Last Updated At: 01-Jul-2025
Uttarakhand has emerged as the favorite destination among travelers of all ages. With numerous places to visit in Uttarakhand like the presence of the mighty Himalayas, Bugyals, valleys, lakes, caves, forests, and falls, it is a natural target for the tourists to visit for a peaceful summer vacay.
Adorned with the holiest places and lesser-known destinations like Auli, Nag Tibba, Lansdowne, Mount Abbot, Tehri, Chakrata, and many other sleepy hamlets, Uttarakhand draws nature lovers, adventure lovers, and mountaineers every year.
Either you are looking for a luxury holiday, a relaxed trip, or just one with mother nature, these tourist places in Uttarakhand are perfect for you. Keep reading to find out where you should spend your summer vacation in Uttarakhand.
A rocky desert in the Gangotri National Park, Nelong Valley is perched at a height of 11,000 feet above sea level. The valley was opened for tourists in 2015, and since then it has become a famous destination in Uttarakhand for adventure junkies. Nelong Valley was an essential trade route between India and Tibet before the Chinese occupied Tibet. This valley has similar weather, landscape, and looks exactly like Tibet, Spiti, and Ladakh regions.
Things to do: Explore the rugged terrain and Indo-Tibetan landscapes on a thrilling jeep safari.
Mukteshwar is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Adventure enthusiasts love engaging in activities like rappelling, camping, trekking, rock climbing, and many other adrenaline-pumping activities. The place is blessed with nature's choicest blessings. The magnificent views of the Himalayan Range are a sight to behold. Check out verdant rolling meadows, dense coniferous forests, fruit orchards, plummeting waterfalls, and serene temples. Mukesteshwar is worth a visit when planning a vacay to Uttarakhand.
Things to do: Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views and indulge in rock climbing and rappelling.
Sahastradhara is located at a distance of 18 km from Dehradun. The place has a lot of waterfalls and caves worth exploring. Water dropping from limestone stalactites is a lovely sight. There is a collection of pools that turns into Sulphur springs. People come here from far and wide areas to cure ailments like the restricted flow of blood, muscle spasms, arthritis, acne, muscle ache, etc. The lukewarm water of these sulphur springs helps to de-stress.
Things to do: Take a healing dip in the natural sulfur springs and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Also Read - Top 15 Best Waterfalls In India
One of the best Uttarakhand tourist places, Lachhiwala is a lovely picnic spot away from the hustle and bustle of Dehradun City. It is lovely to see small ponds surrounded by dense Sal trees. People visit this place to admire natural and scenic beauty while enjoying a picnic with family and friends. People also love trekking in this area. There are man-made pools where bathing can be enjoyed. It is also a perfect place to spot some lovely birds.
Things to do: Relax with a picnic by freshwater streams and go nature walking in the forest.
Forest Research Institute was set up in 1906. It is a magnificent building known for its architectural style. The colonial-style speaks volumes about the erstwhile era. The purpose of setting up this institute was to promote forest research and education. Visitors love visiting the institute campus and enjoy morning walks amidst tall trees and well-maintained gardens.
Things to do: Take a heritage walk through colonial-era architecture and lush botanical gardens.
Tiffin Top in Nainital is another attraction worth checking out when visiting Uttarakhand for a brief holiday. It is also popular as Dorothy's Seat as it has a stone bench built by Col. J.P Kellet in memory of Dorothy Kellet, his wife. It is located 2290 m above sea level. Perched atop Ayarpatta Hill, it provides magnificent views of nature's beauty scattered all around. It is a terraced hilltop providing 360-degree views of the Himalayan range and Nanital City. Adventure lovers can engage in activities like trekking, zip swings, etc.
Things to do: Hike up for panoramic views of Nainital and enjoy a peaceful picnic spot.
Barkot is a religious and spiritual destination famous for the Yamunotri Temple. A large number of Hindu devotees throng this temple to seek blessings from the deity. Considered the first Dham of the famous Char Dham Yatra, the place witnesses a heavy footfall of devotees and tourists. The spiritual journey to this Dham goes on between April to October. The famous hot water spring, Surya Kund, is also famous among visitors who love taking a dip in the Holy waters.
Things to do: Use it as a base for Yamunotri Yatra and experience serene village life.
