20 Unforgettable Places to Visit in Uttarakhand: A 2020 Travel Revelation
Uttarakhand, the “Land of Gods,” beckons with its majestic Himalayan peaks, serene valleys, and spiritual aura․ Forget the crowded tourist traps; 2020 is the year to discover the hidden gems and experience Uttarakhand’s authentic charm․ Imagine trekking through pristine forests, witnessing breathtaking sunrises over snow-capped mountains, and immersing yourself in the rich culture of this Himalayan paradise․ This list of 20 places to visit in Uttarakhand promises an unforgettable journey, showcasing both the well-known wonders and the lesser-explored treasures of this stunning region, making your 2020 an experience of a lifetime․
Spiritual Sanctuaries and Pilgrimage Sites
- Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World, offering spiritual retreats and adventure activities․
- Haridwar: A sacred city on the banks of the Ganges, known for its evening Ganga Aarti․
- Badrinath: One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, nestled amidst breathtaking mountain scenery․
- Kedarnath: Another significant Char Dham destination, dedicated to Lord Shiva and accessible by trek․
- Hemkund Sahib: A high-altitude Sikh shrine, revered for its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance․
Hill Stations and Scenic Getaways
- Nainital: A charming hill station centered around the picturesque Naini Lake․
- Mussoorie: The “Queen of the Hills,” offering panoramic views and colonial architecture․
- Auli: A popular skiing destination, boasting snow-covered slopes and breathtaking Himalayan vistas․
- Ranikhet: A tranquil hill station known for its lush green forests and stunning views of the Himalayas․
- Almora: A scenic town offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and a glimpse into Kumaoni culture․
Offbeat Destinations and Hidden Gems
- Chopta: The base camp for Tungnath and Chandrashila treks, offering stunning views and serene landscapes․
- Munsiyari: A picturesque town offering panoramic views of the Panchchuli peaks and access to various treks․
- Binsar: A wildlife sanctuary and hill station, known for its dense forests and birdwatching opportunities․
- Valley of Flowers National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its vibrant alpine flowers․
- Pithoragarh: Known as “Little Kashmir,” offering stunning views and access to various trekking routes towards Nepal and Tibet․
Adventure and Nature Escapes
- Jim Corbett National Park: India’s oldest national park, home to tigers, elephants, and a diverse range of wildlife․
- Rajaji National Park: Another prominent national park, known for its elephant population and scenic landscapes․
- Devprayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, forming the holy Ganges․
- Lansdowne: A quiet and unspoiled hill station, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature․
- Dhanaulti: A serene hill station near Mussoorie, known for its eco-parks and peaceful ambiance․
Comparative Table of Popular Destinations
| Destination | Key Features | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Nainital | Naini Lake, boating, scenic views | March-June, September-November |
| Mussoorie | Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, colonial architecture | March-June, September-November |
| Auli | Skiing, snowboarding, snow-covered slopes | January-March |
| Rishikesh | Yoga, rafting, adventure activities | September-June |
As you plan your trip, remember that each of these locations offers a unique perspective on the beauty and diversity of Uttarakhand․ From spiritual awakenings to thrilling adventures, the possibilities are endless․ This list has been curated to inspire and guide you in crafting your perfect itinerary․ To make the most of your 20 places to visit in Uttarakhand adventure, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy pleasant weather․ Embrace the spirit of exploration and discover the magic that awaits you in this Himalayan paradise․
