G.B. International  ::-   India Tours ::-   Places of Interest in Uttaranchal



Uttranchal Tourist Places Pilgrimages Uttranchal Hills
Adventures Wildlife Uttranchal Tour North Cities
Nainital Corbett Haridwar Hill Stations
Other States

Tourist Places in Uttaranchal

Uttaranchal Tour Packages

Badrinath

The temple of Shri Badrinathji on the bank of the Alaknanda river , dates back to the vedic time and is situated at an altitude of 3,133 mts . The present temple is believed to have been built by Adi Guru Shankaracharya - an 8th century 's philosopher -saint , who also established a math here . Also known as Vishal badri , Badrinath is one of the Panch Badris.

Cradled in the twin montain ranges of Nar and Narayan, the Badrinath Temple is the holiest of the four main shrines. It is an important destination for every devout Hindu . Once the spot was carpeted with 'badris ' or wild berries and hence was famous as 'badri van'.

The revered shrine is still alive with myriad legends from mythology. Its sanctity is emphasised in the ancient scriptures as "there are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens , earth and the nether world ,but there has been none equal to badri , nor shall there be " Based upon legend the Ganga was requested to descend to earth to help the suffering humanity, and at the same time, the earth was unable to withstand the force of its descent . Therefore the mighty Ganga was split into twelve holy channels .

The temple remains closed duriing the winter season and is open from april - may to octobr - november.

 

Places of Interest in Badrinath:

 

Badrinath Temple

On the right bank of Alaknanda lies the sacred spot perched at an altitude of 3,133 meters above the sea level. Encircled by a beautiful valley, the 15 mts. high temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu. It is built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of a bull and spire.

Built by Adi guru Shankaracharya, the philosopher-saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated several times due to damage caused by avalanches. Its colourful 'singh dwara' or the main entrance gate gives it a new, modern look.

The temple is divided into three parts the 'garbha griha' or sanctum sanctorum, the' darshan mandap' where the rituals are conducted and the 'sabha mandap' where devotees assemble. The complex has 15 idols. Especially attractive is the one metre high image of Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone. It represents lord Vishnu seated in a meditative pose.

Tapt Kund

Devotees prefer a holy dip in the natural thermal springs on the banks of the river Alaknand, before entering the Badrinath Temple. The water of the Kund is believed to have medicinal properties.

Neelkanth

A pyramidal-shaped snowy peak towering above Badrinath, Popularly known as the `Garhwal Queen`.

Charanpaduka

The footprints of Lord Vishnu can be seen on a boulder in this beautiful meadow.

Brahma Kapil

 A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda where Hindus perform

Sheshnetra

A boulder having an impression of the legendary serpant- known as Sheshnag's eye.

Excursions in Badrinath

 

Hemkund Sahib (43 kms.)

Near the Valley of flowers is the holy lake Hemkund- an important pilgrimage of the Sikhs and Hindus. Along its shores is the sacred Sikh shrine where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru unified with god after Prolonged meditation in his previous birth. Nearby is the Lakshman Temple where Lakshman - the brother of Lord Rama performed his penance. The reflection of surrounding snow- clad peaks in its placid waters offers a scenic sight.

Mata Murti Temple (3 Kms.)

On the right bank of alaknana stands the temple dedicated to the mother of sri Badrinathji.

Mana Village (4 Kms.)

Inhabited by Indo-Mangolian tribe, it is considered to be the last Indian village before Tibet. On this route, nearby are Vyas Gufa-the rock cave of saint Ved Vyas, the writer of Mahabharata. Bhim Pul- a natural bridge over the Saraswati river and Vasundhara Falls- a 122 mts. high waterfall - forming an important part of the pilgrimage to Badrinath.

Alka Puri (15 kms.)

The source of alaknanda river from the glacier snouts of Bhagirath-kharak and satopanth glaciers.

Satopanth (25 Kms.)

A three cornered lake with a circumference of about 1 km., is situated at an elevation of 4,402 mts. above sea level. It is named after the Hindu triad - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, who are believed to occupy one, corner each of the lake. The trek is hazardous with dramatic landscapes. An experienced guide is advisable.

