In India, Uttarakhand is a state located in the northern part of the country. It is often referred to as the “Land of the Gods” due to the many Hindu temples and pilgrimage sites located within its borders.
The state is home to some of the best summer holiday destinations in India, which offer visitors a chance to escape the heat and enjoy the cooler temperatures and scenic beauty of the Himalayas.
Here are the 22 best summer holiday destinations in Uttarakhand to escape the heat. With its mesmerizing natural beauty and pleasant weather, Uttarakhand is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing summer holiday.
1. Nainital, Uttarakhand
The name Nainital is derived from the Naini Lake which is said to be one of the 64 Shakti Peethas. Legend has it that the left eye of Lord Shiva fell here when it was dropped by his consort, Goddess Sati. Nainital is also known as the Lake District of India and is home to a number of other lakes such as Sattal, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiyatal.
Nainital is a popular hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres (6,562 feet) and is set amongst the beautiful Naini Lake. Nainital is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as boating, hiking, and horse riding.
Nainital is an accessible destination with a number of trains and buses connecting it to Delhi and other cities in Uttarakhand. The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and the lakes are full.
The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) away.
2. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie, a hill station and a Municipal Corporation in the Dehradun District of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. Mussoorie is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is situated at an average altitude of 1,880 metres (6,170 ft). In 1820, Mussoorie was the terminus of the Delhi-Dehradun Railway.
Mussoorie is located at approximately 29 km from the state capital of Dehradun and 285 km from the national capital of New Delhi. The hill station lies in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range. The highest point in Mussoorie is the Lal Tibba in Landour, which is approximately 2,275 metres (7,464 ft) above sea level.
The name Mussoorie is derived from plants of Mussorie, which is a species of Jacaranda. The town has numerous vantage points, such as Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Sir George Everest’s house, and the Lakha Mandi Bazaar. Kempty Falls, Mussoorie Lake, and Jharipani Falls are some of the other attractions in Mussoorie.
The climate in Mussoorie is moderate to cool throughout the year. The temperature in summer (April-July) averages 20-25 °C (68-77 °F), while in winter (November-February) it is 5-10 °C (41-50 °F). Mussoorie receives rainfall from both the southwest monsoon and the north-eastern monsoon.
The best time to visit Mussoorie is from April to June and September to November.
3. Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand and is located in the northwestern part of India. It is situated at an altitude of 1,425 meters (4,675 feet) and is set amidst the beautiful Shivalik range of the Himalayas. Dehradun is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, horse riding, and bird watching.
Dehradun is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand and is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. The city is well connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh by air, rail and road. Dehradun is also a popular destination for adventure lovers as it offers a variety of trekking and camping options. Some of the popular trekking trails in Dehradun include the Nanda Devi East circuit, Rajaji Tiger Reserve and Mussoorie.
The climate in Dehradun is pleasant for most of the year. The summers are relatively cooler than the plains, with temperatures rarely exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. The winters are cool, with temperatures falling below 5 degrees Celsius at night.
The best time to visit Dehradun is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
4. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Lansdowne is a small hill station located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,700 metres (5,577 feet) and is set amidst the beautiful Lansdowne forest. Lansdowne was developed by Lord Lansdowne, who was the Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1894. It is considered a perfect weekend destination if you are in Delhi or Dehradun. Lansdowne is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and boating.
One can take the Kotdwar-Pauri road and it is about 250 kms from Delhi and about 100 kms from Dehradun. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to reach Lansdowne from Delhi and about 2 to 3 hours from Dehradun.
The place is surrounded by oak and pine trees and is rich in flora and fauna. It is a peaceful place and an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Lansdowne is also a base for trekking to the nearby places like Snow View Point, Darwan Singh Regimental Museum, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhulla Tal, etc.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Lansdowne are Bhim Pakora, Tip N Top, St. Mary’s Church, Darwan Singh Museum, War Memorial, etc.
