If you are searching for the places to visit in Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand has a wonderful array of Himalayan destinations from hill stations, peaceful lakes, to wildlife, adventure, spiritual and high altitude regions. Nainital, Mussoorie, Auli, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Jim Corbett, the Valley of Flowers, etc offer ample experiences for families, couples, friends, adventure lovers and pilgrims.
Pick a destination based on the experience you want from your trip. Families prefer Nainital and Mussoorie, couples pick scenic hill stations like Ranikhet and Mukteshwar, while adventure lovers and trekkers pick Chopta, Munsiyari, Auli, the Valley of Flowers and Kedaranth.
Which Are the Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand?
The most visited Places to Visit in Uttarakhand are Nainital, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Auli, Ranikhet, Jim Corbett, Almora, Kausani, Mukteshwar, Chopta, Valley of Flowers, Kedarnath, Badrinath and others.
The best time for first time visitors to Uttarakhand is the summer and winter vacations. If time permits, try and cover the different regions like the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of the state. For a 5-day break, plan to cover 1-2 destinations. A week long break gives you ample time to cover more regions.
Visit Naini Lake, Mall Road, Naina Devi Temple and more in this town. It's great for travelers who don't want to do a lot of hiking.
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
Best time: Spring, Summer and Fall. Winter gives a different experience.
Nainital is also paired with Bhimtal, Sattal and Mukteshwar.
2. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a famous hill station in North India and is a great Places to Visit in Uttarakhand. It is situated above Dehradun and is known for its views of the Himalayas and greenery, walking routes and a relaxing vibe.
Points of interest include Mall Road, Camel's Back Road, Landour and various waterfalls and viewpoints.
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days.
Best time: Spring and Summer
3. Rishikesh
Rishikesh has spirituality, views of a river and lots of adventures. Located on the Ganga, Rishikesh has yoga and meditation, suspension bridges and outdoor activities.
Adventure activities like river rafting and other water activities are also available. Peaceful travelers can check out the riverside and ashrams.
Rishikesh is also a good starting point to see the rest of Garhwal and can be paired with Haridwar, Mussoorie and Tehri.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time: Generally Spring, Autumn and Winter.
4. Haridwar
Haridwar is one of the most important spiritual destinations in Uttarakhand. The city is closely associated with the river Ganges, and is very well known for Har ki Pauri and the evening aarti.
It works great as a standalone spiritual trip, or the starting or ending point of a longer Uttarakhand trip.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time: Depends on the purpose of visit, and local event calendar
5. Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Uttarakhand and is very popular with travelers to add a wildlife and forest experience to their Himalayan journey.
A trip to Corbett is very different from a typical hill-station trip. People come here for experiences that help them connect with nature, wildlife, and different activities related to nature.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time: Depends on the safari zone and current park rules
It is always important to check safari availability, zone rules and current situation in the park before planning a wildlife trip.
6. Auli
Auli is very popular during the winter and is very beautiful with snow covered slopes. It is a very popular skiing destination, and offers beautiful view of some of the highest peaks in the Himalaya.
Auli has additional access to trekking areas and is connected to the Joshimath and Valley of Flowers regions.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time: Winters for skiing and other snow activities, if the conditions are right.
7. Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a quieter, less busy hill station in Kumaon with lovely forests and scenic views.
Quieter areas can be preferred by people who are tired of the usual crowded places and commercialised regions. Ranikhet can be added to a circuit with other Kumaon destinations like Almora, Kausani and Nainital.
Ideal duration: 2 days
Best time: Spring, summer and autumn.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time: Spring and autumn
10. Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a scenic, less crowded location in Kumaon with forested slopes, great views of the Himalayas and a calm atmosphere.
It is a good option for couples and families who want a less crowded alternative to Nainital.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time: Spring, summer and autumn
11. Lansdowne
Lansdowne has pine forests and a calm atmosphere. It is a good place for a short break from work, without a long and tiring tour.
It is easily accessible from North India for the weekend.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time: Spring, summer and autumn
12. Chopta
Chopta is a known location for trekking and Himalayan scenery. It is known for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trekking routes.
