Beautifully sitting in the lap of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand is one of the most northern states of India attracting tourists with its spectacular landscapes. With incredible vistas of might Himalayas and jungles, Uttarakhand takes you to an expedition that leaves lifetime memories in your heart and soul. The charming hill stations in contrast to the snow capped peak, offer views that will stay with you forever. Housing some popular wildlife attractions like Jim Corbett Tiger National Park, Asan Wetland Conservation Reserve, Uttarakhand is blessed with some amazing destinations.
People & Culture of Uttarakhand
The locals of Uttarakhand are deeply rooted to their cultures. The women of Uttarakhand don beautiful ghagra choli, which looks like a long skirt with a narrow waist. Men wear dhoti or pajamas with a kurta. Uttarakhand boasts of varied cultures, making it a diverse state which can be explored in the form of its music, dance and arts. Blessed with multiplicity of culture, people of Uttarakhand celebrate every festival with equal zest. One can spot many Garhwali and Kumaonis residing in the state. Other major ethnic groups of the state are the Bhotias, the Jaunsaries, the Tharus, the Bokshas and the Rajis. Hindi is the most widely spoken language here. It is the only state in India with Sanskrit as one of its official languages.
Adventure in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a dream destination for all the adventure enthusiasts seeking soul stirring activities. Showering travelers with countless adventure activities, paragliding in Mukteswar and Ranikhet, to skiing in Auli, from white water rafting and bungee jumping in Rishikesh, to wildlife safaris at the Corbett National Park, the state has a lot to offer.
Wildlife in Uttarakhand
The state is home to some of the most astonishing wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that take you a step closer to nature. The scenic vista of the state makes a perfect abode for various animals and birds. Jim Corbett national park is one of the most renowned attractions among wildlife enthusiasts visiting Uttarakhand. The park houses a variety of wildlife including Tigers, Elephants, Chital, Sambar Deer, Nilgai, Gharial, King Cobra, Muntjac, Wild boar, Hedgehog, common Musk Shrew, Flying fox and Indian Pangolin.
Rajaji National Park is another famous national park of Uttarakhand consisting of 315 avian species, including great pied hornbills, Himalayan pied kingfishers, pea fowls, woodpeckers, pheasants, barbets, the fire tailed sunbirds, etc. The Gangotri National Park is also known for its exotic flora and fauna, housing more than 15 species of mammals and 150 species of birds.
Other major wildlife hubs that make Uttarakhand a delight for wildlife enthusiasts are:
Religious Destinations in Uttarakhand
Allowing your soul to meditate amidst the divine powers, Uttarakhand is one of the most spectacular religious hubs. Thousands of pilgrims every year head for Rishikesh to meditate at the banks of holy river Ganga. Home to numerous Hindu temples and yoga ashrams, Rishikesh offers a soothing ambience. No traveller visiting Rishikesh ever misses the chance to visit Haridwar (‘Gateway to the Lord’). Haridwar is known for the grand Kumbh Mela, a festival celebrated once in twelve years.
Apart from these, Badrinath, located at an altitude of 3133 meters, also welcomes travellers with its divine appeal.
Other famous religious destinations in Uttarakhand that remain on the itinerary of spirituality seekers are:
Food in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is famous for its cuisines that exude simplicity. Some of the common dishes like Phanu (made of lentils), Kafuli (thick gravy preparation made from green leafy vegetables), Thechwani (made using radish root), Chainsoo (prepared with black gram daal) and Garhwali Jhol (made out of tomatoes, potatoes and other tubers) are among the popular dishes. Local sweets like Baadi and Arsa will leave a lasting taste on your tongue.
Fairs & Festivals in Uttarakhand
The ancient tradition of the state of Uttarakhand is reflected in its fairs and festivals. The fests here are celebrated to mark different occasions. While some celebrations are celebrated to welcome new seasons, others are celebrated to please the deity. Kumbh Mela of Uttarakhand is the bigger fair celebrated by Hindu devotees. The fair is celebrated four times at four locations in every twelve years. Another prominent festival celebrated here is the Kanvad Yatra taken up by the devotees of Lord Shiva. During the fair, pilgrims embark on huge processions from various villages, collect waters of the holy river Ganga from Haridwar, and walk back to their houses.
Nanda Devi Raj Jaat is another famous grand festival of Uttarakhand, celebrated once in every twelve years. The fair beautifully mirrors the deeply rooted beliefs of the locals towards their culture, religion and traditions. Another festival, Bissu Mela marks the harvesting season, and is also a beautiful representation of vivid cultures of Uttarakhand.
The Kangdali Festival held every twelve years between the months of August and October involves an imposing march with children and men armed with swords and shields, and women folk leading the procession. The festival is a sheer delight with the sights of richest cultures of the state.
Other major festivals and fairs of Uttarakhand are:
Weather Conditions in Uttarakhand
Although Uttarakhand can be visited throughout the year, summers are the best time to visit. The climatic condition during this time is perfect for outdoor activities.
Winters are extremely cold and bring along heavy snowfall.
Monsoon can be harsh in Uttarakhand as rains lead to landslides in some regions.
How to Reach Uttarakhand
By Air - Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, Pantnagar airport and Pithoragarh’s Naini Saini Airport are three major airports of Uttarakhand, well connected to other states of India.
By Road - Many state buses run between Uttarakhand and other Indian cities. However, one must avoid road travel during rainfalls as the state experiences landslides in remote areas.
By Train - Some important junctions of Uttarakhand include Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Nainital, Kotdwar, Kathgodam, Pauri and Udham Singh Nagar.
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