The best time to visit Lansdowne, Uttarakhand is from March to October. The weather is pleasant during this time and one can enjoy various outdoor activities.
5. Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
When it comes to national parks in India, Corbett National Park holds a special significance. The park is located in the state of Uttarakhand, and was established in the year 1936. It was named after the famous British hunter and conservationist, Jim Corbett. The park covers an area of 521 square kilometers, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, bears, and deers. Corbett National Park is a popular destination for bird watching, with over 500 species of birds present in the park.
The park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from November to June. Visitors need to obtain a permit from the park office in order to enter the park. There are four entry gates – Dhikala, Ramnagar, Bijrani, and Jhirna.
Dhikala is the largest and most popular zone in the park. It covers an area of 315 square kilometers, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deers. The zone is open from 15 November to 15 June.
Ramnagar is the second largest zone in the park, and is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deers. The zone is open from 1 November to 30 June.
Bijrani is the third largest zone in the park, and is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deers. The zone is open from 1 October to 30 June.
Jhirna is the fourth and smallest zone in the park, and is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deers. The zone is open throughout the year.
Corbett National Park is accessible by air, road, and rail. The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located about 80 kilometers from the park. The park is also connected to major cities such as Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata by a good network of roads. The nearest railway station is Ramnagar Railway Station, located about 10 kilometers from the park.
Corbett National Park is a popular tourist destination, and receives a significant number of visitors every year.
6. Nainital Zoo, Uttarakhand
The Nainital Zoo is a high altitude Zoo located in the town of Nainital in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The Zoo is set amidst the Nainital Lake and was established in the year 1984. The Nainital Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, birds and reptiles. Some of the notable residents of the Zoo include the Himalayan black bear, Asiatic lion, red fox, leopard, Tibetan wolf, common langur, spotted deer, hog deer, barking deer, sambar, Himalayan thar, chinkara, yak, serow, markhor, ibex and Tibetan goral.
The Zoo also has a wide variety of birds which include the Tibetan snowcock, Himalayan Monal, impeyan pheasant, kalij pheasant, golden pheasant, red junglefowl, common quail, Myanmar bush lark, rock bunting, black-lored tit, Eurasian blue tit, rufous-backed shrike, common cuckoo, Eurasian hoopoe, chestnut-breasted partridge, common kestrel, Eurasian jay, greater racket-tailed drongo, Lammergeier and many more.
Some of the nearby places to visit around the Nainital Zoo are the Naini Lake, Nainital Zoo Garden, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, Land’s End, Naini Peak and many more.
The Nainital Zoo is located in the town of Nainital and can be easily reached by road and rail. The nearest airport to Nainital is the Pantnagar Airport which is located about 80 km away from the town.
The best time to visit the Nainital Zoo is from the months of October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
7. Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary, Uttarakhand
Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary is located in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand and is spread over an area of 21 hectares. It was established in 1989 and is home to a wide variety of birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, the Brahminy Duck, and the Siberian Crane. Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as bird watching, photography, and nature walks.
Among the birds that can be found in the sanctuary are the rare Bar-headed goose, Greylag goose, Ruddy shelduck, Common teal, Garganey, Common pochard, Ferruginous pochard, Tufted duck, Eurasian wigeon, Northern pintail, Common goldeneye, and Red-crested pochard.
The sanctuary is also home to several threatened and endangered bird species, including the Indian vulture, Gyps bengalensis, White-rumped vulture, Gyps himalayensis, Egyptian vulture, Neophron percnopterus, and Slender-billed vulture, Gypaetus tenuirostris.
The sanctuary is open from October to March. The best time to visit is from November to February when the majority of the migratory birds are present.
The sanctuary is located in the town of Narendranagar, which is about 20 kilometers from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand.
8. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand and is spread over an area of 45.59 square kilometers. It was established in 1988 and is home to a wide variety of animals such as the leopard, the Himalayan black bear, and the chital.
