Tourist attractions in Uttarakhand are a magical blend of spirituality, natural beauty, adventure, wildlife, and Himalayan serenity. Known as Devbhoomi — the Land of Gods — Uttarakhand attracts millions of travellers every year with its holy shrines, charming hill stations, pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and thrilling treks.
From the peaceful Ganga in Rishikesh to the snowy peaks of Auli…
From Jim Corbett’s wildlife to the calm of Nainital’s lake…
From the divine Chardham temples to hidden gems like Munsiyari, Chopta, and Kanatal…
Tourist attractions in Uttarakhand offer something for every traveler — families, couples, solo explorers, nature lovers, trekkers, meditation seekers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.
🌟 Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a land where every mountain whispers a story, every river carries centuries of devotion, and every forest hides a piece of Himalayan magic. Before exploring the list of top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, it’s important to understand why this Himalayan state is unlike any other destination in India. Blessed with snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, ancient temples, dense wildlife sanctuaries, yoga capitals, ski resorts, and peaceful hill stations, Uttarakhand offers something meaningful for every kind of traveler.
Whether you seek the divine energy of the Chardham temples, the adventure of treks and glaciers, the calm waters of Naini Lake, or the raw wilderness of Jim Corbett, the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand promise experiences that stay with you for a lifetime. From Garhwal’s spiritual charm to Kumaon’s scenic splendor, the state unfolds like a beautifully woven tapestry of nature, culture, and adventure.
This curated list of the top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand will help you discover the most iconic places, hidden gems, must-visit temples, lakes, hill stations, wildlife parks, and adventure spots—ensuring that your journey through “Devbhoomi” becomes truly unforgettable.
1️⃣ Rishikesh – Yoga Capital of the World
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, known for:
- Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Yoga & meditation
- River rafting & bungee jumping
- Spiritual ashrams
Rishikesh stands as one of the most spiritually vibrant tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, where ancient traditions meet adventure and natural beauty. Situated along the sacred Ganga River, Rishikesh is globally renowned for its ashrams, temples, yoga retreats, and the iconic Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Its serene ghats, chanting bells, and spiritual energy attract seekers from around the world. At the same time, Rishikesh is a hub for adventure lovers with white water rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, riverside camping, and trekking trails. The suspension bridges—Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula—offer panoramic views of the flowing Ganga against a backdrop of forested hills. Whether you’re here for meditation, spiritual awakening, wellness, or heart-pumping adventure, Rishikesh provides a transformative experience that blends devotion, nature, and thrill in perfect harmony.
2️⃣ Haridwar – Gateway to the Gods
Har Ki Pauri, the largest Ganga Aarti, temples, and spiritual ambience make Haridwar one of the holiest tourist attractions in Uttarakhand.
3️⃣ Mussoorie – Queen of Hills
Perfect for honeymooners and families, Mussoorie is famous for:
- Kempty Falls
- Mall Road
- Gun Hill viewpoint
4️⃣ Nainital – Lake District of India
A classic among tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, known for:
- Naini Lake
- Snow View Point
- Naina Devi Temple
5️⃣ Auli – India’s Skiing Paradise
Known for winter sports, snow views, and Asia’s longest cable car.
6️⃣ Jim Corbett National Park – Wildlife Heaven
The oldest national park in India, famous for tigers, elephants & birdlife.
7️⃣ Kedarnath – Sacred Jyotirlinga of Shiva
One of the most important tourist attractions in Uttarakhand for spiritual travellers.
8️⃣ Badrinath – Temple of Lord Vishnu
Part of the Chardham, Badrinath is a must-visit for devotees and nature lovers.
9️⃣ Yamunotri & Gangotri – Origins of the Holy Rivers
These two dhams mark the sacred origins of Yamuna & Ganga.
🔟 Valley of Flowers – UNESCO Meadow of Dreams
Best visited in July–September.
1️⃣1️⃣ Hemkund Sahib – Spiritual Lake at 15,000 ft
A divine Sikh pilgrimage surrounded by glaciers.
1️⃣2️⃣ Chopta – Mini Switzerland of India
Ideal for beginners & trekkers.
1️⃣3️⃣ Munsiyari – Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand
A scenic gem offering Panchachuli views and Himalayan treks.
