5 Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand during your holiday

Uttarakhand ‘Dev Bhoomi’ snuggled in the lap of Himalayas is a bounty of interesting holiday destinations in India. The places to visit in Uttarakhand range from hill stations, honeymoon spots, pilgrimage sites, breathtaking beauty, adventurous experiences and serene ashrams. A holiday trip to the mountain state is a perfect mélange of relaxation, spiritualism, and adventure.

You can find people of all age groups engaged in something or the other here. Whatever allures you to this place, be it the faith in god or the natural mysteries or an adventurous thrill, you can’t miss to spend your vacations at these top destinations of Uttarakhand.

Rishikesh – the adventure and Yoga capital

Rishikesh at the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of River Ganga has some interesting pleasures for holidays in Uttarakhand. Go for exhilarating river rafting in Rishikesh, stay at beach camps, practice Yoga Asanas at ashrams with a perfect backdrop of mighty Himalayas or go exploring the mountains. This ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, holds International Yoga Festival and will never cease to amuse you with surprises at every turn.

What not to miss?

• Ram and Laxman Jhula – Experience the thrill of swaying over the swiftly flowing Ganga.
• The Beatles Ashram – Witness the best of the graffiti artwork.
• Swarg Ashram – Meditation ground of famous Rishis.
• Rajaji National Park – An expedition is incomplete without a jungle safari at this park.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Pay homage to Lord Shiva at this famous sacred place.
• Triveni Ghat for Ganga Aarti
• Water sports adventures
• Trekking up in the hills

Haridwar – Blessed by Ganga

Wash away all your sins by taking a holy dip in the sacred Ganges River, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest cities for Hindus. Although the city remains vivacious throughout the year but the footfall is maximum during the Kumbh Mela, and the month of Saavan. Pilgrims from far and wide visit the Temples in Haridwar. Har ki Pauri, the river ghat is also one of the best places to visit in the town. It is the site of the mesmerizing Ganga aarti in Haridwar. Every evening, there is a worship ritual for the River Goddess. A million of tiny flickering lamps are floated in the river with sounds of bells and devotees and priests singing praises with full devotion.

What not to miss?

• Ganga Aarti
• Delicious food at famous Chotiwala
• Ropeway ride to Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi
• Boat Ride
• Visit various temples with unique features of their own

Kedarnath – the lord of the field

Are you planning on taking the Kedarnath Yatra? If yes then make sure that you are equipped with the right knowledge about your destination which will take you through one of the most divine and holy pilgrimages to this blessed temple.

Kedarnath is the highest and utmost among all Jyotirlingas. Kedarnath is a holy Hindu town located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand in India and has gained importance because of Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath has been a pilgrimage center since the olden times. It is one of the Char Dhams situated in the Himalayas. Kedarnath is located at an astounding height of 3584 meters above sea level near the head of the Mandakini River. On the way to Kedarnath, you will spot several striking sights, including the Vasuki Tal Mountain Lake and Gauri Kund. The Kedarnath Temple lies amongst the magnificent snow-capped Garhwal Himalayan ranges and is thronged by thousands of tourists each year.

What not to miss?

• Visit Sunset Point at the Chopta Valley
• Gaurikund- the lake of compassion
• Pray at Anusuya Devi Temple
• Trek to Vasuki Taal
• View the Himalayan Ranges
• Pay a visit at the Triyuginarayan Tem

Badrinath – the land of meditation and penance

An old Indian proverb goes, there are many sacred spots of pilgrimage on the earth but there has been none equal to Badrinath. Indians, known for their religious fervor, lay special significance to this holy town. Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage Yatra and best places to visit in Uttarakhand. According to Hindu fable, God Vishnu sat in the meditation at this place. Positioned at the height of 10,279 feet, the temple is encircled by lofty snow-clad Himalayas with Alaknanda River flowing by. The spiritual significance and purity of Badrinath Temple appeal scores of devotees. Explore Packages

What not to miss?

• Enjoy the amazing scenic beauty
• Explore the beauty of Vasundhara Falls
• Skiing in Auli
• Sightseeing in Badrinath
• Trekking in Badrinath
• Glare at the Neelkanth- a major peak of the Garhwal region
• Pay homage at the Charanpaduka
• Bheem Pul – a natural stone bridge on River Saraswati
• Visit Valley of Flowers National Park – a paradise for nature
• loversSatopanth Lake – an enchanting water body

Nainital – gets its identity from mesmerizing Naini Lake

The City of Lakes, Nainital in Uttarakhand is one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand. The city gets its name from Naini Lake, an awe-inspiring lake at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas present an exotic view. Nainital is a natural majesty. Snow covered mountains in backdrop, scenic beauty, lovely lakes and lush flora, grabs your attention instantly. Preferred by honeymooners and families alike, this serene hill station offers the best snowfall experience. ideal for honeymoon couples, families as well as nature lovers, it’s one of best hill stations in India.

What not to miss?

• Romantic boat rides
• Visit to Naina Devi Temple
• Ride in the cable car
• Yachting
• Savor Pahari cuisine or authentic Tibetan food
• Angling
• Enjoy snowfall at Snow View
• Visit China Peak
• Go to Tippin Top
• Shopping at the local markets