They carved out Uttarakhand from the state of Uttar Pradesh in 2000. You can see the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand, which has many pilgrimage sites and is home to the sources of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, is located in the northern part of India and is also known as the “Land of Gods”.

Tibet borders Uttarakhand to the north, Nepal to the east, and the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the south, Himachal Pradesh to the west, and Haryana to the southwest. The largest city and the capital of Uttarakhand is Dehradun. There are several beautiful places in Uttarakhand, but here are some of the most beautiful:

1. Dehradun

Dehradun, located in Uttarakhand, is a vibrant city and the capital of the state. It is surround by beautiful views of the Mussoorie mountains, making it a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand.

Must-visit the place: A must-see attraction in Dehradun is the picturesque Forest Research Institute campus, which is open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Things to do: Visitors can also explore the local market to shop for a variety of items such as pretty woolens, handicrafts, handlooms, juices, jams, jellies, and clothes. Additionally, they can indulge in the delicious Garhwali cuisine available at local restaurants.

Best time to visit: To make the most of their visit, travelers are advise to plan their trip between March to June when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, providing a respite from the summer heat.

2. Mussoorie

Mussoorie, also known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a picturesque hill station, around 38 km away from Dehradun. The ride from Dehradun to Mussoorie is full of scenic views and beautiful landscapes, making it one of the top destinations to visit in Uttarakhand. The captivating beauty of Mussoorie easily secures a spot in the list of top 10 places to visit in Uttarakhand.

Must-visit places: The stunning Kempty Falls near Mussoorie is a must-visit attraction.

Things to do: Take a leisurely stroll through the winding lanes of the charming town and explore its beauty. Visitors can also try their luck in spotting the resident author Ruskin Bond, who enjoys a stroll through the markets.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mussoorie is from April to June when the weather is pleasant. However, if you want to experience snowfall, plan a trip during the winter months.

3. Nainital

Nestled in the lap of Naini Lake, Nainital is surround by majestic mountains on all sides, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This picturesque location is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand and is known as the “Lake City of India.”

Must-visit place: Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital and is a must-visit attraction. The sparkling lake offers a grand boating ride that visitors should not miss.

Things to do: Visitors can shop for woolens, handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs in the shops on Mall Road. For adventure enthusiasts, there are options for trekking and exploring the surrounding mountains.

Best Time to Visit: While Nainital has good weather throughout the year, the best time to visit this hill station is between March to June when the weather is pleasant. During this time, visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Nainital and engage in various outdoor activities.

4. Rishikesh

For those seeking spiritual rejuvenation, Rishikesh is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand. This charming town is imbued with a rustic charm and an infectious spiritual energy that draws visitors from around the world. Its ancient temples and popular cafes make Rishikesh one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand.

Must-visit place: One of the most interesting places to see in Uttarakhand is the Beetles Ashram in Rishikesh. This serene location is adorned with beautiful graffiti on the walls that are a delight to behold. The entry fee to the ashram is Rs 150 per person.

Things to do: One of the most thrilling experiences to have in Rishikesh is white water rafting, which is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand. Visitors seeking a more spiritual experience can take a dip in the holy Ganga and feel spiritually cleansed.

Best Time to Visit: While Rishikesh is a year-round destination, the best time to visit this spiritual haven in Uttarakhand is from August to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and visitors can take part in a range of outdoor activities and explore the town’s spiritual offerings.

5. Haridwar

Haridwar is a city situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and is known as one of the holiest places in India. It is located on the banks of the river Ganges and is considered a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. If you’re planning a trip to Uttarakhand, a visit to Haridwar should definitely be on your itinerary.

Must-visit place: One of the must-visit places in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri Ghat, which is consider one of the holiest places in the city. The Brahma Kund located here is visited by numerous devotees, and it is said to have one of the most amazing arts, making it a surreal experience.

Things to do: Taking a dip in the holy Ganges River is a must-do activity in Haridwar. You can also enjoy a serene boat ride on the river, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. Haridwar is also famous for its local food, so make sure to try out the delicious street food

Best time to visit: While Haridwar can be visited throughout the year, the best time to plan your visit is between the cooler months of August to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy your sightseeing without worrying about the scorching heat.

6. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is spread over an area of 520 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Jim Corbett National Park is one of the top 10 places to visit in Uttarakhand and attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year.