Govindghat (25 Kms.)

The confluence of alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers. It has an imposing Gurudwara named after Guru Gobind singh.

Joshimath (44 Kms.)

The winter home of Shri Badrinathji it is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. It is one of the four 'maths's established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya.

Auli (57 Kms.)

An ideal ski resort in the Garhwal Himalayas with its slopes comparable to the best in the world. Perched at an elevation of 2,500 mts, Auli not only offers a magnificent view of the Himalaya ranges but is a delight for winter sports enthusiasts.

Valley of Flowers (42 kms.) An exotic valley in a conical shape lies to the east of Badrinath with river Pushpawati flowing through it. The valley that is presently a national park, is 19 kms. trek from Govind Ghat. A must- see for all natural lovers.

Pipalkoti (80 Kms.)

A scenic spot amidst snow- clad peaks.

Chamoli (10 Kms.)

From Gopeshwar to Badrinath highway is the tiny mountain retreat that attracts visitors for its verdant landscap3s and fresh mountain air.

Srinagar (192 Kms.)

Srinagar district situated in the center of Kashmir Valley, is surrounded by five districts. In the north it is flanked by Kargil, in the South by Pulwama, in the north-west by Budgam. The capital city of Srinagar, is located 1730 metres above sea level. The district with a population of around 9,00,000 souls(1991- census), is spread over an area of 2228 Sq.Kms.

Gangotri

Visitors throng by hundreds and thousands every year, this 18th century temple constructed by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa , is near the spot where the goddess Ganga is said to have first descended on earth from heaven, in answer to the prayers of King Bhagirath.

The revered shrine of Gangotri, situated at an altitude of 3,200 mts. about sea-level amidst sylvan surroundings, constitutes one of the most important pilgrimages for the devout Hindu.

Lord Shiva received her into his matted locks to break the great force of her fall. From there it emerged into many streams and the one which started from Gangotri was called Bhagirathi.

The Pandavas, it is understood, came here to perform the great 'Deva Yajna' to atone for the death of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharat. The temple itself is situated on the right bank of the Bhagirathi .

There are a number of ashrams locked on the other side of the ashrams locked on the other side of the Bhagirathi, many of which provide accommodation facilities to the travellers.
 

Places of Religious Interest

Gaumukh glaciers(18 km.) -

the source of the Bhagrithi for a dip in its icy waters is dip in almost a must for pilgrims; and to the temple of Bhairavanth at Bhaironghati, (10 km.). GMVN Tourist Bungalow is located at Bhojbasa, about 14 km., from Gangotri, on the road to Uttarkashi, at the confluence of the Jat Ganga and Bhagirathi rivers.

Pilgrlims also trek to Nandanvan (6km) and Kedartal (18km) from Gangotri.

Haridwar

Haridwar Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar enjoys the privilege of having IIT at Roorkee, formerly known as University of Roorkee, founded in 1847 as a first Technical Institute of India.

The city is the centre for one of the "navratna PSUs of India" i.e BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals India Ltd.). The tomb Piran Kaliar of Shabir Shahib in Roorkee is a living example of religious harmony in India which is visited by the people of all religious sects from all over the world. There is another University in the city called Gurukul Kangri Vishva Vidyalaya apart from the head quarter of Uttaranchal State Public Service Commission also being established at Haridwar. The Kumbh fair is also organized at the interval of every 12 years in this city in which about 1 crore pilgrims from all over the world participate.

"Among the many pilgrimages that dot the length of the Ganga, Haridwar ranks among the most holy in the land " According to Hindu mythology Haridwar was known as Kapilsthan.

Legend has it that the ancestors of Raja Bhagirath, were consumed by fire at this spot following a curse of rishi Kapil. For their salvation Raja Bhagirath requested the Ganga to descend on Earth.

Haridwar is also famous by the names of Gangadwar, Mokshadwar, Tapovan and Mayapuri. It is at Haridwar that the Ganga finally energes into the northern plains.

