Summer is the perfect time to go on a vacation, especially if you’re living in a place where the temperatures can get extremely high. If you’re looking for a place to cool off this summer, look no further than Uttarakhand. This Indian state is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic destinations that will take your breath away. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 summer destinations in Uttarakhand that you should consider visiting now.
Introduction
Located in the northern part of India, Uttarakhand is a beautiful state that boasts of some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. From snow-capped mountains to crystal-clear lakes, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. During the summer months, the state becomes a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the scorching heat and enjoy the cool breeze of the mountains. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 summer destinations in Uttarakhand that will help you beat the heat and enjoy a memorable vacation.
1. Nainital: The Lake City
In Uttarakhand’s Kumaon area sits the scenic hill town of Nainital. The city is known for its serene lakes, lush green hills, and beautiful temples. Nainital Lake, also known as Naini Lake, is the most popular attraction in the city. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake or take a stroll on the promenade that surrounds it. Other popular attractions in Nainital include Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, and Snow View Point.
2. Mussoorie: The Queen of Hills
A stunning hill town called Mussoorie may be found in the Himalayan foothills. The city is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy a cable car ride to Gun Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city. Other popular attractions in Mussoorie include Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, and the Mussoorie Lake. The city is also home to some of the best hotels and resorts in Uttarakhand.
3. Auli: The Skiing Destination
Auli is a well-known skiing resort in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. The city is known for its snow-covered slopes and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. During the winter, visitors can engage in winter sports including skiing and snowboarding. During the summer months, the city is a popular destination for trekking and hiking. The Auli Ropeway is a must-visit attraction in the city.
4. Rishikesh: The Adventure Capital of India
A little town called Rishikesh may be found in the Himalayan foothills. The city is known for its spiritual significance and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy river rafting, bungee jumping, and camping in Rishikesh. The city is a well-liked destination for spiritual searchers due to the presence of numerous yoga and meditation centers. The Ganga Aarti, a ritual that takes place on the banks of the river Ganges, is a must-see attraction in Rishikesh.
5. Lansdowne: The Quietest Hill Station
Lansdowne is a small hill station located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The city is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird-watching, and camping in Lansdowne. The city is also home to several temples and museums, including the Darwan Singh Museum and the St. Mary’s Church.
6. Jim Corbett National Park: The Tiger Reserve
The oldest national park in India, Jim Corbett National Park, is situated in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several endangered species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and elephant rides in the park to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is also home to several beautiful waterfalls and picnic spots.
7. Chakrata: The Serene Hill Station
Small hill town Chakrata may be found in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district. The city is known for its serene atmosphere and unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, and bird-watching in Chakrata. The city is also home to several temples and waterfalls, including the Tiger Falls and the Budher Caves.
8. Mukteshwar: The Peaceful Retreat
In Uttarakhand’s Nainital district is the little hill town of Mukteshwar. The city is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, and rock-climbing in Mukteshwar. The city is also home to several temples, including the Mukteshwar Temple and the Chauli Ki Jali.
9. Binsar: The Wildlife Sanctuary
The Almora area in Uttarakhand is home to the wildlife sanctuary known as Binsar. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several endangered species, including the Himalayan black bear and the barking deer. Visitors can enjoy trekking and camping in the sanctuary to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is also home to several beautiful temples, including the Binsar Mahadev Temple.
10. Ranikhet
In Uttarakhand’s Almora district sits the charming hill town of Ranikhet. Known for its tranquil and serene surroundings, Ranikhet is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The name “Ranikhet” literally translates to “Queen’s meadow”, and the town was named after a local legend that tells the story of a queen who was mesmerized by the beauty of the place and decided to make it her abode. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
One of the major attractions of Ranikhet is the Chaubatia Orchard, which is home to over 200 varieties of fruits and flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the orchard and sample some of the delicious fruits grown here. Another popular attraction is the Jhula Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga and is believed to fulfill the wishes of its devotees.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Ranikhet offers plenty of options. Numerous hiking routes that provide spectacular views of the Himalayas are all around the town. Visitors can also go camping, birdwatching, and mountain biking in the surrounding areas.
Ranikhet is also known for its colonial architecture, which is reflected in the many buildings and churches in the town. The most famous of these is the Chaubatia Palace, which was built by the British during their rule in India.
Overall, Ranikhet is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Uttarakhand. Its scenic beauty, serene surroundings, and numerous attractions make it a perfect getaway for those looking to relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature.
Conclusion
The state of Uttarakhand is lovely and has plenty to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure activities, spiritual retreats, or peaceful getaways, Uttarakhand has it all. The top 10 summer destinations in Uttarakhand that we’ve covered in this article are just a small glimpse of what this state has to offer. So, pack your bags, and head to Uttarakhand to discover the cool bliss of these stunning summer destinations.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand?
- The best time to visit Uttarakhand is during the summer months (April to June) and the winter months (October to February).
- How can I reach Uttarakhand?
- Uttarakhand is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The major airports in Uttarakhand are located in Dehradun and Pantnagar. The state is also connected to major cities in India through a network of national highways and railways.
- Are there any adventure activities available in Uttarakhand?
- Yes, Uttarakhand is known for its adventure activities, including river rafting, bungee jumping, trekking, and camping. Rishikesh and Jim Corbett National Park are particularly popular destinations for adventure enthusiasts.
- What are the popular hill stations in Uttarakhand?
- Some of the popular hill stations in Uttarakhand include Mussoorie, Nainital, Lansdowne, and Chakrata.
- What is the climate like in Uttarakhand during the summer months?
- The climate in Uttarakhand during the summer months is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, temperatures in some of the lower-altitude areas can sometimes reach up to 40 degrees Celsius.