When planning a visit to Uttarakhand, include Dharchula in your list of places to visit in Uttarakhand. It is famous for Askot, located in the Pithoragarh district. Askot, the Himalayan town, is worth visiting and exploring to enjoy its serene beauty. Another attraction worth exploring is Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary, located close to Askot. Other attractions include Chaukori, Om Parvat, Adi Kailash, etc.
Things to do: Visit the Indo-Nepal border and explore the traditional culture of the Kali River Valley.
Gopeshwar in Uttarakhand is famous for Gopinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva or Rudranath. It is one of the oldest shrines in the area and attracts a large number of devotees. Many other temples like Chamola Nath Temple, Atri Muni Ashram, Anusuya Devi Temple, Chandrika Devi Temple, and more. This hilly town is also known for its several sightseeing sites.
Things to do: Explore ancient temples and enjoy quiet hill town charm with scenic landscapes.
Rishikesh is a spiritual paradise and a hippy’s safe haven set at the foothills of the lofty Garhwal Himalayas. The Ganges cutting right through the city multiplies the charm. The hilly town is one of the most famous places of Uttarakhand as it boasts acres of forests, lush mountains, stunning riverside promenades, and clear blue skies. Rishikesh has some of the most off-beat experiences to offer like, white water rafting, cliff jumping, kayaking, body surfing, and many more!
Things to do: Experience yoga, Ganga Aarti, river rafting, and spiritual retreats.
Also Read: 3 Day Rishikesh Itinerary - Complete Guide To A Most Memorable Trip
This is where the great writer Ruskin Bond used to live, and we could not better describe this place than him. Mussoorie is the most popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand among all kinds of travelers. Situated at a height of 1900 meters above sea level, Mussoorie was developed as a holiday paradise in the hills by the officers of the ruling East India Company. You can find more than 15 tourist attractions in Mussoorie at your disposal when you are planning to spend a few days in nature.
Things to do: Stroll along Mall Road, visit Kempty Falls, and enjoy ropeway rides to Gun Hill.
Located in the Garhwal region, Auli is a hill station that has far stretching meadows that look stunning to the eye. It is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Uttarakhand as it is surrounded by peaks as high as 9,000 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains; like that of Kamet, Dunagiri, Nanda Devi, and Mana Parvat. Auli is also known as the skiing capital of India; skiers from all over the globe try their skills on the hills of Auli.
Things to do: Go skiing in winter or take a cable car ride for majestic Himalayan views.
Also Read - 15 Famous Hill Stations In India
Kausani is a hill station in Uttarakhand that offers an unbeatable view of the Himalayan peaks of Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. Kausani is one of the top destinations in Uttarakhand and a paradise for nature lovers. Spend your days in leisure, wake up with the chirping of the birds, remain enthralled by the grasslands, mountains, and valleys, and enjoy doing nothing at all, just like Bruno Mars.
Things to do: Witness panoramic views of Trishul and Nanda Devi peaks and visit the Anasakti Ashram.
Lansdowne will take you a step closer to nature as it boasts thick oak forests, mesmerizing hills, and spellbinding views. This hilly destination is surely one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand during summer. Perched at a height of 1,700 meters above sea level, Lansdowne offers a potpourri of attractions and unforgettable experiences. From exploring the vibrant streets of Lansdowne and walking on the treacherous trails to seeking blessings from the holy shrines, there are many ways by which you can quench your wanderlust in this snow-clogged beauty.
Things to do: Relax in peaceful pine forests, visit the War Memorial, and boat on Bhulla Tal.
Also Read - Top 34 Family Holiday Places To Visit In India
Nag Tibba means serpent’s peak when translated to English. It is the highest peak in the lesser Himalayas and is a popular tourist spot in Uttarakhand. It is believed that the god of snakes protects villagers’ cattle, and thus, they frequently visit the spot to offer prayers and seek blessings. This land of tranquillity and serenity will make you fall in love with this place the moment you set foot here.
Things to do: Trek to the summit for a stunning 360-degree view of snow-capped ranges.
Kedarnath is an ancient pilgrimage site popularly known to be built by the Pandava brothers from Mahabharata, and hence, it is a major pilgrimage for Hindu devotees. Kedarnath offers a magnificent view of the Himalayan ranges and is a beautiful place in Uttarakhand that you shouldn’t miss. The temperature here ranges from -2 degrees to 28 degrees, and the best time to visit Kedarnath is either May to June or September to October.
Things to do: Undertake the spiritual trek to the sacred Kedarnath Temple amidst majestic peaks.