The Kumbh and the Ardh Kumbh melas also take place here every 12 th & 6th year.
 

Places of Religious Interest:

Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar beautiful place is 2286 mts in altitude and 51 Kms. from Nainital. Surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest it was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is viewed as being the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalaya .An old temple of Lord Shiva exists on the top of a rock.

Surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest, it provides a majestic view of the Himalayas and the Almora town below in glittering moonlit nights.

The famous Indian Veterinary Research Institute is also located here.

EXCURSIONS:

Ramgarh: (26 kms) A picuresque hamlet in the heart of apple, plum. peaches and apricot orchards. This fruit belt of Kurnaon is famous for its juicy fruits all over India.

Bhowali: (40 kms) Situated at an altitude of 1706 rnts. on the main Haldwani-AIrnora road, Bhowali is a popular health resort.

Ghorakhhal: (37 kms) Famous for the temple of Gollu Devta, a derni-god highly revered by the Kurnaoni people. The famous Sainik School of India is also located here.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie offers a wonderful view of the Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east and the Doon Valley, Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the South, creating an almost serene atmosphere for the tourists. Mussoorie was discovered by Captain Young, an adventurous military officer in 1827. He was lured by the extraordinarily beautiful ridge and laid the foundation of it. Mussoorie is also a Gateway to the “Gangotri” and the “Yamunotri” shrines

Mussoorie, the queen of hill stations, is famous for its scenic beauty, gay social life and entertainment. The excellent climate makes it an attractive holiday resort. Thronged by holidayers, it vibrates with gaiety and merry making during the summer season. There are no steep inclines and the more adventurous can undertake enjoyable excursions to various beauty spots in the vicinity. Mussoorie affords glorious views of the mighty Himalayan peaks. Kempty falls which are about 11 kms. from the town attract hundreds of people every day. The Bhatta falls are also famous for scenic beauty.

Though the tourist here is smaller than that of Kempty yet it is a picnic spot near to the town. Yet another place of interest in the town is Depot Hill, popularly known as 'Lal Tibba'. It is considered the highest point in Mussoorie and beautiful Himalayan panorama is visible on all clear days from this spot. The Badrinath, Kedarnath, Bandar-poonch, Sri Kantha and Nanda Devi peaks can be seen from here. Camel's back hill can be reached by electric trolly. The top most point depicts a very beautiful view both of the hills as well as the valley. On clear days, one can see even the Ganga and the Yamuna from here. Mussoorie is well connected by roads with Dehra Dun, Delhi, Roorkee and Saharanpur. There are some good hotels, recreation clubs and restaurants to cater to the needs of the tourist.

Mussoorie, with its luschious green hills and varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill resort. Displaying a wonderful view of extensive Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east, and glittering views of the Doon Valley, Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the south, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists.

Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the present site and laid the foundation of this holiday resort which is not rivalled by many resorts.

Mussoorie is famous for its scenic beauty and hectic social life. It provides all kinds of amusement and every facility for domestic and foreign tourists. Mussoorie is conveniently connected by road to Delhi and other major cities and is the "Gateway" to Yamunotri and Gangotri shrines of Northern India.

Places of Interest in Mussoorie:

Camel’s Back Road:
The place offers a picturesque view of the sunset and a life like resemblance of a sitting camel. One can also enjoy long walks and horse riding here.

 Gun Hill:-
One can enjoy a thrilling ropeway ride to Gun Hill, the second highest peak of Mussoorie (2122 mts). The peak offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges.

 Mussoorie Lake:-
A newly developed picnic spot situated on Mussoorie-Dehradun road.

Vinog Mountain Quail Sanctuary:-
11 Kms to the southof Library Point lies an old sanctuary established in 1993 and covering an area of 339 hactares. It is famous for the extinct bird species, Mountain Quail(Pahari Bater), which was last spotted in 1876.

