Places to visit in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has many tourist spots due to its location in the Himalayas. There are many ancient temples, forest reserves, national parks, hill stations, and mountain peaks that draw large number of tourists.

There are 44 nationally protected monuments in the state. Oak Grove School in the state is on the tentative list for World Heritage Sites. Two of the most holy rivers in Hinduism the Ganges and Yamuna, originate in Uttarakhand.

Binsar Devta is a popular Hindu temple in the area.

Uttarakhand has long been called "Land of the Gods as the state has some of the holiest Hindu shrines, and for more than a thousand years, pilgrims have been visiting the region in the hopes of salvation and purification from sin.

Rishikesh near Haridwar is known as the preeminent yoga centre of India.

The state has an abundance of temples and shrines, many dedicated to local deities or manifestations of Shiva and Durga, references to many of which can be found in Hindu scriptures and legends. Uttarakhand is, however, a place of pilgrimage for the adherents of other religions too.

Auli and Munsiari are well-known skiing resorts in the state.

The state has 12 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, which cover 13.8 percent of the total area of the state. They are located at different altitudes varying from 800 to 5400 metres. The oldest national park on the Indian sub-continent, Jim Corbett National Park, is a major tourist attraction.

For a sliver of Switzerland, head to Chopta. It is one of the most popular destinations for trekkers. Several hikes begin from Chopta and end at Chandrashila. The trail takes you through winding roads that open to views of snow-capped mountains. In winter, Chopta is a skiing hub.

Dharchula is a secluded region that offers peace and relaxation. It is located near the Kali River and invites you to discover new nooks and corners of solitude. Dharchula is dotted with trees like deodar, apple, oak, and pine, and you can get lost in the orchards.

Some of the places to explore are Narayan Ashram, Chirkila Dam, Askot Sanctuary and Jaulijibi.