The picturesque state of Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi, is nestled on the lap of the Himalayas. The state is brimmed with beautiful and varied landscapes, from wildlife havens to snow-covered destinations and scenic verdant beauty. The sacred Ganga River flows through this state. Needless to say, Uttarakhand receives a heavy footfall of pilgrims who embark on a sacred journey to Char Dham Yatra. Apart from these four highly revered shrines, Uttarakhand is home to several other religious places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Uttarkashi, Joshimath, and so on. Besides these places, the popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand encompass Nainital, Mussoorie, Jim Corbett National Park, Dehradun, Ranikhet, etc. During the peak tourist season, these destinations usually become overcrowded. The primary purpose of weekend trips is to beat the city’s busy life and look for some bliss. This leads to overcrowding of the popular destinations in Uttarakhand. Therefore, it is better to choose the lesser-known destinations in Uttarakhand, to escape the congregation. Delhi, India's capital, lies so close to Uttarakhand, that reaching most of the locations in this pristine state is just a few hours’ drive away.
Rajaji National Park (220 km) - Rajaji National Park, nestled between Haridwar and Rishikesh is a charming wildlife destination, with a wide variety of animals, birds and flora species. Serving as a residence to grasslands and forest areas, the safari drive in Rajaji National Park is a thrilling experience. Just a short drive from both Rishikesh and Haridwar, the entry gates to Rajaji safari zones are easily accessible from both the neighbouring cities. Just 220 km from this wildlife haven serves as a perfect weekend spot with a 4-hour drive from Delhi. The national park does not house a huge tiger population, but it boasts a significant elephant count. The beautiful scenery that engulfs the park soothes your eyes and mind. The morning and evening jeep safaris are the predominant attractions of Rajaji.
Lansdowne (258 km) - Lansdowne is a serene town exuding an archaic colonial charm. This tranquil hill station is adorned with dense pine and oak forests. Its picturesque landscape features charming churches, vibrant floral thickets, serene springs, and glistening ponds, creating a haven of natural beauty. Established in 1887 as a British cantonment, Lansdowne was favoured for its pleasant climate and named after Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India at the time. At present, it performs as the leading base for the Garhwal Rifles within the Indian Army. Visitors can explore this quaint town on foot, meandering through its scenic trails, discovering hidden temples and historic churches, or relaxing by the serene lake at its heart.
Kanatal (315 km) - Kanatal is a preferred destination for those yearning for tranquility amidst unspoiled natural surroundings. Visitors often opt for camping experiences, where hosts provide opportunities for activities such as trekking through nearby forests. The allure of spending a night under a starlit sky is especially captivating in this serene retreat. For those interested in exploring the cultural essence of Kanatal, the Surkanda Devi Temple is a must-visit. Dedicated to Goddess Sati, this revered temple is accessible via an easy 2-km trek, making it a perfect blend of spiritual and scenic exploration.
Chakrata (324 km) - Chakrata is a serene hill station located in the Dehradun district. The destination is mostly popular among young travellers, obsessed with trekking. The place is also ideal for a peaceful staycation. There are several homestays and resorts available in Chakrata. Apart from treks and trails, Tiger Falls, Budher caves, Deoban, Chilmiri Neck and Ramtal Horticulture Garden are the popular attractions in Chakratal.
Mukteshwar (338 km) - Just a few kilometres away from the popular and scenic hill station Nainital, Mukteshwar is a tranquil location covered with mist, clouds and neverending natural beauty. Mukteshwar Dham, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is the prime attraction here. Apart from the temple, tourists can spend some quality time strolling across the fruit orchards and forest areas.
