Captivating Uttarakhand, bordered by Nepal and Tibet, and shadowed by towering Himalayan peaks, is full of unspoiled natural beauty. It's divided into two regions -- Garhwal in the north, and Kumaon in the south. Ancient holy places, forests and valleys, and an abundance of trekking options are some of the attractions that make travel to Uttarakhand worthwhile.
Here are some of the best destinations in Uttarakhand.
1. Valley of Flowers National Park
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The stunning landscape of The Valley of Flowers National Park in the Gharwal region comes alive with the monsoon rain. This high-altitude Himalayan valley has around 300 different varieties of alpine flowers, which appear as a bright carpet of color against a mountainous snow capped background. It's a favorite trekking destination.
2. Nainital
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The hill settlement of Nainital, in the Kumaon region, was a popular summer retreat for the British during the time they ruled India. It features the serene, emerald colored Naini Lake and action filled strip called The Mall, lined with restaurants, shops, hotels, and markets. Enjoy one of the many forest walks, explore the surrounding area on horse back, or relax on a boat in the lake.
3. Haridwar
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Ancient Haridwar (the "Gateway to God") is one of the seven holiest places in India, and one of the oldest living cities. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas at the entrance to the Garhwal region, it's here that the holy Ganges River emerges from the mountains and commences its long journey to the Bay of Bengal. Every evening, the Ganges comes alive with a surreal glow as hundreds of small lamps are lit and sent floating down the river after prayer.
4. Rishikesh
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Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, is a popular place to come and meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism. It's situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides, not far from Haridwar. Rishikesh lures those seeking knowledge and peace with its numerous temples, ashrams, and yoga institutes. Despite the growing number of visitors, the town's lanes and alleys retain a old-world charm, and it remains a wonderful place to relax and unwind amongst nature.
5. Jageshwar Dham
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Nestled in a mystical valley surrounded by Deodar trees, not far from Almora in the Kumaon region, Jageshwar Dham is a complex of 124 temples and hundred of statues of Hindu gods. It's dedicated to the powerful Lord Shiva, and is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva) in India. What makes this a really special destination is that it gracefully combines nature with spirituality. It's particularly fascinating during the festival of Shivratri when thousands of devotees come to offer prayers.
6. Corbett National Park
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Corbett National Park makes an interesting side trip from Nainital. Named after hunter turned conservationist Jim Corbett, it has dense forest and an exotic array of wildlife. One of the best ways of exploring the park is on the jeep or elephant safaris that take place daily in the early morning and afternoon. The park has a tiger reserve, but tiger sightings are less common than at some of India's other national parks. The Dhikala zone of the park is the most panoramic, with stunning valley views, and offers the best change of animal sightings. You may even get to see wild elephants.
