Hill Stations in Uttarakhand Perfect to Beat the Summer Heat

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nestled amidst the Kumaon Hills, Nainital is a serene hill station famous for its emerald Naini Lake. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the town's picturesque beauty and favorable climate make it a popular summer retreat. The vibrant town, dotted with colonial architecture, offers a mix of nature and lively marketplaces.

Things to Do: Boat ride on Naini Lake, visit Naina Devi Temple, explore Snow View Point
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (34km away); regular bus services from major North Indian cities
Places to Stay: The Naini Retreat, Vikram Vintage Inn, The Manu Maharani

Best Time: Throughout the year

33 Nainital Attractions

Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Lal Tibba Kempty Falls

Perched at an altitude of 2005 meters, Mussoorie, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Hills', offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. With its lush green hills, varied flora and fauna, and colonial-era architecture, it's a favorite among tourists. The pleasant weather and waterfalls further add to its charm.

Things to Do: Stroll on the Camel's Back Road, enjoy views from Gun Hill, visit Kempty Falls
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun (34km away); well-connected by road to major cities
Places to Stay: WelcomHotel The Savoy, JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, Hotel Sun N Snow

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

Known For : Auli Ropeway Skiing in Auli Joshimath

Dotted with the apple orchards, old oaks and pine trees there is no dearth of natural beauty in Auli and it is one of the most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand. Apart from skiing you can also go for numerous treks in the hills of Garhwal Himalayas and enjoy the spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains.

Things to Do: Skiing, visit Gurso Bugyal, trek to Kuari Pass
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (264km away); can also reach via cable car from Joshimath
Places to Stay: Clifftop Club Auli, The Tattva, Dream Mountain Resort

Best Time: December - February

12 Auli Attractions

Known For : Bhulla Lake Tip N Top Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Perched amidst the Garhwal Hills, Lansdowne is a quaint little hill station in Uttarakhand that not many tourists know of. Lansdowne is an untouched, pristine town, miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hill station is neither commercialised nor heavily urbanised, making it the perfect getaway for anyone looking to take a break amidst peace and solitude.

Things to Do: Boating in Bhulla Lake, visit War Memorial, Tip n Top viewpoint
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kotdwar (40km away); connected by road
Places to Stay: Blue Pine Resort, Lans Castle, The Rock Heaven Resort

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 Lansdowne Attractions

Known For : Rudradhari Falls and Caves Gwaldam Trek to Pinnath

Embellished with all the right ingredients including lush green valley, verdant pine tree forests, meandering creeks, tranquility and majestic Himalayan peaks, Kausani is one of the most spellbinding hill station in Uttarakhand. Referred to as the 'Switzerland of India', Kausani offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli.

Things to Do: Explore Anashakti Ashram, visit Baijnath Temple, tea estate tours
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (142km away); well-connected by road
Places to Stay: Kausani Best Inn, The Heritage Resort, Himalaya Darshan Resort

Best Time: April to June, September to December

11 Kausani Attractions

Known For : Mussoorie Tehri Dam Trekking in Tehri Garhwal

The Hindu Mythology and legends seemed to have showered Tehri Garhwal with several spiritual significances. It is this hill station in Uttarakhand where River Ganga arrives in its real form at Devprayag where River Bhagirathi and River Alaknanda merge. One can also see many temples dotted across the place.

Things to Do: Visit the Tehri Dam, indulge in water sports, explore the old Tehri ruins
How to Reach: Nearest railway stations are Rishikesh and Haridwar; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Hotel Pine Queen, Tehri Club & Resorts, Himadri Guest House

Best Time: Throughout the year

16 Tehri Garhwal Attractions

Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course

Ranikhet meaning Queen's farm is a hill station in Uttarakhand developed by the Britishers around ancient temples, undulating Himalayan hills and forests. Ranikhet with its cool climate and simple natural beauty can freshen up your senses to the very core. Ranikhet offers sublime views of the Himalayan peaks and is known for its pleasant climate.

