15+ Things To Do In Uttarakhand For An Amazing Experience

From trekking in the lofty Himalayas to taking a dip in the holy Ganges, the top things to do in Uttarakhand offer something for everyone. Nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, and those into spirituality will find this place a paradise. The state is not just about snow-capped peaks and rushing rivers; it’s a treasure trove of culture, history, and mouthwatering local cuisine.

However, with so many places to visit in Uttarakhand, how do you make the most of your trip? That’s where we come in! Our blog will serve as your ultimate guide, giving you all the details of the Uttarakhand things to do that will make your experience unforgettable. 

Stay tuned to discover the hidden gems and popular hotspots that will make you fall in love with this extraordinary destination.

15+ Best Things To Do In Uttarakhand- The All-In-One Guide

• Trekking
• Rafting
• Jungle Safari
• Bungee Jumping
• Cable Car Ride
• Yoga
• Shopping
• Attend Ganga Aarti
• Relish Local Cuisine
• Flying Fox
• Chota Char Dham Yatra
• Visit The Temples
• Explore Beatles Ashram
• Camping
• Visit The Tea Estate
• Paragliding
• Skiing
• Boat Ride

1. Trekking

It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, there are routes to suit every level. If you’re looking for adventure activities in Uttarakhand, trekking should be at the top of your list.

Best Places For Trekking

Valley of Flowers: An enchanting trail through a vibrant floral paradise.

Roopkund: Known as the ‘Skeleton Lake,’ this one’s for thrill seekers!

Almora: A less crowded option with scenic beauty, Almora’s things to do always include trekking.

Chakrata: For those looking for offbeat trails and solitude, things to do in Chakrata often begin with trekking.

Best Time For Trekking

The ideal time for Trekking is May to October. 

Average Cost

Expect to spend around INR 10,000 to 20,000 ($130-$270) per person, depending on the trek and amenities.

Before you tie those laces and start your journey, here’s a quick Uttarakhand travel tip: always check the weather forecast and prepare for sudden climate changes. Nothing should stop you from enjoying the best trekking in Uttarakhand or the other local activities, like things to do in Dhanaulti. 

2. Rafting

Best Places For Rafting

Rishikesh: The most popular spot for rafting, offering various levels of difficulty.

Shivpuri: Renowned for its long stretches of rapids, it’s perfect for those looking for a bit more challenge.

Kaudiyala: Perfect for professional rafters, offering grade III and IV rapids.

Chamba: Offers a quieter setting, but is still one of the fantastic things to do in Chamba, Uttarakhand.

Best Time For Rafting

The ideal time for rafting is from late September to mid-November and then from March to early May.

Average Cost

The average cost for a rafting experience ranges from INR 500 to INR 1500 per person, depending on the length and level of the course.

So, if you’re making a list of things to do near Rishikesh or things to do in Rishikesh, make sure you pencil in some time for this exhilarating water adventure.

3. Jungle Safari

Trust us, this is one of those things to do in Jim Corbett that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Best Places For Jungle Safari

Jim Corbett National Park: For diverse wildlife and majestic tigers.

Rajaji National Park: Known for elephants and birdwatching.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Ideal for spotting leopards and deer.

Nanda Devi National Park: Perfect for observing high-altitude flora and fauna.

Best Time For Jungle Safari

October to June is considered the best time for jungle safaris in Uttarakhand.

Average Cost

The average cost for a Jungle Safari ranges from ₹1500 to ₹3000 per person.

4. Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh, in particular, has gained immense popularity for this adrenaline-pumping activity. If you’re looking for thrilling things to do in Rishikesh or things to do near Rishikesh, bungee jumping should be at the top of your list.

Best Places For Bungee Jumping

Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh

Mohan Chatti, Rishikesh

Shivpuri, Rishikesh

Neelkanth Road, Rishikesh

Best Time For Bungee Jumping

September to November.

Average Cost

INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per jump.

5. Cable Car Ride

This activity tops the list of Nainital things to do, and the ride over the Naini Lake is a surreal journey. For those exploring Mussoorie, a cable car ride is among the must-try things to do in Mussoorie, offering panoramic vistas of the Doon Valley.

Best Places For Cable Car Ride

Nainital: For a stunning view of the Naini Lake.

Mussoorie: To reach the top of Gun Hill and enjoy panoramic vistas.

Auli: Perfect for ski lovers, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Dehradun: Takes you to the famous Surkanda Devi Temple.

Best Time For Cable Car Ride

October to June, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Average Cost

Prices range from INR 200 to INR 500, depending on the location and the length of the ride.

6. Yoga

Best Places For Yoga

Rishikesh: Famous for its yoga ashrams and serene environment.

Haridwar: Offers yoga experiences with a deeply spiritual touch.

Dehradun: A quiet city that has some excellent places for yoga retreats.

Best Time For Yoga

The best time to experience yoga in Uttarakhand is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

7. Shopping

Whether it’s the intricate woolens of Almora or the spiritual items in Haridwar, each region has something special to offer. Among the things to do in Uttarakhand, don’t forget to grab souvenirs like handmade candles in Nainital or the famous “Aipan” art items.

Best Places For Shopping

Nainital Bazaar: For candles and woollens – Nainital things to do include a visit to this bustling market.

Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar: For religious items and crafts, – a must-visit while considering things to do in Haridwar.

Lala Bazaar in Almora: For handicrafts and organic products, – is one of the unique things to do in Almora.

Best Time For Shopping

Late afternoon or early evening is the best time for shopping in Uttarakhand when the markets come alive with both locals and tourists.

