Top Things to Do in Uttarakhand for an Memorable Trip

Uttarakhand, often known as the Land of the Gods, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual experiences. This stunning northern Indian state is blessed with snow-capped Himalayan peaks, verdant valleys, sacred temples, and thrilling adventure activities that draw tourists from across the world.

From trekking through alpine meadows to witnessing mystical rituals by the Ganga River, there is an abundant list of things to do in Uttarakhand and places to visit for everyone:

Rishikesh, known as the Adventure Capital of India, is famous for its exhilarating river rafting experiences. Navigating the rapids of the Ganga River while surrounded by the Himalayan foothills is an adrenaline-pumping adventure that you simply cannot miss.

Rafting routes here range from Grade I (easy) to Grade IV (challenging), offering something for beginners and seasoned adventurers. Besides rafting, you can enhance your experience with overnight riverside camping, bonfire evenings, and nature treks.

For those planning a Uttarakhand trip, rafting is best enjoyed between March and June or September and November. Avoid the monsoon season, when rafting is suspended due to strong currents.

For adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti in Rishikesh is one of the most electrifying Uttarakhand activities. This thrilling experience involves jumping from a height of 83 meters over a tributary of the Ganga River while being surrounded by majestic mountain landscapes.

This activity is conducted under the supervision of trained professionals, ensuring both safety and excitement. It’s not just a leap—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory that will leave you feeling invincible. If you’re compiling a list of things to do in Uttarakhand, bungee jumping deserves a top spot.

Camping in Uttarakhand is a magical experience where you can reconnect with nature. Popular camping destinations like Chopta, Dhanaulti, and Dayara Bugyal offer a serene escape from city life. Imagine waking up to the sound of chirping birds and the sight of snow-capped peaks as you sip on a warm cup of tea.

Camping is also an affordable way to explore Uttarakhand attractions while immersing yourself in local culture. Many campsites offer adventure activities such as stargazing, hiking, and birdwatching, making your stay even more memorable.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a jeep safari at Jim Corbett National Park is one of the best activities in Uttarakhand. Established in 1936, it is India’s oldest national park and a prime destination for spotting the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Apart from tigers, you can also see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and over 600 species of birds. The park is divided into different zones, each offering a unique perspective on the rich biodiversity.

Best Time to Visit: During winter (November to February) and summer (March to June) for tiger spotting, as the park is open for safaris

Nestled in the Chamoli district, the Valley of Flowers is one of the most picturesque Uttarakhand attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site bursts into bloom from June to September, showcasing a stunning array of rare alpine flowers.

The trek to the valley is moderately challenging but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. If you are a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, this place should be a highlight of your Uttarakhand trip.

One of the most soul-stirring things to do in Uttarakhand is attending the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar or Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh. As the sun sets, the banks of the Ganga River light up with flames, prayers, and chanting.

This spiritual experience draws pilgrims, tourists, and seekers alike. Whether you are religious or simply a lover of culture, the Ganga Aarti is a profound and moving experience.

Paragliding in Uttarakhand offers a thrilling experience with stunning views of the Himalayas and lush valleys. Popular spots like Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, and Bhimtal provide safe adventures guided by professionals. Adding this activity to your Uttarakhand trip is a perfect way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. The best time to go is from March to June and September to November for clear skies and ideal flying conditions.

Located just a few kilometers from Dehradun, Robber’s Cave is a mysterious natural wonder. The cave is famous for its narrow gorge through which a stream of water flows, making it a unique place to explore.

Legend has it that dacoits (robbers) used to hide here during the British era, giving the cave its intriguing name. It’s a fun and family-friendly destination for those seeking an offbeat adventure in Uttarakhand.

Auli is India’s premier skiing destination and one of the most exciting Uttarakhand activities for winter lovers. The region’s powdery snow and gentle slopes make it perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers.

From January to March, you can enjoy not just skiing but also snowboarding, cable car rides, and breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat.

Located in Rishikesh, the Beatles Ashram holds a special place for both music lovers and spiritual seekers. In 1968, the Beatles visited this ashram to study Transcendental Meditation, leaving behind a legacy of music and art.

Today, the abandoned ashram is a graffiti wonderland, with stunning murals dedicated to the legendary band.

