Uttarakhand is one of the apparent destination choices that come to mind when planning vacations to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Famously known as the ‘Land of Gods’, this hilly Indian state attracts maximum tourist footfall from India and worldwide for its unmatched natural beauty, including pristine lakes, snow-capped peaks, lush greens, old temples, and meadows.
When we talk about the best places in Uttarakhand, it is not confined to Manali, Shimla, and Rishikesh. Indeed, these are popular travel destinations in the hilly state but are not the only ones to limit your choices when there are other tourist destinations to refer to. So today, we bring you a checklist of the 21 places in Uttarakhand in this article.
Top 20 places in Uttarakhand to enjoy your vacations
1. Dehradun
Dehradun is one of Uttarakhand’s famous places tourists love visiting for its scenic natural beauty and pleasant weather. The city houses many tourist attractions worth seeing with your family and friends.
Top attractions in Dehradun
- Tapkeshwar Temple
- Robbers’s Cave
- Sahastradhara
- Wildlife Institute of India
- Tiger Falls
- Indian Military Academy
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Malsi Deer Park
Activities to do
- Paragliding
- Trekking
- Visiting museums
- Camping
Best time to visit
- March – June
2. Mussoorie
Nestled in the middle of the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie is one of the best tourist places in Uttarakhand. This hill station is popularly called ‘’Queen of the Hills’’ as you will find many hills here. It is a perfect weekend getaway for solo travellers and honeymoon couples.
Top attractions in Mussoorie
- Kempty Falls
- Camel’s Back Road
- Clouds End
- Gun Hill
- Mall Road
- Mussoorie Lake
Activities to do
- Rock Climbing
- Horse riding
- Hiking
- Trekking
- Rafting
Best time to visit
- April – Mid-July
3. Haridwar
Uttarakhand is a place to visit for its serene natural beauty and to immerse oneself in the spiritual wave. And the place to experience it is Haridwar. Nestled on the banks of the holy river Ganga, the site is popularly called the ‘’Gateway to the Gods’’.
For Hindus, this religious place has always been ideal for solace and peace. Devotees come from all over India to become part of the auspicious Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Top attractions in Haridwar
- Har Ki Pauri Ghaat
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Chanda Devi Temple
- Piran Kaliyar
- Rajaji National Park
Activities to do
- Visiting holy temples
- Attending Ganga Aarti
- Taking Ayurvedic treatment
- Practicing yoga and meditation
- Enjoying the relishing taste of local street food
Best time to visit
- October- February
4. Lansdowne
If you travel to Uttarakhand to experience solitude and peace with yourself, then Lansdowne is the right option for you. With splendid mountains and pristine greens, this tranquil town will win your heart and prompt you to spend more time here. Besides majestic natural beauty, Lansdowne is worth visiting for its colonial charm, fascinating flora and fauna, and pine forests.
Top attractions in Lansdowne
- Tip N Top
- Bhulla Lake
- Bhim Pakora
- St. Johns Church
- Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Darwan Singh Museum
Activities to do
- Sightseeing
- Soaking in peace
- Camping
- Nature walking
- Trekking
Best time to visit
- April – July
5. Rishikesh
Besides Haridwar, Rishikesh is the next top option to practice yoga and meditation. Popularly known as the ‘’Yoga Capital of the world,’’ this Hindu pilgrimage centre holds greater importance among Hindus.
At Rishikesh, you will also see many internationally acclaimed philosophical study centres. The place also drags tourist attention with its famous adventure sports, i.e. white river rafting. For your convenient stay, you can book a resort in Rishikesh.
Top attractions in Rishikesh
- Lakshman Jhula
- Triveni Ghat
- Kunjapuri Devi Temple
- Neer Garh Waterfall
- Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Activities to do
- Practicing yoga and meditation
- Watching and attending Ganga Aarti
- White river rafting
- Bunjee jumping
Best time to visit
- October – March
6. Almora
Joining the list of top-rated travel destinations in Uttarakhand is Almora. Located near the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas, the place attracts frequent tourist footfall for its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisines, and handicrafts. This hill station is an ideal spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts to travel any time during the year.
Top attractions in Almora
- Jageshwar
- Deer Park
- Zero Point
- Kasar Devi
- Chitai Temple
- Simtola
- Nanda Devi Temple
Activities to do
- Picnicking
- Trekking
- Watching the picturesque view of the sunrise
- Rock climbing
- Nature walk
Best time to visit
- November – April
7. Chopta
Chopta is one of the places in Uttarakhand that is no less than a paradise for those who love trekking. This exquisite hidden gem within the Himalayas attracts tourists with its enchanting natural view of landscapes and mountains. Hence, this makes it a perfect weekend destination plan for adventure backpackers.
