Uttarakhand is on the list of every traveler in India. Boasting enchanting views of the Himalayas, Tourist Places to Visit in Uttarakhand are everything you wish for. Set in the lap of mountains, ‘Dev Bhoomi’ is a land of awe-inspiring natural beauty and tranquil mysticism with an abundance of wonderful adventures.
Wherever your interest lies in visiting Uttarakhand, be it in God or in the powers of nature or adventure, this is the perfect destination to explore the mountains.
There is no dearth of things to do in Uttarakhand during the vacations, which can make the trip memorable. From families, couples, kids, and solo travelers, Uttarakhand has something for every kind of tourist.
Here are the top 36 things to do in Uttarakhand, get started on this list.
Table of contents
- Things to Do in Summer
- Things to Do in Winter
- Things to Do in Monsoon
- Things to do around the year in Uttarakhand
Things to do in Uttarakhand in Winters
1. Manifest Your Skiing Dream
The snow-covered mountains of Uttarakhand are perfect for skiing. A thick layer of snow occupies certain places with the advent of snowfall.
The pristine location, the state-of-the-art amenities, and the thrill of gliding down the snow-covered slopes draw tourists to enjoy skiing. The height and spread of the Uttarakhand Himalayas offer opportunities for skiing to professional and learning skiers. Snowfalls start in November and continue till February.
Popular places for Sikking in Uttarakhand:
Auli, Mundali, Munsyari, and Dayara Bugyal are the skiing places in India. Auli is the most known among them. It is a ski destination of international standards.
2. Explore the Wilderness at Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in the country. Established in the early part of the 19th century to protect the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger species, the ecotourism destination is worth exploring. The national park has an ecosystem that resembles the Himalayas.
On a safari, there are chances to witness more than 400 species of plants and 500 species of migratory birds. Apart from the ferocious Bengal Tigers, predators such as leopards, Himalayan black bears, pangolins, etc.
Best time: The Park is open from 15th October till 15th June. The best time to visit is during winter the months of October to February.
Also, Read
3. Catch A Lot of Unique Animals At Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is a blessed wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand. Spread over an area of 820.42 sq km, Rajaji is a magnificent ecosystem nestled in the Shivalik ranges. The vegetation comprises several forest types like sal forests, alpine forests, mixed forests, scrubland, and grassy.
23 species of mammals and 315 bird species allure wildlife conservationists, and nature lovers to visit. Elephants are easily spotted whereas the other species are hard to find. The best time to go visiting the wilderness is from November to March. Read More
4. Gear Up For Hiking
Also called trekking, this activity in Uttarakhand is at its best in winters. However, summer is also a great time to visit. But winters mark the snowfall in Uttarakhand, which brims various trekking trails laden with snowfall.
If you are a bachelor and seeking thrilling adventure activities in Uttarakhand in winters, pack your backpacks and head to the endurance checking treks in Uttarakhand.
There are moderate to expert level treks available in Devbhoomi. Select the one and know the duration as well as the challenges of that particular trek before you go!
Popular Treks in Uttarakhand: Rupin Pass Trek, Chandrashila Trek, Roopkund Trek
5. Adventure Park Mussoorie
As the name suggests, this park is a cornerstone of adventure activities in Mussoorie, where kids and adults will be spoiled with choices, from zip-lining, and rock climbing to rappelling, trekking, and much more.
The Adventure Park Mussoorie is operated by the worldly renowned adventure sports company, so all the sports area safe for you!
Besides luring your kids and family with adventure, this adventure park in Mussoorie is laden with lush greenery and provides enchanting views of the Mussoorie landscape. A family rejoices time is guaranteed here!
Also Read:
- 12 Reasons Why You Should Plan Your Summer Holiday in Mussoorie
- 10 Best Pet Friendly Hotels in Mussoorie
- 11 Places to visit in Mussoorie with Family for 3 Day Trip
6. Sky Cycling in Rishikesh
- Duration of Sky Cycling: 10-15 minutes (approx.)
