Among India’s many states, Uttarakhand stands out with its array of unexplored destinations and travel spots. It is a tourist’s paradise, full of spirituality and history. It is one of India’s most beautiful regions boasting great weather, vibrant culture, holy temples, and gushing rivers.
This list of unexplored places in Uttarakhand will help you plan your next vacation. From this list, you are bound to find something that fits your needs!
Pangot
A small village hamlet located in Uttarakhand, Pangot is perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Tucked away in the hills, this picturesque area is full of birds, making it ideal for passionate birdwatchers. It is also filled with refreshing waters due to the streams that are abundant here. One can also engage in either trekking or camping at Pangot if up for adventure.
Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal translates to “nine-cornered lake.” This refers to the lake which is the chief attraction of Naukuchiatal. It offers beautiful views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain range as well as a wide range of activities. For those looking to relax, they can go on calming boat rides in the lake. For those looking for a sense of adventure, Naukuchiatal offers adventure activities such as trekking and paragliding for an adrenaline rush.
Peora
At an elevation of around 2000 meters, the tiny and quaint village of Peora is home to gorgeous views of the snowy Shivalik ranges surrounding the area. It is known as a place that is perfect for eco-tourism as it is unblemished by modern life. One can enjoy local and delicious Kumaoni cuisine here as well as explore the trails by trekking or walking. It is also perfect for photographers as it hosts many species of pretty flowers, birds and more.
Ramgarh
A beautiful area in Uttarakhand, Ramgarh is truly unique. It is located at an elevation of about 1500 meters and the weather is pleasant. It is home to various fruit orchards like those of peaches, apricots, pears and apples. These fresh fruits have given it the name “Fruit Bowl of Kumaon”. Its famous viewing spot, Dadi Point, is great for seeing mountainous views. It is an underrated tourist spot that one should definitely consider when planning a trip to Uttarakhand.
Khurpa Taal
Lakes are special. They are filled with fresh water and are refreshing as well as calming to be in the presence of. Uttarakhand is home to many lakes, one of them being Khurpa Taal. Khurpa Taal is located at an elevation of around 5500 feet. The area surrounding the lake is filled with tall and lush trees. The lake itself hosts a variety of freshwater fish species. Due to this, it is considered an ideal spot for fishing. It is relatively unexplored by tourists and is hence perfect to visit when in Uttarakhand.
Kausani
Once referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as the “Switzerland of India”, Kausani is perhaps the most beautiful of all the hill stations one can travel to in Uttarakhand. It has the most beautiful views that are similar to the Alps. One can see high hills like Naina Devi, Trishul, Nandakot and many other peaks, within a 300 km radius from Kausani. Besides this panoramic view, Kausani is known for its thriving local industries: namely handloom and agriculture. The weather in Kausani is pleasant too.
Jageshwar
Located in the midst of dense and lush forests of thick deodar, Jageshwar is situated at an elevation of about 1800 meters above sea level. The small town is most known for its temples, which makes it a popular tourist destination among those who are religious devotees or very spiritual. It hosts more than a hundred temples and the biggest of those is the Jageshwar Mahadev Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum at Jageshwar if you like history.
Kasar Devi
For the spiritual traveler, the village Kasar Devi is truly perfect. It is famous for the Kasar Devi temple, a Devi temple dedicated to the goddess Kasar Devi. It was built in the 2nd century. The area is surrounded by lush greenery such as deodars and pine trees. Besides its gorgeous flora, it also has gorgeous views of the hills, spanning from Bandarpunch peak to Api Himal peak in Nepal. The region is famous amongst not only spiritualists but also artists and poets. It has been visited by influential people like Bob Dylan, Uma Thurman and Swami Vivekananda in the past.
Munsiyari
Located at an elevation of approximately 2000 meters, Munsiyari is known for its local industries that thrive, including animal husbandry and agriculture. These are the main livelihoods and forms of subsistence for the people of the region. In general, it is a peaceful area where one can enjoy beautiful views and also see refreshing waterfalls. The Khaliya Top, for instance, is a steep climb of about 900 meters from where one can see beautiful views. The Birthi Falls is a gushing set of waterfalls.
Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Patal Bhuvaneshvar is a truly unique and mystical experience. Referenced in the holy Puranas, it refers to a sub-terrarian temple and shrine complex made of underground caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. One can reach the tunnel via a cave and over a narrow passage of water. Inside, there are various stalagmites and stalactites which are naturally occurring and in the shape of various deities like Ganesh, Sheshnaag, Lord Shiva and others. Legend says the cave connects to Mount Kailash, where Lord Shiva lives.
Kanatal
Kanatal is a perfect offbeat hill station for tourists, located in Uttarakhand. It is quaint, peaceful, and delightful. Its rolling green fields are surrounded by panoramic gorgeous views of the snow-capped Himalayas. It is also home to several apple orchards. One can see mountain goats frolicking in the area, along with various trees like pines, deodars, and rhododendrons. It also happens to be a hub for adventure activities. Kanatal is truly versatile- it offers something for every type of tourist- the nature lover, the photographer, the adventurer, and the relaxer.
Chaukori
At an elevation of about 2000 m in Uttarakhand, lies the small hill town of Chaukori. It is filled with lush forests, verdant valleys, and the heart of nature. One can take walks in Chaukori which are pleasant and long. Famous for its amazing weather and picturesque views, the town is a great spot for tourists. It is filled with unique agricultural spots, mostly in the form of tea gardens and fruit orchards. Additionally, it borders Nepal along the beautiful Mahakali river. Chaukori is an idyllic travel destination that one should surely consider.
Harsil
Harsil is a charming hill station that is a budding spot for creatives like poets and writers due to its quaint beauty. The serene landscape is nourished by the flowing Bhagirathi river, along which one can hike, trek or just walk. It serves as the base spot for many trekking trips like those to Dayara Bugyal and Khatling Glacier. The weather in Harsil is also quite pleasant. The forests of the area are dense, thick and lush- they have looming pines and other trees which are tall. It is famous for its apple orchards. Harsil apples are eaten across the country for a reason.
Tungnath
The Shiva temple of Tungnath is among the highest Shiva temples in the world. It means “Lord of the Peaks” and it is, by legend, linked to the Pandavas featured in the great Indian epic Mahabharata. It is said that the Pandavas, who wanted to atone for their sins, went to find Lord Shiva- who had taken the form of a bull and hidden in the hills. Instead, they discovered his presence in five locations, and built temples for him there, including Tungnath. The altitude of this temple is a whopping 3600 meters, just below the Chandrashila peak.
Lohaghat
Nestled amidst the picturesque Himalayan foothills, Lohaghat is a great tourist spot. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, gorgeous views, and dense forests. People who like trekking and hiking will appreciate the fact that Lohaghat offers numerous trails for the same. It is also home to temples like the revered Adi Badri temple which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Vishnu. Thus, the town is a haven for spiritualists, nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and more, making it the perfect spot for those who want to visit a quaint and small town that is tranquil.
If you’re planning a visit to Uttarakhand, the Blue Book Hotel in Gethia, Nainital, is an ideal place to stay. Its central location allows for easy day trips to explore various stunning hill stations.
Upon returning from these ventures, you’ll find respite in the hotel’s beautifully restored 1890s heritage bungalow, where modern comforts and exceptional personalized service await. Nestled amidst a serene setting, the luxury hotel in Nainital seamlessly blends timelessness with modern amenities. With a personal commitment to providing exceptional service, we look forward to welcoming you to our tranquil and picturesque retreat.