Uttaranchal Tourism

Shaped out of the state of Uttar Pradesh in North India, the state of Uttaranchal, also known as Dev Bhoomi meaning the land of Gods, is sure to leave you mesmerized with its innate beauty and luster. The place is a paradise for all whether an adventure seeker, a naturalist or in quest of religion. The state contains a diversity of flora and fauna and is home to some of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country including the char dhams - Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath - and the Sikh pilgrimage of Hemkunt sahib. Some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas including Nanda Devi, Sri Kailash and Yogeshwar are situated here which contribute to the region's charm all the more.

Mussoorie
Situated at an altitude of about 2,500 mts. above sea level, Mussoorie is popularly known as the queen of the hills. It provides some of the most breathtaking views. Nature has gifted it astounding beauty and luster which make it a favourite destination for tourists. Some of the tourist spots in Mussoorie are Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, Municipal Gardens and Kempty Falls.

Nainital
The beautiful district of Nainital is a shining ornament in the Himalayan necklace. It is dotted with lakes and is sometimes known as the 'Lake District' of India. It is famous for the Corbett National Park. Some of the other tourist attractions in the district are Haldwani , Kaladhungi , Ramnagar , Bhowali , Ramgarh , Mukteshwar , Bhimtal , Sattal and Naukuchiatal.

The Char Dham Yatra
The state of Uttaranchal with its serene mountains, some of the holiest rivers and flower adorned valleys is believed to be the abode of Gods. It is a home to some of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the country including the world famous Char Dham - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Other famous pilgrimages in the state are Haridwar and Rishikesh where one can take a dip in the holy waters of the river Ganges.

Wild Life
A wide variety of flora and fauna is found in the state in a number of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Corbett National Park near Nainital was the first ever national park in India. Other wildlife attractions in Uttaranchal can be experienced and enjoyed at the Rajaji National Park and the Gangotri National Park.

Adventure
There is a lot to do in Uttaranchal for the adventure enthusiasts. With its craggy hills, rushing rivers and lush green mountains, it provides enough opportunities for adventure seekers. Some of the main adventure sports include skiing, rafting, golfing, mountain climbing and trekking.

Other tourist spots in the state include Dehradun, Auli, Haridwar, Almora and Ranikhet.

The climate in Uttaranchal remains fairly dulcet throughout the year. Monsoon season begins by mid June and the state is flogged by heavy rainfalls in the month of July. The summer season in the state sees the temperature at fairly pleaseant levels while in winter the temperatures can drop to bone chilling levels like in the other parts of north India. The upper reaches of the Himalayas recieve a lot of snowfall during this time. The best time to visit Uttaranchal is from April to June and after the monsoons from August to November.

The state of Uttaranchal is rich in its cultural aspects as well. The unique customs and practices followed by the people are a source of curiosity for tourists from around the world. The colorful songs and dances and the friendliness of the local people make it one of the best places to visit in the country. Visit the state of Uttaranchal to experience an amalgamation of different cultures and customs.

By Air
The only airport in the state is the Jolly Grant airport near Dehradun from where regular flights are availbale to and for New Delhi.

By Rail
The major railway stations in the state are Dehradun, Haridwar and Kathgodam which connect to other maincities of the country through regular trains. Though the only option to reach the higher altitude places is by road.

By Road
It is the most common option available for the tourists to reach different places in the state. Sometimes it is the only and best option to reach areas inaccessible by other means, though one has to be careful in the rainy season when landslides are a common occurence.