat in the Garhwal Himalayas
Chamoli, nestled in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of Uttarakhand’s most stunning destinations. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, flowing streams, and lush alpine forests, Chamoli also holds cultural significance as the birthplace of the Chipko movement and a hub of temples and shrines.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Ideal Vacation Duration: 3-4 days
Average Expense: ₹16,500 for 5 Nights/6 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Gopeshwar
- Chamolanath Temple
- Gopinath Temple
- Hemkund Sahib
- Roopkund Lake
Things to Do:
- Visiting ancient temples
- Experiencing village tourism
- Taking nature walks
- Trekking in the Himalayas
- Sampling delicious local cuisine
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 222 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh, located 202 km from Chamoli.
- By Road: State-owned and private buses connect Chamoli to nearby cities. Taxis are also readily available for travelers.
11. Lansdowne: A Serene Escape in Uttarakhand
Lansdowne, a peaceful hill station adorned with lush greenery and majestic mountains, is among Uttarakhand’s most picturesque destinations. Renowned for its colonial-era charm, dense pine forests, and vibrant flora and fauna, Lansdowne has been captivating travelers since the 19th century.
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
Average Expense: ₹2,999 for 1 Night/2 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Bhulla Lake
- Darwan Singh Museum
- Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Tip N Top
- St. John’s Church
Things to Do:
- Trekking and exploring scenic trails
- Camping amidst nature
- Enjoying tranquil nature walks
- Sightseeing and soaking in the serene atmosphere
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 83 km away.
- By Train: Kotdwar, which is 40 kilometers from Lansdowne, is the closest train station.
- By Road: Lansdowne is well-connected by state and private buses to other towns in Uttarakhand.
12. New Tehri: A Paradise for Adventure Seekers
New Tehri, a tranquil hill station surrounded by verdant forests and ancient temples, is a top destination in Uttarakhand for adventure enthusiasts. The nearby Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers make it an ideal spot for water-based activities and nature exploration.
Best Time to Visit: January to December
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 Days
Average Expense: ₹1,500 per day per person (accommodation cost)
Top Attractions:
- Tehri Dam
- Tehri Lake
- Ghansali
- Pantwari Village
- Budha Kedar
Things to Do:
- Boating and water skiing
- Trekking through scenic trails
- Exploring nature on peaceful walks
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant International Airport in Dehradun, 130 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh, located 115 km from New Tehri.
- By Road: Luxury and state-run buses connect New Tehri to major destinations. Taxis are also available from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and nearby towns.
13. Binsar: A Serene Retreat in the Kumaon Hills
Binsar, nestled in the scenic Kumaon hills, is a breathtaking destination known for its panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Shivling, and Panchachuli. It also houses the renowned Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Best Time to Visit: March to June; October to December
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 Days
Average Expense: ₹1,500 per day per person (accommodation cost)
Top Attractions:
- Binsar Zero Point: A stunning viewpoint offering unparalleled Himalayan vistas.
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: A biodiversity hotspot rich in flora and fauna.
- Mary Budden Estate: A heritage property surrounded by pristine natural beauty.
- Binsar Sanctuary Museum: A place to learn about the region’s wildlife.
- Kasar Devi Temple: A peaceful spiritual retreat.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for a close encounter with nature.
- Enjoy trekking and serene nature walks.
- Visit historic temples and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 138 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Kathgodam, located 104 km from Binsar.
- By Road: The nearest bus station is in Almora, from where buses and taxis can take you to Binsar.
14. Haridwar: The Gateway to the Gods
Haridwar, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Gods,’ is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Located on the banks of the holy river Ganga, it is celebrated for its spiritual atmosphere, vibrant culture, and numerous ancient temples.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1–2 Days
Average Expense: ₹2,500 per day per person
Top Attractions:
- Har Ki Pauri Ghat: A revered site where devotees gather for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
- Manasa Devi Temple: A hilltop shrine offering breathtaking views of the city.
- Rajaji National Park: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Chandi Devi Temple: Another sacred temple with a rich history.
- Piran Kaliyar: A spiritual retreat known for its tranquility.
Things to Do:
- Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
- Visit ancient temples and seek blessings.
- Relish the delicious street food unique to Haridwar.
- Experience rejuvenation with Ayurvedic treatments.
- Engage in yoga and meditation for inner peace.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 40 km away.
- By Train: Haridwar has its own railway station, ensuring excellent connectivity.
- By Road: Haridwar is well-connected by AC, non-AC, luxury, and deluxe buses from major Indian cities.
15. Pithoragarh: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For those seeking an offbeat holiday destination, Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand offers a tranquil escape. Nestled amidst snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers, this serene hill station is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Ideal Vacation Duration: 3–4 Days
Average Expense: ₹7,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days per person
Top Attractions:
- Gangolihat: A serene village known for its cultural heritage and ancient temples.
- Pithoragarh Fort: A historic fort offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Chaubatia Orchards: A lush orchard perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Dhwaj Temple: a hallowed location honoring the goddess Jayanti and Lord Shiva.
- Chandak Hill: A vantage point ideal for trekking and scenic views.
Things to Do:
- Explore ancient temples and seek blessings.
- Discover the diverse flora and fauna through nature walks.
- Enjoy sightseeing and soak in the scenic landscapes.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 115 km away.
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station, located 88 km from Pithoragarh, ensures good rail connectivity.
- By Road: Well-maintained roads and regular buses connect Pithoragarh to other parts of Uttarakhand. Additionally, taxis are offered for a more pleasant ride.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand, often called the “Land of the Gods,” is a treasure trove of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an adrenaline junkie, the state offers something for everyone. From the serene lakes of Nainital to the adventurous terrains of Auli, the tranquil temples of Haridwar to the snow-capped peaks of Munsiyari, every destination promises a unique experience.
Plan your trip to Uttarakhand and let its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a destination that truly has it all—peace, adventure, and a connection to the sublime beauty of nature.
FAQ: Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand?
The ideal time to visit Uttarakhand depends on the destination. For most hill stations, April to June is perfect for pleasant weather, while October to March is great for snow lovers. For spiritual destinations like Haridwar and Rishikesh, the weather is favorable year-round.
What are the must-visit places in Uttarakhand?
Some of the top places include Nainital, Mussoorie, Auli, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Almora, Binsar, Lansdowne, and Chamoli.
Is Uttarakhand suitable for adventure activities?
Absolutely! Uttarakhand is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering activities like trekking, river rafting, skiing, paragliding, camping, and rock climbing in places like Auli, Rishikesh, and New Tehri.
Which destinations are ideal for a spiritual retreat?
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Hemkund Sahib are some of the most revered spiritual places in Uttarakhand.
