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Things to do in Uttarakhand for a Fantastic Holiday

Offbeat destinations to explore in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, the land of the Gods, is filled with beautiful and serene destinations that are perfect for a peaceful vacation. While popular destinations like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh are always on the list, there are also many offbeat destinations that are worth exploring.

One such destination is Munsiyari, a small and beautiful hill station nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. With breathtaking views of the Panchachuli range, Munsiyari is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Trekking, camping, and skiing are some of the activities that can be enjoyed in Munsiyari.

Another offbeat destination to explore in Uttarakhand is Chopta, also known as the mini Switzerland of India. This beautiful hill station is located at an altitude of 2,680 meters and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The place is known for its trekking trails, bird watching, and photography.

If you are looking for a peaceful and serene destination, then Kanatal is the place for you. Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Kanatal is a small village that offers a stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayas. The place is perfect for camping and trekking.

Uttarakhand is also home to a hidden gem called Khirsu, a small village located in the Pauri Garhwal district. The place is known for its apple orchards, oak and deodar forests, and stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The village is ideal for a peaceful and relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In conclusion, Uttarakhand has much more to offer than just its popular destinations. Exploring these offbeat destinations will not only give you a chance to experience the beauty of the place but also provide an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy some peace and tranquility.

Auli A Skiing Paradise

Auli, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. This little hill station boasts of India's longest cable car ride, which takes you to an altitude of 3,010 meters above sea level. The panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking from the cable car.

Auli is known for its ski slopes that are comparable to some of the best in the world. With a skiing season that lasts from January to March, Auli is a great place to visit if you want to experience the thrill of skiing.

The state government has also developed a skiing resort in Auli, which provides accommodation and skiing equipment to visitors. Beginners can take skiing lessons here, while experienced skiers can hit the slopes and enjoy the snow.

Apart from skiing, Auli is also a great place for trekking and camping. The Kuari Pass trek, which starts from Auli, is a popular trekking route that offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

In the winter months, Auli is covered in snow and is a winter wonderland. With clear blue skies and snow-covered mountains, Auli is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the snow and the mountains.

Valley of Flowers A trekker’s delight

Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers is a trekker's paradise. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the lap of the Himalayas, offering a breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The Valley of Flowers is a trek that takes you through a variety of landscapes, including rolling meadows, dense forests, and icy glaciers. The trek starts from Govindghat and takes you through the charming villages of Ghangaria and Pulna before reaching the Valley of Flowers.

The valley is home to a variety of rare and endangered flowers, including the Himalayan blue poppy, Himalayan bellflower, and Himalayan cobra lily. The valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, and Asiatic black bears.

The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is from July to September when the valley is in full bloom. The trek is a moderate one and can be done by anyone with a basic level of fitness. It is a 6-day trek that can be extended to include a visit to the nearby Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh shrine located at an altitude of 4,329 meters.

Overall, the Valley of Flowers is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand for anyone looking for an unforgettable trekking experience amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas.

Lansdowne A British Cantonment with natural beauty

Lansdowne, a small hill station in Uttarakhand, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and British-era charm. The town is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,700 meters above sea level and boasts stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

Lansdowne was originally a British cantonment, established in the year 1887. The town is named after the then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne. The architecture of the town is reminiscent of the British era and walking through the town's streets can feel like walking through a history book.

Lansdowne is also home to some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Uttarakhand. The town is surrounded by thick oak and blue pine forests, which make for perfect hiking trails. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the nearby hills and valleys, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Lansdowne is the Bhulla Tal Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush green trees and is a great spot for picnics and boating. The town also has some beautiful temples, including the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple and the Santoshi Mata Temple.

Lansdowne is a perfect getaway for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The town is still relatively unexplored, which means that it is not overrun by tourists. If you want to experience the beauty of Uttarakhand without the crowds, Lansdowne is the place to be.

Chopta A hidden gem for nature lovers

If you're a nature lover, then Chopta is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand. It's a small village situated in the Rudraprayag district and is often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of India'. Surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains, Chopta is a paradise for those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The highlight of Chopta is the Tungnath temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is situated at an altitude of 12,073 feet above sea level and is a great trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to Tungnath temple is an easy one and can be done by people of all ages. The temple is open to visitors from April to November and the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant.

Apart from the Tungnath temple, Chopta is also known for its dense forests and meadows. The Deoria Tal trek is a popular trekking route that takes you through a forest trail and ends at a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. The Chandrashila trek is another popular trek that takes you to the summit of a peak from where you can get panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Chopta is also a bird watcher's paradise as it is home to a wide variety of birds such as Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and Hill Partridge. The best time for bird watching is during the summer months when the birds are most active.

Overall, Chopta is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand that is waiting to be discovered. It's a great destination for those seeking adventure, peace, and quiet, and the beauty of nature.

Jim Corbett National Park An exquisitely diverse wildlife reserve

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is a must-visit destination for you. Established in 1936, this park is one of the oldest national parks in India and is named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the park spans over 520 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The park is known for its majestic Bengal tigers, which are a sight to behold. Apart from tigers, you can spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and many other species of mammals, birds, and reptiles here. The park is divided into different zones, and each zone offers a unique experience to visitors.

You can take a jeep safari or an elephant safari to explore the different zones of the park. The best time to visit the park is from November to June, as the park remains closed during the monsoon season.

Apart from wildlife safaris, the park also offers a range of adventure activities like rock climbing, rappelling, river rafting, and fishing. You can also visit the Corbett Museum, which is located in the park and showcases the life and works of Jim Corbett.

Overall, Jim Corbett National Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, and a visit to this park is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Rishikesh Adventure capital of India

Rishikesh, a small town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is often referred to as the adventure capital of India. This stunning destination is a must-visit for any adventure seeker or nature lover.

One of the most popular activities in Rishikesh is white-water rafting. With the mighty Ganges flowing through the town, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the thrill of rafting. The rapids range from easy to challenging, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. The best time for rafting in Rishikesh is from September to June when the water levels are high.

Apart from rafting, Rishikesh is also known for bungee jumping, kayaking, and zip-lining. You can also experience the adrenaline rush of cliff jumping, where you jump from a height into the river. For those who are not looking for an adventure, Rishikesh has plenty of other attractions to offer. You can explore the ancient Uttarakhand Temples and pilgrimage sites, take a dip in the holy river Ganges, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Rishikesh is also a hub for yoga and meditation. Many ashrams and yoga centers offer courses and retreats for those seeking spiritual enlightenment or a peaceful getaway. The town is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with many cafes and Best Restaurants in Uttarakhand address serving delicious local and international cuisine.

Overall, Rishikesh is a destination that offers something for everyone. It's a perfect place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience the thrill of adventure.