The climate is typically cooler than in the plains, due to the higher altitude. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, tigers, elephants, and many species of birds. Visitors to the sanctuary can take part in a variety of activities, such as safaris, nature walks, and bird watching.
There are many things to do in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, including wildlife watching, bird watching, hiking, and picnicking.
- Take a nature walk: One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is to take a leisurely nature walk. This is a great way to spot local wildlife and bird life, as well as admire the stunning views.
- Go bird watching: The sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching.
- Visit the Binsar Zero Point: The Binsar Zero Point is the highest point in the sanctuary, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Enjoy a picnic: Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the picturesque setting of the sanctuary.
- Go camping: There are a number of camping sites within the sanctuary, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.
The easiest way to reach Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is by road. The sanctuary is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and can be reached by road from Delhi, which is about 500 km away.
The best time to visit Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is from March to June and from October to November.
9. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is spread over an area of 940 square kilometers. It was established in 1972 and is home to a wide variety of animals such as the musk deer, the red fox, and the Himalayan black bear.
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and is a great place for bird watching.
The sanctuary is also home to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites. The temple is situated at the base of the Himalayan mountains, and is one of the four main temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Tourists come to the sanctuary both to enjoy the beauty of the area and to pay homage to the Kedarnath Temple.
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful place to explore and there are plenty of things to do. Here are some ideas:
- Hike through the stunning forest Trail to see diverse wildlife and plant life.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Mandakini River and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Visit the Kedarnath Temple and explore the ancient architecture.
- Head out on a wildlife safari to spot some of the rare and endangered animals that call the sanctuary home.
- Go birdwatching and see if you can spot some of the many rare and endangered bird species that live in the sanctuary.
- Take a rappelling or rock climbing adventure in the scenic mountains.
- Whitewater rafting is also available in the river for those looking for a thrill.
The best time to visit Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is from April to June when the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
10. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand
Valley of Flowers National Park is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is spread over an area of 87.50 square kilometers. It was established in 1982 and is home to a wide variety of flowers such as the blue poppy, the Himalayan balsam, and the marsh marigold. Valley of Flowers National Park is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, flower viewing, and photography.
The Valley of Flowers National Park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005. The park is also an important bird area, as it provides a habitat for a number of rare and endangered avifauna species such as the Himalayan monal, the red-billed chough and the Tibetan snowcock.
Things to do in Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand
- Explore the Valley of Flowers National Park: The valley is aflame with a riot of colours, and is home to rare and endangered animal and plant species. Official guided tours are conducted by the Forest Department and can be booked in advance.
- Take a Day Hike to Hemkund Sahib: This holy Gurudwara is located in a serene glacial lake, surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks. The hike to Hemkund Sahib is a moderate to tough one, and takes around 5-6 hours to complete.
- Visit Nanda Devi National Park: This protected area is home to some of the rarest animals and plants in the world. The park can be visited on a day hike or an overnight camping trip.
- Go Rafting in the Ganga: The Ganga River flows through the Valley of Flowers National Park, and offers some great rapids for rafters. Rafting expeditions can be booked in advance through local tour operators.
- Enjoy a Yoga Retreat: The valley is known for its peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and practice yoga. There are several yoga retreats and centres located in and around the park.
The Valley of Flowers National Park is open from mid-July to mid-October, and attracts about 60,000 visitors each year.
11. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 3050 m above sea level. Auli is well known for its picturesque landscapes and skiing facilities. The place is calm and beautiful with great weather throughout the year. Auli is also known as the Winter Capital of India as it is the perfect place to enjoy snowfall.
Auli is also a popular ski destination in India and is home to the country’s longest ski slope. There are a number of things to do in Auli, Uttarakhand, which include skiing, trekking, and sightseeing.
