SPIRITUALITY

Char Dham Yatra

Char Dham Yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in India. It covers four holy shrines - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath - all located in Uttarakhand. The high-altitude shrines in the Himalayas remain shut for around six months every year, opening in summer (April or May) and closing with the onset of winter (October or November).

Haridwar

Several ancient temples are located here, including the Mata Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple. These temples are important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and attract thousands of devotees every year. The city is also known for the evening Ganga aarti, a devotional ceremony held at the Har Ki Pauri ghat, where River Ganges is worshipped.

Hemkunt Sahib (also known as Hemkund Sahib) and Joshimath are important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Sikhs. Hemkunt Sahib, situated at an altitude of around 4,329 m, sits on the bank of the pristine Hemkund Lake. Joshimath is a sacred town in the Chamoli district, housing several ancient Hindu temples. Govindghat in the Chamoli district is the starting point for the popular Valley of Flowers trek.

Thrill

From the adrenaline rush of river rafting, bungee jumping and zip-lining in Rishikesh, and the peaceful serenity of camping in Chopta, to trekking to the Valley of Flowers National Park or Roopkund Lake - there's something for everyone. You can also try paragliding and boating in Nainital and skiing in Auli.

NATURE'S BOUNTY

Uttarakhand is a nature lover's paradise boasting numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks like Jim Corbett National Park and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also explore the Kumaon villages on foot or relax by the serene lakes of Nainital, Bhimtal and Sattal.

ALOO KE GUTKE

Aloo ke gutke is prepared by pan-frying boiled potatoes with a mix of spices, including cumin seeds, coriander powder, red chili powder and turmeric. The dish is usually garnished with

Mussoorie

The hill-station of Mussoorie is one of the most famous in India. Overlooking the green Doon Valley, the notable landmarks here include Christ Church, George Everest House, Mall Road and Kempty Falls.

Heritage

Dehradun

Sitting in the lush Doon Valley and framed by high mountains, Dehradun is Uttarakhand’s capital and the gateway to many hill-stations. The main attractions here are the historic Clock Tower and the grand Forest Research Institute.

Food4

SISUNAK SAAG

Sisunak saag is a popular dish in Uttarakhand made from sisunak (nettle) leaves. The leaves are boiled, chopped and cooked with garlic, ginger and spices. It is served with rice or roti

Art And Craft

The Bhotiya community is known for its beautiful woollen handicraft, including shawls, rugs and blankets. Uttarakhand is also famous for wood carving and aipan art, a form of rangoli. You can buy woollen items from here and also home decor pieces with aipan art.

RINGAL CRAFT

Ringal weaving is an age-old craft of the state. The artisans use a special species of ringal plant to weave mats and other utility items. Also awarded the GI tag, ringal is more water resistant in comparison to regular bamboo.