Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) is a newly-carved state, but with its startling combination of Pilgrimage Sites, Hill-Stations, Wild Lives, Ayurveda and Adventure Sports - the packs quite a punch.
Travel.mapsofindia underlines a few major tourist attractions in Uttaranchal:
- Pilgrimage:
Hemmed by the austere mountains, mighty glaciers bringing forth gurgling hill brooks, flower beaded valleys and gentle clouds entwined in unending affair with the snow-white peaks - where else could be the abode of Gods. Many places in Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) like: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Badrinath, Kedarnath find several mentions in Hindu myths and legends and are considered sacred by the Hindus. Take a dip in the holy river the Ganga, visit the temples to watch an evening aarti - even the non-believer would have a soothing effect on the weary soul. Some places in Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) have of late gained fame as a prominent Yoga destination in India. - Hill Stations:
Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) also boasts of a number of hill stations like: Mussoorie, Nainital, Almora, Ranikhet, to name a few. Some of hill station in Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) had even seduced the British during the Raj era. The legacy still lingers there in the picturesque malls and beautiful hamlets. The places still continue to draw huge visitors for its fresh air, thick woods and breathtaking mountains.
- Wild Life:
With numerous national parks and game sanctuaries, Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) is a wild life hotspot. The first-ever national park in India was founded near Nainital in Corbett National Park where Project Tiger was also launched later. Rajaji National Park, Gangotri National Park are some other tourist attractions in Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal), replete in a plethora of rare birds and animals. The park remains closed in the monsoons. - Adventure:
For the adventure freak, there are a host of tourist attractions in Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal). With its rugged hilly terrains, rushing streams and the green-coated valleys, the land offers ample opportunity for adventures like: Skiing, Rafting, Golfing, mountain climbing and trekking. The mighty rivers in the Garhwal regions challenge the passionate rafter whereas the snow-clad slopes in Auli, Munsiyari lure the avid skier. The obscure wilderness of the state would unfailingly invite you to embark on an exciting trek.