Skiing is the most popular activity in Auli and there are a number of ski resorts located in and around the town. Auli Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in India and offers a variety of slopes for beginners as well as advanced skiers. The resort also has a number of other facilities such as a ski school, a restaurant, and a ski equipment rental shop.
Trekking is another popular activity in Auli and there are a number of trekking trails located in and around the town. The most popular trekking trail is the Nanda Devi National Park, which is located just a few kilometres from Auli. The park is home to a number of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sightseeing is also a popular activity in Auli and many places of interest are located in and around the town. The most popular tourist attraction in Auli is Auli Lake, which is located just a few kilometers from the town. The lake is home to a number of rare and endangered species of fish and is a popular spot for bird watching.
Auli is also home to a number of temples and monasteries, which are worth visiting. The most popular temple in Auli is the Badrinath Temple, which is located just a few kilometers from the town. The temple is home to a number of rare and endangered species of plants and is a popular spot for pilgrims.
The best time to visit Auli is from September to November and from March to May. These are the ideal months to enjoy skiing and experience the beauty of the place.
12. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
Dhanaulti is another beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 2438 m above sea level. With its lush green forests and majestic snow-capped mountains, Dhanaulti provides a perfect getaway from the sweltering heat.
Here one can see glimpses of snow-capped mountains. The town itself has some artificial huge mountains. It is also home to dense forests which mainly consist of oak and rhododendron trees. These forests also produce many herbal and medicinal plants. There is one Modi Jhula present in this town which is located over the Bhilangna river.
Dhanaulti also has Eco-park which has been made in the year 2007 for the environment. This town provides a view of the famous mountain ranges like Nanda Devi, Bandarpoonch, and Chaukhamba.
Dhanaulti is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and pilgrimage sites. There are many things to do in Dhanaulti which include sightseeing, trekking, mountaineering, paragliding, and skiing.
- Take a stroll in the Surkanda Devi Temple complex – The Surkanda Devi Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dhanaulti. The temple is situated at an altitude of 2,700 meters and is dedicated to Goddess Surkanda. The temple complex also houses the Ekadash Rudraksha Temple and the Adi Badri Temple.
- Trek to the Surkanda Devi peak – The Surkanda Devi peak is a popular trekking destination in Dhanaulti. The trek starts from the Surkanda Devi Temple and takes you through the dense forest of pine and deodar. The trek is moderate to difficult and takes around 3-4 hours to complete.
- Visit the Cloud’s End – Cloud’s End is a scenic spot located at the end of the town. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains and the Doon Valley.
- Visit the Eco Park – The Eco Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. It is a beautifully landscaped park with a variety of flora and fauna. The park also has a children’s play area and a picnic spot.
- Paraglide in the Dhanaulti – Dhanaulti is a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. Paragliding is one of the most popular adventure sports in Dhanaulti. There are many operators who offer paragliding services in the town.
- Ski in the Dhanaulti – Dhanaulti is also a popular destination for skiing. The town has many operators who offer skiing services.
The best time to visit Dhanaulti is typically from March to October when the weather is pleasant and cool. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to visit during the shoulder seasons of November to February.
13. Kausani, Uttarakhand
Kausani is a beautiful hill town in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 1890 m above sea level. With its panoramic views of the Himalayas and serene surroundings, Kausani provides a perfect summer escape.
Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India’, Kausani is a hill station in the Bageshwar district in the state of Uttrakhand. Perched atop a hill at an altitude of 1,890 m above sea level, Kausani offers a stunning 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchchuli. The place came into existence in 1949 when it was developed by the British as a retreat from the heat.
The 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks from Kausani is an experience unparalleled and makes it one of the most popular hill stations in Uttrakhand. The gushing waters of the River Gomti and the rolling verdant landscapes make it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and trekkers. You can also explore the villages near Kausani, where you can experience the simple life of the farmers and get a taste of the local culture and cuisine.
