Summers have officially begun in the northern plains of India, and people are seeking places to flee from the heat. Fortunately, Uttarakhand is a cool place, which makes for a great holiday destination against the scorching sun. The mountain station is one of the most popular destinations in India during winters and provides an astonishing view throughout the year, allowing you to rest on the Beacons of the Himalayas. Are there any other compelling reasons to visit? The peaceful mountains with active settlements and the warmth of the natural environment are ideal for extending time away from city life.
If You seek handpicked destinations, Uttarakhand has a lot to offer. Below is a list of such destinations that You can visit during summer:
Highlights Of Places In Uttarakhand
1. Kausani, Bageshwar
The Himalayas of Garhwal have preserved a wealth of scenic beauty and owing to that, Kausani is distinguished as the ‘Switzerland of India’ by Mahatma Gandhi. As a piece of India that thrives in peace, here is an opportunity to soak in the Himalayan atmosphere and learn about the village’s rich culture. Or, if you do not feel like working, you may simply enjoy the view of the snow-covered mountain ranges. As stated above, this location awes with the serenity it exudes:
Places of Attraction: Sumitranandan Pant Museum, Anasakti Ashram, Lakshmi Ashram and Baijnath Temple.
2. Chopta, Rudraprayag
Chopta is the ideal summers’ retreat due to its beautiful and captivating scenery which one can board at the scenic hotels that are located in high altitudes to make the most out of their summers. As the destination is located at a great altitude, the weather is pleasantly cool all year round.
The adventurous people can also make use of the even more telephonic options that the Chopta region offers, allowing them to explore untouched beauty of the nature surrounding new trekking and hiking spots. However, if you are not a believer it is no bother, since you can always still take a chopper ride to Kedarnath and back in about half a day. Chopta, as for every wandering soul, is a summer wonderland and paradise, with its rolling meadows, dense forests which are green all around and diverse Himalayan wildlife and flora, a summer dreamy destination.
Places of Attraction: Chandrashila, Tungnath, Bugyals and Deoria Taal.
3. Jeolikot, Nainital
Irrespective of if one is travelling with family with kids, friends or just individually, the appeal of this elegant location lies in its rightful use as a hidden gem as it has no commercial appeal so offers the opportunity of travelling off the beaten path. Jeollikot has a special charm during the summers, due to the great weather it always experiences all through the year. People can expect warm weather along with sunlight glistening the entirety of the region.
Points of Interest: Himalayan Botanical Garden, Sariyatal, Sattal Lake, Kilbury Road.
4. Binsar, Almora
Situated in the Binsar wildlife sanctuary, this quaint village is hidden in the lush greenery of Jhandi Dhar Hills and is mostly an untouched peace seeking tourist destination. This location is known to be the Garhwal King’s summer capital and still harbors hidden gems. Its an all-time hot spot for tourists considering the mighty Himalayas that surround it. Blended beautifully with the scenic snow capped peaks, Binsar has always proven to be an ideal summer retreat for tourists.
Tourist Attractions: Zero Point, Bineshwar Temple, Golu Devta Temple, and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
5. Munsiyari, Pithoragarh
Located in between the inner Himalayan region, Munsiyari is one of the prime locations for trekking and for panoramic views of up to 180 degrees. In today’s time, Munsiyari is popular among cyclists and meditative tourists both domestically and internationally. Munsiyari is known as the ‘little Kashmir’ and snow capped regions which adds to its beautiful reputation.
Points of Interest: Nanda Devi Temple, Birthi Falls, Maheshwari Kund, and Madkot Village.
6. Nainital
The Nainital whose name is derived from a gorgeous lake at the center of the town is highly sought after. This place has the best offering for someone looking to take a break from Delhi for a couple of days and looks forward to beating the summer heat of lower altitudes.WInter or Summer, any time of the year I am assured of witnessing a horde of devotees.
Attractions: Snow View, Naini Peak, Naini Lake, Tiffin Top And Eco Cave Gardens.
