Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand – A Local’s Guide by Shubhank
Travel with a local guide as your trusted companion.
I’m Shubhank, born and raised in the hills of Garhwal, and there’s one question friends from all over India keep asking me: “Where should we go in Uttarakhand?”
Let me take you through the places I personally love—the valleys I grew up in, the treks I’ve hiked since childhood, and the sacred routes our elders still walk.
1. The Sacred Char Dham Yatra
Uttarakhand is often called Devbhoomi – the Land of the Gods, and nowhere is that felt more deeply than on the Char Dham circuit: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Why Go: Pilgrimage plus mountain beauty—glaciers, alpine meadows, and roaring rivers.
Insider Tip: Start from Yamunotri and move clockwise. May–June and Sept–Oct are best for weather and crowd balance.
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2. Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills
My childhood summer picnics were often here.
Highlights: Camel’s Back Road sunset, Kempty Falls, Company Garden, and a walk along Mall Road with steaming momos.
Local Insight: Skip weekends if you can—come on a weekday morning for quieter views of the Doon Valley.
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3. Nainital – The Lake District
Every season brings a different color to Naini Lake.
Must-Do: Boat ride at dawn, cable car to Snow View Point, explore nearby Bhimtal and Sattal.
Local Tip: Try the small cafés in the Tibetan Market for authentic thukpa.
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4. Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila
Known as the Mini Switzerland of India, this is where I go when I need pure silence.
Trek Details: 5 km moderate climb to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple; another 1.5 km to Chandrashila Peak for a 360° Himalayan panorama.
Best Season: Spring rhododendrons (April–May) or snow treks (Dec–Feb).
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5. Jim Corbett National Park
India’s oldest national park is where we spotted our first wild tiger.
Safari Zones: Dhikala for deep-forest experience, Bijrani for frequent tiger sightings.
Stay Idea: Forest rest houses—book early through the official Uttarakhand Forest Department site.
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6. Auli – The Skiing Paradise
Come winter, Auli transforms into a white wonderland.
Things to Do: Skiing, gondola ride, and a short trek to Gurso Bugyal for Nanda Devi views.
Local Tip: If you’re new to snow, hire an instructor; the government ski school is reliable.
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Planning Your Trip
Best Overall Season: March–June for greenery and treks; October–February for snow and wildlife.
Getting Around: Shared jeeps and state buses work, but hiring a cab gives flexibility in the hills.
25 FAQs About Visiting Uttarakhand
1. What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand overall?
March–June for pleasant weather; October–February for snow sports; July–August mainly for Valley of Flowers but watch monsoon landslides.
2. How many days are needed for the Char Dham Yatra?
Typically 10–12 days to cover all four shrines comfortably with acclimatisation.
3. Is Mussoorie good for a weekend trip from Delhi?
Yes, a 2-night stay works well—drive takes about 6–7 hours.
4. Which is better: Nainital or Mussoorie?
Nainital is great for lakes and boating; Mussoorie for valley views and colonial charm. Many visitors combine both.
5. How difficult is the Chopta–Tungnath trek?
It’s moderate, suitable for beginners with basic fitness. The climb to Chandrashila is steeper but short.
6. Are permits required for Jim Corbett safari?
Yes, book official permits online for specific zones well in advance.
7. Can beginners learn skiing in Auli?
Absolutely. Government-certified instructors offer short courses for first-timers.
8 Which airport serves the Char Dham route?
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is closest; helicopters to Kedarnath/Badrinath are available.
9. Is Uttarakhand safe for solo women travelers?
Generally yes—locals are helpful. Stick to known routes and avoid late-night isolated areas.
10. What local foods should I try?
Bhatt ki churkani, aloo ke gutke, chainsoo, mandua roti, and Bal Mithai from Almora.
11. Best places for photography in Uttarakhand?
Chopta meadows, Auli ski slopes, Naini Lake sunrise, and Devprayag confluence.
12. Are there luxury stays in these hill stations?
Yes—5-star resorts in Nainital, boutique hotels in Mussoorie, and eco-lodges near Chopta.
13. Can I self-drive to Chopta in winter?
Yes, but carry snow chains and check road conditions daily.