- Price: 1000 INR (approx.) per person
- Average Height: 150 ft (approx.)
- Activity Timings: 10 AM -5:30 PM
You have tried cycling on the ground, but how about enjoying the sky cycling in Rishikesh? If Uttarakhand Adventure Tour are in your mind, this not-so-common adventure activity in Rishikesh should be on your itinerary.
Touted to be the best thing to do in Uttarakhand in winter with friends, this activity allows your kids to cycle on the strong harness, suspended in the air.
Anyone can try these adventure sports. However, the age limit is still there for kids. Safety gears include a helmet and other equipment.
Sky Cycling in Rishikesh would be an exhilarating experience for you as you take in the views of snow-covered mountains and virgin greenery.
Also check out: 10 Best Adventure Activities in Rishikesh
7. Sky Walk in Dhanaulti
- Duration of Sky Cycling: 10-15 minutes (approx.)
- Price: 1000 INR (approx.) per person
- Average Height: 120 ft (approx.)
- Activity Timings: 10 AM -5:30 PM
Located just a 2-3 hours (approx.) drive from Mussoorie, the serene hamlet of Dhanaulti will tempt your adventure-hungry soul.
It Feels tough in the beginning but as soon as you walk on the rope with a strong harness, don’t get amazed by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Particularly in winters, the snow-covered peaks of Dhanaulti are glorified with snow, and the skywalk is the best medium to witness snowflaking in the Himalayas.
Things to do in Uttarakhand in Summers
8. Plan Your Char Dham Yatra
If you wish to attain salvation (Moksha) after death, you can’t miss a visit to 4 sacred shrines, together which form Chota Char Dham. Summers are the best and only time to plan Chardham Yatra as the four temples’ doors – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath get closed just when summers take off!
So if you plan to attain spiritual enlightenment in Uttarakhand in the summers, consider visiting any of these sacred Dhams or all of the 4 Dhams together. If you consider attaining spiritual enlightenment, planning your Charm Dham Yatra is one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand in the summers.
Book your Kedarnath yatra by helicopter from Dehradun and enjoy the scenic views and the sacred shrine of Lord Shiva.
Book Char Dham Yatra Tour Packages From
9. Cliff Jumping in Rishikesh
One of the top things to do in Uttarakhand in the summers with family is cliff Jumping in Rishikesh. If you have a lot of faith in your abilities, you must use your confidence to vault from the cliff edge into a river.
With sweeping views of the river lined from the rocky coast, this activity is not for the advanced cliff jumpers only, at least not in Rishikesh.
There are different cliff edges in Rishikesh where you can take the leap of faith and jump safely under the trained cliff jumpers’ supervision.
Imagine standing atop a cliff, your arms outstretched like wings, and you jump into the water from a certain height! Cliff Jumping in Rishikesh is best done in the summer as it provides respite from the summer heat.
10. River Crossing in Jim Corbett
You can call this set of adventure activities in Rishikesh a relatively new one, and it is amazing and thrilling. In this activity, a rope is tied from one end of the river bank to the other end.
In this process, a strong harness is used. One can cross stand on one of the parallel ropes and hold onto the other rope to reach one side of the river.
The process is totally safe and carried out under expert supervision. The best time to try this one is in summers when the river’s flow is not high. Before performing, you will be demonstrated by the experts.
11. Kayaking in the Ganges
Cross the riverway on the specially designed – Kayak with a double blade paddle to stroke the river rapids. Kayaking in Rishikesh will inject a fever of adrenaline in you! You can Kayak at different water levels ranging from a lower grade to a higher grade.
This unique adventure sport in Rishikesh is best to perform in summers when the river’s rapids are safe and low. You would be Kayaking under the experts’ supervision so make sure you follow what you are asked to do by the experts.
12. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Bhimtal
Looking to bond with your kids in a unique way on their summer school holidays? One of India’s best stargazing spots (yet unexplored), Bhimtal is the brother of Nainital packed with adventure sports to try!