1️⃣4️⃣ Ranikhet – Quiet Hills & Lush Forests
Perfect for slow travel, nature walks & family trips.
1️⃣5️⃣ Almora – Cultural Capital of Kumaon
Famous for cuisine, culture & old temples.
1️⃣6️⃣ Kausani – Switzerland of India
Offers iconic sunrise views of Nanda Devi, Trishul & Panchachuli.
1️⃣7️⃣ Lansdowne – Peaceful Army Cantonment
Beautiful pine forests & calm lake views.
1️⃣8️⃣ Tehri Lake – Water Adventure Hub
Jet skiing, boating, zorbing & more.
1️⃣9️⃣ Kanatal – Offbeat Mountain Escape
Quiet, peaceful & perfect for camping.
2️⃣0️⃣ Chakrata – Hidden Gem of Garhwal
Best known for Tiger Falls & Deoban Forest.
🗺 Best Time to Visit Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand
| Season | Best For |
|---|---|
| Summer (Mar–Jun) | Hill stations, trekking, lakes |
| Monsoon (Jul–Sep) | Valley of Flowers, waterfalls |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Clear views, photography |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Snowfall in Auli, Munsiyari, Chopta |
🚌 How to Reach Uttarakhand
Reaching the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand is convenient and smooth, thanks to the state’s well-developed air, rail, and road networks. Whether you’re traveling for adventure, pilgrimage, honeymoon, or a family vacation, Uttarakhand is easily accessible from all major cities in North India.
✈️ By Air – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand is by flying into Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).
- Located around 25 km from Dehradun city, it connects Uttarakhand to Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and more.
- Daily flights by major airlines such as IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet make the journey seamless.
- From the airport, taxis and local transport are available for Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Tehri, Chopta, Auli, and other major destinations.
🚆 By Train – Dehradun, Haridwar & Kathgodam Stations
Rail connectivity makes travel to the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand affordable and convenient.
The three main railway stations are:
- Dehradun Railway Station – Best for Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Dhanaulti, Chakrata, Tehri
- Haridwar Junction – Ideal for Rishikesh, Kedarnath route, Chardham Yatra, Rajaji National Park
- Kathgodam Railway Station – Gateway to Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora, Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, Munsiyari
These stations operate regular trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, and other major cities.
🛣️ By Road – Smooth Highways & Scenic Drives
Uttarakhand is extremely well connected by road, making it a favorite for road trips to top hill stations and tourist attractions in Uttarakhand.
- Major highways link Uttarakhand with Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Noida, Meerut, and Agra.
- Government and private buses (Volvo, AC, Sleeper) run daily to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Nainital, Haldwani, Kotdwar, Pauri, and other hubs.
- Self-drive trips are popular due to scenic roads, mountain views, clean highways, and well-marked routes.
Whether by flight, train, or road, Uttarakhand is designed for easy accessibility—ensuring your journey is as beautiful as the destination.
🏨 Stay Options Across Uttarakhand
1️⃣ Budget Hotels – Affordable & Comfortable
Budget hotels in Uttarakhand are perfect for families, backpackers, and solo travelers seeking affordability without compromising comfort. These hotels offer:
- Clean rooms
- Basic amenities
- Easy access to major tourist attractions
- Local food options
- Warm hospitality
Places like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Mussoorie have numerous reliable budget stays. They are ideal for travelers who spend most of their time sightseeing and simply need a safe, comfortable place to rest.
2️⃣ Boutique Resorts – Scenic, Stylish & Personalized
Boutique resorts in Uttarakhand blend modern comfort with unique aesthetics. These stays are usually located in quiet, scenic corners—overlooking mountains, forests, rivers, or valleys. They are known for:
- Personalized service
- Beautiful interiors
- Nature-centric locations
- Wellness facilities
- Peaceful ambience
Boutique resorts around Kanatal, Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, and Bhimtal are especially popular among couples and nature lovers. They offer a relaxing retreat after exploring the many tourist attractions in Uttarakhand.
3️⃣ Luxury Stays – Premium Comfort in the Himalayas
For travelers looking for world-class hospitality, Uttarakhand’s luxury properties offer unmatched comfort. These include high-end hotels, spa resorts, and riverside villas featuring:
- Panoramic Himalayan views
- Private balconies
- Organic dining
- Spa & wellness treatments
- Heated rooms / pools
- Premium services and curated experiences
Locations like Auli, Badrinath, Rishikesh, Tehri, and Jim Corbett host some of India’s finest luxury retreats. They pair perfectly with adventure trips, spiritual tours, and relaxed vacations.
