Updated 2 November 2026 · by the Singh Villa family
Known as Devbhoomi
Uttarakhand is often called Devbhoomi, the "land of the gods", for its many temples and sacred rivers, including the source of the Ganga. Alongside its spiritual side, it offers wildlife, Himalayan treks, colonial-era hill towns and a distinctive mountain cuisine. Here are ten experiences we recommend to our guests.
1. Yoga and the Ganga in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known worldwide as a centre of yoga and meditation, with ashrams offering drop-in classes and longer courses. Watch the evening Ganga aarti on the riverbanks, walk across the famous suspension bridges, and, outside the monsoon, try white-water rafting on the Ganga.
2. Evening aarti at Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
In Haridwar, one of India's holiest cities, thousands gather each evening at Har Ki Pauri ghat as priests perform the Ganga aarti with fire and song, and floating lamps drift down the river. It is one of the most moving sights in India.
3. Tiger safari in Jim Corbett National Park
Founded in 1936, Jim Corbett is India's oldest national park and one of the best places in the country to see Bengal tigers in the wild, along with elephants, deer and hundreds of bird species. Most safari zones open from mid-November to June; book permits well in advance.
4. The Valley of Flowers
This high-altitude valley, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Nanda Devi National Park, bursts into colour with hundreds of species of alpine flowers during the monsoon. It is open roughly June to October and is at its best in July and August.
5. Hill towns: Mussoorie and Nainital
Mussoorie, the "Queen of the Hills", offers colonial architecture, Mall Road walks and views over the Doon Valley. Nainital, built around a lake, is perfect for boating and gentle walks in the Kumaon hills.
6. Himalayan treks
Uttarakhand has treks for every level. The short climb from Chopta to Tungnath, among the highest Shiva temples in the world, and on to Chandrashila summit gives huge Himalayan views. Kedarkantha is a popular winter snow trek. Always trek with a registered local guide.
7. Snow and skiing in Auli
In winter, Auli's slopes become one of India's best-known ski areas, with views of Nanda Devi. Beginners can take lessons from local instructors in January and February.
8. The Char Dham temples
Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath form the Char Dham, one of Hinduism's most important pilgrimages. The temples open from around April–May to October–November, and pilgrims must register with the state before travelling.
9. Local food
Try Garhwali and Kumaoni dishes such as aloo ke gutke (spiced potatoes), bhatt ki churkani (black soybean curry), mandua (finger millet) roti and bal mithai, a fudge-like sweet from Almora. Many of our meals are made with local, seasonal ingredients.
10. Slow days in the mountains
Some of the best moments need no plan at all: a sunrise over the ranges, a village walk, a long lunch on the terrace. Ask us and we will help you shape days that suit your pace.
Stay with us in Uttarakhand
A private, family-run 3-bedroom villa near Ranikhet with Himalayan views and breakfast included. We reply to every inquiry within 24 hours.
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