 Kempty Fall:-
15 kms from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road is the most fascinating and the biggest water fall, Kempty located in a beautiful valley of Mussoorie.
 Dhanolti:-
24 Kms from Mussoorie, Dhanolti provides us a breath-taking view of the valleys and the Himalayan peaks. The long wooded slopes, lazy outings, cool caressing breeze, warm and hospitable inhabitants, lovely weather and fabulous view of snow covered mountains makes it an ideal retreat for a relaxed holiday.

Nagtibba:
34 kms from Mussoorie one reaches Thatyur. 7 Kms further is devalsari and a 14 kms further trek to Nagtibba is an ideal spot for trekking.

 Surkanda Devi:
Situated at an elevation of 3030 mts above sea level near village Kaddukhal the temple of Surkanda Devi is 33 kms from Kaddukhal and one has to trek about 2 kms. The temple of Surkanda Devi is of religious significance. A fair is held every year on “Ganga Dussehra” during May-June in which thousands of people participate.

 Bhadraj Temple:
About 15 kms from Mussoorie, it is an ideal spot for trekking via Park Toll-Clods end, Dudhi. Situated on the extreme western region of Mussoorie town, Bhadraj offers a commanding view of the Doon Valley. Chakrata ranges and Jaunsar Bawar areas can be viewed from here. Bhadraj Temple is dedicated to Lord Bal Bhadra, brother of Lord Krishna.

Municipal Garden:
 The garden with its artificially created lake is a perfect picnic spot.
Yamuna Bridge:
About 27 kms from Mussoorie on Chakrata-Barkot road, is an ideal spot for fishing.

Trekking in Mussoorie:

Mussoorie-Nagtibba
Nagtibba offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. One can return via Panthwari Nainbagh and Kempty covering a total distance of 62 kms.

Mussoorie-Bhadraj

About 15 kms. from Mussoorie, it is an ideal spot for trekking via Park Toll-Clouds End, Dudhli. Situated on the extreme western region of Mussoorie town, Bhadraj offers a commanding view of the Doon Valley , Chakrata ranges and the Jaunsar Bawar area of Garhwal Himalayas. Bhadraj temple dedicated to Lord Bal Bhadra, brother of Lord Krishna, is situated on top of the hill. An annual fair is organised in the third week of August (Shravan Sankranti) every year.

 Mussoorie-Dhanolti

On this trek which is about 26 kms, one comes across some breath taking views of the Himalayan peaks and the valley. Mussoorie-suwakholi-Sahastradhara : One can drive upto Suwakholi, 11 kms. From Mussoorie and from there one can trek down to Sahastradhara and take a bus for Dehradun.

Nainital


Nainital is a glittering jewel in the Himalyan necklace, has natural scenic splendour and varied natural resources . Dotted with lakes , Nainital has earned the epithet of 'Lake District' of India . The most prominent of the lakes is Naini lake ringed by hills . Nainital has a varied topography . Some of the important places in the district are Nainital , Haldwani , Kaladhungi , Ramnagar , Bhowali , Ramgarh , Mukteshwar , Bhimtal , Sattal and Naukuchiatal . Nainital’s unending expense of scenic beauty is nothing short of a romance with awe-inspiring and pristine Mother nature.

History of nanital

Nainital is referred to in the ‘Manas Khand’ of the ‘Skanda Purana’ as the Tri-Rishi-Sarovar,the lake of the three sages ,Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha who were reputed to have arrived here on a penitential piligrimage, and, finding no water to quench their thirst dug a hole and siphoned water into it from Mansarovar the sacred lake in Tibet.

The Second important mythological reference to Nainital is as one of 64 ‘Shakti Peeths’.These centres were created wherever parts of charred body of Sati fell ,when Lord Shiva was carrying around her corpse in grief. It is said that the left eye (Nain) of Sati fell here and this gave rise to patron deity of town Nainital . It is said that the lake is formed in the emerald eye shape . Naina Devi temple is located at the northern end of the lake . Thus name of Nainital derivated from Naina and the tal (Lake).

Places of Interest in Nainital:

Lake: The center of Nainital’s exquisite beauty is a beautiful lake. In the day, mirrored in its waters stand seven proud hills, dotted with pretty cottages and villas. This reflection alone holds one spell bound. More beautiful than this however is the lake at night when the myriads of bulbs from the hill sides and quite a large number hanging near the lake’s edge stab their magic light into its waters.

