Uttarakhand

Blessed with majestic Himalayas all around, Uttarakhand is the most spirituality oozing state of India. The state has a perfect balance of serenity and spirituality. People visit here to spend some time understanding the deeply rooted religion in India which makes this country stand out on the world travel map. Uttarakhand has been rightly named as 'Dev Bhoomi' which means 'the Land of Gods'. Many hill stations also adorn the outlook of Uttarakhand and make it an ideal location to indulge in exciting adventure activities.

Top places to visit in Uttarakhand:

Rishikesh
This is the holiest town of Uttarakhand with more than its fair share of temples. Temple bells ring all day long here along the ghats of holy River Ganga. Lakshman Jhula is a popular attraction in Rishikesh having numerous legends behind it. Neelkantha Mahadev Temple is also a known temple visited by the devotees of Lord Shiva from all corners of the world. Rishikesh is also known for housing some of the best Yoga ashrams where you can stay to revitalize your senses and devote yourself to healing powers of Yoga. Adventure lovers can also take the pleasure of trekking, rafting and camping activities here.

Haridwar
Haridwar literally means 'Gateway to the Lord'. This is a Mecca for Hindu pilgrims with thousands of temples dotted all around. You can spot numerous pilgrims performing various rituals of birth and death along the banks of Ganga River. Har Ki Pauri remains the most popular ghat here where a grand evening aarti is organised. Chandi Devi Temple, on Neel Parvat, is also popular and can be accessed by taking a cable car ride.

Kedarnath
Kedarnath is known for being a part of the Chota Char Dham yatra. This remains the holiest temple dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva. Architecture of this temple is remarkable and it is nestling with amazing views of nature all around.

Badrinath
Badrinath is also an important part of the Char Dham. It houses one of the 108 temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Numerous hot springs having medicinal properties can be found here. Neelkanth Peak, at an elevation of 3,474 meters, is a must visit place here. Badrinath is also a blissful retreat in the form of the Valley of Flowers, where you can spot over 520 species of flowers.

Dehradun
This capital city of Uttarakhand rests in the foothills of the Himalayas. Most of the attractions here take you into the lap of nature. Sahastradhara, dotted with waterfalls, caves and steppe, is a must visit place here. Tiger Falls also delights nature seekers with views of flourishing jungle. Robber's Cave of Dehradun has a unique natural phenomenon named as the disappearing stream. One can also visit the Mindrolling Monastery here for some mental solace.

Nainital
This remains the most popular hill station among family vacationers as well as honeymooners. Sights of emerald hills, colonial cottages, and twisted streets are common yet fascinating here. Naini Lake is a popular place of tourist interest in Nainital where visitors can partake in boating, yachting and paddling. Trekkers must take a trek to the Naina Peak to catch heart warming views of sunset. Wildlife devotees must take the pleasure of jeep safari at Jim Corbett National Park known for being home to the endangered Bengal tiger.

Mussoorie
This known honeymoon spot is also known with the name of 'Queen of Hills'. Kempty Falls is the most visited attraction here where uncountable family vacationers visit. Many exciting activities are available here for whole family fun. Jharipani Falls also brings many travellers with its untouched views of nature all around. Other prominent places to visit in Mussoorie are Mossy Falls and Mussoorie Lake.

How to Reach
Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, Pantnagar airport and Pithoragarh's Naini Saini Airport are three airports connecting the state of Uttarakhand with other parts of India. The state has good rail connectivity. Roads of Uttarakhand are difficult especially during monsoon months as landslides take place in remote areas. In other months, many state run buses run here.