4️⃣ Heritage Properties – A Glimpse Into Uttarakhand’s Past
Heritage stays are ideal for travelers who want to experience culture, architecture, and history. These properties—many converted from old palaces, temples, and royal lodges—offer:
- Antique wooden architecture
- Traditional Kumaoni décor
- Local cuisine
- An old-world charm and storytelling ambience
Places such as Almora, Ramgarh, Rajpur, and Bageshwar are dotted with heritage lodges that give you a deeper connection to the traditions behind the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand.
5️⃣ Homestays – Authentic Local Experience
Homestays are the heart of hospitality in Uttarakhand. Staying with a local family allows you to experience real mountain life, village culture, and regional cuisine. Homestays usually offer:
- Homemade organic meals
- Warm local hosts
- Mountain or forest views
- Cultural activities
- Peaceful, non-commercial settings
Destinations like Munsiyari, Chopta, Bageshwar, Mukteshwar, and Pauri are particularly famous for beautiful homestays where guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.
Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand- Highlights
Uttarakhand’s tourist attractions stand out because they offer travelers a rare combination of spiritual depth, breathtaking Himalayan scenery, thrilling adventure activities, wildlife diversity, cultural heritage, and peaceful mountain escapes. Here are the major highlights—beautifully structured in detailed pointers:
✔ 1. Majestic Himalayan Landscapes
- Snow-covered peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba & Panchachuli
- Stunning sunrise and sunset viewpoints
- Glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes
✔ 2. Sacred Temples & Spiritual Experiences
- Home to the world-famous Chardham Yatra (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath)
- Ancient temples like Tungnath, Jageshwar, Neelkanth & Baijnath
- Divine energy at the banks of Ganga in Rishikesh & Haridwar
✔ 3. Adventure Capital of India
- Trekking routes such as Valley of Flowers, Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Roopkund
- Skiing & snow adventures in Auli
- River rafting, bungee jumping & kayaking in Rishikesh
- Wildlife safaris in Corbett Tiger Reserve
✔ 4. Serene Hill Stations & Lakes
- Romantic getaways like Mussoorie, Nainital, Mukteshwar & Almora
- Crystal-clear lakes: Naini Lake, Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal
- Misty forests and peaceful nature walks
✔ 5. Rich Cultural & Historical Heritage
- Vibrant traditions, fairs & festivals (Kumbh Mela, Nanda Devi Raj Jat)
- Ancient Himalayan architecture & old temples
- Warm Kumaoni & Garhwali hospitality
✔ 6. Wildlife & National Parks
- Jim Corbett National Park — India’s first tiger reserve
- Rajaji National Park & Govind Wildlife Sanctuary
- Rare Himalayan species including snow leopards, musk deer & monal birds
✔ 7. Offbeat Himalayan Gems
- Remote, beautiful destinations like Chopta, Munsiyari, Chakrata, Khirsu & Kanatal
- Peaceful villages perfect for slow travel and homestays
✔ 8. Perfect for All Types of Travelers
- Honeymooners → Mussoorie, Auli, Nainital
- Pilgrims → Chardham, Panch Kedar, Haridwar, Rishikesh
- Trekkers → Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh regions
- Families → Corbett, Ranikhet, Lansdowne
- Solo travelers → Valley of Flowers, Chopta, Munsiyari
❤️ Conclusion — Why Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand Stay in Your Heart Forever
The tourist attractions in Uttarakhand offer one of the most extraordinary combinations of natural beauty, spiritual depth, adventure experiences, cultural vibrancy, and peaceful Himalayan living found anywhere in India. Every corner of Uttarakhand feels like a divine painting—where snow peaks touch the sky, ancient temples whisper stories of gods, rivers sparkle with purity, and dense forests hide rare wildlife and hidden trails.
From the sacred Chardham temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath to the powdery ski slopes of Auli, from the wild jungles of Jim Corbett to the shimmering lakes of Nainital and Bhimtal, from the spiritual aura of Rishikesh and Haridwar to the untouched Himalayan jewels like Chopta, Valley of Flowers, Khirsu, and Munsiyari — the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand capture the heart of every traveler.
