Famous for hill stations is a state called Uttarakhand, also known as ‘Dev Bhumi’ or ‘Land of gods’. It is located in northern India just 3 hours away from the Delhi border and divided into two major regions: Kumaon and Garhwal. If you are in the capital city with a few days in hand and want to explore the mountains or want your kids to go wild in nature’s lap, or just want to get away from the city life, then this post will guide you to do exactly that.
Check out this list of the five must-visit places in Uttarakhand, where you can rejoice in waking up to the clear sky, a lovely view from your window, and breathe clean air with peace in your heart.
1. Nainital
Boat ride in Nainital Lake (Photo: Jyoti)
A perfect place for water babies and lake lovers to fall in love with is Nainital. Nainital district is also called the Lake District of India. It is situated in the Kumaon region, approximately 7 hours drive from Delhi. A small city with the beautiful Nainital Lake welcoming at the entrance lined up pleasant eateries around the lake and prominent Naina Devi temple at the top. Two special eateries to look out for are Honey Hut and Sakley’s (famous for its mouthwatering bakery items).
Other Lakes to visit in Nainital district: Naukuchiatal, Bhimtal, and Sattal
2. Rishikesh
River Rafting in Rishikesh (Photo: Ashish Kumar)
Want to enjoy sleeping under the stars and next to a beautiful river? Then Rishikesh is the place to be; a 6-hour drive from Delhi. One of the most visited places by tourists looking to enjoy river rafting, camping and an evening bonfire. Also, if you are an old school Beatles fan, then don’t forget to visit the Beatles ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) also located here.
Other close-by places to visit: Haridwar (a city visited by the majority of Hindu followers for religious reasons)
3. Mussoorie
(Photo: Paul Hamilton)
A perfect hill station with the scenic view of the valley is a simple way of describing Mussoorie. It is located in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, approximately a 7-hour drive from Delhi. Make sure to indulge in water fun at Kempty Falls, walk around the Mall Road and appreciate the beautiful valley view from Gun Hill Point.
Other close-by places to visit: Landour, Dhanaulti, and Nagtibba (famous for trek trails)
4. Munsyari
The Khalia Top, 6km trek in Munsyari district (Photo: Ainitom Das)
On its way to becoming a destination for trekkers and nature lovers is a place called Munsiyari, located on the banks of the Gori Ganga river in close vicinity to Nepal, Tibet and the Indian border. This is one of the faraway hill stations from Delhi (approx. 16 hours drive) in comparison to other places listed in this post. For the history enthusiast, it’s one of the places which falls on the ancient salt route from Tibet. If you are a trekker at heart then this places offers two major trek routes: to Milan glacier and to Ralan glacier.
Other close by places to visit: Almora, Nandadevi
5. Binsar
(Photo: Gkrishna63)
Want to get away from the crowds and be alone with nature? Binsar is the place for you. Located in the foothills of the Kumaon side of the Himalayas and an approximate 10-hour drive from Delhi. This is one of the places that has not yet become a mainstream tourist place. However, Binsar offers ample opportunities for trekkers and wildlife lovers.
Another close by place to visit: Ranikhet
To book a cosy, pocket-friendly and hassle-free stay in Uttarakhand, do look at our partnered hotels here. Also, check out this government website to keep handy during your trip to any of the above-mentioned places.