Uttarakhand

Haridwar

Haridwar (also known as Hardwar) is a holy city in the state of Uttaranchal in northern India. Known as the Gateway to the Gods, Haridwar is considered one of the seven holiest places according to Hindus, as the Devas are said to have left their footprints there. Here pilgrims float diyas on the Ganges, to commemorate their deceased ancestors. The city also stands as a gateway to three other important pilgrimage destinations: Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath. In Haridwar you will see a great statue of Shiva at the fork of the river. If you are there for a short visit, it is definitely worth to visit the temple on top of the mountain, with a wonderful view. Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar has privilege of having IIT at Roorkee, formerly known as University of Roorkee, founded in 1847 as a first technical institute of India. There is another University in the city called Gurukul Kangri Vishva Vidyalaya. Besides this, Kumbh fair is organized at the interval of every 12 years in this city in which about 1 crore pilgrims from all over the world participate.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is one of the best located pilgrimage centers along the right bank of the Ganga. The holy river emerging from high mountains not far from here, runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Tehri that straddle this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Not to mention the peace and tranquility of a landscape associated with 'munis' and meditation. Today Rishikesh has become a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation- the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health. The week-long International Yoga festival which attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually in the month of February on the banks of serene Ganga.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie is the classic Raj-era town, complete with its mall, church, library and club. As with most popular mountain retreat, it gets very crowded in summers, but visit Mussoorie during off season and you will charmed. There were picturesque strolls through pine woods, dramatic views of the Doon valley and the beautiful vista of snow peaks starting at you. Mussoorie also offers further treks into the Sorroundig Mountains.

Nainital

A small and beautiful place in Kumaon hills of Uttaranchal. Nainital is a very beautiful hill station, which is surrounded by mountains by three sides. It is major hill station in north India. ‘Naini’ that means cool air & ‘Taal’ means lake, when we add these two words then make “Nainital”. It is like a paradise on earth. It is situated at the height of 1938 meters from sea level. Nainital discovered by British, in 1841 as a holiday resort. It is must visit place, if you are looking for Tourism. Nainital is an ideal travel destination in summer. There are lots of places to enjoy, you can enjoy boating in lake, can visit the temples, or go for horse riding. There are some other places like Bhimtal, Naukuchia Tal, Sat Tal, where you can visit. It has quieted another beautiful experience in winter, when tourist crowds reduce & it becomes peaceful place.

Jim-Corbett

Named after the famous hunter tuned conservationist Jim Corbett, Jim Corbett National Park is India’s premier tiger and wildlife reserve. Although about 142 tigers here remain elusive and any sighting must be considered only an added bonus, visit Corbett for the sheer thrill of being inside a real, live forest. A Jeep safari will take you through the foothills of kumaun with ravines and valleys, admist the thick cover of trees with dappled sunlight and a profound silence broken only by bird calls. Spread over an area of 1288 sq. km, the reserve is divided into three zones- outer, tourist and core. Only 25% of the reserve is open to public, the rest remains out of bounds, safeguarding the natural habitat.

Ranikhet

Ranikhet is one of the most beautiful hill station, situated in north Indian state Uttaranchal. It is year-round destination, attracts to tourists from all over the country and outside. An idyllic hill station in Kumaon hills, offers the tourists a panoramic view of the mighty Himalayan peaks. According to popular belief, Rani Padmini queen of Raja Sudhardev loves this place very much and decide to settle down here. At the height of 1829 meters above from the sea level, this place is undoubtedly paradise for tourists who love to nature. Ranikhet offers some wonderful treks for trekking to adventure’s lover; you can enjoy the trekking tours in Kausani, Dunagiri and Sitalakhet. There are a number of places to visit near Ranikhet.

Kausani

Kausani is not much famous but a beautiful hill station, located in Kumaon hills of Uttaranchal state, India. It is situated at 6075 ft above from the sea level, this small and peaceful hill resort is known for its unspoilt natural beauty and 300 km-wide views of the Himalayan snow-peaks. A famous poet of India Sumitra Nandan Pant was born here; she called this place “Switzerland of India” for its beauty. The place also holds importance because Mahatma Gandhi stayed here for a long stretch in 1929.Kausani experiences snowfall during the months of December and January, thus summer time would be better to visit. You can plan a tour during winter, if you want to enjoy of snowfall. You can enjoy the endless stretch of famous peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nandakot.