Unlike a typical hill station, it has opportunities for outdoor activities, hiking and trekking.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time: Trekking conditions and season
Check local weather conditions and the trail before you go, especially during winter.
13. Valley of Flowers
Valley of Flowers National Park is a unique, natural attraction in Uttarakhand. It has alpine meadows, scenic Himalayan views and varied flora.
Getting to Valley of Flowers is part of a long trek, which requires more planning than a typical vacation. The most beautiful flowering occurs during monsoon season, though access is limited during the season.
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
Best time: Check for trail conditions
14. Badrinath
Badrinath is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations of Uttarakhand. The town is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas on the banks of the Alaknanda River and is a significant spiritual location for Hindus.
A pilgrimage to Badrinath can be done as part of the Char Dham route or the Badrinath-Mana-Joshimath circuit, based on the conditions of the route and pilgrimage.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days within a larger route
Best time: During the opening season of the temple
15. Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a Char Dham destination dedicated to Lord Shiva. Like Badrinath, reaching the temple is part of a long mountain trek from the roadhead.
The Kedarnath trek from Gaurikund is long, and the journey is challenging and subject to strict conditions.
Ideal duration: Overnight to a few days
Best time: Religious pilgrimage season
Do not plan a hurried stopover to Kedarnath. Allow time for the journey and be prepared for changes due to weather conditions.
16. Gangotri
Gangotri is the Uttarakhand Char Dham Temple dedicated to River Ganga and is situated in the Garhwal Himalaya. Spiritual and scenic mountain itineraries usually include Gangotri.
It is advisable to plan an adequate length of time for this destination because of mountain road conditions.
Ideal duration: 2 or 3 days
Best time: During religious pilgrimage season
17. Yamunotri
Yamunotri is another Char Dham Temple dedicated to Yamuna and is situated in the Garhwal Himalaya. The main temple is at an altitude of 3,235m and requires a 3km steep trek from Janki Chatti.
Travel plans must take into account the trekking conditions at high altitude and the official travel situation.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time: During religious pilgrimage season
18. Dhanaulti
Near Mussoorie, Dhanaulti offers an alternative to Piper's retreat and is good for a short, quiet, nature break.
It can be clubbed with Mussoorie and Kanatal to extend to a relaxed 3-day Garhwal weekend.
1 -2 days
Spring, summer, autumn
19. Kanatal
Kanatal is a small mountain destination with peaceful environments and scenic views. It offers a relaxed stay with ample opportunities for nature walks.
Compared to larger hill stations, it is less urbanized and thus has fewer activities and accommodation options, particularly during peak season, so prior planning is advised.
1 - 2 days
Spring, summer, autumn
20. Tehri
Tehri is known for its scenic location with the Tehri reservoir and surrounding Himalayas, and offers a water and mountain combination to Uttarakhand itineraries.
During peak season, water sports activities are often available at nearby lakes and reservoirs. Be sure to verify local operator and weather conditions beforehand.
1 - 2 days
Depends on activities
21. Munsiyari
Munsiyari is an area with high mountain scenery in Kumaon, and draws a similar clientele as Chamoli. Trekking is also popular around Munsiyari.
It requires a long road journey from the plains, particularly compared to Nainital, and may not be the best choice for a relaxed short family stay, but for people with more time it can be the best area on the Kumaon circuit.
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
Best time: Depends on chosen route, weather and trekking goal
22. Chakrata
Chakrata is a beautiful, quiet, mountainous and forested area. If you want to avoid the busy, commercialized hill stations, this can be a good destination.
Ideal duration: 2 days
Best time: Spring, summer and autumn
23. Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a lake destination in the Kumaon region. It's usually grouped with Nainital and other neighboring lakes.
It can be a good, quiet base for travelers who want to be near the more popular Kumaon region attractions.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time: Spring, summer, and autumn
24. Sattal
Sattal is a group of lakes that are forested and are great for nature photography.
It can be combined with Nainital and Bhimtal for a Kumaon itinerary or treated as a standalone trip.
Ideal duration: 1 day
Best time: Spring, summer, and autumn
25. Pithoragarh
If you want to avoid the more mainstream Uttarakhand destinations, Pithoragarh can be a good, quieter option.
