About Uttarakhand Tours & Treks
Destination Overview – Uttarakhand Tours & Treks
Uttarakhand, often called the “Devbhumi” (Land of the Gods), is a Himalayan paradise known for its spiritual significance, lush valleys, serene lakes, snow-capped peaks, and thrilling treks. Whether you seek divine blessings, peaceful nature retreats, or adrenaline-pumping hikes, Uttarakhand offers a perfect escape into the lap of the mountains.
Top Attractions & Places to Visit
Spiritual Destinations (Char Dham & Beyond):
Badrinath – Sacred Vishnu temple amidst snow-clad peaks
Kedarnath – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, accessible via trek or helicopter
Gangotri & Yamunotri – Sources of Ganga and Yamuna rivers
Haridwar – Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
Rishikesh – Yoga capital of the world & spiritual retreats on the Ganges
Hill Stations & Natural Beauty:
Nainital – Scenic lake town surrounded by lush hills
Mussoorie – “Queen of the Hills” with colonial charm & waterfalls
Auli – Skiing destination with panoramic Himalayan views
Chopta – Mini Switzerland of India, gateway to Tungnath
Munsiyari – Unspoiled mountain beauty with views of Panchachuli peaks
Wildlife & Nature Reserves:
Jim Corbett National Park – India’s oldest national park, tiger safaris
Valley of Flowers (UNESCO Site) – Trek through vibrant alpine meadows
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – Rich biodiversity and birdwatching
Best Time to Visit
March to June (Summer): Pleasant for sightseeing, trekking, and Char Dham
July to September (Monsoon): Risk of landslides; avoid mountain treks
October to February (Winter): Snow season in Auli, Munsiyari; cold but scenic
How to Reach
By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
By Rail: Major stations – Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kathgodam
By Road: Excellent road connectivity from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Himachal Pradesh
Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers
Cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nainital have ramps and accessible hotels
Trekking and high-altitude areas may be challenging
Use private cabs for ease of travel in hilly terrain
Things to Do & Experiences
Attend Ganga Aarti at Haridwar or Rishikesh
Take a yoga class or spiritual retreat by the Ganga
Try white water rafting in Rishikesh
Go skiing in Auli or ropeway rides
Trek to Tungnath, Kedarkantha, or Valley of Flowers
Camp under stars in Chopta or Kanatal
Explore local Himalayan villages and their culture
Accommodation Options
Luxury:
Mid-Range:
Budget:
Zostel (Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Chopta)
GMVN rest houses (Char Dham, Treks)
Homestays in Munsiyari, Uttarkashi, Auli
Local Cuisine & Dining
Must-Try Dishes:
Aloo ke Gutke – Spiced potatoes
Kumaoni Raita – Yogurt with mustard and turmeric
Chainsoo & Kafuli – Garhwali lentil & spinach dishes
Bal Mithai & Singori – Unique sweet treats
Bhatt ki Churdkani – Black bean curry
Popular Eateries:
Travel Tips & Safety
Always check weather conditions before treks or high-altitude travel
Permits may be required for certain treks and national parks
Carry cash in remote villages; network & ATMs are limited
Wear appropriate hiking gear and stay hydrated during treks
Avoid trekking or rafting during the monsoon season
Weather & Packing Suggestions
Summer (Mar–Jun): Light woolens, sunscreen, trekking shoes
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Raincoat, waterproof bag, dry clothes
Winter (Oct–Feb): Thermals, gloves, jackets, snow boots
Currency & Connectivity
Indian Rupee (₹); digital payments in towns, but carry cash for remote areas
Mobile networks work well in plains; patchy in trekking zones and high-altitude areas
Suggested Itinerary (8D/7N Treks + Tours Combo)
Day 1: Arrive in Haridwar → Ganga Aarti
Day 2: Rishikesh – Rafting, Beatles Ashram, Yoga session
Day 3: Drive to Chopta – Overnight stay
Day 4: Trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila → Return
Day 5: Drive to Joshimath → Ropeway to Auli
Day 6: Skiing/Snow hike in Auli → Relax in resort
Day 7: Drive to Badrinath → Temple darshan
Day 8: Return to Rishikesh / Haridwar → Departure
Shopping & Souvenirs
Woollens, wool shawls, caps from Munsiyari & Almora
Handmade soaps, candles, Rudraksha, crystals from Rishikesh
Organic honey, jams, Himalayan herbs from local markets
Bal Mithai, Singori sweets from Almora
Cultural & Historical Background
Uttarakhand has deep roots in Hindu mythology, being the origin of the Ganges and home to multiple sacred temples. Its Kumaoni and Garhwali cultures, folk dances, and dialects reflect a life close to nature and devotion. Ancient sages, yoga legends, and modern adventure seekers have all been drawn to this magical region.
Local Transport Options
Shared jeeps and buses for local travel
Private taxis for hills and remote villages
Ropeways in Mussoorie, Auli, Nainital
E-rickshaws and autos in flat terrain cities
Nearest Major Railway Stations
User Reviews & Testimonials
"The trek to Kedarnath changed my life – spiritual and scenic." – Ankit Rana
"Rishikesh is the best place for yoga and rafting combo!" – Shruti Jain
"Tungnath is surreal – snow, silence, and Lord Shiva." – Pradeep Joshi
"Valley of Flowers was like stepping into a fairy tale." – Mitali Ghosh
FAQs About Uttarakhand Tours & Treks
What are the most popular treks in Uttarakhand?
Kedarkantha, Valley of Flowers, Har Ki Dun, Roopkund, and Tungnath-Chandrashila.
Is Uttarakhand safe for solo travelers?
Yes, especially Rishikesh, Nainital, and Mussoorie. Use trusted guides for remote treks.
Are guides and porters easily available?
Yes, especially in trek hubs like Joshimath, Lohajung, Sankri, and Govindghat.
Do I need to be fit for trekking?
Moderate fitness is enough for most beginner treks like Tungnath, Kedarkantha, and VOF.
Sustainability & Responsible Tourism
Carry reusable bottles, avoid plastic
Book eco-friendly stays and local guides
Respect mountain ecology, avoid noise/litter in peaceful areas
Do not pollute sacred rivers or over-tour temples