Top attractions in Chopta
- Deori Tal
- Tungnath Temple
- Chandrashila Trek
- Valley of Thangu
- Kanchula Korak Deer Musk Sanctuary
- Kedarnath Temple (80 kilometres by road)
- Gurudongmar Lake
Activities to do
- Nature walking
- Trekking
- Camping at Baniyakund
- Bird watching
- Knowing the local culture
Best time to visit
- April – June and September – November
8. Ranikhet
Next on the list is Ranikhet. Located above sea level up to 1829 metres, this is an ideal retreat to connect with nature and respite from the stressful city life. Going by its name, it means ‘’Land of the Queen’’. The place captivates visitors with its lush green flora, fauna, and breathtaking natural beauty. You can visit Ranikhet anytime during the year.
Top attractions in Ranikhet
- Chaubatia Orchards
- Majhkhali
- Upat Golf Grounds
- Bhalu Dam
- Naukuchia Taal
- Rani Jheel
- Temples
Activities to do
- Playing golf
- Paragliding
- Trekking
- Picnicking
- Exploring orchards
- Boating
- Kayaking
Best time to visit
- March – June
9. Chamoli
Located near the Garhwal Himalayas, Chamoli is one of the attractive spots to visit in Uttarakhand. What attracts tourists to visit this place is its scenic landscapes, alpine woods, and rolling creeks. The site also stockpiles numerous temples and shrines and has a historical touch with the Chipko movement.
Top attractions in Chamoli
- Vasundhara Waterfalls
- Mana
- Gopeshwar
- Roopkund Lake
- Hemkund Sahib
- Chamolanath Temple
Activities to do
- Nature walks
- Trekking
- Exploring temples
- Touring villages
- Tasting the famous Kumaoni cuisine
Best time to visit
- November – March and July – August
10. New Tehri
To experience solitude and peace at a hill station, New Tehri is one of the best tourist places in Uttarakhand. This place is a must-travel ride for adventure seekers. Nestled between the lush woods and old temples, New Tehri is an ideal retreat for having an eccentric experience. Two major rivers flow near this place. These are Bhagirathi and Bhilangana.
Top attractions in New Tehri
- Tehri Dam
- Tehri Lake
- Pantwari village
- Budha Kedar
- Ghansali
Activities to do
- Trekking
- Water skiing
- Nature walks
- Boat ride
Best time to visit
- April – June and October – December
11. Pithoragarh
If you want to switch from the usual holiday destinations, then this time, visit Pithoragarh, which is also a famous travel destination in Uttarakhand. The paradise has meandering rivers, snow-capped mountains, lush greens, and waterfalls. All these features make Pithoragarh a paradise for nature lovers.
Top attractions in Pithoragarh
- Pithoragarh Fort
- Munsiyari
- Chandak
- Kafni Glacier Trek
- Askot Sanctuary
- Chaubatia Orchards
- Gangolihat
- Dhwaj Temple
Activities to do
- Exploring rich flora and fauna
- Visiting holy shrines
- Nature walking
- Sightseeing
Best time to visit
- April – November
12. Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand is a very serene and calm place to experience peace with yourself. From here, you can see the spectacular view of Himalayan peaks. It is an excellent place for adventure seekers.
Top attractions in Dhanaulti
- Dhanaulti Adventure Park
- Dhanaulti Eco Park
- Apple Orchard Resort
- Deogarh Fort
- Surkanda Devi Temple
- Kanatal
- Aaloo Khet
Activities to do
- Rappeling
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Horse riding
- Camping
Best time to visit
- April – May – June
13. Harsil
Harsil is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand that you might have yet to explore. But this time, visit this wonderful place and lose in its exceptional serene environment and picturesque landscapes. Nestled on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Harsil is an ideal tourist destination to find solace from the sprinting urban life.
Top attractions in Harsil
- Dharali
- Mukhwas Village
- Sattal
- Gangotri Glacier
- Gangnani
- Dodital Lake
- Kedar Tal
- Dayara Bugyal
Activities to do
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
- Photography
- Exploring landscapes
Best time to visit
- April – June and September – October
14. Landour
Uttarakhand is the best travel destination to explore for its natural scenic landscapes. Also known as Tiara of the Queen of the Hills, the tourists here can find respite from the hectic city life and lose themselves in the mild natural environment. You can visit Landour any time.
Top attractions in Landour
- Nag Tibba
- Landour Bakehouse
- St. Paul’s Church
- Rokeeby Manor
- Lal Tibba
Activities to do
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Tasting the delectable baked items at Bakehouse
- Going to churches
- Watching mountains
Best time to visit
- April – June
15. Kausani
It would help if you visited Kausani in Uttarakhand to see the magnificent view of the Himalayan mountains, including Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and Trishul. You can watch this place’s gripping view of sunrise and the tranquil landscape, reviving you with freshness.
