India
Uttarakhand travel guide
Uttarakhand ranges from the spiritual riverside towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar to the lake-set hill station of Nainital and higher-altitude bases for Himalayan treks. It draws travellers seeking yoga and wellness, adventure activities, or a straightforward hill-station break.
Why visit Uttarakhand
- Ganga Aarti and yoga culture in Rishikesh
- Nainital's lake and colonial-era hill station charm
- River rafting and adventure activities around Rishikesh
- Trekking bases towards the higher Himalayas
- Corbett National Park's wildlife safaris
Best time to visit
March to June and September to November are generally favoured for pleasant weather. Contact Tripeizer for current seasonal and road advice.
Recommended duration
4 to 6 nights, often combining Rishikesh, Nainital or Corbett.
Things to do
- Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh
- River rafting on the Ganges
- Boating and Naina Devi Temple visit in Nainital
- Wildlife safari in Corbett National Park
- Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula walk in Rishikesh
- Mall Road and viewpoints in Nainital
Food
Simple Kumaoni dishes such as bhatt ki churkani and aloo ke gutke, alongside widely available vegetarian North Indian food, particularly in Rishikesh.
Shopping
Woollens, local handicrafts and Ayurvedic products from Rishikesh and Nainital markets.
Culture
A strong spiritual and yoga tradition centres on Rishikesh, alongside Kumaoni hill culture around Nainital.
Family travel
Boating, wildlife safaris and gentle hill walks generally suit family travel.
Couples & honeymoon
Riverside resorts near Rishikesh and lakeside stays in Nainital appeal to couples seeking a short mountain getaway.
Hotels
Choices include riverside resorts and ashrams in Rishikesh, lakeside hotels in Nainital, and jungle lodges near Corbett.
Flights
Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is the nearest airport for Rishikesh, with connections from Delhi. Many travellers drive from Delhi (around 5 to 6 hours to Rishikesh) or Chandigarh, particularly for Corbett and Nainital.
Visa information
No visa is required for Indian nationals visiting Uttarakhand.
Travel tips
- Check monsoon-season road and rafting advisories before travel
- Book Corbett safaris in advance, as permits are limited
- Carry warm layers for early morning activities and higher altitudes
More destinations in India
FAQs
Yes, Rishikesh is one of India's most established rafting destinations, with stretches suited to different experience levels.
Visa decisions are made by the relevant embassy, consulate or immigration authority. Tripeizer does not guarantee visa approval.