Rishikesh, Haridwar, Nainital, Mussoorie, Auli, Corbett, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Valley of Flowers & More
Uttarakhand, known as the “Devbhoomi” (Land of the Gods), is one of India’s most beautiful and spiritual states. Surrounded by the Himalayas, sacred rivers, holy shrines, lakes, and forests, this region offers everything — adventure, spirituality, wildlife, nature, and peace.
In this complete guide, we explore the top 10 best places to visit in Uttarakhand, with their history, significance, things to do, best time to visit, how to reach them, and travel tips.
Explore the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
1. Rishikesh – Yoga Capital of the World & Adventure Hub
Rishikesh is the perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. Located on the banks of the holy Ganga, the city is world-famous for yoga, meditation, rafting, and the iconic Laxman Jhula.
Why Visit Rishikesh
- Global hub for Ayurveda & Yoga
- Adventure sports like river rafting, cliff jumping, and camping
- Clean river ghats and peaceful ashrams
- Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
Top Things to Do
- River rafting (most popular)
- Visit Beatles Ashram
- Ganga Aarti in evening
- Bungee jumping
- Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall
Best Time to Visit
February–June and September–November
Perfect For
Adventure lovers, spiritual seekers, backpackers, couples
2. Haridwar – Gateway to the Gods
Haridwar is one of India’s oldest holy cities, famous for its ghats, temples, and spiritual aura. Millions visit to take a dip in the holy Ganga River.
Why Visit Haridwar
- Sacred pilgrimage destination
- Kumbh Mela city
- Pure spiritual environment
Top Things to Do
- Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
- Visit Mansa Devi & Chandi Devi temples
- Enjoy local street food (kachori, jalebi)
- Try a dip in the holy Ganga
Best Time to Visit
October–March
Perfect For
Pilgrims, family trips, photography, cultural tourism
3. Nainital – The Lake District of India
Nainital is a charming hill station built around the beautiful Naini Lake. The cool climate, colonial architecture, and natural scenery attract tourists year-round.
Why Visit Nainital
- Beautiful lakes
- Romantic weather
- Great for families & couples
Top Things to Do
- Boating in Naini Lake
- Visit Naina Devi Temple
- Explore Mall Road
- Ropeway to Snow View Point
- Visit Zoo & Eco Cave Gardens
Best Time to Visit
March–June & October–December
Perfect For
Couples, honeymooners, families, nature lovers
4. Mussoorie-The Queen of Hills
Mussoorie stands among the first choices for travelers. Its stunning hill views, colonial charm, and pleasant climate make it one of India’s top hill stations.
Why Visit Mussoorie
- Panoramic Himalayan views
- Lively mall road
- Popular honeymoon destination
Top Things to Do
- Kempty Falls
- Gun Hill Ropeway
- Camel’s Back Road nature walk
- Lal Tibba viewpoint
- Cafés at Library Chowk
Best Time to Visit
March–June & September–November
Perfect For
Couples, families, weekend trips, photographers
5. Auli—India’s Winter Wonderland & Skiing Capital
Auli is a dream destination for winter lovers. It becomes a magical snow-covered paradise during December–February.
Why Visit Auli
- Best skiing destination in India
- Snow-covered mountains
- Asia’s longest cable car (Auli–Joshimath)
Top Things to Do
- Skiing
- Trek to Gorson Bugyal
- Cable car ride
- Visit Chenab Lake
Best Time to Visit
For Snow: December–February
For Trekking: October–June
Perfect For
Adventure lovers, families, photographers
6. Jim Corbett National Park – India’s Oldest Tiger Reserve
Corbett is India’s first national park and a paradise for wildlife lovers. It’s known for tigers, elephants, deer, birds, and dense forests.
Why Visit Corbett
- Best place to spot Bengal Tigers
- Jungle safari experience
- Peaceful riverside resorts
Top Things to Do
- Jeep Safari
- Canter Safari
- Visit Corbett Museum
- River-side camping
Best Time to Visit
November–June
Perfect For
Wildlife photographers, families, adventure seekers
7. Kedarnath – Sacred Temple of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. Located at 11,755 ft, it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and deep valleys.
Why Visit Kedarnath
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
- Major Char Dham temple
- Spiritual atmosphere in the Himalayas
Top Things to Do
- Darshan at Kedarnath Temple
- Visit Bhairavnath Temple
- Explore Vasuki Tal trek
Best Time to Visit
May–June & September–October
Perfect For
Pilgrims, trekkers, nature lovers
8. Badrinath – Sacred Temple of Lord Vishnu
Badrinath is part of the Char Dham and is one of the most important temples of Lord Vishnu.
Why Visit Badrinath
- One of India’s most important pilgrimage sites
- Spiritual Himalayan beauty
- Mana Village nearby (Last Indian village)
Top Things to Do
- Darshan at Badrinath Temple
- Visit Mana Village
- Explore Vasudhara Falls
Best Time to Visit
May–October
Perfect For
Pilgrims, spiritual travelers, families
9. Valley of Flowers – UNESCO World Heritage Site
This valley blooms with hundreds of species of rare Himalayan flowers every monsoon.
Why Visit
- One of the most beautiful natural places in India
- Rare flowers & butterflies
- Snow-covered mountains around
Top Things to Do
- Trek through the valley
- Visit Hemkund Sahib
- Explore high-altitude flora
Best Time to Visit
July–September (peak blooming season)
Perfect For
Trekkers, nature lovers, photographers
10. Dhanaulti – Peaceful Hill Station Near Mussoorie
Dhanaulti is a lesser-known but extremely peaceful destination located just 25 km from Mussoorie.
Why Visit Dhanaulti
- Suitable for a calm retreat
- Eco-parks and forest stays
- Snowfall in winter
Top Things to Do
- Visit Eco Park
- Trek to Surkanda Devi
- Stay in forest camps
Best Time to Visit
October–June
Perfect For
Families, couples, peace seekers
11. Gangotri & Yamunotri – Origin of Holy Rivers
Both Gangotri and Yamunotri are holy sites and part of the famous Char Dham Yatra.
Gangotri – Origin of the Ganga
- Sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga
- Surrounded by glaciers
Yamunotri – Origin of the Yamuna
- Small but powerful temple
- Hot water springs at Janki Chatti
Best Time
April–June & September–October
Perfect For
Pilgrims, nature lovers, trekkers
Conclusion
Uttarakhand is truly a land of endless beauty – from spirituality and holy rivers to snow peaks, forests, lakes, and adventure sports. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or spiritual traveller, the state has something for everyone.
This Top 10 Uttarakhand Travel Guide helps you choose the best destinations and plan your journey perfectly.