The lake offers for those on a holiday ample opportunity for yachting, boating or paddling the boat. Rowing as well as paddling boats are available at both ends of lake.

The north end of lake is called Mallital while the southern one is called Tallital which have a bridge (Danth popularly named) having Gandhiji's statue and post office on its sides. It is the only Post Office on the lake bridge in whole of the world. There is Bus Station , Taxi stand and Railway reservation counter on the same lake bridge, both ends have well laid out shopping centers, with beautifully laid of marts ,stores and luxury shops.

 The Flatts:  At the northern side of the lake there is a place of rendezvous for people from all walks of life . Evenings are heavily crowded. There is a statue of Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant and a beautiful fountain . There is a band stand . The Flats has playing ground meant for sports games and cultural activities during festivals. There is Chat Bazar, Bhotia Market in the flats . In Bhotia Market vendors sell their fancy items .There is Mosque, Gurudwara and Naina Devi temple in flatts. Capitol cinema and Rink theater which is used for roller skating are also situated in Flatts. A portion of the flatts is used for car parking .New club ,Boat House club, Masonic Hall are in the periphery of the flatts for recreation.

Zoo: Around one Km. away from bus stand at an altitude of 2100 meters in sprawling open area there is Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo . Nowa -days it has Monkeys, Himalayan black bear ,Leopard ,Siberian Tiger,Palm civet cat, Wolf, Silver Pheasants, Rose ringed Prakeet, Hill Fox , Ghoral, Barking Deer, Sambhar. The zoo remains closed for visitors on Monday, all national holidays , Holi & Diwali.

Horse Riding: Horse riding is another important attraction for tourists in Nainital . Horses can be hired at Barapatthar . Several tourist use horses as their transport mode to visit the different peaks of Nainital.Horse. Riding is now strictly prohibitted inside the Nainital town.

 Kilbury: At an altitude of 2194 mts. and 10 Kms. from the town this place is accessible by a motorable road. There is a forest rest house for night stay. Kilbury is an ideal spot for a quiet and peaceful holiday.

 Naina Peak or China Peak: Naina peak is the highest peak of the town , at an altitude of 2611 mts. and at a distance of 6 Kms from the town .It commands an entrancing view of sparkling snow laden Himalayas from Bandar Punch in west to Api and Nari peaks of Nepal in the east , a full Himalayan range in one side and a birds eye view of the lake city of Nainital in its full grandeur on the other. With a pair of binoculars a good panorama of the tract surrounding Nainital is obtained . Pony or Horses can be hired to visit this peak either from Snow view or from Mallital.

 Snow View: It is the most easily accessible hill top, height 2270 mts. and at a distance of 2.5 Km from the town. The spot is accessible through ropeway . This peak is also connected by motor able road. Snow view as the name suggests offers an indescribably beautiful and breath taking picture of the glittering snows of Himalyas.It has a temple . Tea,snacks,Photographers are available at this place.

 Hanuman Garhi: It is around 3.5 Kms away from the bus stop at an altitude of 1951 Mt. Hanuman Garhi is a religious centre and famous for its sun set view. One can go to Hanuman Garhi by taxi, bus or even on foot from Nainital. It has a temple complex presiding deity being Lord Hanuman besides Ram and Shiva. At the instance of Neem Karoli Baba around 1950 these temples were built. On the other side of the hill there is Shitala Devi temple and Ashram of Lila Sah Bapu.

Caves Garden: This feature is the latest addition in the list of numerous tourism spots in Nainital . It is located in Sukha Tal around one Km from Mallital very near to Kumaun University Campus.

Excursions in Nainital:

Bhowali, Ghorakhal, Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiyatal, Kainchi Dham, Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, Kausani.

Uttranchal Tourist Places Pilgrimages Uttranchal Hills
Adventures Wildlife Uttranchal Tour North Cities
Nainital Corbett Haridwar Hill Stations
Other States

Send Your Query for Uttranchal...