Nestled in the lap of Kali Kumaon of Champawat district, Abbott Mount is a dwarf hill station. It is a base camp for the Mahaseer fishing in Pancheshwar and is sprinkled with austere European villas with manicured gardens and play areas. This one of the most famous tourist attractions in Uttarakhand has an old church where devotees hold weekly masses. Every building and structure in Abbott Mount has a story to tell to anyone who is looking for some drama. This place is perfect for spending a blissful summer vacation surrounded by boundless natural beauty and serenity.
Things to do: Enjoy peaceful nature walks, colonial-era cottages, and birdwatching.
This little meadow falls under the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and is a base camp for trekking to Tungnath. Surrounded by the forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron, Chopta is still pretty much untouched by the material world. Chandrashila, Devariyatal, and Tunganath are the famous treks that start from Chopta. It is surely one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand as it offers an unimpeded view of the majestic snow-capped Himalayan mountain range.
Things to do: Trek to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak with mesmerizing mountain views.
Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Almora is home to unbeatable natural beauty. If you are looking to escape the scorching heat of the city, then Almora is a perfect place for you to seek refuge. Known for its religiously significant temples like Nanda Devi temple, Patal Devi temple, and Maa Dunagiri temple, Almora is one of the most important hill stations to visit in Uttarakhand for Hindu devotees. The lush greenery and divine beauty of this place will never seize a chance to amaze you.
Things to do: Explore ancient temples, shop for local crafts, and soak in the cultural heritage.
Sorting out and listing down these places was no easy task for us, as there is no dearth of places to visit in Uttarakhand for travelers to explore. We are packing our bags and heading straight to Uttarakhand to add new places to our checklist. Meanwhile, you can plan your next vacation with Adotrip, because with us, nothing is far!
Q1: What are the best places to visit in Uttarakhand for first-time travelers?
A1: For first-time travelers, top places to visit in Uttarakhand include Nainital for lakes and scenic beauty, Rishikesh for river rafting and yoga, Mussoorie for hill station vibes, Auli for skiing, and Jim Corbett National Park for wildlife safaris.
Q2: Which are the most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand?
A2: The most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand are Mussoorie, Nainital, Auli, Kausani, and Lansdowne. These destinations offer panoramic Himalayan views, pleasant weather, and a relaxing escape from city life.
Q3: What are the best spiritual places to visit in Uttarakhand?
A3: Uttarakhand is known as Devbhoomi and is home to many sacred sites. The best spiritual places to visit include Kedarnath, Badrinath, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Gangotri, and Yamunotri—forming the famous Char Dham Yatra circuit.
Q4: What are the best places for adventure activities in Uttarakhand?
A4: For adventure seekers, the best destinations in Uttarakhand are Rishikesh (rafting, bungee jumping), Auli (skiing), Nag Tibba (trekking), Chopta (trekking to Tungnath), and Valley of Flowers (high-altitude trekking and scenic beauty).
Q5: What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand?
A5: The best time to visit Uttarakhand is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor activities. Winter is ideal for snow lovers in destinations like Auli.
Q6: Are there any offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand?
A6: Yes, offbeat places in Uttarakhand include Abbott Mount, Munsiyari, Khirsu, Dharchula, and Nelong Valley. These destinations offer serene landscapes, lesser crowds, and a perfect retreat into nature.
Q7: What are the best places in Uttarakhand for couples and honeymooners?
A7: Couples and honeymooners love destinations like Auli (snowy charm), Kausani (sunset views), Mussoorie (romantic walks), and Mukteshwar (peaceful nature). These spots offer cozy stays and scenic backdrops perfect for romantic getaways.
Q8: Is Uttarakhand a good destination for family vacations?
A8: Absolutely! Uttarakhand offers something for everyone—boating in Nainital, safaris in Jim Corbett, cable car rides in Auli, and temple visits in Haridwar and Rishikesh—making it perfect for family-friendly travel.
Q9: What are the best trekking destinations in Uttarakhand?
A9: Some of the best trekking spots in Uttarakhand include Valley of Flowers, Kedarkantha, Nag Tibba, Roopkund, and Har Ki Dun. These treks offer mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and rich flora.
Q10: How can I plan a trip to explore the best places in Uttarakhand?
A10: Pick your vibe—adventure, spirituality, nature, or relaxation. Let Adotrip, your travel partner, guide you with the Uttarakhand Travel Guide 2025—covering top destinations, stays, and custom itineraries.
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