14. What wildlife is common in Corbett besides tigers?
Leopards, wild elephants, gharials, hog deer, and over 600 bird species.
15. Is camping allowed near Deoria Tal?
Yes, in designated areas with a small forest fee.
16. Which treks are family-friendly?
Chopta–Tungnath, Deoria Tal, and Dayara Bugyal are ideal for kids 8+ with moderate fitness.
17. Do mobile networks work in remote areas?
Jio and BSNL are most reliable, though signals may drop in deep valleys.
18. What is the altitude of Chandrashila Peak?
Around 4,000 m (13,100 ft).
19. How to reach Auli from Rishikesh?
Drive to Joshimath (about 9–10 hrs) and take the ropeway or a short road ascent.
20. Can I combine Char Dham with Valley of Flowers?
Yes, add 3 extra days for Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib.
21. Is homestay accommodation popular?
Increasingly yes—villages like Sari and Mana offer authentic stays.
22. What are some lesser-known spots near Mussoorie?
Landour, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, and Jharipani Falls.
23. Do I need a guide for Tungnath trek?
The trail is well marked, but a local guide enriches the experience with stories and safety tips.
24. Where can I experience local festivals?
Attend Nanda Devi Raj Jat (once every 12 years) or small village fairs like Gauchar Mela.
25 What’s the best way to travel eco-friendly in Uttarakhand?
Use shared jeeps, carry refillable bottles, avoid plastic, and respect trekking waste rules.
Final Words from a Local
Uttarakhand is not just mountains and temples; it’s the sound of pine forests, the smell of wood smoke, and the kindness of villagers who will offer you tea even if you’re a stranger.
Whenever you come, travel slow—the hills reveal their magic only when you listen.
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| Attribute | Char Dham Yatra (Badrinath / Kedarnath / Gangotri / Yamunotri) |
|---|---|
| Route / Duration | Common circuit: 10–16 days depending on starting point & pace (often done Delhi → Haridwar → Barkot → Uttarkashi → Joshimath → Badrinath / Kedarnath) |
| Best Time to Visit | May – June and Sept – Oct (temples open; summer & post-monsoon window). Kedarnath & Badrinath close in winter due to heavy snow. |
| How to Reach | By Road: Well connected from Rishikesh / Haridwar → state highways • Nearest major rail: Haridwar / Rishikesh • Nearest airports: Dehradun (Jolly Grant) / Jolly Grant |
| Significance | Major Hindu pilgrimage visiting four sacred shrines (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath); spiritual & cultural importance. |
| Travel Tips | Plan permits and accommodation in advance during peak season, acclimatize, carry warm clothing, check road & weather updates, hire local porter/guide for trekking sections. |
| Attribute | Mussoorie |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Queen of Hills — scenic viewpoints, colonial charm, Mall Road, Kempty Falls |
| Location | Dehradun district, Uttarakhand (approx. 1,880 m) |
| Best Time to Visit | March – June (pleasant) & Sept – Nov (post-monsoon clear views); Dec–Feb for cold & occasional snow |
| How to Reach | By Road: ~6–7 hrs drive from Delhi (approx. 280 km) • Nearest rail: Dehradun (35 km) • Nearest airport: Dehradun Jolly Grant |
| Major Attractions | Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, Company Garden, Mall Road |
| Activities | Pleasant walks, photography, short hikes, shopping on Mall Road, cable car rides |
| Travel Tips | Avoid weekends if you dislike crowds, book hotels early during peak season, carry light woolens, and explore early morning for clear Himalayan views. |
| Attribute | Nainital |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Famous lake town with Naini Lake, boating, Mall Road, viewpoints like Snow View & Tiffin Top |
| Location | Nainital district, Uttarakhand (approx. 2,084 m) |
| Best Time to Visit | March – June & Sept – Nov; winters are cold and can have light snow |
| How to Reach | By Road: ~6–8 hrs from Delhi (~300 km) • Nearest rail: Kathgodam (~35 km) • Nearest airport: Pantnagar (~65 km) |
| Major Attractions | Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Eco Cave Gardens, Snow View Point, Kilbury |
| Activities | Boating, cable car ride, nature walks, birdwatching, shopping |