Places of Interest: Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, Bhyundar Valley and Ghangaria.
7. Chamoli’s Valley of Flowers National Park
Exotic Himalayan flowers of vivid colors available only at great heights make this Chamoli Valley of Flowers National Park a UNESCO world heritage site. Owing to the vibrant color of flowers, the place is inclusive of greenery and is a great escape as there is a lack of trees surrounding it. In order to keep the area in its natural form, the park is open for select months during the year and bans entry of outsiders. The spiritual enthusiasts can make the Badrinath which is located 40 kilometers away.
Attractions: Snow View, Naini Peak, Naini Lake, Tiffin Top And Eco Cave Gardens.
8. Auli, Chamoli
Auli is a popular winter vacation destination located at the southern end of the famous Bhagavan Badrinath Temple. The region is well known for its lush green rolling meadows, hiking journeys and camping out during summers. Auli can also be reached through a fun ropeway which is one of the must try activities when in Joshimath during summertime, Auli seamlessly connects to Joshimath through this ropeway. Enjoying the splendid view of far off mountain tops while the cool breeze blows away one’s summer stress will certainly create lasting memories.
Attraction Places: Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal and Joshimath
9. Lansdowne, Pauri Garhwal
It is renowned for being one of the most untapped and unpolluted hill stations in the state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level and it was built and developed by the Britishers for the Britishers to escape the unbearable heat of the summers experienced in the plains. This is evident with a few remaining government buildings. It is perfectly located for lounging in the secluded wildlife as it remains cut off from the region’s development. The region is bordered by lush green and dense pine forests, fostering an exquisite ecosystem. With patchy roads, this region was developed for and by the British.
Attraction Places: St. John’s church, Tarkeshwar temple, Bhulla Tal, Darwan Singh Museum and War Memorial.
10. Nag Tibba This plush green carpet topped mountain is the highest peak in the lesser Himalayan range and is a renowned trekking site sitting at an elevation of 3022 meters high. It is located within the Nag Tibba range and, hence derived its name from that, this mountain is predominantly climbed in the summers. Due to its altitude, which keeps it parallel to many other mountain regions, this area is known for its cool tempers and calm environment, perfect for lengthy treks.
11. Mukteshwar, Nainital
Mukteshwar Nainital is set apart thanks to its perfect view of the Himalayas, and offers great views on sunny days. The region is a perfect getaway for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of Haldwani which is around 72 kilometers away from Mukteshwar. Not only does Mukteshwar command great views and pleasant weather, the region is also of great cultural and historical importance, thus making it a fine weekend destination for those residing in Delhi or its surrounding areas.
Key Features: Mukteshwar Dham (which has been standing for 350 years), Chauli Ki Jali, and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute.
12. Ramgarh, Nainital
Best known as the ‘fruit bowl of Uttarakhand’, Ramgarh has a lot of fruit orchards and would work great for summer vacationing. One of the quietest locations in Uttarakhand, Ramgarh is split into two parts: Malla (upper) and Talla (lower). This only enhances the view by adding a refreshing sprinkle. Situated amidst Mukteshwar, surrounded by rich greenery, it is impossible to ignore this area. A good way to spend the holiday is to go with the family and spend time together.
Places of Attraction:Dadi View Point, Fruit Orchards (Peaches, Apricots, Pears, Apples).
13. Harsil, Uttarkashi
Harsil, located on the way to the Gangotri temple, is a lovely spot and I could spend ages trying to find the words to describe its glory. This location is perfect for a summer vacation in Uttarakhand because it is surrounded by the Bhagirathi river and valleys rife with thick greens, peaks, and Deodar trees. After visiting the temple, you can take a walk to some of the more secluded settlements to avoid the large throngs of pilgrims. To add more to the lustrous location, Harsil has tonnes of rhododendrons adding color to the already vibrant valley within which it is located.
Places of Attraction: Dharali, Mukhwas, Gangotri and Gangnani.
