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Uttarakhand, the 27th state of India, is also known as the "Land of Gods". Presence of innumerable temples at various corners of the state welcome pilgrims from round the globe. But does Uttarakhand only cater to pilgrims? The presence of the mighty Himalayas perhaps does not allow so.
Not only does the Himalayas support various adventurous activities like trekking, skiing, rock climbing and mountaineering, also various rivers whose source lies in the Himalayas entertain water sports like rafting and kayaking.
Uttarakhand is also renowned for some of the pristine lakes in the country. Various species of flora and fauna in the Corbett Wildlife Sanctuary and Valley of Flowers or the colourful life and culture of the people residing here will surely mesmerise you. Apart from the natural beauty, various cities of Uttarakhand harbour charm in themselves which will be a pleasure to unfold.
Here are listed some of the vibrant colours of Uttarakhand which will compel you to fall in love with the state and bound you to plan a trip to this beautiful place.
Pilgrimage
Uttarakhand nestling by the Himalayas is the hub of pilgrims. People from all over the world come here to pay their homage to various Hindu deities, especially Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath,Rudraprayag, Devprayag, Karnaprayag are the hub of pilgrimage centre, where pilgrims are seen thronging throughout the year. One of the shrines of Char Dham and confluence of Panch Prayag are the must-see places to cover in Uttarakhand. What can be more pious than a holy dip in River Ganga!
Water Adventure
Himalayas and the origin of various rivers from the Himalayas have made this place one of the most attractive spots for adventurous water sports. Try out whitewater rafting and bungee jumping at Rishikesh. River Ganga and Kali are other rivers where you can also enjoy these activities.
Land Adventure
Himalayas not only give scope to water enthusiasts but also to trekkers at Roopkund. Mountaineering, rock climbing and hiking are must try for adventurous people. Skiing is a must-do activity if you are in Uttarakhand during winter months. Camping, paragliding, mountain biking are some other risky ventures which one sholud try out at Uttarakhand.
People
Lively, friendly and jovial are the features that define people in Uttarakhand. Language, ritual, lifestyle, beliefs, customs and folklore unites all the people residing here. Arts, dance and music are thoroughly rooted to their traditional culture which is influenced by the religious bonds of Himalayas. Fairs and festivals are celebrated in a cheerful manner by all irrespective of any religion. Various tribal groups reside at Uttarakhand who also add to the vibrant colour of the state.
Culture
Uttarakhand comprises of people mainly belonging to Kumaoni-Garhwal group. Also known as Pahari, they are divided into various ethnic groups like Jaunsari, Bhotia, Bhuksa, Tharu and Raji. Hindi, Kumaoni and Garhwali are the main languages heard here. Devidhura Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela, Nanda Devi Mela, Kumbh Mela and Purnagiri Mela are some of the fairs of Uttarakhand.
Ghee Sankranti, Ganga Dussehra, Janopunya, Kumaon Holi and Phool Dei are some important festivals of the region. Langvir Nritya, Barada Nati and Pandav Nritya are some dance forms which further add hue to the culture of the state.
Rivers
Plenty of rivers flowing through the state of Uttarakhand has replenished the human civilization since ages. Originating from the glaciers of the gigantic Himalayas, the rivers flow through the state and diversify their direction to various other states. Ganga, the holy river of Hindus flows from Gaumukh and the Gangotri Glacier. Other rivers include Yamuna, Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Kali, Tons and Ramganga.
Lakes
The scenic place nestles few lakes which add myriad colours to Uttarakhand. This land of waterfalls, lakes and rivers makes an amazing landscape which not only attracts nature lovers but also caters to those who love to capture views with lenses. The pictorial beauty of Uttarakhand is enhanced by various lakes like Bhimtal, Dodi Tal, Govind Ghat, Devaria Tal, Dhalipur Lake, Kagbhushandi Lake, Maneri, Kashni Tal, Naukuchiatal, Kedar Tal, Satopanth lake, Nainital, Shyamala Tal, Nachiketa Tal and many more.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
If one has to experience the fiercest lot of animal life, nothing can be better than Uttarakhand. Jim Corbett National Park in Ramnagar and Nanda Devi National Park beside the peak of Nanda Devi are two major wildlives of this state. Other sanctuaries are Rajaji National Park in Rishikesh, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary and Gangotri National Park in Uttarkashi. Apart from endangered carnivores, various reptiles and aves also attract tourists here.
Valley of Flowers
For those tourists who are not interested in the wildlife of Uttarakhand can make way to the lively flowers ofValley of Flowers. It is not only seeked for the blooming buds but is also considered a trekker's paradise. Various climatic variations in the state gives space to different floral species. Alpine zone, temperate zone and sub tropical zone have different floral varieties. Tourists will also love to see colourful varities of orchids here.
Wellness
The tranquil and serene atmosphere of Uttarakhand also encourages the practice of various Ayurvedic, Yoga and meditational procedures to keep up to the well-being of life. Growth of ashrams, health centres, retreats and high-end spas welcome people to keep up to the proper health conditions. Various institutes like Dev Sanskriti University, Haridwar, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda Ashrams in Rishikesh, Divya Yog Mandir Trust conducts camps and classes for the enthusiasts.
