Uttarakhand, previously known as Uttaranchal, is a state in northern India. It shares international boundaries with Tibet to the north and Nepal to the east, while the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh border it to the west and south, respectively. Uttarakhand has a total area of 53,483 km2 (20,650 sq mi), equal to 1.6 per cent of the total area of India. Dehradun serves as the state winter capital, with Bhararisain being the summer capital and Nainital being the judicial capital. The state is divided into two divisions, Garhwal and Kumaon, with a total of 13 districts. The state is renowned for its mountainous terrain, with the Himalayas covering most of its area and serving as the source of several major river systems. Uttarakhand sits at an elevation of 1,700 m and is typically explored in about 5-6 days. The most favourable months to visit are April, October, November, and December, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Nainital Lake, Kedarnath Temple, and Kempty Falls. Other notable highlights include the yoga and rafting hub of Rishikesh on the Ganges, haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri and evening Ganga Aarti, and nainital’s colonial-era lake and boating. It falls within Thailisain district.
State: Uttarakhand
Ideal Duration: 5-6 Days
April, October, November, December
Rishikesh, Haridwar and Nainital are comfortable for most travellers; the Char Dham Yatra and high-altitude treks are more physically demanding.
Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is the main gateway for Rishikesh and Haridwar; Pantnagar Airport serves the Nainital region.
Five to six days covers Rishikesh, Haridwar and Nainital comfortably; the Char Dham Yatra alone typically takes 9-12 days.
The source of the Ganges, the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, yoga and adventure sports in Rishikesh, and Himalayan hill stations like Nainital and Mussoorie.
March-June and September-November suit most sightseeing; the Char Dham Yatra runs roughly May-November, and the Valley of Flowers is open only July-September.