Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods), is a state located in the northern part of India. The state is famous for its picturesque landscapes, snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and gushing rivers. It is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend some peaceful and serene time in the lap of nature. In this article, we will explore some of the best summer holiday destinations in Uttarakhand.
Nainital
Nainital is a very beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of 2,084 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green hills. The town is known for its serene lake, which is in the shape of an eye and is called Naini Lake. The lake is surrounded by hills and is a popular spot for boating. Other popular attractions in Nainital include Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, and Bhimtal Lake.
Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a popular hill station located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,880 meters above sea level and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. Mussoorie is also known as the "Queen of Hills" and is a popular destination for honeymooners. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie include Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, and Mussoorie Lake.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh also known as 'Yoga capital of the world', a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is surrounded by lush green hills. The town is known for its ancient temples and ashrams, and is also a hub for yoga and meditation. Some of the popular adventure sports activities in Rishikesh include river rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining.
Haridwar
Haridwar is a holy town located on the banks of the River Ganges. It is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and is known for its ancient temples and ghats. The town is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace and peace. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Haridwar include Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, and Maya Devi Temple.
Auli
Auli also known as "Mini Switzerland" located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and is a popular destination for skiing. Auli is situated at an altitude of 2,500 to 3,050 meters above sea level and is surrounded by coniferous and oak forests. The town is also home to the Auli Artificial Lake, which is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world.
Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a perfect getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the beauty of nature. The town is easily accessible by road and is well connected to major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. It is situated at an altitude of 1,706 meters above sea level and is known for its serene and tranquil atmosphere. The town is surrounded by dense oak and pine forests and is a popular destination for those seeking peace and solitude. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Lansdowne include Bhulla Lake, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and St. Mary's Church.
Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a beautiful hill station located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,869 meters above sea level and is known for its picturesque views of the Himalayas. The town is surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests and is a popular destination for those seeking peace and tranquility. Ranikhet is also home to the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, which showcases the history and traditions of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. Other popular attractions in Ranikhet include Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Orchard, and Bhalu Dam.
Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is named after Jim Corbett, a British hunter and conservationist, who played a key role in the establishment of the park. The park is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and many other species of animals and birds.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a holy town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level and is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The town is home to the Kedarnath Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is located in a breathtakingly beautiful setting, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
Badrinath
Badrinath is a holy town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters above sea level and is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The town is home to the Badrinath Temple, which is one of the most important Hindu temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on the banks of the River Alaknanda.
In conclusion, Uttarakhand is a perfect destination for those seeking peace, serenity, and adventure. The state is home to some of the most beautiful hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and pilgrimage sites in India. Whether you are seeking to escape the heat of the summer or want to experience the thrill of adventure sports, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to this beautiful state to experience the magic of the mountains.