Uttarakhand, with its incredible sights of mighty Himalayan peaks, takes you on a beautiful voyage of natural beauty that you are going to cherish for life. Often termed as “Dev Bhoomi” (the land of Gods) by Hindu devotees, Uttarakhand houses a good number of holy sites that reflects the past. The state also boasts of diversity which is beautifully reflected in its culture, history, lifestyle, and attractions.
Historic Destinations Dwarahat is a major historical lure constructed by the Katyuri kings. Influenced by the Gujarati style of architecture, this is the place where many Hindu festivals are celebrated.
Another popular historical town is the Narendra Nagar, which was ruled by Shah Rulers for years.
The town of Chaukhutia, narrating rich history of the state, holds evidence of the Katyuri dynasty in the form of magnificent temples and forts.
Another renowned destination for the devotees of history is the Lohaghat situated at the banks of Lohawati River.
The Mayawati Ashram of the place holds historical and mythological significance.
Other popular histological sights that one can explore in Uttarakhand are:
Wildlife Uttarakhand is home to some of the most astonishing wildlife hubs. Jim Corbett national park is one of the most renowned attractions here. Today, it houses a variety of wildlife, including Tigers, Elephants, Chital, Sambar Deer, Nilgai, Gharial, King Cobra, Muntjac, Wild boar, Hedgehog, common Musk Shrew, Flying fox and Indian Pangolin.
Wildlife lovers also love exploring the Rajaji National Park spreading across three districts of Uttarakhand - Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal. The park consists of 315 avian species, including great pied hornbills, Himalayan pied kingfishers, pea fowls, woodpeckers, pheasants, barbets, the fire tailed sunbirds, etc.
Other major wildlife hubs that make Uttarakhand a delight for wildlife enthusiasts are:
Religious Destinations Uttarakhand is one of the best places in the world to find solace and meditate. Uttarkashi is one of the most spectacular religious hubs with two of the Four Holy Shrines of Hindu mythology of the 'Char Dham'. Kedarnath, residing in the lap of Garhwali Himalayas, is another one of the Char Dhams.
Rishikesh is home to numerous Hindu temples and yoga ashrams that offer a soothing ambience. You can also visit Haridwar (‘Gateway to the Lord’). The destination is known for the grand Kumbh Mela, a festival celebrated once in twelve years.
Other famous religious destinations in Uttarakhand that remain on the itinerary of spirituality seekers are:
People & Culture People of Uttarakhand are deeply rooted to their culture. The state is so perfectly diverse that the difference of tradition is reflected in its music, dance and arts. People of Uttarakhand have formed firm religious bonds. Most of the local celebrations are linked to Mother Nature. One can spot many Garhwali and Kumaonis residing in the state. Other major ethnic groups of the state are the Bhotias, the Jaunsaries, the Tharus, the Bokshas and the Rajis.
The women of Uttarakhand can be spotted in beautiful ghagra choli, which looks like a long skirt with a narrow waist. Men wear dhoti or pajamas with a kurta.
Hindi is the most widely spoken language here. It is the only state in India with Sanskrit as one of its official languages.
Shopping Do not miss buying handmade accessories and gems, woodcrafts, woollen attires and Gharwali paintings from Dehradun. The Tibetan markets of Dehradun are extremely popular among locals. Those visiting Nainital can pick handmade candles, colourful lac bangles, fresh apples, cherries, mulberries and strawberries.
Food All the dishes served here mirror the cultures of the state. Some of the common dishes like Phanu (made of lentils), Kafuli (thick gravy preparation made from green leafy vegetables), Thechwani (made using radish root), Chainsoo (prepared with black gram daal) and Garhwali Jhol (made out of tomatoes, potatoes and other tubers) are extremely popular.
Fairs & Festivals Kumbh Mela of Uttarakhand is the bigger fair celebrated by Hindu devotees. The fair is celebrated four times at four locations in every twelve years. The atmosphere of this fair looks grand with traditional dancing, singing, blowing whistles, etc. Kanvad Yatra is another prominent fair taken up by the devotees of Lord Shiva.
Another grand festivity of Uttarakhand is the famous Nanda Devi Raj Jaat celebrated once in every twelve years. The expedition begins from Nauti village with a mythical four-horned sheep and Doli and various gifts for Nanda Devi. The fair is a living picture of the deeply rooted beliefs of locals towards their cultures, religion and traditions.
Bissu Mela, marking the prosperity coupled with the harvesting season, is also a beautiful representation of vivid cultures of Uttarakhand.
Other popular festivals and fairs that bring out the colourfulness of Uttarakhand are:
Best Time to Visit Summer months are best to visit Uttarakhand. During this time, the climate remains pleasurable and perfect for outdoor activities. Winter months are extremely cold and bring along heavy snowfall in some places. Monsoon can be harsh in Uttarakhand as rains lead to landslides in some regions.
How to Reach By Air - Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, Pantnagar airport and Pithoragarh’s Naini Saini Airport are three major well connected airports of the state.
By Train - The state also has great rail connectivity with numerous junctions like Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nainital, Kotdwar, Kathgodam, Pauri and Udham Singh Nagar. Most of these connect with major Indian cities.
By Road - Many state buses run between Uttarakhand and other Indian cities. However, one must avoid road travel during rainfalls as the state experiences landslides in remote areas.
South Asia is home to solid one-third of the world’s population. The region is home to the highest and the second highest mountain peaks of the world Everest and K2. Housing marvels such as the Taj Mahal, Ajanta, Sigiriya, Timpu, and Taxila, the heritage and cultures of the region date back thousands of years.
Whether you are interested in a Sight Seeing Tour, Season Special Tour or you are on a look out for a Pilgrimage Tour, these pocket friendly tour packages will make your journey to this majestic land worth remembering.
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