Things to do in

Uttarakhand

Katarmal Sun Temple is a historic 9th-century open-air temple complex dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), located near Almora in Uttarakhand. Built during the Katyuri period and attributed to King Katarmalla, the temple is noted for its unique stone architecture, intricate carvings, and an array of subsidiary shrines set against a panoramic Himalayan backdrop.

Baijnath Temple Complex is a compact cluster of well-preserved stone temples from the Katyuri period (roughly 12th century), dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva (Baijnath). Set on the banks of the Gomti in a scenic Himalayan valley, the complex is notable for its Nagara-style stone architecture, finely carved sculptures, and tranquil riverside setting. The site remains an active pilgrimage centre and a good stop for cultural and heritage sightseeing in Kumaon.

Patal Bhuvaneshwar is an ancient natural limestone cave temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva, located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. The cave is famous for its natural rock formations, narrow passages, subterranean chambers and numerous shrines and idols carved by nature that devotees identify with Hindu deities. The site blends religious significance, geology and Himalayan scenery — making it a unique pilgrimage and sightseeing destination.

Experience a classic Himalayan sunrise over the Greater Himalayan range from Kausani's vantage points, then stroll the small terraced tea gardens for local tea tasting and a short cultural walk. The activity combines panoramic mountain views (including Nanda Devi, Trisul and Panchachuli peaks) with a relaxed introduction to local tea cultivation and hospitality in Kausani village.

Chaubatia Gardens is a historic orchard and botanical garden located just outside Ranikhet in Almora district, Uttarakhand. Spread across terraced slopes, the gardens are known for their fruit orchards (apples, peaches, apricots, plums, pears), well-kept flower beds, and panoramic Himalayan views. It is a popular spot for leisurely walks, photography, picnics, and enjoying unobstructed views of distant peaks on clear days.

A gentle, historically rich walk through the quiet Garhwal cantonment of Lansdowne, linking a series of viewpoints, colonial-era buildings and small attractions. The route is ideal for easy sightseeing, photography, short nature walks among pine and oak, and catching panoramic Himalayan views from several vantage points such as the famous Tip-in-Top. The walk is family-friendly and can be combined with a visit to Bhulla Tal (lake) and the Darwan Singh Museum (Gorkha Regimental Centre).

Chakrata Tiger Falls is a scenic waterfall set amid dense deodar and oak forests near the hill station of Chakrata in Dehradun district. The site pairs easily accessible waterfall viewing with high-altitude meadows (like Budher/Deoban) that offer panoramic Himalayan views, rhododendron blooms and superb camping and trekking opportunities. A great short escape from Dehradun for nature lovers, photographers and light trekkers.

Harsil Valley and the Dharali walk is a gentle-to-moderate nature and cultural walk set on the banks of the Bhagirathi River in the scenic Harsil area of Uttarkashi district. The route passes through silver birch, deodar and pine forests, terraced fields and traditional Jadh community apple orchards, offering panoramic views of the Bandarpunch and Gangotri group peaks. The walk is ideal for travelers seeking serene riverside landscapes, birdlife, local culture and easy alpine walking without technical trekking.

Experience authentic Kumaoni flavors in a guided tasting that brings local dishes, sweets and cooking traditions of the Kumaon region to your table. This activity combines a market visit, a home-style cooking demonstration or family meal, and guided tastings of signature items such as Bal Mithai, Aloo ke Gutke, Gahat/Bhatt preparations, and millet-based specialties. Suitable for food lovers and cultural travelers who want a hands-on introduction to Kumaoni culinary heritage.

Experience authentic Garhwali home-cooking and regional specialties across the Garhwal towns of Rishikesh, Srinagar (Garhwal) and Devprayag. This culinary route focuses on traditional vegetarian plates (thalis) and home-style preparations such as Kafuli, Phaanu, Gahat/Kaulth (horse-gram) dishes, Baadi, Jhangora kheer and local pickles. The tour mixes market tastings, small local eateries and a possible homestay or village kitchen visit with a cooking demonstration.

Cafe hopping by the Ganga is a relaxed, sensory experience along the eastern banks of the Ganga in the Lakshman Jhula–Tapovan stretch of Rishikesh. Enjoy riverside seating, vibrant rooftop views of the Ganges and the medieval suspension bridge, a mix of local and international café menus, live acoustic music in the evenings, and a mellow spiritual backdrop. Ideal for couples, friends, solo travelers and digital nomads seeking a scenic, low‑impact outing.

Explore the charming bazaars of Almora and Kausani to shop for authentic Kumaoni woolens and traditional handicrafts. These markets are known for their handwoven shawls, kambals (blankets), caps, wooden handicrafts, local jewelry, and Aipan artwork. Stroll through narrow lanes, meet local artisans, and pick up unique souvenirs while enjoying panoramic Himalayan views. Bring cash for small purchases and be prepared to bargain.

Paragliding tandem flights over the Bhimtal–Naukuchiatal lake belt offer spectacular aerial views of emerald lakes, pine-clad hills and terraced farms. This activity is suitable for beginners (tandem flights with certified pilots) and adventurous travellers who want a short exhilarating experience with professional supervision. Operators usually run flights from nearby hilltops when winds are favourable.

Auli Gorson Bugyal is a high-altitude alpine meadow near Auli (close to Joshimath) in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. The hike takes you across expansive grassy slopes, dotted with seasonal wildflowers and offering sweeping views of the Garhwal Himalaya (including peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedar Dome and Mana Parvat on clear days). It's suitable for moderately fit walkers and can be done as a short meadow walk or a longer half-day trek depending on route and weather.

Chopta Meadows Camping offers an alpine grassland overnight experience in the Chopta region of Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Campers stay in eco-friendly tents on the high meadows with panoramic views of the Himalaya (including Chaukhamba peaks), easy access to Tungnath temple and Chandrashila summit, and chances for stargazing, birdwatching and short nature walks.

Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo in Nainital is one of the few high‑altitude zoological parks in India, focused on Himalayan and alpine species. Perched above Nainital town, the compact zoo offers close views of animals adapted to colder climates, education about Himalayan biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts.

Dwarahat is a small hill-town in Almora district (Uttarakhand) known for a compact cluster of ancient stone temples set on a ridge. These temples — many showing influences of the Katyuri/Nagara style — feature finely carved stonework, carved pillars and ornate doorways. The site is both a cultural-architectural attraction and a living pilgrimage spot for locals.

Dhari Devi Temple is an ancient and revered hilltop shrine dedicated to Goddess Dhari Devi, located near Srinagar in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. The temple offers spiritual atmosphere, panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan foothills and valleys, and is culturally significant to local Garhwali communities. The site is accessible via a short uphill walk from the town and is often visited by pilgrims and tourists exploring the Garhwal region.

Panch Prayag Circuit Drive is a scenic and spiritual road trip along the upper reaches of the Alaknanda River in Garhwal, Uttarakhand. The route visits the five sacred confluences (Prayags) where tributaries join the Alaknanda: Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag. Expect river gorges, terraced hills, small hill towns, historic temples, and vivid views of the Himalaya.