Things to Do: Visit Jhula Devi Temple, explore Chaubatia Gardens, golf at Upat
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (80km away); well-connected by road
Places to Stay: Woodsvilla Resort, Merigold Himalaya Resort, Xomotel Ranikhet Heights

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Ranikhet Attractions

Known For : Dhanaulti Adventure Park Eco Park, Dhanaulti Apple Orchard Resort

With minimal human intrusion, without overloading or overwhelming your senses or expectations, Dhanaulti is a hill station in Uttarakhand that slowly seeps into your conscience like a long lost pleasant dream, bringing with it comfort and quiet, and giving you the much-needed break from your humdrum routine life.

Things to Do: Explore Eco Parks, visit Surkanda Devi Temple, camp amidst deodar forests
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun (60km away); connected by road
Places to Stay: Apple Orchard Resort, Rock Resort, Green Forest Resort

Best Time: September to June

10 Dhanaulti Attractions

Known For : Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Mukteshwar is a small hill station in Uttarakhand mostly known for adventure sports such as rock climbing, rappelling etc. and the amazing view of Himalayan ranges you get from there. Renowned for its ancient Shiva temple, Mukteshwar offers splendid views of the Himalayan Range and is surrounded by fruit orchards and coniferous forests.

Things to Do: Visit Mukteshwar Temple, explore Chauli ki Jali, nature walks
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (64km away); accessible by road
Places to Stay: Ojaswi Resort, The Swiss Village Resort, Mukteshwar Himalayan Resort

Best Time: October to June

12 Mukteshwar Attractions

Known For : Auli Vasundhara Waterfalls Mana

Sitting in the lap of nature, Chamoli is often referred to as the "Abode of Gods" as it has a strong bond with spirituality, seen from local astounding legends. Chamoli is a blessed place where the beauty of nature combined with its fascinating culture births serenity. The people here are satisfied living amidst the breathtakingly tall mountains and beautiful, dense valleys.

Things to Do: Visit Badrinath Temple, explore Valley of Flowers, trek to Hemkund Sahib
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (285km away); connected by road
Places to Stay: Dream Mountain Resort, Hotel Kailash Residency, Hotel Shangri-La Resort

Best Time: November to March, July to August

13 Chamoli Attractions

Known For : Jageshwar Dunagiri Kasar Devi Temple

Cradled in the wilderness of Himalayan ranges, the sprawling town of Almora shaped like a horseshoe is a hill station in Uttarakhand that boasts of a pre-British heritage and an idyllic vibe. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine and magnificent wildlife, coupled with an easy accessibility, Almora promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments.

Things to Do: Explore Nanda Devi Temple, visit Kasar Devi, stroll on Lala Bazaar
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (82km away); well-connected by road
Places to Stay: Imperial Heights, Kasaar Jungle Resort, Mohan's Binsar Retreat

Best Time: Throughout the year

16 Almora Attractions

Known For : Birthi falls Maheshwari Kund Panchachuli Peak

A small village with an awe-inspiring panorama of snow capped Himalayan Range; Munsiyari is located in the Pithoragarh District. Offering splendors of nature's beauty in their most captivating form, this hill station in Uttarakhand is famous for its some highly adventurous and nerve-wracking trekking trails.

Things to Do: Trekking to Khalia Top, explore Birthi Falls, visit Nanda Devi Temple
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (280km away); accessible by road
Places to Stay: Milam Inn, The Himnark Resort, Ojaswi Resort

Best Time: April to June, October to November

16 Munsiyari Attractions

Known For : Pancheshwar Lohaghat Mayawati Ashram

A serene hill station, Abbott Mount offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and is adorned with colonial charm. In this quaint old town one can feel and witness the charm of a bygone era through a marvellous church and 13 isolated cottages dotted across the hill station in Uttarakhand. 

Things to Do: Explore Church of St. John, trekking, bird watching
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Tanakpur (80km away); connected by road
Places to Stay: Abbott Mount Cottage, Rhododendron Lodge, Van Serai Lodge

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Abbott Mt Attractions

Known For : Banasur ka Kila Baleshwar Temple Lohaghat

Champawat is a small hill station in Champawat district, Uttrakhand. Perched 5,299 feet above sea level, it is a perfect composite of adventure, religion and history. The place holds historical and religious significance attracting many drifters and pilgrims throughout the year. As the legend goes, Lord Vishnu incarnated in his Kurma Avatar in this region.

