Uttarakhand, bordered by Nepal and Tibet, and shadowed by towering Himalayan peaks, is full of unspoiled natural beauty. Ancient holy places, mountains, forests, and valleys are some of the attractions that make travel to Uttarakhand worthwhile. This state has scores of famous tourist destinations. There is a huge list among which few are mentioned below:
Corbett National Park, one of India's most popular national parks, is named after conservationist Jim Corbett. It is a dense forest with an array of wildlife and the park can be explored by jeep or elephant safaris.
Haridwar (the "Gateway to God") is one of the seven holiest places in India, and one of the oldest living cities. It is particularly popular among the Hindu pilgrims who come here to take a dip in the holy waters of the River Ganges to wash away their sins. It hosts Kumbh Mela, one of the largest gatherings across the world in every 12 years.
Rishikesh, located not far from Haridwar, is as popular with western spiritual seekers as Haridwar is with Hindu pilgrims. Known as the birthplace of yoga, people flock there to meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism in the various ashrams and yoga institutes. This charming town exudes a rustic touch and spiritual energy that is infectious.
The hill settlement of Nainital was a popular summer retreat for the British during the time they ruled India. It features emerald colored Naini Lake and an action-filled strip called The Mall, lined with restaurants, shops, hotels, and markets.
Mussoorie, the Queen of Hills, is another popular and pretty hill station that offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. It is a popular weekend destination because it has a lot of facilities developed especially for tourists.
Almora was established as the summer capital of Chand Kings in 1560. It attracts its share of foreigners who head to nearby Kasar Devi Temple, where Swami Vivekananda meditated.
The remarkable landscape of The Valley of Flowers National Park comes alive with the monsoon rain. This high-altitude Himalayan valley has around 300 different varieties of alpine flowers, which appear as a bright carpet of color against a mountainous snow-capped background.
The Char Dham (four temples) mark the spiritual source of four holy rivers: the Yamuna (at Yamunotri), the Ganges (at Gangotri), the Mandakini (at Kedarnath), and the Alaknanda (at Badrinath). Hindus consider a pilgrimage to the Char Dham to wash away all sins, and also to ensure release from the cycle of birth and death.
Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand which is a lively city surrounded with charming views of the mountains of Mussoorie.