Must-visit place: The Dhikala zone of Jim Corbett National Park is a must-visit place for wildlife lovers. The zone is known for its majestic Bengal tigers, and you can also spot other animals like leopards, elephants, and deer.

Things to do: Going on a jungle safari is one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett National Park. You can also indulge in bird watching, nature walks, and camping. There are several adventure activities like river rafting, rock climbing, and rappelling, which you can try in the nearby areas.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is from November to June. During the summer months, the chances of spotting animals increase as they come out in search of water. However, the winter months are the best for bird watching as migratory birds visit the park during this time.

Fees: The entry fee for Jim Corbett National Park varies depending on the zone you wish to visit. The entry fee ranges from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 4500 per jeep.

7. Ranikhet

Ranikhet is a beautiful and serene hill station located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. This small town has a strong colonial influence which can be seen in its charming stone buildings from the British era. Ranikhet is a must-visit place in Uttarakhand for those who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

Must-visit place: The British-era buildings are a major attraction in Ranikhet. These beautiful structures add to the town’s charm and are definitely worth a visit. Ranikhet is also home to many beautiful temples, including the Jhula Devi Temple and the Haidakhan Babaji Temple, which are a must-visit for those interested in spirituality.

Things to do: Ranikhet offers several off-road trekking routes that offer scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Trekking here can be a refreshing and enjoyable experience. Golf enthusiasts can also visit the beautiful and historic Golf Course in Upat, which is situated in the midst of oak and pine trees.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Ranikhet is from September to November, during the early winters when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty of the place is at its peak. The town is also a popular destination during the summer months when tourists come to escape the heat of the plains.

8. Auli

Auli is a beautiful hill station located in the Himalayas and is a must-visit tourist place in Uttarakhand. This charming hamlet offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and is a popular honeymoon destination. The hill station is surround by coniferous and oak trees and offers various adventure activities for tourists.

Must-visit place: Auli offers several picturesque locations, but a trip to the beautiful Chattrakund lake is a must-visit. The lake is surround by dense forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.

Things to do: Auli is the skiing and snowboarding hub of India, and tourists can try their hand at skiing or enroll in different courses to learn the sport. The hill station also offers opportunities for mountaineering and trekking, which are unforgettable experiences.

Best time to visit: Auli can be visit throughout the year, but winters can be extremely cold, so tourists should pack warm clothes. The best time to visit is between November to March for skiing, and between April to June for sightseeing and trekking.

Fees: Tourists need to purchase tickets to enter the Auli ropeway, which cost around Rs. 1000 per person.

9. Chamoli

Chamoli, also known as the “Abode of Gods”, is a beautiful town in Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its lovely shrines, temples, and charming Garhwali traditions. Chamoli is the largest district in Uttarakhand and one of the best places to visit in the state. It is also the town that sparked the famous ‘Chipko’ movement.

Must-visit place: One of the must-visit places in Chamoli is the Valley of Flowers, which offers the most amazing sight of beautiful blooms. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its variety of flora, including some rare and endangered species.

Things to do: Other things to do in Chamoli include taking a cable car ride, which offers a scenic view of the town, and trekking through the mountains. The town is surround by breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts.

Best time to visit: Chamoli is between October to March, before the onset of summers. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the valley is in full bloom. However, the town is accessible throughout the year and can be visit at any time.

10. Lansdowne

Lansdowne is a serene cantonment town in Uttarakhand, named after the British Viceroy. It is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand, especially for those seeking peace amidst nature.

Must-visit places: The Gharwali Museum is a must-visit place in Lansdowne. It houses a vast collection of arms, rifles, army uniforms, and rare photographs from the days gone by. The museum is open from 9.00 am to noon and 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm.

Things to do: Lansdowne offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing walk or admiring the beauty of nature. You can also explore the wilderness of this beautiful place by going on a forest trail.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Lansdowne is from July to September, apart from the summer season. The winters can be extremely cold, so plan your Uttarakhand trip accordingly.

Conclusion

This is a great summary of Uttarakhand’s beauty and highlights the fact that the destinations listed are just a small sample of what the region has to offer. It’s great to see that Uttarakhand caters to a wide range of interests, from adventure seekers to nature lovers, making it an ideal destination for almost anyone. We recommendation to not miss out on visiting these places if planning a trip to Uttarakhand is also valuable advice for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful region of India.