Planning to go to Uttarakhand for the summer? Here's a list of places you could visit.

Situated at the foothills of Himalayas, Uttarakhand is a place worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. The land has so much to offer – from the Valley of Flowers for its meadows with vivid hues, to several pilgrimage sites including Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganga. But Uttarakhand is also home to many hill stations that are perfect to visit in the summer. We list five such places you can visit this summer in Uttarakhand.

Nainital, Kumaon Garhwal

It is needless to give any introduction of Nainital. This beautiful lake city, tucked amidst the hills of Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is one of the most famous hill stations in India.

Auli, Chamoli Garhwal

Known as a traveller’s paradise, Auli in Chamoli district is among the lesser known hill stations in Uttarakhand. Snow-capped mountains, forests of deodar and oak, and apple orchards add to the beauty of the hill station. Auli also offers majestic views of Mount Nanda Devi, Nanga Parbat, Dungagiri, Beethartoli, Nikanth Hathi Parbat and Ghori Parbat. It is also India’s ski destination.Trekking is the most popular activity in summer and it provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the Garhwal Himalayas. The Auli to Joshimath trek is the most popular.There are several pilgrimage spots near Auli like Sankaracharya Tapastali at Joshimath, Nandaprayag and Rudraprayag. The best time to visit Auli is between May to November.

Dhanaulti, Tehri Garhwal

Offering rustic charm and utter tranquility, Dhanolti in Uttarakhand is rapidly catching the eyes of the tourists. Situated in the neighborhood of a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, Dhanolti is in comparison to other hill stations is a quieter and lesser explored destination. Its splendid landscape has managed to grab the attention of many travel enthusiasts who are always searching for something new to explore. Dhanolti is 293kms from Delhi and only 26kms from Mussoorie. Quaint and less commercialized, Dhanolti can be an excellent holiday spot for those who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The view of the snow capped Himalayan peaks is the major attraction of Dhanolti.

Munsiyari, Kumaon Garhwal

Munsiyari in Pithoragarh district is on the banks of River Goriganga on the ancient salt route that originates from Tibet. It serves as the base for high altitude treks in Himalayas and to Ralam and Milam glaciers. Rafting in the Goriganga River is also a popular activity in Munsiyari. The hill station is also known for its wildlife. The best time to visit Munsiyari is between March and June.

Mussoorie

One of the most preferred haunt of the tourists in summers, Mussoorie is situated at a distance of about 35kms from Dehradun. Not only this, Mussoorie makes for an excellent honeymoon destination as well. Known as the Queen of the hills, Mussoorie is a perfect summer getaway. Beautiful landscape and salubrious climate is the highlight of this hill station, in fact for shopping and eating as well, Mussoorie is a great place to be at. The hotels in Mussoorie are expensive during the peak season; therefore it is recommended that you book well in advance.

Nainital

Nainital bounded by green mountains and make a really high-quality picture. It is a hot traveler spot particularly for honeymooners who get pleasure from the view of the different lakes aroung Nainital District and also try their hands at boating, get themselves snapped to take sugary memories back home. Nainital is a complete package for honeymooners as the climate is moderate with the mist so dense, it seemed as though the clouds themselves had descended on the earth. A Honeymooner will get everything in one place, Lakes, Mountains, Adventure, Spirituality, Nature walks, Tranquility, Beauty, Temples, Charm and Hospitality.

Kausani

Kausani is a destination for Himalayan tourists. It is located 120 Km from Nainital, 53 km North of Almora. This place offers a 350 km view of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli. The view is so clear that one gets a feeling of the snow being within touching distance. There are very few places in the Himalayas which can compare with the beauty of Kausani - a picturesque hill station famous for its scenic splendor and a perfect place for Honeymoon.

Mahatma Gandhi called Kausani the 'Switzerland of India', due to similarity in landscape.

Naukuchiatal

Naukuchiatal the mystique lake with 9 corners or or the 'nine-cornered lake' located 24 Km from Nainital, Is perhaps the most picturesque lake in Uttarakhand, surrounded by green slopes and oak forests. Naukuchiatal is fed by an underwater spring, which keeps its water levels high. Naukuchiatal Lake is the deepest lake in the Lake District of India (Nainital) and lost in acres of oak forest in the lesser Himalayas. This place still has that vintage untouched beauty.

Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park is just 60 km away from Nainital situated in Ramnagar in the District of Nainital, Uttarakhand with an area of 521 km2. One of THE oldest & first National Park in India which records the World's Largest Population of Tigers. Aptly called the land of roar, trumpet and songs. set on the banks of the mighty Ram Ganga river is Dhikala - the main tourist attraction in the world famous and India's first national Park - Jim Corbett National Park. One can sit in solitude for hours admiring the nature and the river or can go for Jeep Safari or Elephant ride for a life thrilling encounter with the Lord of the Jungle - Tiger. Corbett National Park forest has more than 500 species of animals, birds fishes and reptibs provides a range of adventure to all -from a child to a man with his adrenaline pumping.

Ranikhet

Ranikhet is a beautiful hill resort is about 63 km from Nainital. The beauty of Ranikhet lies in its simplicity - beautiful pine trees create a nostalgic feeling. The orchards, the temples, the joy grounds will back on you again and again to its fold. Ranikhet is within sight of the western peaks of the Himalayas. Ranikhet meaning (Queen's Field) was named after a legendary British Queen who camped in the area and fell in love with it, the town provides a spectacular view of the Himalayan range with snowy peaks & lush green valley in the distance.

Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar is a beautiful place at an altitude of 2286 meters (7500 feet) Mukteshwar is 51 Kms. from Nainital and 395 km from Delhi. Surrounded by magnificent oak, rhododendron forest, fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest. Mukteshwar was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalaya. An old temple of Lord Shiva exist on the top of a rock.

Mukteshwar commands a breathtaking view (380 km.) of Garhwal, Kumaon & Nepal snow ranges which include BANDAR POONCH, CHAUKHAMBA, NEEL KANTH, TRISHUL, NANDADEVI, PANCHACHULI, Mt. API, NAMPA to name a few. Mukteshar also offers a relaxed atmosphere replete with leisure and during the fruit season orchards laden with apples, peaches, pears, chestnuts & plums.

Its evergreen vistas of exquisite beauty and the sapphire of encircling hill blend with deep blues cloudless skies. These have a charm of their own against the background of great Himalayan peaks glittering in the distance.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh :- The World Capital of Yoga - The Adventure Capital of India

Only few rivers in the world have the mystique of the Ganges, the living mother Goddess of the India. Rafting on its water of wisdom is certainly an unusual experience. Enjoy and explore the life time experience on a date with mother Ganges. Your first encounter will be the beginning of the addiction. Rishikesh is becoming a popular spot for white water rafting enthusiasts, both from India and abroad, as it offers medium to rough rapids in the course of river Ganges.

Camping is a recreational activity that does not have any age limit. Any individual who likes to explore new places and enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature can embark on a camping voyage. Camping in Rishikesh on the Ganga beach offer an environment to wake up with the birds cher chew and can swim in the fresh water of the river Ganges. Camping in Rishikesh is a very popular activity.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie with its beautiful, undulating, tree-covered hills, looking down on the Doon valley and with a fantastic view of the Mighty Himalayas. Mussoorie is post-card pretty and has wonderfully a romantic air, which has time and again lured honeymooners to it ever since it was established way back in 1827.

Mussoorie the proverbial Queen of Hill Stations, as professed by the British gentry who evaded hot, desultory summers of Delhi and Kolkata by spending time here. Being at an average altitude of 2,000 metres (6,600 ft), Mussoorie, with its green hills and varied flora and fauna, is a fascinating hill resort. Commanding snow ranges to the north-east, and glittering views of the Doon Valley and Shiwalik ranges in the south, the town was once said to present a 'fairyland' atmosphere to tourists. Spread over a ridge, 2000 meters above sea level, Mussoorie offers distant views of the holy and mighty river Ganga from one end of the ridge, and of the famous river Jamuna from the other a stretch of around 19 kms all.

Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti also known as Dhanolti, is a hill station 24 km from the popular hill station of Mussoorie, and 29 km from Chamba, as it is situated between the two. It is situated at an altitude of 2286m, and is known for its quiet environs amidst the alpine forests of Deodar, Rhododendron and Oak.

Dhanaulti has an atmosphere of placidity and tranquillity. Indulge yourself in the lazy outings, long wooded slopes, cool breeze, salubrious weather and exquisiteness of Dhanaulti.

Auli

Auli is a place of impeccable natural vistas of mighty peaks are studded with huge mountainous trees creating a fabulous scenery that compels compulsive travelers to set on Auli Tours repeatedly. Auli is blessed with a breathtaking panoramic view of the lofty peaks of the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas.

Auli has a pristine natural beauty and its alpine atmosphere lure many tourists. A haven for those who want to escape the humdrum of everyday life, conquer their fear of heights, savour nature in its purest form or just throw snowballs at each other. Auli also boasts the Asia's longest - 4 km Cable Car / Ropeway (Gondola). It also has a Chair Lift and a Ski-Lift.

Dhanaulti is perched at an astonishing elevation of 2,286 mts above sea level on Mussoorie-Chamba Road, in the Tehri District of Uttarakhand state offering panoramic views of the lofty Himalayas. Dhanaulti is emerging as a popular weekend getaway from Delhi as it is easily accessible affording exquisiteness and tranquillity. Unlike its popular cousin, Mussoorie, Dhanaulti is still untouched by the maddening rush of the hill stations and maintains a quite charm all around it.

Why Visit Dhanaulti?

As Mussoorie has become crowded, many tourists love to retreat to Dhanaulti. Dhanaulti is unlike other hill stations as it is set in a quiet and quaint place away from the boisterous places. And not being far away from Dehradun, it is also a popular weekend getaway.

How to Reach Dhanaulti?

By Air 

The nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 82 km away. From here take ataxi to Dhanaulti or go to Dehradun and take bus.

By Rail 

The nearest railway head is at Dehradun, 66 km away. From here you can drive up to Dhanaulti, or take a tourist taxi or bus.

By Bus 

It is 325 km from Delhi, an approximately 8-9 hrs drive and 25 km by road from Mussoorie. You can also easily take a bus or taxi to Dhanaulti from Delhi or neighbouring cities.

Getting Around Dhanaulti 

Private taxis, shared taxis are available for getting around within Dhanaulti.

Here are few attractive images of Dhanaulti Places, that you will love to visit.

Himalayan Retreat Dhanaulti View

Eco Park

Camp Taapu Sera

ECO park