Top attractions in Kausani
- Gwaldam
- Rudradhari Falls and Caves
- Pinnath
- Baijnath Temple
- Kausani Tea Estate
- Kausani Planetarium
- Someshwar
- Rudradhari Falls
- Anasakti Ashram
Activities to do
- Rock climbing
- Watching the sunset view
- Mountain biking
- Visiting museums and ashrams
- Trekking
Best time to visit
- April – June and October – February
16. Munsiyari
Nestled at the elevated height of 2298 metres above sea level, Munsiyari is one of the attractive places in Uttarakhand that drives tourists’ attention towards its astonishing natural beauty of snow-covered Himalayas and lush green woods. It is an ideal spot for adventure seekers and lone travellers.
Top attractions in Munsiyari
- Birthi Falls
- Maheshwari Kund
- Panchachuli Peak
- Thamari Kund
- Balanti Potato Farm
Activities to do
- Bird watching
- Trekking
- Exploring flora and fauna
- Skiing
- Nature walk
Best time to visit
- March – June, mid-September – October
17. Auli
When it comes to enjoying adventure sports like skiing or snowboarding, plus watching the magnificent vistas, snow-covered mountains, and coniferous forests, Auli is a popular tourist destination.
Top attractions in Auli
- Trishul Peak
- Joshimath
- Nanda Devi Peak
- Chenab Lake
- Auli Artificial Lake
Activities to do
- Trekking
- Camping
- Birding tour
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
Best time to visit
- November – March
18. Nainital
Nainital might seem like one of the most common vacation choices, but it is a popular travel destination in Uttarakhand for honeymoon couples and family goers. The scenic getaway of this place is worth exploring. In addition, it is also known as the Lake District of India as it stocks multiple lakes. You can visit Nainital any time.
Top attractions in Nainital
- Naini Lake
- Snow View Point
- Mall Road
- Bhimtal Lake
- Tiffin Top
- Himalayan Botanical Garden
Activities to do
- Sightseeing
- Riding ropeway
- Shopping
- Boating
- Enjoying the natural beauty
Best time to visit
- March – June
19. Mukteshwar
Last on the list is Mukteshwar, one of the famous cities in Uttarakhand. This is the place for watching spectacular views of cascading waterfalls and other tourist attractions, including Mukteshwar Temple. You can plan your perfect staycation at one of the best luxury resorts in Mukteshwar.
Top attractions in Mukteshwar
- Chauli ki Jaali
- Sitla
- Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple
- Indian Veterinary Research Institute
- Bhalugaad Waterfall
Activities to do
- Visiting Mukteshwar Shiva temple
- Watching breathtaking views of waterfalls
- Hiking
- Trekking
- Camping
- Shopping for organic items
Best time to visit
- March – June
20. Jim Corbett National Park
For all the wildlife fanatics, Jim Corbett National Park is the best tourist destination. Being India’s first national park, it deserves to be on every traveller’s list. The main motto behind the foundation of this park was to save Bengal tigers since 1936. The area is enveloped with lush green hills, dense forests, and open grasslands, and of course, it is a vast territory for the big cats to wander around.
Besides quenching your desire to watch tigers, you can also view 650 species of birds here. The five zones of this famous national park, including Jhirna, Dhela, Bijrani, Dikhala and Durgadevi, are open to visitors. Now, you can even plan your stay at hotels near Jim Corbett National Park.
Top attractions in Jim Corbett National Park
- Corbett Museum
- Corbett Waterfall
- Durga Temple
- Garjia Temple
- Jhirna
- Sitabani Forest Reserve
- Kosi River
- Kalagarh Dam
- Birjani
Activities to do
- Jeep safari
- Elephant riding
- Trekking
- River rafting
- Rock climbing
- Fishing
- Mountain biking
- Camping
Best time to visit
- November – February
Conclusion
So, this ends our checklist of the top 20 places in Uttarakhand that you must consider visiting when planning for vacations. To experience adventure sports like white water rafting and nearby attractions in Rishikesh, you can book jüSTa Rasa Retreat & Spa, Rishikesh, a 5-star luxury hotel with all modern amenities.
If you plan your stay at Mukteshwar, then you can refer to jüSTa Mukteshwar Retreat & Spa. For those who want to plan their staycation in Mussorie or Jim Corbett National Park, you can refer to luxury hotels like jüSTa Mussoorie Retreat & Spa, Uttarakhand, and jüSTa Lazy Haven Corbett, Uttarakhand.