What makes these places truly special is that each destination offers a different emotion:
✨ Peace in the mountains
✨ Courage on treks
✨ Devotion in ancient temples
✨ Joy in snowy meadows
✨ Wonder in wildlife forests
✨ Healing along rivers and lakes
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic honeymoon, an adrenaline-filled trek, a sacred pilgrimage, or a solo Himalayan escape, the tourist attractions in Uttarakhand ensure magical, memorable, and life-enriching experiences at every step.
Uttarakhand is not just a place to visit — it is a place to feel, breathe, and rediscover yourself.
Uttarakhand Tourism Board
Exploring Wings Travels- Hill Stations Packages
Exploring Wings Travel-Guide to tourist spots
❓ FAQs — Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand (Top 20 Questions)
1. What are the top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
The top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand include Mussoorie, Nainital, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Auli, Jim Corbett National Park, Chopta, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Valley of Flowers, Munsiyari, and Almora.
2. What is Uttarakhand famous for?
Uttarakhand is famous for its spiritual temples, Himalayan trekking routes, rivers like Ganga & Yamuna, wildlife sanctuaries, scenic hill stations, and adventure activities such as rafting, camping, and skiing.
3. Which is the No. 1 tourist destination in Uttarakhand?
Mussoorie and Nainital are the most visited tourist attractions in Uttarakhand, followed closely by Rishikesh and Haridwar.
4. What is the best time to visit tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
March–June and September–November are ideal for sightseeing. Winter (Dec–Feb) is best for snowfall, while monsoon is great for lush scenery but comes with rain risks.
5. Are tourist attractions in Uttarakhand safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Uttarakhand is considered one of the safest states for solo travel, especially for women and backpackers. Tourist areas are well-connected and traveller-friendly.
6. What are the best adventure tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
Adventure spots include Rishikesh (rafting, bungee), Auli (skiing), Chopta (trekking), Munsiyari (glacier treks), and Jim Corbett (wildlife safari).
7. Which tourist attractions in Uttarakhand are suitable for families?
Nainital, Mussoorie, Ranikhet, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Auli are perfect for family vacations.
8. Which spiritual tourist attractions in Uttarakhand are most popular?
Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Haridwar’s Ganga Aarti, and Rishikesh temples are the top spiritual sites.
9. What are the best snowfall locations in Uttarakhand?
Auli, Munsiyari, Chopta-Tungnath, Dhanaulti, and Chakrata receive excellent snowfall in winter.
10. Which are the best trekking tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
Valley of Flowers, Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, Dayara Bugyal, Kuari Pass, and Rupin Pass are top trekking destinations.
11. How many days are enough to explore Uttarakhand?
A 5–7 day trip covers major attractions, while 10–12 days allow deeper exploration including treks and remote villages.
12. Is Uttarakhand expensive for tourists?
Uttarakhand offers options for every budget. Homestays and local transport make it affordable, while luxury stays and adventure tours can increase costs.
13. How to reach major tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
The state is accessible via Dehradun airport, Pantnagar airport, Kathgodam railway station, and well-maintained highways.
14. What are some offbeat tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
Chopta, Kanatal, Khirsu, Lohajung, Munsiyari, Gwaldam, and Mori are peaceful offbeat destinations.
15. Which national parks are famous tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
Jim Corbett National Park, Rajaji National Park, and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve are major wildlife attractions.
16. Is Auli worth visiting?
Yes, Auli is a premium skiing destination offering cable car rides, panoramic Himalayan views, and a peaceful environment.
17. What is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand?
Valley of Flowers is often called the most beautiful place due to its UNESCO-protected floral meadows and Himalayan backdrop.
18. Are tourist attractions in Uttarakhand suitable for elderly travelers?
Yes — places like Nainital, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Ranikhet are elderly-friendly with easy accessibility.
19. Do I need permits for any tourist attractions in Uttarakhand?
Some treks like Valley of Flowers, Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary trails, and Nanda Devi biosphere areas require permits.
20. What should I pack for a trip to Uttarakhand?
Carry warm clothes, trekking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, power bank, reusable bottle, medicines, and identification documents.