Introduction to Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, also known as 'Devbhoomi' (Land of the Gods), is a state in India renowned for its natural beauty, spiritual significance, and rich cultural heritage.
Formed on November 9, 2000, after being separated from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas and is home to numerous famous pilgrimage sites, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries.
The state is divided into two major regions: Garhwal and Kumaon, each with its distinct cultural identity and languages.
Uttarakhand's natural beauty can be seen in the form of majestic Himalayan peaks, lush green valleys, waterfalls, and rivers. Major tourist destinations include Nainital, Mussoorie, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.
Uttarakhand has 13 districts, 7 in the Garhwal region and 6 in the Kumaon region. Each district has its unique characteristics, culture, and traditions.
Districts of Uttarakhand
Learn about Uttarakhand's 13 districts, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions
The interim capital of Uttarakhand and the largest city in the state. It is famous for its boarding schools, natural beauty, and religious sites.
Known as the 'City of Lakes', Nainital is famous for its natural beauty and serene environment. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand.
One of the holiest places for Hindus, Haridwar is located on the banks of the Ganges River and is famous for its religious significance. It is also the gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Known as the 'Yoga Capital', Rishikesh is located on the banks of the Ganges River and is known for its spiritual significance. It is also a major center for adventure activities.
Uttarkashi, which means 'Kashi of the North', is famous for its religious significance and natural beauty. It is the gateway to Gangotri and Yamunotri.
Chamoli, also known as the 'Capital of Garhwal', is famous for its natural beauty and religious significance. It is the gateway to Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib.
Pauri Garhwal is famous for its natural beauty, serene environment, and religious sites. It is home to several famous temples and lakes.
Tehri Garhwal is famous for its natural beauty, Tehri Dam, and adventure activities. It is also home to several famous temples and lakes.
Rudraprayag is famous for its religious significance and natural beauty. It is located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers and is the gateway to Kedarnath.
Almora is famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene environment. It is home to several famous temples and natural sites.
Bageshwar is famous for its religious significance and natural beauty. It is located at the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers and is home to several famous temples.
Pithoragarh, also known as 'Mini Kashmir', is famous for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is the gateway for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Champawat is famous for its historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. It is home to several famous temples and historical sites.
Regions of Uttarakhand
The two major regions of Uttarakhand: Garhwal and Kumaon
Garhwal Region
The Garhwal region is located in the western part of Uttarakhand and comprises 7 districts: Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Rudraprayag.
This region is famous for its religious sites, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Two of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites - Badrinath and Kedarnath - are located in this region.
Garhwali language is the main language of this region, and the people here are known for their traditional culture, folk arts, and festivals.
Key Attractions:
- Badrinath and Kedarnath Temples
- Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
- Valley of Flowers
- Mussoorie Hill Station
- Rishikesh - Yoga Capital
Kumaon Region
The Kumaon region is located in the eastern part of Uttarakhand and comprises 6 districts: Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, Champawat, Bageshwar, and Udham Singh Nagar.
This region is famous for its natural beauty, lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene hill stations. Famous hill stations like Nainital, Ranikhet, and Almora are located in this region.
Kumaoni language is the main language of this region, and the people here are known for their rich literary tradition, music, and dance.
Key Attractions:
- Naini Lake
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Mukteshwar and Ranikhet
- Pindari and Milam Glaciers
- Jageshwar Temple Complex
Char Dham Yatra
The pilgrimage to four sacred Hindu sites located in Uttarakhand
Yamunotri
Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and the first stop of the Char Dham Yatra. It is located in the Uttarkashi district.
Gangotri
Gangotri is the source of the Ganges River and the second stop of the Char Dham Yatra. It is located in the Uttarkashi district.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the third stop of the Char Dham Yatra. It is located in the Rudraprayag district.
Badrinath
Badrinath is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the fourth and final stop of the Char Dham Yatra. It is located in the Chamoli district.
Jim Corbett National Park
India's oldest national park and a major tiger habitat
Jim Corbett National Park, formerly known as Hailey National Park, is the oldest national park in India. It is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and is famous for its tigers.
The park was established in 1936 and was named after Jim Corbett, a famous British hunter, author, and naturalist.
Apart from tigers, Jim Corbett National Park is also home to leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and more than 600 bird species.
Munsyari - Mini Kashmir
A beautiful hill station nestled in the lap of the Himalayas
Munsyari is a beautiful hill station located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level and is famous for its snow-capped mountains and natural beauty.
Munsyari is also known as 'Mini Kashmir' and offers a spectacular view of famous Himalayan peaks like Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, and Nandakot.
This place is also famous for trekking, skiing, and other adventure activities. Trekking to Milam and Pindari Glacier starts from here.