Kausani is a small yet picturesque hill-station in Uttarakhand. It is famous for its panoramic 300 km-wide view of the Himalayas (namely, Trisul and Nanda Devi) and its lovely weather. Here are some things you can do in Kausani:
- Enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas from Anashakti Ashram.
- Trek to Susheela Devi Temple and take in the scenic views of the surroundings.
- Visit Kausani Tea Estate and learn about the process of tea production.
- Pay your respects at the Gandhi Ashram, which was once home to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Go for a nature walk in the beautiful Bageshwar Mahadev Temple complex.
The best time to visit Kausani is during the summer months of April to June. The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying the outdoors. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Kausani is during the shoulder season of March-April and October-November.
14. Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand
Mukteshwar is a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 2286 m above sea level. With its pristine natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Mukteshwar is an ideal summer retreat.
Mukteshwar gets its name from an 350 year old temple of Lord Shiva, Mukteshwar Mahadev, which offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. The town is a gateway to the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. Mukteshwar is also known for its citrus fruits, and many of the houses have fruit trees in their gardens. The town is surrounded by oak and fir forests, and there are numerous hiking and trekking trails in the area.
There are many things to do in Mukteshwar, Uttrakhand. You can go hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or just explore the many temples and historical sites. Here are some ideas:
- Take a hike to the Mukteshwar Temple – a popular destination for worship and picnics
- Enjoy the views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks from Mukteshwar
- Visit the Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple – one of the most important temples in the region
- Get a bird’s eye view of the valley from the top of the Mukteshwar Cliff
- Go on a safari in the Jim Corbett National Park – home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, elephants, and leopards
- Enjoy a cable car ride at the Nainital Zoo – one of the few zoos in India with this facility
- Visit the exhilarating Kainchi Dham – a popular religious site known for its peaceful atmosphere
The best time to visit Mukteshwar is from March to June, when the weather is warm and sunny.
15. Almora, Uttarakhand
Almora is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 1638 m above sea level. With its stunning views of the Nanda Devi mountain range and peaceful atmosphere, Almora is an ideal summer getaway.
Almora has a pleasant climate and is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday. The town is well-connected by road and rail and is easily accessible from major cities in India.
There are many famous temples in Almora, Uttrakhand. Some of the famous temples are:
- Jageshwar Dham: Jageshwar Dham is a group of 130 temples located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. The temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and date back to the 9th and 13th centuries.
- Katarmal Sun Temple: The Katarmal Sun Temple is a temple dedicated to the sun god Surya, It is believed to be built in the 8th century CE, making it one of the oldest sun temples in India.
- Nanda Devi Temple: The Nanda Devi Temple was built in the 16th century CE, it is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Nanda, and is located in the town of Almora in Uttarakhand.
- Chitai Golu Devta Temple: The Chitai Golu Devta Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Golu, and is located in the town of Almora in Uttarakhand. It was built in the 18th century CE, and is one of the most important temples in the Kumaon region.
The best time to visit Almora is between the months of October and March. This is the time when the weather is pleasant and the town is abuzz with tourists.
16. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is a beautiful city located in the state of Uttrakhand in India. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is known for its scenic beauty and spiritual importance. There are many temples and ashrams located in Rishikesh which attract pilgrims from all over the country. The city is also a popular destination for adventure sports like rafting and bungee jumping.
Rishikesh is the perfect place to spend your summer vacation if you are looking for a mix of adventure, spirituality and scenic beauty. The city has something to offer for everyone, so you are sure to have a great time here.
There are so many things to do in Rishikesh, Uttrakhand. The place is rich in natural beauty and there are plenty of adventure activities to keep you busy. Here are some of the best things to do in Rishikesh:
- Go White Water Rafting: Rishikesh is the perfect place for white water rafting in India. The place has some of the best rapids in the country and you can raft through them with ease. There are many rafting operators in Rishikesh who can help you plan your trip.
- Take a Trek: There are many beautiful treks that you can take around Rishikesh. The place is surrounded by forests and you can trek through them to reach some of the most amazing viewpoints.
