Uttarakhand sits in the middle of the great mountains of the Himalayas and is like a dream come true. This northern Indian state has gained instant popularity thanks to the beautiful and vibrant scenery of the region, filled with everything from beautiful rivers, ancient temples and exciting local culture. You can travel to sacred towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh or relax in the hill regions of Mussoorie and Nainital. Uttarakhand is home to amazing natural beauty, and what sustains this region is the efforts from the government body of Uttarakhand Tourism that makes it worthy of the name “Devbhoomi”. So if you feel ready for your next memorable trip, pack your bags and add these unmissable places to visit in Uttarakhand to your itinerary.
Places to Visit in Dehradun
Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
Robber’s Cave is located just 8 km from the city centre and is a natural marvel that you must visit in Dehradun. This cave river stretches 600 metres in length, and is unique because, as you walk through the natural limestone, you’re wading through cool, ankle-deep water. The cave was named after the Rohilla thieves, who lived in the caves (Muslims that linked to tribal Afghans) and troubled the British on the way to Delhi. You will experience shallow water levels and have to wiggle through narrow spots; hence, sturdy shoes and clothes are recommended. The best time to visit is between March and June for the best experience, as the cave is often closed during the monsoon season due to flooding risks. The entry fee is about ₹25.
Mindrolling Monastery
Just a short drive from the centre of Dehradun is Mindrolling Monastery, which is one of the largest Buddhist centres in India. From the moment you set foot on this property, it transports you into an oasis of peace that feels worlds apart from urban life. The architecture of the monastery is beautiful and grows on you immediately, especially the 220-foot Great Stupa. Exploring the interiors of the monastery, you’ll pass by stunning murals depicting Buddha’s life, impressive statues, and sacred texts that tell stories of Buddhist teachings, among many others. The monastery is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There is no admission fee, but there is a donation box to keep the monastery running.
Where to stay: Explore budget hotels in Dehradun
Places to Visit in Rishikesh
Laxman Jhula
While in Rishikesh, it is hard to miss Laxman Jhula. It is a well-known suspension bridge spanning about 450 feet across the Ganges River. The view of the river from the centre of the bridge is stunning, so it is not uncommon to see people take pictures of themselves on the bridge. It is named after the mythological character Laxman, who is said, in the Ramayana, to have crossed here first with only a rope made of jute. Walking across the bridge, you will get a real taste of life in Rishikesh with holy men in saffron robes, backpackers with their gear, and locals carrying goods.
Triveni Ghat
The node of spirituality in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat. Made famous as the presumed meeting place of the three sacred rivers, the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati. This ghat transforms every evening with its Ganga Aarti (river worship ceremony). If you arrive early, you will be amazed at how every space is filled, especially as the priests perform aarti, flickering lamps from floating flower offerings, and chant in unison in the background. You can take a holy dip in the Ganges, where many visit to wash their sins away, feed the fish swarming the steps of the ghat, or just watch pilgrims performing their rituals. Also, don’t leave Triveni Ghat without trying the famous ‘Triveni Chai’ from one of the small stalls nearby.
Places to Visit in Mussoorie
Gun Hill
Envision standing on the second-highest peak in Mussoorie, taking a fresh breath of mountain air while gazing at the mesmerising panorama of the mighty Himalayas. Gun Hill is about 400 feet above the Mall road and provides you with some of the most wonderful views in Uttarakhand. To access this splendid destination, you have to take an exhilarating 5-minute cable car ride. The ropeway takes passengers from the hill base to the top from 10 AM to 6 PM and costs about ₹75 for a round trip. However, you can also take the 30-minute uphill hike from Mall Road to Gun Hill. The hill has a distinct name because of the British era, when a cannon was fired at noon every day from Gun Hill so the locals could calibrate their watches.
Kempty Falls
Kempty Falls is only about 15 kilometres from Mussoorie town and is probably the best place to cool down during your hill station trip. The fall descends from a height of 40 feet down into a natural swimming pool, where you can escape the heat. You’ll find the stunning landscape of Kempty Falls flowing among the lush green mountains. The falls area has been developed in recent years with changing rooms, cafes, and souvenir stalls for your refreshment and shopping. The best times to visit are in the mornings, when there are fewer people. During the monsoon, the waterfall is in its full glory, but avoid swimming due to safety concerns. It is recommended to stay at one of the hotels in Mussorie that are close by, so you can relax after a long day of trekking. Treebo Hotels is a crowd favourite that offers premium stays on a budget.
Places to Visit in Nainital
Nainital Lake (Naini Lake)
Nainital Lake is the crown jewel of this beautiful hill station. Once you arrive here at the emerald-green lake, you will understand why it is the heart and soul of Nainital. The pear-shaped lake lies snugly amongst seven mountains, providing a picturesque view that will make your Instagram followers envious. You can also experience a pleasant boat ride across the calm water in the traditional wooden boats (naini). For about ₹500, you can hire a paddleboat for 30 minutes. Mall Road, surrounding the lake, is perfect for a leisurely evening stroll. Here, you can sample treats from cafes and sip hot chocolate as the sun sets behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over both the water and the town.
Naina Devi Temple
Walk a short distance from Naini Lake to find the holy shrine of the Goddess Naina Devi, prominent in Hindu folklore and frequented by pilgrims throughout India. The atmosphere of peacefulness and the architectural features are well worth your visit. The bell-laden entrance and intricately decorated woodwork evoke a magical space. Expect breathtaking panoramic views looking down on Nainital Lake and around the Kumaon hills from the temple complex. If possible, reach there for a morning aarti at around 6:00 AM when you can experience the divine atmosphere; the smoke from incense lingers and the devotional songs fill the air.
Places to Visit in Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri
Visiting Haridwar? Start with Har Ki Pauri, the holiest ghat, where the Ganges emerges from the mountains and flows into the plains from the last 3000 years, and where people have been making pilgrimages for centuries. The view during the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony will mesmerise you. Singing bells, priests swinging huge flaming lamps, hundreds of tiny leaf boats filled with flowers and flickering candles. At night, the aarti is spectacular when darkness falls and the river glows with more floating lights than you can ever imagine. The best time is the morning before the crowd starts coming in. It’s better to drop off your luggage at any of the nearby hotels in Hardiwar and carry a pair of traditional clothes to change into during your temple visit. Hotel chains like Treebo Hotels offer early check-in, which will help you start your sightseeing early.
Mansa Devi Temple
While you’re in Haridwar, you shouldn’t miss Mansa Devi Temple. While the views overlooking the city from Bilwa Parvat are majestic, Mansa Devi represents perfect peace for spiritual fulfilment. Taking a cable car from Haridwar to this place is exhilarating (also called the “Udan Khatola” by the locals). Panoramic views looking down at the Ganges winding between the streets of Haridwar will leave you wanting more. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, who is believed to fulfil all of your wishes. You will see many devotees tying a thread around a tree located inside the temple premises. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowd.
Your journey through Uttarakhand is a transformative experience. The warm hospitality of the locals, combined with the raw beauty of untouched nature, creates memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.