Known as the Mountain of the Serpent, the Nag Tibba Trek is a popular and beginner-friendly adventure, making it one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand. At 9,915 feet, it is the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range and offers breathtaking views of the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kedarnath peaks. The trek takes you through dense forests and meadows, with stunning sunrise and sunset vistas. Ideal for a quick getaway, it’s a perfect addition to your Uttarakhand trip. The best time to visit is from september to December.

One of the most revered Uttarakhand attractions, the Char Dham Yatra is a spiritual journey to the four sacred Hindu shrines—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

This pilgrimage is not only a religious experience but also an adventure, as the journey takes you through breathtaking mountain passes, glacial rivers, and lush valleys. If you are looking for a blend of spirituality and adventure, this is one of the most meaningful things to do in Uttarakhand.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November (avoiding extreme winter).

Trekking is among the top activities in Uttarakhand, and the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most rewarding. The trek takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and past the Tungnath Temple—the highest Shiva temple in the world.

At Chandrashila Peak, you’ll witness breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. This trek is perfect for beginners as well as seasoned hikers looking for scenic beauty.

One of the must-do Uttarakhand activities is a boat ride on Naini Lake. This mango-shaped lake, nestled in the heart of Nainital, offers a serene experience surrounded by hills and pine forests.

Whether you choose a traditional rowboat or a romantic paddleboat, floating on the calm waters with the cool mountain breeze is a magical experience.

The Kedarkantha trek is a must-try for adventure lovers and one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand. Located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, this trek reaches an altitude of 12,500 feet and offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpunch. Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, the best time to visit is from December to April when the snow transforms the trail into a winter wonderland.

For those looking for offbeat trekking experiences, the Har Ki Dun Trek is among the best things to do in Uttarakhand. This ancient trail, believed to be used by the Pandavas on their way to heaven, takes you through remote villages, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows.

The trek provides a glimpse into traditional Himalayan culture, with wooden houses, temples, and warm local hospitality.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.

For a relaxing escape, visit the Kausani Tea Estate—a scenic haven known for its lush tea gardens and panoramic views of Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli peaks.

Take a guided tea tour, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a fresh cup of organic tea while soaking in the serene ambiance.

If you’re looking for unique Uttarakhand attractions, visit Patal Bhuvaneshwar, an ancient limestone cave temple near Pithoragarh.

This mystical cave, believed to be the abode of 33 crore Hindu deities, features intricate stalactites and stalagmites forming natural sculptures of Hindu gods. The experience of exploring this underground wonder is both spiritual and thrilling.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in the Kumaon Hills, it offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, lush oak and rhododendron forests, and diverse wildlife, including leopards, barking deer, and over 200 species of birds.

Hike to Zero Point, the highest point in the sanctuary, for unobstructed views of Nanda Devi and Kedarnath.

Located at an altitude of 15,197 feet, Hemkund Sahib is among the most revered Sikh shrines and one of the most scenic Uttarakhand attractions.

The trek to Hemkund Sahib takes you through snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. Despite its challenging terrain, the spiritual atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile journey.

Also known as the Skeleton Lake Trek, the Roopkund trek is extremely challenging. If you are an adventure lover, then this trek is your answer to what to do in Uttarakhand. The best time to complete this is during the winter when you can view the snow-capped peaks and the bugyal grasslands.

Kanatal is an offbeat hill station perfect for those looking for peace and solitude. Surrounded by lush forests and apple orchards, it offers nature walks, camping, and bonfire experiences.

For adventure lovers, trekking to Surkanda Devi Temple and rappelling through rocky terrains are among the best activities in Uttarakhand.

A Uttarakhand trip is incomplete without a visit to Kempty Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in India.

Located on the Mussoorie-Dehradun highway, it is a perfect place for a day picnic, where you can take a dip in the natural pool, enjoy snacks from local stalls, and capture the majestic waterfall in all its glory.

For a picture-perfect Himalayan experience, visit Deoria Tal, a serene lake that reflects the snow-covered peaks of Chaukhamba and Neelkanth.

A short trek from Sari village leads you to this breathtaking spot, where you can enjoy camping, stargazing, and photography.