Apart from trekking, picnics with family, shopping, and attending local festivals, a hot air balloon ride in Bhimtal is the best thing to do in Uttarakhand during summer with kids.
Hop on to a hot air balloon ride and cruise the Bhimtal skies most epically. Taking your kids to this high-end adventure is one of Uttarakhand’s best adventure activities in the summers with family. Huddle together and enjoy this, once in lifetime hot air ballooning experience.
13. Enjoy A Day at Fun Valley Water and Amusement Park, Dehradun
It is no brainer that waterpark rides are best enjoyed in summers – be it in any destination. So, does the Fun Valley Water and Amusement Park in Dehradun. It is situated at Uttarakhand’s Golden Triangle due to its equidistant nature from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
If you are planning to visit Uttarakhand during summer with kids, this amusement park in Dehradun has exhilarating rides for kids and adults. There are around 21 (approx.) rides. A few of the famous rides inside the park for kids include – Go Karting, Baby Train, and Dragon Coaster.
While you can visit the amusement park in both summers and winters but the water rides could be enjoyed only in winters, so plan accordingly!
- Opening timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Entry ticket: INR 600 (approx.) onwards per person
14. Boating in Bhimtal
Pretty, calm, and utterly rejuvenating – Row new memories as your boat in the boating point in Bhimtal. Bhimtal – the brother town of Nainital, is an equally famous boating spot in Uttarakhand. However, a much smaller lake in size than Naini Lake, but the water at Bhimtal Lake is more turquoise, and even the tourist crowd is less in Bhimtal.
Imagine the sun is setting, and you are weaving the memories of either your family or friends. Plan your Bhimtal excursion to discover why boating is one of the amazing things to do in Uttarakhand.
Boating Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
15. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Rishikesh
- Duration of Hot Air Balloon: 10-15 minutes (approx.)
- Price: 2500 INR (approx.) per person
- Average Height: 100-200 feet (approx.)
- Activity Timings: 5:30 AM – 5:50 PM (approx.)
How about exploring the SWAG of Haridwar and Rishikesh from soaring heights?
If you are a proud resident of Delhi, Gurgaon, or any other town near Delhi, you should not miss exploring Rishikesh on a hot air balloon.
Apart from its rejuvenating Ashrams, India’s famous Yoga Town offers you to discover nearby snow-clad mountains surrounding Rishikesh above the clouds on a hot air balloon. Cruising the sky with your family is one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand in Summers with family.
16. Enjoy the Rapids While Doing Rafting
River rafting in Uttarakhand is the biggest draw for crowds. Rishikesh tops the list. The mountain state is blessed by numerous swift rivers fresh from their glacial origins.
Rapids from Grade 1 to Grade 4, cover the rivers. It is one of the most exhilarating adventures, Dev Bhoomi can offer. River Ganga and its tributaries offer the most thrilling river rafting sessions in India.
- Popular places: Rishikesh River rafting on River Ganga, rafting on the Alaknanda River
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to November are the most popular season.
Safety Tip of River Rafting
- Choose a licensed and professional rafting outfitter
- Hold the paddle properly
- Know the proper swimming techniques
- Always wear a life jacket
17. Picnic at Robber’s Cave
Robber’s Cave Dehradun is one of the must-visit sightseeing spots in Uttarakhand during Summer. The 600 meters long cave has a fort-like structure, ten meters high. Robber’s cave is famous for a strange natural occurrence.
A stream of water suddenly appears and then disappears underground, only to appear again a few yards away. Spend time in the beautiful and calm spot, it is ideal for a picnic and family day out.
Things to do around the year in Uttarakhand
18. Bungee Jump in Rishikesh
Bungee jumping in Rishikesh interests adventure enthusiasts in huge numbers. The adrenalin rush that this adventure sport promise is second to none. At Mohanchatti a cantilever platform is built over an iron cliff overlooking a rocky river HYUL, a tributary of River Ganga.