8. Attend Ganga Aarti

Soon, large fire-lit lamps are raised to the sky, filling the air with a mystical energy. It’s not just a ritual; it’s a celebration that captures the soul of India. For both spiritual seekers and curious travelers, it’s one of the must-experience things to do in Haridwar.

Best Places For Attending Ganga Aarti

Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar is the most famous spot. Crowds gather here, but the energy is electric and the experience deeply moving.

Best Time For Attending Ganga Aarti

The aarti takes place every evening, but it’s especially mesmerizing during festivals and full moon nights.

9. Relish Local Cuisine

Dishes like ‘Aloo ke Gutke’, spicy potatoes seasoned with local herbs, and ‘Kumaoni Raita’, a tangy preparation of yogurt, are must-tries for every food lover. The cuisine here isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience that connects you with the very soul of Uttarakhand.

Best Places For Relishing Local Cuisine

Nainital

Dehradun

Rishikesh

Mussoorie

Best Time For Relishing Local Cuisine

The monsoon season (July to September), when the fresh produce is abundant, and the cool weather complements the warm, hearty dishes.

10. Flying Fox

You’re safely harnessed to a cable, and you launch yourself off a platform, zooming towards another platform at the other end. The experience is not just adrenaline-pumping but also offers stunning views of the landscape below. If you’re an adventure-seeker looking to feel alive, this is a must-try activity for you.

Best Places For Flying Fox

Rishikesh

Mussoorie

Nainital

Best Time For Flying Fox

The best time for Flying Fox in Uttarakhand is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

11. Chota Char Dham Yatra

Each of these places has its own unique spiritual significance and natural beauty, making it one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand for those in search of both adventure and tranquility. 

While Yamunotri is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna and is the source of the Yamuna River, Gangotri celebrates the descent of the holy Ganges. Kedarnath houses the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, and Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Best Time For Chota Char Dham Yatra

May to June and September to October.

12. Visit The Temples

They offer not just a spiritual experience but also a chance to witness breathtaking architecture and scenic beauty. The temples are usually surrounded by hills, lush greenery, or flowing rivers, making your visit a blend of devotion and nature. 

This is a unique opportunity to connect with the rich history and spirituality that Uttarakhand has to offer.

Best Temples To Visit

Kedarnath

Badrinath

Tungnath

Neelkanth

Best Time For Visiting The Temples

The best time to explore these temples is from May to October, avoiding the harsh winter months.

13. Explore Beatles Ashram

You can still see the meditation huts and the big hall where everyone gathered. Walking around, you feel a sense of calm and inspiration. It’s like stepping back in time and feeling the vibe of the 1960s. 

Rishikesh’s scenery is also beautiful, with the Ganges River nearby. This is one of the best things to do in Uttarakhand if you love music, and history, or just want a peaceful place to relax.

Best Time For Visiting The Ashram

October to March

14. Camping

Camping in Uttarakhand offers you a break from the busy city life. You can wake up to the chirping of birds and go to sleep looking at the night sky full of stars. If you’re wondering about things to do in Uttarakhand, camping should be at the top of your list. 

From adventure activities like trekking and rafting to simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Uttarakhand things offer something for everyone.

Places For Camping

Rishikesh

Nainital

Corbett

Auli

Best Time For Camping

March to June and September to November are the best months for camping in Uttarakhand.

15. Visit The Tea Estate

You’ll hear birds chirping and the sound of wind rustling through the leaves. Women and men in colorful clothes carefully pick tea leaves. You can even join them and learn how it’s done. 

Sometimes, you can go inside the factory and see how the picked leaves turn into tea. The whole place feels calm and beautiful.

Tea Estates In Uttarakhand

Kausani

Chamoli

Nainital

Dehradun

Best Time For Visiting The Tea Estates

The best time to visit is between March and October.

16. Paragliding

This northern state of India offers some of the best spots for paragliding, and it’s a must-try for anyone who loves adventure. It is safe, and even if you are doing it for the first time, trained instructors are there to help you. 

Whether you are a beginner or an expert, the experience is breathtaking. The ride lasts for about 15 to 30 minutes, but the memory lasts a lifetime.

Places For Paragliding

Nainital

Mussoorie

Ranikhet

Rishikesh

Best Time For Paragliding

The best time to go paragliding in Uttarakhand is from May to September.

17. Skiing

Skiers from around the world come here to glide down the pristine slopes, feeling the chilly winds on their faces and admiring the panoramic mountain views. Uttarakhand offers various ski spots that cater to both beginners and professionals. 

The smooth, snow-covered slopes make skiing enjoyable and memorable. Moreover, the state also provides training programs for those willing to learn this thrilling sport.

Places For Skiing

Auli

Mundali

Dayara Bugyal

Munsyari

Best Time For Skiing

December to March.

18. Boat Ride

The sky above is clear blue, and you can hear birds singing. Sometimes, you see fish jumping out of the water. The air is fresh, and a cool breeze makes you feel peaceful. As the boat moves, you feel like you are going to a magical place. 

The ride is smooth, and it’s easy to forget all your worries. You take pictures, but you know that no camera can capture how special this is. For a few moments, it feels like time stops.

Places For Boat Ride

Nainital

Bhimtal

Rishikesh

Tehri

Best Time For Boat Ride

March to June and September to November.

So there you have it, a treasure trove of activities and experiences waiting for you in Uttarakhand. From thrilling treks to peaceful boat rides, this state offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to make lifelong memories in this stunning corner of India. Plan your trip today!