Things to Do: Visit Baleshwar Temple, explore Kranteshwar Mahadev, Lohaghat sightseeing
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Tanakpur (75km away); well-connected by road
Places to Stay: The Nest, Ojaswi Tea Garden Resort, Hotel Mount View

Best Time: October to June

8 Champawat Attractions

Known For : Valley of Flowers National Park Nanda Devi National Park Fauna & Flora

Valley of Flowers is located in Chamoli district (near Badrinath) of Uttarakhand, approximately 300 km to the north of Rishikesh. This hill station of Uttarakhand is a picturesque national park, gracing the beauty of Western Himalayas. Valley of flowers was discovered in 1931 and is a World Heritage Site for its wild untamed blooms surrounded by white peaks.

Things to Do: Trekking, explore diverse flora and fauna, photography
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; trek begins from Govindghat
Places to Stay: Blue Poppy Swiss Cottage Camps, Hotel Bhagat, Ghangaria Camp Resort

Best Time: May to October

3 Valley Of Flowers Attractions

Known For : Patal Bhubaneshwari Nakuleshwar Temple Arjuneshwar Shiva Temple

The bowl-shaped town of Chaukori is nestled within the Himalayas. As a tourist destination, this hill station in Uttarakhand offers many beautifully breathtaking views– be it the lusciously green tea gardens, or the majestic snow-capped peaks of Nanda Devi and Panchachuli, the peaceful sunrise and sunsets, and the bejewelled night skies with the light of a million stars.

Things to Do: Visit tea gardens, photography, Himalayan view points
How to Reach: Closest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Ojaswi Resort, Haridarshan Resort, Himshikhar Mountain Resort

Best Time: October to March

6 Chaukori Attractions

Known For : Shyamkhet Tea Gardens Ramgarh

Bhowali is a little hill-station that lies in the vicinity of several popular hill stations like Nainital, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Ramgarh, Sattal and Mukteshwar. A hill station famed for its picturesque setting and as a health resort, Bhowali is surrounded by several lakes, orchards, and temples.

Things to Do: Explore Golu Devta temple, visit fruit markets, relax in serene surroundings
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Ramgarh Bungalows, The Royal Court, Sterling Nainital

Best Time: February to Apr, September to October

8 Bhowali Attractions

Known For : Tiger Falls Deoban Budher Caves

Chakrata is a small hill station in Uttarakhand near Dehradun located on top of the Yamuna valley, amidst lush green forests, caves and ancient temples. A secluded hill station with a strong military presence, Chakrata is famous for its green forests, caves, and ancient temples.

Things to Do: Visit Tiger Falls, Budher Caves, Kimona Falls
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun; connected by road
Places to Stay: Blue Canvas Resort, Himalayan Eco Lodge, Ram Tal Resort

Best Time: Throughout the year

6 Chakrata Attractions

Known For : Chaukhamba Viewpoint Kandoliya Khirsu

Pauri Garhwal is a paradise that showcases the varied colours of nature all packed into this one place. From snow-covered Himalayan peaks and thick cover of lush green forests to deep-rooted culture of the place and warm-hearted people, this hill station in Uttarakhand oozes beauty and charm in every aspect.

Things to Do: Explore Khirsu, trekking in Chaukhamba range, visit Kyunkaleshwar temple
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kotdwar; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: V Resorts Pauri, GMVN Tourist Bungalow, Thazhathangady Resort

Best Time: April to June, September to October

13 Pauri Garhwal Attractions

Known For : Orchards Nathuakhan Mukteshwar

Tucked away in the lap of Himalayas in Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Ramgarh boasts of unexplored natural beauty and old-world charm. It is perched at an elevation of 1789 metres above the sea level and is an idyllic spot of all you nature beaus. Blessed with impeccable views of snow-covered mountain peaks, Ramgarh is also called the "Fruit Bowl of Kumaon" because of the verdant orchards of apples, plums, peaches and apricots.

Things to Do: Visit orchards, trekking, explore ancient temples
How to Reach: Closest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Soulitude in the Himalayas, The Ramgarh Bungalows, Seclude Ramgarh

Best Time: October to May

9 Ramgarh Attractions

Known For : New Tehri Dhanaulti Camping

Once a deserted land, today Kanatal is a usual haunt for those travellers who seek peace and solitude at a hill station in Uttarakhand. Kanatal is said to be named after a lake that once existed there. Apart from peace, the place exhibits a charm in the form of majestic hills, fruit trees, apple orchards and lush green forests.