Jump with rubber chords tied to your ankles and feel the adrenaline rush like never before. One of the few bungees jumps in India, this one has been designed by David Allardice of New Zealand. Read More
- Best time to visit: March to June and October to November
Requirements
- Age: Minimum 12 year
- Weight: Minimum 40kg and Maximum 110kg
19. Camping
Uttarakhand is blessed by nature. Camping is possibly the finest way to enjoy the serenity of nature. Forget the mundane worries and simply relax in the bliss of mountains, green valleys, gurgling streams, and open blue skies with majestic views of the snowcapped peaks.
Spend days away from a toxic lifestyle and breathe in the fresh air of the mountains. The scenic beauty in the days and the clear views of the blanket of stars are spectacular. Nothing is better than camping during the summer holidays in Uttarakhand.
Popular places: Rishikesh, Kanatal, Dhanaulti, Chopta, Tons valley, Roopkund, Dayara Bugyal, etc.
Best Time: The summer months, March to June, and October to November are the best time to enjoy staying in the natural environs of mountains.
Also Check-out:16 Best Places for Camping in Uttarakhand
20. Yoga in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as the birthplace of Yoga. Ancient science treasures the secrets of health and well-being. The primeval source of spirituality has a variety of ashrams. Yoga in Rishikesh can be learned and practiced by both beginners and experts alike. There are also lessons conducted by private instructors as well.
Parmath Niketan is a renowned yoga center located in Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganges River. Sivananda Ashram, Sanskriti Yogpeeth, Swami Dayananda Ashram, and Osho Ganga Dham Ashram are other names.
Best time to visit: International Yoga festival is held in the first week of March.
21. Cable Car Ride
Cable car rides are perfect for tourist who would love to indulge in breathtaking views of the panorama without any hassles.
The rope lines easily connect mountains and the high point where you can be seated in comfort and enjoy the scenery. In the safe cable cars, traverse from one vantage point in the mountains to the other in a matter of few minutes.
Popular places: Auli has a pretty impressive cable car ride. Nainital is not far behind. In Auli, enjoy the exhilarating ride of the longest cable car in Asia which covers a distance of 4km.
Nainital cable car takes to the very top of the mountain where majestic views of Nanda Devi can be seen.
22. Evening Aarti in Haridwar
Haridwar’s famous attraction has been the evening Aarti ceremony at the legendary Har ki Pauri Ghat. At the dusk hour, the river gets transformed into a bed of floating lamps.
The auspicious ambiance is amplified with chants of hymns and the mesmerizing smell of flowers and incense sticks. It is indeed one of the must-do activities in Uttarakhand. You will feel the connection with the divine.
23. Boat Ride in Naini Lake
Naini Lake is an icon of the hill station and is one of the must-see places in Nainital with family. The tear-shaped water body is surrounded by a rich ecosystem.
On tours to Nainital, do not miss taking this boat ride. The soft waves, the chilly winds, and the colorful boats will cast a spell on you. The pleasing activity can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Even the monsoon has its own magic.
Book Our Nainital Tour Packages From
24. Paragliding
Paragliding is Uttarakhand’s loved sports activity. Flying has always been an obsession since time immemorial. Experience the thrill of soaring in the skies like a bird enjoying the wonderful view of the mountainscape.
The best thing about paragliding in Uttarakhand is that you don’t require prior knowledge. Trained experts guide you on a memorable adventure. The best time to try out paragliding is March to June and mid-September to October.
Popular places for paragliding in Uttarakhand: Ranikhet and Mukteshwar, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Dehradun are well-known paragliding locales in Uttarakhand. Pithoragarh is picturesque and absolutely worth soaring the skies on a glider.
25. Zip-line Activities
Enjoy the thrill of zooming across the skies with Zipline activities in Uttarakhand. Admire stunning views as you fly down harnessed securely to ultra-strong steel zip lines, propelled simply by gravity.
