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About Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, often called 'Devbhumi' or 'Land of the Gods,' is a breathtaking Himalayan state in northern India that offers a sublime blend of spiritual serenity and adventure. This region is the source of the sacred Ganges and Yamuna rivers, making it a major pilgrimage destination with revered sites like the Char Dham (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri) and the mystical town of Haridwar, where the nightly Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing spectacle. For nature lovers, Uttarakhand boasts stunning national parks like Jim Corbett, home to Bengal tigers, and the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that erupts in a vibrant carpet of alpine blooms in monsoon. The hill stations of Mussoorie and Nainital provide charming colonial-era retreats with serene lakes and panoramic mountain views, while Rishikesh is the global capital of yoga and white-water rafting on the Ganges. Trekkers are drawn to challenging routes like the Roopkund Trek and the base camps of majestic peaks like Nanda Devi. From ancient temples and forest trails to adrenaline-pumping sports and tranquil ashrams, Uttarakhand offers a profound journey for both the soul and the senses.

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Travel Tips for Uttarakhand

Getting Around

State-run and private buses connect major towns and pilgrimage routes, but can be crowded. Shared jeeps ('shared taxis') are common for hill routes. For flexibility, hire a car with a local driver (recommended for mountain roads). Self-drive car rentals are available in Dehradun but challenging for unfamiliar drivers. In cities, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common; negotiate fares beforehand. Popular ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber operate in Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. For remote areas, pre-booked taxis are best. Narrow-gauge toy trains run to hill stations like Mussoorie (from Dehradun).

Best Time To Visit

March to June and September to November. March-June offers pleasant weather (15-30°C), ideal for hill stations, wildlife safaris, and pilgrimage. September-November provides clear skies, post-monsoon greenery, and perfect conditions for trekking and sightseeing. Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold with snow in higher regions, suitable for snow lovers but some high-altitude routes/ temples are closed. Monsoon (July-Aug) sees heavy rainfall, landslides, and trekking restrictions but showcases the lush Valley of Flowers.

Local Customs

Dress modestly, especially at temples and religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes. Use your right hand for giving/receiving items and eating. Greet with 'Namaste.' Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included, small amounts for porters and drivers. Seek permission before photographing people, particularly in tribal areas or during religious ceremonies. Respect local customs during festivals. Avoid public displays of affection. Non-vegetarian food and alcohol are less common in pilgrimage towns.

Safety Information

Uttarakhand is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions in crowded pilgrimage sites and markets. When trekking, always use registered guides, inform someone of your itinerary, and check weather conditions as landslides can occur during monsoon (July-Sept). Be cautious of petty theft in crowded areas like Haridwar and Rishikesh. Avoid isolated areas after dark. Road travel in the hills can be challenging; hire experienced drivers. Beware of unofficial 'guides' at temples who may demand excessive donations. Political demonstrations are rare but should be avoided. Follow all safety instructions for adventure activities like rafting.

Health Information

Travelers should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu). Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are recommended due to potential contaminated food/water. For trekking in high-altitude areas (above 2,500m), be aware of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS); acclimatize properly. Carry a basic medical kit including medication for diarrhea, altitude sickness, and water purification tablets. Major towns like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Nainital have good private and government hospitals (e.g., Max Hospital Dehradun, AIIMS Rishikesh). In remote areas, facilities are basic. Drink only bottled or purified water. Mosquito repellent is advised in forested areas.

Languages Spoken

HindiGarhwaliKumaoniEnglish

Quick Facts

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)
₹

Timezone

Asia/Kolkata +05:30 (GMT)

Calling Code

+91

Electricity

Type C, D, M; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Left

Population

10.1 million

Area

53483 km²

Government

State Government with a unicameral legislature (Vidhan Sabha)

ISO Code

IN-39

About Uttarakhand

Things to do in Uttarakhand

Kumaon/Binsar Sanctuary Walking Holiday

Nagtibba Trek (Pantwari to Pantwari)

Rishikesh: Sattvic Cooking Class : Cook & Dine With Miss Anju

Private Walking Tour in Rishikesh

hilloferry - a guided cycling tour

Kaflani Day Hike - Mussoorie

Laka Glacier Trek with Manu Adventures India

School Boy Walk

Guided Nomad culture and nature walk foothills of Dhouladhar

Kuari Pass Trek- 8 Days

6 Days Phulara Ridge Trek

Guided Village walk with Stories in Dharamsala

Kareri Lake Trek & Indrahar Pass Trek

Tirath Expedition: Trek to the Tirath Hans Kund & Saketi Top(4280m)

All Inclusive 2-Days McLeodGanj & Dharamshala Guided Tour

Places to visit in Uttarakhand

University Guest House