Things to Do: Visit Surkanda Devi Temple, trekking, enjoy camping
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: The Terraces Kanatal, Club Mahindra Kanatal, The Hermitage Kanatal

Best Time: Throughout the year

10 Kanatal Attractions

Known For : Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Bineshwar Temple Zero Point

A small hill station in Uttarakhand set in the midst of lush green forests covered with oak, pine, deodar trees, Binsar has plenty of tourist attractions including green meadows, temples and Binsar is enclosed by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and provides panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Things to Do: Explore Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, trekking, visit Zero Point
How to Reach: Closest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Club Mahindra Binsar Valley, The Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Forest Retreat

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Binsar Attractions

Known For : Robber's Cave Mindrolling Monastery Tapkeshwar Temple

Dehradun is the capital city and the largest city of Uttarakhand. Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. Located just 30kms from Mussoorie, Dehradun is known as the gateway to Mussoorie and Rishikesh and Haridwar. Dehradun is also known as the "Educational Hub of Uttarakhand" with some of the country's prestigious universities and boarding schools.

Things to Do: Explore Robber's Cave, visit Forest Research Institute, shopping at Paltan Bazaar
How to Reach: Dehradun has its own railway station; Jolly Grant Airport is nearby
Places to Stay: Lemon Tree Hotel, Hotel Softel Plaza, Four Points by Sheraton

Best Time: Throughout the year

38 Dehradun Attractions

Known For : Mahamrityunjaya Temple Jageshwar Mahadev Temple Archaeological Museum, Jageshwar

Jageshwar, is a small town in Uttarakhand is like a town carved exquisitely for temples. Famous for its cluster of 124 large and small stone temples, Jageshwar is a spiritual town surrounded by deodar forests. The biggest temple out of the lot of the 124 temples here, is the one that is the most visited, the Jageshwar Mahadev Temple is situated on the Jataganga Valley.

Things to Do: Visit Jageshwar temples, meditate in serene surroundings, explore Dandeshwar temple complex
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Van Serai Lodge, Jageshwar Jungle Lodge, Hotel Raghuvir

Best Time: April to June, September to November

4 Jageshwar Attractions

Khirsu is a sleepy and peaceful hill village, located at a distance of 15 km from Pauri Garhwal, wrapped with lush greenery and orchards. The place is off the popular tourist trails, yet to gather tourist rush to its refreshingly beautiful surroundings, ideal for a leisurely and relaxing holiday.

Things to Do: Enjoy nature walks, visit Ghandiyal Devta temple, photography
How to Reach: Closest railway station is Kotdwar; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: GMVN Tourist Rest House, Himalayan Eco Lodge, Pristine Meadows

Located just 15 kilometres away from Nainital, Pangot, located in the Kosiyakutoli tehsil of the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The village is at the height of 6,300 feet above sea level and is well known all across the nation for its rich and exotic bird life. Pangot also becomes a hub for photography enthusiasts when hundreds of different species of birds flock here during the harsh winters in the upper Himalayas and settle down here temporarily.

Things to Do: Bird watching, trekking, nature walks
How to Reach: Closest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road from Nainital
Places to Stay: Pangot Himalayan View, The Nest Cottages, Ashokas Naini Chalet

Known For : Tungnath Temple Deori Tal Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

Chopta, a small hamlet located in Uttarakhand, is a trekker's heaven. The base camp of treks like Tugnanath, Deoria Tal and Chandrashila, Chopta is an ideal destination for intermediate trekkers to go on a guided trek and brush up their skills. Chopta promises a life-altering expansion of your boundaries.

Things to Do: Trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila, camping, bird watching
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Mayadeep Herbal Resort, Magpie Camp Chopta, Hotel Mount View

Best Time: March to June

5 Chopta Attractions

Known For : Dharali Mukhwas Village Sattal

A quaint village situated on the banks of Bhagirathi River, Harsil is a hidden gem adorned with apple orchards and pine forests. Harsil, still lesser known to tourists, is a perfect getaway for those in quest of peace and solitude. Nestled amid Himalayas and dense cover of pine and deodar with River Bhagirathi gurgling across the area, Harsil is a complete package for vacation makers.

