Destination

UTTARAKHAND – A LAND OF SPIRITUALITY, NATURE AND CULTURE

Uttarakhand is a north Indian state nestled in the midst of the Himalaya Mountains. It is a land of mythological heritage often referred to as “Devbhomi,” meaning the abode of the gods. The state has a great influx of pilgrim tourists, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.

Uttarakhand's famous spiritual destinations are the Char Dham pilgrim temples of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, along with the sacred towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar, where the sacred Ganga River flows. These holy places attract countless pilgrims seeking solace and spiritual tranquility.

The most famous spiritual event of Uttarakhand that attracts large devotees from around the world is the sacred Kumbh Mela. It takes place once in 12 years, in Prayagraj. The Pilgrims gather here to take a holy dip in the River Ganges for spiritual cleansing of the soul and to attain salvation. Other popular religious festivals in Uttarakhand are Dussehra, Diwali, Shivaratri, and Holi, which are also spiritually enriching.

The states attracts tourists to the scenic hill stations of Nainital, Mussoorie and Auli. Nanital is a hill station surrounded by forests and adorned with lakes. It offers activities of boating, birdwatching, and serene nature walks. Mussoorie, known as the Queen of Hills, offers panoramic mountain views and is ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring waterfalls. Whereas, Auli a hill station with snow-covered slopes and alpine meadows, is a dream destination for skiing enthusiasts. These captivating holiday hills stations are both relaxing and adventurous.

Uttarakhand is a hub for eco-tourism. It has numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The best wildlife sanctuaries of Uttarakhand is the Jim Corbett National Park. It is home to many endangered wildlife species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar, Spotted Deer (Chital), Hog Deer, and Barking Deer—reptiles such as Gharial, Mugger crocodile, and various species of snakes, including the King Cobra.

The National Park of the Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has more than 500 species of flowers that bloom in the monsoon season (June – September). The Brahma Kamal flower, a rare species, is the state flower of Uttarakhand. It is, used in Tibetan medicines.

Uttarakhand's local bazaars offer an enjoyable shopping experience with their high-quality leather goods, handicrafts, wooden items, carpets, gems, jewelry, bakery goods, and delicious homemade jams and squash. Woollen clothing and traditional Garhwali paintings make perfect souvenirs to take home. Nanital is, especially known for beautifully handcrafted wax candles, while Munsiyari, Mussoorie, and Nainital are places for unique handmade accessories, gems, and woodcrafts.

The state celebrates many festivals that are deeply rooted in tradition, with reverence for nature and agricultural heritage. Some of these festivals are Phool Dei, Harela, Basant Panchami, and Ganga Dussehra, celebrated with holy dips and grand aartis in Haridwar and Rishikesh, and the Jat Yatra pilgrimage that occurs once in 12 year. Other festivals celebrated are the Kumaoni Holi, Makar Sankranti, and the Bissu Mela fair.

Uttarakhand cuisine is simple and nutritious, made with local ingredient. The Garhwali dishes Kafuli, Chainsoo, and Phaanu (lentil stews), and Kumaoni dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani. Snacks include Aloo Gutke (spiced potatoes) and Bhang ki Chutney (hemp seed chutney), desserts like BAL Mithai (a fudge-like sweet) and Jhangora Ki Kheer (millet pudding).

The inner peace of the ancient temples, the adventurous activity of river rafting at Rishikesh, the skiing adventures at Auli, the fragrance of blooming alpine flowers in the Himalayas, the traditional local festivals and vibrant local markets all leave an everlasting impression on the heart and soul of every tourist visiting Uttarakhand.