Those visiting for the first time will want to stick to the well-trodden routes and opt for shorter stays, saving the longer routes and the more remote mountain routes for later visits.
Also Visit: Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand with Family
Destinations that offer a choice of accommodations, activities, and sightseeing are often easier for families to plan.
Better Options Include:
- Nainital for families
- Mussoorie for a traditional hill station experience
- Jim Corbett National Park for wildlife
- Rishikesh for adventure and cultural activities
- Bhimtal and Sattal for peaceful Lake Holidays
- Ranikhet for peaceful mountain stays
Families with elderly or young members should take into account altitude sickness while packing their itinerary with several high altitude destinations.
Best Places in Uttarakhand for Couples
Scenic couple's getaways include:
- Mussoorie
- Ranikhet
- Kausani
- Mukteshwar
- Dhanaulti
- Kanatal
- Auli
The best choice depends on what the couple prefers, peaceful stays, long mountain drives, adventure activities, or sightseeing.
Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand for Trekking
Chopta, Kedarnath, Valley of Flowers, and Munsiyari are better for trekking and mountain exploration.
In recent years, there has been increased interest in adventure activities like paragliding, mountaineering, rafting, and bungee jumping. Auli has taken the lead in developing skiing. However, all adventurous planning must take into account the current altitude, weather, and conditions of the trail as well as local regulations.
Best Places for Nature and Photography
Popular places for Nature Photography in Uttarakhand
- Valley of Flowers
- Auli
- Kausani
- Munsiyari
- Nainital
- Sattal
- Mukteshwar
- Ranikhet
- Chopta
Valley of Flowers has spectacular display of Alpine flowers and other flora of the Himalayas.
Best Spiritual and Pilgrimage Destinations
Prominent Spiritual and pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
- Gangotri
- Yamunotri
Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, together form the Char Dham of Uttarakhand. Travellers should check the opening status and conditions of travel before making their plans for a pilgrimage.
Best Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
For a traditional Himalayan hill station experience one can visit,
- Nainital
- Mussoorie
- Ranikhet
- Almora
- Kausani
- Mukteshwar
- Lansdowne
- Chakrata
Each of these places has their own distinctive charm and character, so choosing as per preference would be more appropriate than going to the most popular one.
Best Places for a Weekend Trip
Mussoorie, Lansdowne, Nainital, Rishikesh and Tehri area destinations are a few options for a quick weekend trip from Delhi and other north Indian cities.
Travellers from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh should calculate the actual road journey before finalising a weekend itinerary. A destination which appears near on a map can actually take longer because of Himalayan road conditions.
Uttarakhand Destination Planning Table
| Destination | Best For | Ideal Duration | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nainital | Families, couples | 2-3 days | Spring-Autumn |
| Mussoorie | Couples, families | 2-3 days | Spring-Summer |
| Rishikesh | Adventure, spirituality | 2-3 days | Spring-Winter |
| Haridwar | Pilgrimage | 1-2 days | Depends on purpose |
| Jim Corbett | Wildlife, families | 2-3 days | Check current safari season |
| Auli | Snow, adventure | 2-3 days | Winter for skiing |
| Ranikhet | Nature, couples | 2 days | Spring-Autumn |
| Almora | Culture, nature | 2 days | Spring-Autumn |
| Kausani | Views, couples | 1-2 days | Spring-Autumn |
| Mukteshwar | Nature, couples | 1-2 days | Spring-Autumn |
| Chopta | Trekking | 2-3 days | Seasonal |
| Valley of Flowers | Trekking, Nature | 3-4+ days | Seasonal |
| Badrinath | Pilgrimage | 2-3 days | Official season |
| Kedarnath | Pilgrimage, trekking | Several days | Official season |
| Munsiyari | Mountains, trekking | 3-4 days | Route dependent |
How Many Days Are Enough for Uttarakhand?
There is no single answer because Uttarakhand is too geographically diverse to experience properly in just one short trip.
3 Days in Uttarakhand
Three days should only allow for compact travel within one region.
Option 1: Delhi → Mussoorie → Dhanaulti → Delhi
Option 2: Delhi → Rishikesh → Haridwar → Delhi
Option 3: Nainital → Bhimtal → Sattal
Avoid trying to cover Kumaon and Garhwal in three days.
