UTTARAKHAND

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Uttarakhand is a state in northern India that is renowned for its spiritual significance, natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and cultural richness. Here’s what makes Uttarakhand truly special: 

• Spiritual Significance: Sacred pilgrimage sites like Char Dham, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
• Natural Beauty: Stunning Himalayan views, lakes, valleys, and waterfalls.
• Adventure: Great for trekking, rafting, skiing, and wildlife safaris.
• Wildlife and Ecology: Home to famous parks like Jim Corbett and diverse wildlife.
• Cultural Heritage: Unique traditions, festivals, and handicrafts from the Garhwal and Kumaon regions.
• Hill Stations: Picturesque towns like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Auli.
• Eco-tourism: Promoting sustainable tourism with a focus on nature conservation.
• Wellness: Renowned for yoga and wellness retreats, especially in Rishikesh.

Reaching various destinations in Uttarakhand depends on your point of origin and the specific place you're visiting. The state is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with good access to its popular destinations like Nainital, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Jim Corbett, and the Char Dham circuit. Here's a guide on how to reach different places in Uttarakhand: 

1. By Air

Uttarakhand has a few airports that connect the state to major cities in India. The nearest airports for popular destinations are:

Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport):

For Rishikesh, Haridwar, Mussoorie: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the main airport in Uttarakhand. It's about 20 km from Rishikesh (1 hour by road), 45 km from Haridwar (1.5 hours by road), and 35 km from Mussoorie (1.5-2 hours by road).

Airlines: Domestic flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities frequently operate to Dehradun.

Pantnagar Airport:

For Nainital, Almora, and Corbett: Located about 70 km from Nainital (2 hours by road), Pantnagar Airport is well-connected to Delhi.

Airlines: Domestic flights operate from Delhi to Pantnagar.

Haridwar (Near Rishikesh):

While there is no commercial airport in Haridwar, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves this region, with road connectivity from Haridwar being the primary option.

Auli:

The closest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 270 km away (around 8-9 hours by road).

Alternatively, you can take a flight to Pantnagar and then travel by road (roughly 5-6 hours).

2. By Train

Uttarakhand is well-connected by rail, with several major stations linking important cities and towns in the state:

Haridwar Railway Station:

The main railway station serving Haridwar and Rishikesh, with trains from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. It is well-connected by road to destinations like Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Dehradun.

From Haridwar, you can also catch trains to other parts of the state.

Dehradun Railway Station:

The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is well-connected by train to Delhi (about 5-6 hours), Lucknow, Mumbai, and Chandigarh.

Mussoorie (35 km from Dehradun) and Rishikesh (about 1 hour) are easily accessible by road from Dehradun.

Nainital (Kathgodam Railway Station):

The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, around 34 km away (1 hour by road). You can take a train from Delhi, Lucknow, Howrah, and Bareilly to Kathgodam. From there, buses, taxis, or cabs are available to Nainital.

Haridwar to Auli:

To reach Auli, you can take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh, and then travel by road (about 270 km from Haridwar).

3. By Road (Bus/Taxi/Private Vehicle)

Uttarakhand is well-served by a network of highways and roads that make it easy to travel within the state.

From Delhi to Uttarakhand:

By Road: The distance from Delhi to major destinations like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun is about 200-300 km (5-7 hours by road). You can travel via NH58 (Haridwar/Dehradun) or NH7 (Mussoorie).

By Bus: Several Uttarakhand Roadways and private buses operate between Delhi and places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Nainital, and Mussoorie. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) offers regular buses.

Dehradun to Mussoorie:

By Road: Mussoorie is about 35 km (1-1.5 hours) from Dehradun by road.

Taxi: Taxis and private cabs are available for hire, offering a scenic drive up to Mussoorie.

Bus: Regular buses run from Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Haridwar to Rishikesh:

By Road: Haridwar and Rishikesh are connected by a well-maintained road, and the distance is only about 20-25 km, which takes around 30-40 minutes by taxi or bus.

Nainital:

By Road: From Kathgodam Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital (1 hour).

Delhi to Nainital: About 300 km, a 7-8 hour journey by road.

Private car or Uttarakhand Roadways buses are options for traveling between major cities and Nainital.

Auli:

By Road: Auli is well-connected by road from Rishikesh (around 270 km) or Dehradun (around 300 km). A private taxi or shared jeep can take you there.

From Joshimath (the nearest town), you can take a cable car to reach Auli.

The best time to visit Uttarakhand largely depends on the type of experience you are seeking, as the state offers different attractions and activities in every season. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and the ideal time to visit Uttarakhand based on various factors: 

July to September:

Uttarakhand experiences rainfall between July to September, but don’t let that dampen your holidays. The monsoon is a refreshing season in the mountain, and one can enjoy the natural beauty to its fullest. The temperature during these months ranges from 20 degrees to 38 degrees depending on the rainfall.

October to February:

Cold and pleasant, winters in Uttarakhand are perfect if you want to experience the place in all its glory. The temperature can range anywhere between 3 degrees to 15 degree Celsius. Although some places may temporarily shut down on account of heavy snowfall, there are still a lot of places such as Corbett, Haridwar, Nainital and the Valley of Flowers that you can visit during the winter season.

March to June:

Considered as the ideal season to plan your trip to Uttarakhand, the temperature during summer is not too harsh and ranges from 20 degrees to 35 degrees. Tourists can explore the state and its awe-inspiring beauty throughout these months. However, be prepared to expect a flock of visitors as the gorgeous Uttarakhand is a favorite of many-a-travellers who want to try the ultimate sport: river rafting.