- Visit the Temples: Rishikesh is home to many ancient temples that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include the Lakshman Jhula, Parmath Niketan and the Vashishtha Gufa.
- Go Camping: There are many beautiful campsites located around Rishikesh. You can pitch your own tent or stay in one of the many camping sites that are available.
- Go Kayaking: Kayaking is another popular activity in Rishikesh. There are many operators who can help you rent a kayak and explore the rivers around Rishikesh.
17. Pauri, Uttarakhand
Pauri is a town in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 1854 m above sea level. The town is well known for its pleasant weather and the stunning views of the Himalayas.
Pauri is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand for many reasons. The town is situated in the Garhwal region of the state and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range. Pauri is also home to many temples and shrines, which attract devotees from all over the country. Apart from that, the town is also a gateway to several trekking and adventure activities in the region.
Here are some top activities to do in Pauri:
- Trekking- Pauri provides some of the best trekking routes in Uttarakhand. Some of the popular treks include the Snow View Trek, Gandhi Sarovar Trek and Kandolia Trek.
- Parantnagal Trekking- This is one of the most popular treks in Pauri. It is a 6 day trek which starts from Kotdwar and goes through various villages and forests.
- Camping- There are many camping sites in Pauri where you can enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas.
- River Rafting- The Alaknanda River provides some of the best rapids for river rafting.
- Hiking- There are many hiking trails in Pauri which offer stunning views of the Himalayas.
The best time to visit Pauri is between the months of April to June. The weather is pleasant during this time and one can enjoy the various tourist activities available in the town.
18. Joshimath, Uttarakhand
Joshimath is a town in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 1875 m above sea level. The town is well known for its chilly weather and the numerous temples located here.
It is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is considered to be one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. Joshimath is also known as Jyotirmath and is one of the 108 Divya Desams, which are the abodes of Lord Vishnu. There are a number of temples and shrines in Joshimath, which attract pilgrims from all over India. Some of the popular ones include the Badrinath Temple, which is one of the four main pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand, and the Nanda Devi Temple, which is considered to be one of the most sacred temples in Hinduism.
The best time to visit Joshimath is in the months of May to October. These months offer the best weather conditions for treks and other adventure activities in the region.
19. Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Haridwar is a town in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 314 m above sea level. The town is home to the Har Ki Pauri, which is a sacred Ghats.
Haridwar is a standout amongst the most critical holiest Hindu urban areas in India and is a standout amongst the most well-known cities to visit in Uttarakhand. The ‘Gateway to the Gods’, as it is known, is where the Ganges River enters the Indo-Gangetic Plains from the Himalayas. Each day, several aficionados come to Haridwar to wash in the holy water and to pay their offerings to the Sun God, Surya.
The 3 most popular tourist destinations in Haridwar are the Chandi Devi Temple, the Har Ki Pauri Ghat, and the Mansa Devi Temple.
- The Chandi Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Chandi, situated atop the Neel Parvat on the Himalayan range. The temple was built in the 9th century by King Vikramaditya and is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas.
- The Har Ki Pauri Ghat is a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar. It is believed to be the place where the sacred River Ganges descended from heaven. The ghat is a popular site for bathing and performing puja.
- The Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, situated atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills. The temple was built in the 18th century and is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
20. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Ranikhet is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 1829 m above sea level. With its pleasant weather and stunning views of the Himalayas, Ranikhet provides the perfect setting for a relaxed and rejuvenating holiday.
Ranikhet provides breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The cool and pleasant climate of the region makes it a popular getaway during summers. Ranikhet has some beautiful temples and ruins of ancient forts which makes it a popular tourist destination.