5 Days in Uttarakhand
Five days allow for slightly more relaxed travel within a region.
Kumaon idea:
Nainital → Bhimtal → Mukteshwar → Nainital
Garhwal idea:
Rishikesh → Tehri → Dhanaulti → Mussoorie
7 Days in Uttarakhand
Seven days allow for fairly good connectivity within the state. Choose natural travel routes rather than criss-crossing the state.
For Example:
Rishikesh to Dehradun via Tehri and Dhanaulti.
OR
The Kumaon Region:
Nainital to Kausani via Bhimtal and Mukteshwar.
10 Days in Uttarakhand
A minimum of 10 days gives the flexibility for a longer Kumaon or Garhwal circuit, or an adventurous route which includes a Char Dham pilgrimage.
However, for the general traveler, 10 days is definitely not sufficient for a dedicated pilgrimage to Char Dham. The travel conditions on roads and unpredictable weather need to be closely monitored for appropriate itinerary planning.
Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand
Spring
Uttarakhand's pleasant climate and greenery attracts people to the hill stations during spring. Best time to visit - Nainital, Mussoorie, Ranikhet and Kausani.
Summer
To escape the heat of the plains, people flock to the hill stations. Can get very crowded around school holidays and long weekends.
Monsoon
Despite the lush greenery, the monsoon season requires extra travel cautions due to landslides.
Mountain roads can get cutoff, leaving the destinations completely isolated.
Autumn
The beauty of the Himalayas really shine during this time and the skies are usually clear. Good time for sightseeing in the mountains.
Winter
Uttarakhand transforms during the winter with the arrival of snow. Auli is particularly well-known for skiing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which places in Uttarakhand are worth visiting?
That depends on why you are traveling. Nainital and Mussoorie are good for classic hill-station vacations, Rishikesh is for adventure and spiritualism, Jim Corbett is for wildlife, Auli is for snow and mountain views, and Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are for pilgrimage.
Q2. How many days should I spend in Uttarakhand?
5 to 7 days should be enough to cover one of the regions of Uttarakhand without rushing. 3 days should be enough to cover a compact area, and the longer the journey the better for covering remote areas or for trekking and pilgrimage circuits.
Q3. Which place in Uttarakhand is the most beautiful?
It depends on what type of experience you are looking for. Mountain views are available at Auli and Kausani, Nainital has a lake and hills, and alpine views are available at the Valley of Flowers, and Munsyari is remote.
Q4. Where in Uttarakhand is best for a family?
Nainital, Mussoorie, Jim Corbett, and Rishikesh are great for families. Bhimtal and Ranikhet are also good choices. It really depends on the age of the travellers and the activities they are willing to do and how long they are willing to travel.
Q5. Which are the best places for couples?
Mussoorie, Ranikhet, Kausani and Mukteshwar are great for couples. For snow, Auli is good and for adventure, Dhanaulti and Kanatal are nearby.
Q6. What are the best places to visit in Uttarakhand during winter?
Auli has the best winter experiences with snow and skiing. Some other hill stations can also be visited during winter but the roads are not always in best conditions. Other high altitude destinations also have winter closures and should not be considered as all weather destinations.
Q7. Where can one find adventure activities in Uttarakhand?
Auli and Chopta offer skiing and other winter sports. Valley of Flowers and Kedarnath have very beautiful trekking routes. Munsiyari and Dwarka are also good trekking destinations.
Q8. Where can one find spiritual places to visit in Uttarakhand?
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are the important spiritual places in Uttarakhand. Gangotri and Yamunotri are part of Char Dham circuit along with Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Q9. Is Uttarakhand a good state to take the family for a vacation?
Yes, there are multiple family vacation options in Uttarakhand like hill stations, lakes and wildlife. Families should plan vacation itinerary such that driving times are not too long and don't include too many high altitude places.
Q10. What is the best way to get around Uttarakhand?
It depends on your planned itinerary and your budget. Self-drive is good if you have previous experience with mountain driving. For families and small groups, it may be easier to pre-book all transportation in advance to get to a number of different places.