 Famous for its scenic views and several pilgrimage sites, Uttarakhand has plenty of places to be at during your vacation here. Whether you’re keen on visiting sites with divine importance, or are a thrill-seeker looking out for an adventure, here are a few spots you simply shouldn’t miss:

• Dehradun – For its landscapes and hilly views
• Nainital – For its placid lakes and serenity
• Mussoorie – to check out the majestic Kempty falls
• Rishikesh – to experience spirituality and daunting adventure sports
• Haridwar – For its vibrant temples and ghats

 Planning your vacation at Uttarakhand is not as difficult as it seems. You can set aside some time for tranquility and partake in abundant mysterious adventures that the Land of Gods has to offer. Whatever you interest lies in; you can handpick your destinations and plan your trip. Here are a few popular activities to try once you’re in Uttarakhand:

• Ski down a snow-clad peak in Auli during the winters.
• Embark on an exhilarating river rafting in the Ganges in Rishikesh.
• Bungee jump overlooking a rocky river in Rishikesh.
• Camp out surrounded by gurgling streams and snow-capped peaks in Tons valley.
• Go tiger spotting in Jim Corbett National Park
• Visit the valley of flowers in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.

As rich as Uttarakhand is in its cultural heritage and traditions, the state has a humble cuisine that goes hand in hand with nutrition and taste. Due to the abundance of milk available here, you will find a lot dairy products being served in Uttarakhand. A traditional meal in Uttarakhand comprises of Chapati and seasonal vegetables, fruits, rice and dessert. Don’t forget to try the delectable Jhangora Ki Kheer which is a famous sweet dish of the region. You can try most of these dishes in local restaurants. 

 Uttarakhand is well-known for an assortment of knick-knacks, accessories and delightful street side markets. A walk down the streets is sure to keep your eyes glued for antiques, trinkets, gems, handicrafts and traditional paintings of Uttarakhand.

• Dehradun Tibetan markets – for woolens and quality fabrics, carpets and trendy outfits
• Haridwar street shopping – for Rudraksh pendants, beaded jewelry, temple requirements and precious stones
• Nainital markets – for homemade candles, vibrant lac bangles, freshly picked apples, cherries, mulberries and strawberries

 The flourishing wildlife in Uttarakhand is home to several wildlife sanctuaries. The state is bestowed with munificent bio-diversity and rich expanse of greenery. Look out for rare and endangered species such as the Musk deer, Ghorals, Snow Leopards, Monals and various species of butterflies that call this magnanimous valley their home. Here are a couple of wildlife sanctuaries that you must-visit on your trip:

• Jim Corbett National Park
• Nanda Devi National Park
• Valley of Flowers National Park
• Gangotri National Park
• Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
• Dehradun Tibetan markets – for woolens and quality fabrics, carpets and trendy outfits
• Haridwar street shopping – for Rudraksh pendants, beaded jewelry, temple requirements and precious stones
• Nainital markets – for homemade candles, vibrant lac bangles, freshly picked apples, cherries, mulberries and strawberries

 Uttarakhand draws most of its crowd for its daunting watersports and adventure activities. Its abundant flora and fauna also makes Uttarakhand a land of waterfalls and rivers. So, buckle up for some of these exciting watersports around the state:

• White water rafting, Rishikesh – Set sail on the rocky river with landscaping views to accompany your journey.
• Canoeing and Kayaking – This popular paddle sport activity can be experienced in Rishikesh, Dakpathar and Ramganga in Corbett National Park.
• Parasailing – Glide over the water and look out at the panoramic views of the lake in Nainital

 Since it is situated atop a mountain, you have plenty of scope to explore one too many quaint hill stations within Uttarakhand. Check out a selected few that make it to our list:

• Mussoorie – Referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills’, Mussoorie is the pride of Uttarakhand thanks to its scenic beauty and the fact that it is nestled within the clouds.
• Nainital – Already drawing a flock of tourists from various places in India, Nainital is the perfect retreat for honeymooners as well as zealous millennials.
• Auli – With its snow-clad slopes and rich, deodar forests; Auli is now a favorite amongst the winter sports enthusiasts.
• Bhimtal – You may have heard about the beguiling lake at Bhimtal that makes for a perfect location to spend your summer holidays in Uttarakhand.
• Lohaghat – Blessed with pleasant weather all year round, Lohaghat is perfect for those looking for a piece of history along with a breathtaking view.

 Here are a few famous destinations in Uttarakhand for river rafting:

• Ganga: The 36-kilometer long stretch is the most well-known section of the Ganges in Rishikesh.
• Yamuna: A rough, 20-kilometer stretch between Nainbaugh and Juddo is a thrilling spot to enjoy rafting.
• Tons: Another 30-kilometer long stretch, drop in for river rafting here if you’re somewhere between Mori and Tuni.

 The winter season is glorious in Uttarakhand, and you can have plenty of snow-clad slopes to yourself for skiing. Don’t miss out on these destinations on your trip if you’re fond of the sport:

• Nanda Devi
• Auli
• Kedarkantha

The Valley of Flowers located alongside the world famous Nanda Devi National Park is included in the prestigious UNESCO world heritage site for its spectacular views and a lush spread of flowers. The reason for its seclusion is due to a treacherous trek that takes you to it. The site is only accessible in the summers at a nominal fee. You can witness the flowers in a glorious bloom after spring.