Ranikhet is a perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a peaceful and relaxed vacation. Ranikhet is home to some of the most beautiful views of the Himalayas. There are many things to do in Ranikhet. Here are some of the best things to do in Ranikhet:
- Visit the Chaubatia Orchard The Chaubatia Orchard is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ranikhet. The Chaubatia Orchard is spread over 10 hectares and has a variety of fruit trees. The Chaubatia Orchard is a great place to take a walk or go for a picnic.
- Visit the KRC Museum The KRC Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum has a collection of artifacts that date back to the Stone Age. The KRC Museum is also a great place to learn about the history of Ranikhet.
- Shop at the Ranikhet Bazaar The Ranikhet Bazaar is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones. The Ranikhet Bazaar has a wide variety of shops that sell everything from clothes to handicrafts.
- Hike to the Bhaludam Viewpoint The Bhaludam Viewpoint is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas. The Bhaludam Viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2,600 meters and offers a stunning view of the Himalayas.
- Take a stroll in the Jhula Devi Temple Complex The Jhula Devi Temple Complex is a popular tourist spot in Ranikhet. The temple complex has a number of temples that are worth visiting. The Jhula Devi Temple is the most popular temple in the complex.
The best time to visit Ranikhet, Uttarakhand in summers would be from March to June.
21. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Chopta is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand situated at an altitude of 2713 m above sea level. With its mesmerizing views of the Himalayas and tranquil atmosphere, Chopta provide the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating summer holiday.
If you are a nature lover and want to spend your summer vacation amidst the mesmerizing beauty of snow-clad mountains, lush greenery, and chirping of birds then Uttarakhand is the place to be in. And if you want to further add to the beauty of your vacation then a visit to Chopta is a must.
This unspoiled and serene hamlet is situated at an altitude of 2680 m above sea level at a distance of 235 km from Rishikesh and about 48 km from Ukhimath. Surrounded by dense forests of pine, deodar and rhododendron, Chopta is a perfect summer getaway from the sweltering heat and maddening crowd of the plains. This place is also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”.
Chopta is home to a variety of feathered and furry creatures. You can spot red fox, Asiatic black bear, Himalayan musk deer, barking deer, common langur and many more. It is also a paradise for bird watchers as you can spot a variety of birds such as Eurasian jay, common myna, rufous-breasted Accentor, alpine accentor, rock bunting, wallcreepers, red-billed chough, Eurasian nuthatch, and Himalayan monal.
This place is worth visiting not only because of its natural beauty but also because it offers some very interesting activities such as river rafting, fishing, bonfire, horse riding, mountaineering, trekking and camping.
So, plan a trip to Chopta and make the best of your summer vacation.
22. Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
Pithoragarh is a scenic hill station in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,550 metres (5,090 feet) and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Pithoragarh is a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists and offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking.
There are many reasons to visit Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand for summer vacation. As India’s northernmost district, Pithoragarh offers unique insights into the country’s culture and history. The region is also home to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers.
There are plenty of things to do in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand to keep you occupied during your summer vacation. To start, be sure to explore the district’s many historical and cultural attractions.
The Pithoragarh Fort is a must-see for history buffs. Dating back to the 16th century, this fort was once the capital of the Katyuri Kingdom. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.
For a taste of Pithoragarh’s culture, head to the village of Dharchula. Here, you’ll find traditional homes and temples, as well as charming shops selling local handicrafts.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do in Pithoragarh as well. The region is home to some of the best trekking and mountain biking trails in India.
For a truly unique experience, try paragliding in Pithoragarh. With views of the Himalayas as your backdrop, this is an activity you won’t soon forget.
The best time to visit Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand is during the summer months of May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, you should be aware that Pithoragarh is a very popular tourist destination during the summer months. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during the off-season.
The winter months of November to February are the best time to visit Pithoragarh if you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation. During this time, the district is much less crowded, and the weather is cool and pleasant.
These are some of the best summer holiday destinations in Uttarakhand that you can visit to escape the heat.
So, plan your trip and enjoy your stay in any of these beautiful places.