14. Ranikhet, Almora
Housing the Indian army, Ranikhet is located in the hilly region of a queen’s land and is an army cantonment with an impressive height of 1869 meters above sea level. The hills and mountains add to the entire setting by providing a panoramic view of firmly capping all the mountains in view with soft white snow. Not only the temples here attract attention, but the range of trees laden in fruit also encourage spending hot summers with loved ones making Ranikhet a must.
Places of Attraction: Jhula Devi Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, Golf Ground, Chaubatia Orchards and Dwarkahat.
15. Dhanaulti, Tehri Garhwal
Dhanaulti is located on the foothills of the Garhwal ranges of the Himalayas and has been a go to location to experience the cool and pleasant mountain breeze away from the sweltering conditions of the plains. The great view of the snow clad Himalayas complements this picturesque location nicely and would make for a great addition to your trip this coming summer. The tall trees offer plentiful shade and contribute in maintaining the cool ambience along with the summer wind which can offer an escape for many.
Areas of Interest: Dhanaulti Eco Park, Temple of Surkanda Devi, Temple of Dashavatar and Fortress of Deogarh.
16. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is one of the most sought after locations for Delhi items to spend over the weekends, which is perhaps the reason it remains a tourist hot spot even today. This location is blessed with several viewpoints, relatively clean air and high temperatures during all areas which can make a perfect getaway if the idea is to step away from city life for a couple of days to spend in the mountains while also paragliding and trekking.
Things to do: Explore Kempty Falls, Cloud’s end, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Gun Hill, and Lake Mist.
17. Uttarkashi
Uttarkashi, a sacred location for devout individuals, lies along the banks of river Bhagirathi. It is one of the most famous places in the world that is widely visited by a lot of people. Due to its widespread fame, Uttarkashi draws individuals from all over the globe for a spiritual experience. The combination of the Gangotri dham and the breathtaking natural settings creates an unforgettable experience.
It is not surprising that the location continues to entice individuals considering its picturesque setting. The sweeping vistas and serene landscape may lighten even the most burdened hearts. High-altitude flora and fauna are preserved in there and the rushing river provides cool winds and breezes to the sacred village. Besides this, the immense masses of pines, deodar, fir and other trees are there waiting to be discovered.
Things to do: Take a look at Gangotri Temple, Shakti Mandir, and Vishwanath Temple, want to delve deeper, and allow yourself to discover the Kuteti Devi Temple.
18. Chakrata, Dehradun
Quietly nestled between the Yamuna and Tons rivers, Chakrata was established as a military base for the British Indian army. The very place boasts some of the astonishingly mesmerizing scenes of the snow topped mountain ranges together with the river flowing through it adding serenity and beauty to it. This beautiful hill town is worth visiting during summer if you are looking for avoiding largely The preferred crowd pullers in Uttarakhand region.
Sites of Interest: Ramtal Garden, Vyas Shikhar, and Tiger Falls.
19. Bhimtal, Nainital
As the mythological geography behind Mahabharat’s story goes, Bhim, one of the most renowned characters during the epic, is the reason for this lake city’s Mahabharat stronghold and is celebrated for its visual beauty. A great place for a day out with family, relaxing together over some boats, a few gentle walks and a couple of hills. Say goodbye to those hot summer shades and welcome this cool mountain air, a change indeed.
Attraction Sites: Bhimtal Lake, Nal Damyanti Tal, Folk Culture Museum, and Bhimeshwar Mahadev
20. Chaukori, Pithoragarh
One can get lucrative views of the gorgeous snow clad ranges of the Himalayas right from Chaukori, within the gentle breeze that blows, there is an added experience of exoticness since the wind seems to be blowing from the mountain tops. The approach towards this village is literally described as bowl shaped, and it has been and still is the most preferred destination not only for those seeking excitement in outdoor activities, but also for those looking for solace and bird watching. You will have the magnificent nature surrounding you in a peaceful manner which will allow you to savor the warm months of summer.