UTTRAKHAND
Useful Info & Guides
AREA
53,483 km2
POPULATION
1 crores approx
MAJOR FESTIVALS
holi, Diwali, Eid, Makar Sankranti / Lohri, Navratri, Dussehra.
Dehradun Literature Festival, Harela, Kandali Festival, Kumauni Holi, Nanda Devi Raj Jat, Valley of Words International Literature & Arts Festival Dehradun
NATIONAL PARK
Gangotri National Park, Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Jim Corbett National Park, Nanda Devi National Park, Rajaji National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park
UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

CITIES OF UTTRAKHAND
HARIDWAR
The sound of the bell chimes and the mantras being chanted in the temples purifying your soul; such an ambiance can only be experienced in the holy city of Haridwar. One of the 7 most sacred cities of the Hindu religion, Haridwar in Hindi language means the gate of God. Har-ki-Pauri Ghat makes this place full of hustle-bustle which infuses everything with life. The holy Ganga River finds its way to North India’s Indo-Gangetic Plains in this place only. During the dusk, the river glitters with flames due to the sacred offerings which the devotees release in the water as a part of the tradition. The city gets painted with the colours of faith from May to October since Shiva devotees (known as Kanwaria) march to the city.
PLACE TO VISIT
Hari-ki-Pairi Ghat, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Shiva Statue, Sapt Rishi Ashram, Bara Bazar, Rajaji National Park, Pawan Dham, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, Ganga Aarti, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary


RISHIKESH
The meditation capital of India, Rishikesh has emerged out as a perfect destination for spiritual experiences. The place received global attention when in 1968, the English rock band, The Beatles, paid a visit in the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram and studied meditation here. The place is now famous as the Beatles Ashram. The 7th largest city of India, the town is preferred for spiritual, meditation and adventure activities. Be a part of the enthralling Ganga aarti during the evening hours. White water river rafting along with cliff-jumping, mountain biking, trekking, kayaking, abseiling, rock-climbing attract people of all ages from different corners of the world.
PLACE TO VISIT
Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri, Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Kanjapuri Temple, Parmath Niketan Ashram, Vashistha Gufa, Swarga Ashram, Rishikund, Neer Gaddu Waterfall, Tera Manzil Temple


BINSAR
The surreal elegance of Binsar holds everyone spellbound for a moment. A paradise for bird watchers, Binsar offers panoramic views of Uttrakhand’s Kumaon terrain. Binsar provides both spiritual and adventure expeditions. Once you stand and overlook from Zero Point peak, you will be to witness the enchanting views of peaks of Himalayas spread in vast landmass. A major attraction is Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which surrounds this town. The sanctuary provides natural shelter to a wide species of flora & fauna. Covered by thick green frondescence, this hill area is elevated at a height of around 2420meters.
PLACE TO VISIT
Binsar Zero Point, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahadev Temple, Mary Budden Estate, Binsar Sanctuary Museum, Gairar Golu Devta, Pariyadeva Pashan, Kasar Devi Temple


NAINITAL
Encompassed by thick nature, Nainital is among the most visited places of Uttarakhand. Located around Naini Lake, this gem lies in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Kumaon region, elevated at around 1938meters. This hill station has derived its name from Hindu Goddess Naina. History says this small hill town resembled the Cumbrian Lake District of England and thus was the favorite of the British during their rule. The soothing climate round the year, green vegetation, hills, the scent of blossoms, fresh air, colonial relics, etc. make this town a stunning destination for nature lovers and honeymooners. The quaint town is also known as the Lake District of India.
PLACE TO VISIT
Nainital Lake, Kainchi Dham, Mukteshwar Temple, Eco Cave Gardens, High Altitude Zoo, Goddess Naina Devi Temple, Naina Peak, Snow View Point, Pangot & Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Nainital Ropeway, Mall Road, Tiffin Top, Lovers Point, Land’s End, St John Wilderness Church, Raj Bhawan