| Travel Tips | Book lake-facing hotels early, be cautious on narrow roads, carry warm clothes for nights, try local Tibetan food in Mall Road area. |
| Attribute | Chopta |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Alpine meadows — base for Tungnath & Chandrashila treks; “Mini Switzerland of India” |
| Location | Rudraprayag district / Kedar valley, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude | Approx. 2,600–2,700 m |
| Best Time to Visit | April–June & Sept–Nov (pleasant); Dec–Mar for snow treks |
| How to Reach | By Road: Drive via Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta (~10–12 hrs from Delhi) • Nearest rail: Rishikesh/Kotdwar • Nearest airport: Dehradun |
| Activities | Trekking, camping, nature walks, sunrise at Chandrashila, birdwatching |
| Travel Tips | Carry trekking boots & warm clothes, acclimatize, book camps or guesthouses in advance during peak season. |
| Attribute | Tungnath |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Highest Shiva temple (Tungnath) and base for Chandrashila summit |
| Location | Above Chopta, Uttarakhand (on the slopes of the Himalayas) |
| Altitude | Temple approx. 3,200–3,300 m; Chandrashila slightly higher |
| Best Time to Visit | April–June & Sept–Nov; winter snow-trek for experienced trekkers |
| How to Reach | Drive to Chopta → trek 3–4 km to Tungnath (stone steps); short climb to Chandrashila summit |
| Trek Difficulty | Moderate — steep sections; suitable for fit beginners with proper gear |
| Travel Tips | Start early for sunrise, use trekking poles, warm layers required, check snow conditions in winter. |
| Attribute | Chandrashila |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Chandrashila peak — panoramic 360° views of Himalayan giants at sunrise |
| Location | Summit near Tungnath, above Chopta (Uttarakhand) |
| Approx. Altitude | Approx. 4,000 m (varies by source; summit is higher than Tungnath) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–June & Sept–Nov; winter offers snow views for experienced trekkers |
| Trek Info | Short steep climb from Tungnath (~1.5–2 km); offers dramatic sunrise & panoramic vistas |
| Travel Tips | Acclimatize, carry warm clothing, start pre-dawn for sunrise, hire guide in heavy snow conditions. |
| Attribute | Jim Corbett National Park |
|---|---|
| Attraction | India’s oldest national park, known for Bengal tigers, safaris, riverine forests and wildlife |
| Location | Nainital & Pauri Garhwal borders, Uttarakhand (Ramganga River valley) |
| Best Time to Visit | November – June (park open for safaris). Monsoon (Jul–Sep) park mostly closed. |
| How to Reach | By Road: ~5–6 hrs from Delhi (~250 km) • Nearest rail: Ramnagar Railway Station • Nearest airport: Pantnagar / Pantnagar & Bareilly |
| Activities | Jeep safaris, elephant safaris (where allowed), birdwatching, nature walks, river rafting nearby |
| Travel Tips | Book safari permits in advance, follow park rules, hire authorized guides, carry binoculars and light clothing for daytime and warm layers for mornings. |
| Attribute | Auli |
|---|---|
| Attraction | Famous ski destination with ski slopes, panoramic views of Nanda Devi and other peaks, and cable car (ropeway) |
| Location | Chamoli district, near Joshimath, Uttarakhand (approx. 2,800–3,000 m) |
| Best Time to Visit | Winter (Dec–Mar) for skiing; April–June & Sept–Nov for pleasant weather & meadow views |
| How to Reach | Drive to Joshimath → cable car/drive up to Auli. Nearest rail/air: Rishikesh/Dehradun (longer road transfer) |
| Activities | Skiing, snowboarding (seasonal), ropeway ride, trekking to nearby peaks and lakes |
| Travel Tips | Book ski equipment and instructors in advance in winter, carry warm and layered clothing, check ropeway timings and weather updates. |
Top Travelophila Packages:
Chardham Yatra Packages 2025
Chopta Auli Tour Packages
Nainital Mussoorie Tour Packages
Trekking Packages
I’m Shubhank, born and raised in the hills of Garhwal, and there’s one question friends from all over India keep asking me: “Where should we go in Uttarakhand?” Let me take you through the places I personally love—the valleys I grew up in, the treks I’ve hiked since childhood, and the sacred routes our elders still walk.