Feel the air gushing past. Zipline is safe and thrilling. You just have to face your fears. The best time to enjoy the adventure is throughout the year except for the monsoon.
Popular places Zipline in Uttarakhand: Zip Line at Rishikesh & Mussoorie will be one amazing experience you will have.
Requirements
- Age: Minimum 12 year
- Weight: Minimum 20kg and Maximum 130kg
26. Trekking
The hilly topography of Uttarakhand provides plenty of opportunities for trekking. The Himalayan range here is abundant in natural beauty, making it the perfect place to set out on the adventure to explore the mountains.
The breathtaking views, rare flora, and fauna attract the adventure enthusiast. April to June and October and November are the best time to visit for trekking.
Popular Trekking Routes in Uttarakhand
- Auden Col Trek
- Chopta-Chandrashila-Trek
- Dodital-Bamsaru-Khal-Trek
- Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Har Ki Dun Trek
- Kedartal Trek
- Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek
- Nagtibba Trek
- Roopkund Trek
- Satopanth Lake Trek
- Kuari Pass Trek
- Valley of Flower Trek
- Pindari Glacier Trek
- Milam Glacier & Nanda Devi East BC Trek
- Kedarnath Vasuki Tal Trek
- Kedar Kantha Trek
- Bedni-Bugyal Trek
- Panch Kedar-Trek
Things to Carry: Sleeping Bag, Trekking Shoe, Cotton socks, Woolen socks, Woolen gloves, Trek pants, Heavy Jacket, Knee cap, Dry food items
Also Read: Top 16 trails for Trekking in Uttarakhand
27. Kempty Falls
The stunning waterfall in Uttarakhand, Kempty Falls is bordered by high mountain cliffs. Nestled at 4500 feet, the waterfall offers a remarkable view. Situated on Mussoorie-Dehradun Highway, the falls are a picnic spot visited by visitors in Mussoorie. Enjoy a refreshing bath in the serene natural environs.
The best time to visit Kempty Falls is between the summer months of March and June. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or go for adventure activities. It is perfect for a day out.
28. Tea Estate in Kausani
Kausani, a hill station in Uttarakhand is one of the most admired holiday locales in the state. It is home to a world-acclaimed tea plantation. The tea estate in Kausani is set 1800 m above sea level. The tea plantations are scattered over an area of 208 hectares.
The emerald landscape, the soothing climate, and the delicious aroma are sure to lure your sense. The estate is best known to produce some of the richest qualities of tea. Girias Uttaranchal tea produce here is the topmost flavor, which enjoys international demand. Read More
29. Sahastradhara Waterfall in Dehradun
The Sahastradhara Waterfall in Dehradun is located 11 kilometers from the city. Literally meaning “Thousand fold spring”, the waterfall is a beautiful sight. It is famous for its sulfur water springs. Endowed with medicinal properties the water can cure skin ailments. Bordered by the Baldi River and caves on each side, Sahastradhara is a popular picnic spot.
A year-round destination in Uttarakhand, Sahastradhara is best visited in the monsoon when the water comes gushing off the cliff. Enjoy the lovely outdoors blessed by nature.
Browse through our collection of Best Uttarakhand tour packages
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30. Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a thrilling adventure sport in Uttarakhand. It is one of the thrilling ways to explore the secrets of the Himalayan landscape. Bike through the rugged landscape, and steep slopes. The cycle trails in this region are best traversed between October and December.
Popular Routes in Mountain biking
- Thakurdwara to Ramnagar on the outskirts of Corbett Park.
- From Rudraprayag – Augustmuni – Ukhimath – Chopta – Gopeshwar.
- Srinagar – Pauri – Khirsu – Pawbo – Satpuli – Lansdown – Kotdar route
- Haridwar – Dhaulkhand – Mohand – Dehradun route
- Nainital – Bhawali – Ramgarh – Mukteshwar route.
- The Nainital – Bhawali – Sattal – Bhimtal – Naukuchiatal route.