Things to Do: Explore Mukhwas Village, trekking, visit Gangotri temple
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun; connected by road
Places to Stay: GMVN Tourist Rest House, Hotel Bhagirathi Sadan, Hotel Kalp Kedar

Best Time: April to October

5 Harsil Attractions

Known For : Bhimtal Lake Aquarium Island Cafe Hanuman Garhi

Perched at a height of 1370masl, Bhimtal is an idyllic and less-crowded version of Nainital, 23 km away. Bhimtal is a scenic hill station, the charm of which lies in its off-beat, tranquil atmosphere. The picturesque Bhimtal Lake is a popular attraction for paddle boating, birding and nature walk.

Things to Do: Boating in Bhimtal Lake, explore Bhimeshwar Temple, visit the Folk Culture Museum
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; accessible by road
Places to Stay: The Fern Hillside Resort, Aamod at Bhimtal, Country Inn Bhimtal

Best Time: March to June, September to December

11 Bhimtal Attractions

Known For : Chamera Lake Manimahesh Lake Church of Scotland

Chamba is a Himalayan town located in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for the ancient temples, the caves, and the edifices that speak highly of Indian history, Chamba is famous for mesmerising views of the Pir Panjal, Zanskar and Dhauladhar ranges in the backdrop of this picture-postcard town. This Himalayan town is located at an elevation of 996 meters on the banks of river Ravi, flanked by Jammu and Kashmir, Lahaul and Kangra.

Things to Do: Visit Laxmi Narayan Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum, explore Chaugan
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Pathankot; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Classic Hill Top Resort, Hotel Aroma Palace, Ashiana Regency

Best Time: October to June

18 Chamba Attractions

Known For : Confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Raghunathji Temple Chandrabadani Temple

Marked by the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, Devprayag is a religious hub in Uttarakhand. It is quite popular among tourists coming for a pilgrimage or seeking solitude close to nature. 

Things to Do: Visit Raghunathji Temple, enjoy river confluence view, photography
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: Hotel Chakasha Govindam, New Hotel Shivlok, V Resorts Mumukshu

Best Time: Throughout the year

3 Devprayag Attractions

Known For : Nandprayag Karnaprayag

Being one of the highly blessed five confluences of the Alakananda River, Karnaprayag is a splendid town by default. Surrounded by verdant locales and snow capped mountains, host to chilly conditions and perennial rivers, this place was destined to be a spectacular tourist destination.

Things to Do: Visit Uma Devi Temple, explore the confluence, indulge in river rafting
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: Karna Resort, Hotel Sachin International, Shivalik Valley Resorts

Best Time: October to June

2 karnaprayag Attractions

Known For : Vishwanath Temple, Guptakashi Manikarnik Kund Ardhanarishwar Temple

Known for ancient Vishwanath Temple, Guptakashi is a spiritual town located near the Mandakini river. The temple town of Guptakashi is located at a distance of 47 kms from the holy town of Kedarnath. Perched at an elevation of 1319 m above the sea level, Guptakashi enjoys the mesmerising backdrop of the enchanting snow-covered peaks of Chaukhamba mountains.

Things to Do: Visit Manikarnik Kund, explore Vishwanath temple, trek to Kedarnath
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Shivalik Camps & Resorts, Camp Nirvana Guptkashi, ADB Rooms Hotel Surya

Best Time: March to June, September to November

7 Guptakashi Attractions

Nestled at an elevation of 1106 metres, the small town of Askot is situated in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Bordering India with Nepal and China, the spectacular town is known for its rhododendron carpeted hills, enchanting valleys, meandering streams and picture perfect setting. 

Things to Do: Wildlife spotting at the sanctuary, trekking, visit Askot Fort
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Tanakpur; connected by road
Places to Stay: Parwati Resort, Ojaswi Resort, KMVN Tourist Rest House

A small Himalayan hill town, Gangolihat is particularly famous for hosting the Shakti Peethas of Goddess Kali. It is a very small town which is located near important tourist spots such as Patal Bhuveneshwar, Binsar and Abott Mount. The place is also famous for many other temples that are scattered all over this small town. 