Things to Carry: Cycle Helmets, Rucksack, Sleeping Bag, Carry Mat, Torch, Water Bottle, Emergency Ration, Medical Kit, Tents, etc.
Also Read: Places Visit in Uttarakhand in December
31. Rappelling
Rappelling in Uttarakhand is a newfound adventure. In rappelling, a person uses a controlled technique to climb down a steep and dangerous rock. The thrilling activity is a good way to conquer your fears. There are many rocks in the mountain state you can rappel down. Some even have fresh waterfalls adjacent to them. The best time for the adventure sport is from March to October except for the monsoon season.
Popular places Rappelling in Uttarakhand: Rishikesh is the most popular place to go rappelling. Other places where you enjoy rappelling Mukteshwar, Mussoorie, and Dhanulti have the potential to develop the sport.
Horse Riding in Bara Pathar
Located just 3 km (approx.) from Nainital Bara Pathar, where you can get yourself transported to the erstwhile era. Ride the horseback and explore the cobbled streets. Horse riding in Bara Pathar is one of the kids’ friendly things to do in Uttarakhand throughout the year. Explore the hilly slopes as well and reach several short trek summits.
- Cost: 500 INR-900 INR (approx.) per person
- Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM (approx.)
32. Take Your Binoculars For Birdwatching
Uttarakhand is a bird watcher’s paradise because of its Himalayan terrain. Several migratory birds flock to Uttarakhand in varied seasons. Take your binoculars with you when you visit any town of Uttarakhand because this unique state is blessed with 600 (approx.) varieties of birds – most of them are on the verge of extinction.
Top Places in Uttarakhand for Bird Watching Activity: Deoria Tal, Chopta, Binsar
33. Enjoy Fishing/Angling
Uttarakhand is one of India’s best fishing spots as the range of streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes is dotted in Devbhoomi. You can indulge in trout and mahseer fishing experiences. Make sure you take a permit for this activity (ask your tour operator about this activity).
Average Price: 100 INR – 200 INR (approx.)
34. Ganga Aarti at Rishikesh
There is nothing more rejuvenating things to do in Rishikesh with family than attending the evening Ganga Aarti at Rishikesh Ghats. The Ganges is considered a holy river, and several Hindu devotees gather around the several Ghats in Rishikesh to attend the Ganga Aarti Ceremony. Watch the divas floating in the Ganges and bring back the Ganges’ holy waters to purify your house. Morning Aarti in Rishikesh is also very popular.
35. Water Zorbing at Bhimtal
If your kid’s age is above 10, Water Zorbing at Bhimtal is one of the best adventure sports to try in Uttarakhand for them. You will be able to walk into a large inflatable ball. This activity will allow you to jump and dance on the surface of the water without getting wet. Imagine jumping, laughing, inside the zorb balls. This unique adventure activity will leave your kids in a state of mind for sure.
Things to do in Uttarakhand in Monsoon
36. Visit Valley of Flowers National Park
The Valley of Flowers National park is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Set in the backdrop of the majestic Zanskar Range, the UNESCO world heritage site is absolutely worth your time.
Situated at an altitude of 3,858m, the valley is covered in millions of species of wildflowers such as lilies, poppy, calendula, daisies, geranium, petunia, etc. It is also home to several species of butterflies and insects too. It is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand.
Best Time to Visit: The valley is open for tourists only in-between the months of May to October.
[Check out the best customized Holiday packages for Uttarakhand]
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Thank you so much for sharing information about uttarakhand Trip. Your guide about travel is also helpful for everyone.
Hey Rahul
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Thank you so much for this wonderful information. I was planning a visit to Mussoorie, but after reading this I’m going to visit the whole Uttrakhand.
Thanks for your help in advance to plan our vacation
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Thanks for sharing the nice blog post about the beautiful places related in Uttrakhand. All of the places are really nice and i would like to go there and enjoy summer holidays with the beautiful nature of the Uttrakhand.
Very nice information about uttarakhand tourist destinations. In brief almost everything is covered. Keep it up..
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