Things to Do: Visit Haat Kalika temple, explore Patal Bhuvaneshwar, Shail Shikhar
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Tanakpur; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Annapurna Guest House, Hotel Ramesh, KMVN Tourist Rest House

A beautiful, quaint and sleepy village sandwiched between Garhwal and Kumaon, Gwaldam is a place straight out of a fairytale. The place is full of forests and small lakes providing a setting for a peaceful retreat. Trekking in the apple orchids which stretch to infinity is a must and one of the most refreshing experiences of Gwaldam. 

Things to Do: Trekking, explore Badhangarhi temple, nature walks
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; connected by road
Places to Stay: Nature's Treat Resort, Hotel Trishul, Garud Valley Resort

Known For : Dodital Lake Nachiketa Lake Dodital Dayara Pass Trek

Endearingly called as Devbhoomi, Uttarkashi, literally meaning 'Kashi of the North', is a quaint little town tucked away in the hill state of Uttarakhand. Revered by the Hindus as one of their propitious religious sites, the townhouses two of the total four holy shrines of Hindu mythology. 

Things to Do: Visit Vishwanath temple, trek to Dodital, Nehru Institute of Mountaineering
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Dehradun; accessible by road
Places to Stay: Hotel Knaukin, OYO Raj Palace, Shikhar Nature Resort

Best Time: March to June, September to November

9 Uttarkashi Attractions

Known For : Janki Chatti Yamunotri Temple Hanuman Chatti

Yamunotri is the source of River Yamuna, situated 30 km from Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand. It is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, part of the famous Chhota Char Dham yatra (including Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath). The main attraction here is the Yamunotri Temple dedicated to Ma Yamuna.

Things to Do: Yamunotri temple visit, trekking, thermal springs at Janki Chatti
How to Reach: Accessible by trek from Janki Chatti
Places to Stay: GMVN Yamunotri, Camp Veda, Hotel Bahuguna Palace

Best Time: May to June, September to November

9 Yamunotri Attractions

Known For : Baijnath Bagnath Temple Kanda

Bageshwar is a small town in Uttarakhand, tucked away in the Kumaon region of the Himalayan range inconspicuously. Situated at the confluence of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, with Bhileshwar and Nileshwar mountains, Bageshwar is known for its rivers, temples and mountains. The temple Baghnath dedicated to Lord Shiva, and its mention in the Puranas, attracts religious tourists to this place.

Things to Do: Attend Uttarayani fair, explore Bagnath temple, trek to Sunderdhunga
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; connected by road
Places to Stay: Hotel Rajdoot, Hotel Bageshwar, Hotel Annapurna

Best Time: October to June

10 Bageshwar Attractions

Known For : Gangotri Temple Gangotri Glacier Surya Kund

Gangotri Dham is the origin of the holy River Ganga, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, part of the famous Chhota Char Dham yatra (including Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath).

Things to Do: Visit Gangotri temple, trek to Gaumukh, explore submerged Shivling
How to Reach: Accessible by road, followed by a short trek
Places to Stay: GMVN Bhojbasa - Tourist Rest House, Bhagirathi Sadan, Hotel Bhagirathi

Best Time: April to June, September to November

20 Gangotri Attractions

Dwarahat is an ancient town full of beautiful temples and breathtaking sceneries, that also serves as a wonderful retreat in the Kumaon Mountains. Home to some 55 odd ancient temples built in the medieval ages by the Katyuri Kings, Dwarahat is the representative of the region's great past and its architectural prowess.

Things to Do: Explore group of 55 temples, trekking, visit Dunagiri temple
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam; well-connected by road
Places to Stay: KMVN Tourist Rest House, Hotel Mayank, Geetanjali Resort

Known For : Ropeway Ghangaria Nanda Devi National Park

Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a hill town perched at the height of 6150 feet in Chamoli district of Gharwal region of Uttarakhand. Joshimath serves as an important religious centre for Hindu pilgrims and lies in the proximity to one of the four 'maths' founded by Adi Guru Shri Shankaracharya in the 8th century. This 'math' dedicated to the holy text of Hindus called Atharva Veda.

Things to Do: Visit Narsingh Temple, trek to Valley of Flowers, Auli skiing
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh; connected by road
Places to Stay: The Tattva Resort, The Sleeping Beauty Hotel, Hotel

Best Time: April to November

11 Joshimath Attractions