HAPPY TRAVELLING
A complete tourist and cultural guide of
Uttarakhand
Known as the "Land of the Gods," is famous for its scenic beauty, spiritual sites, and Himalayan landscapes.
Uttarakhand is often called “Devbhumi” (Land of the Gods), is a breathtaking state nestled in the Himalayas. It offers serene hill stations, sacred temples, and thrilling adventure sports. From the Ganges’ origins to majestic peaks, it captures both spirituality and natural beauty.
Discover Uttarakhand- Tourist Attractions
Paradise of natural beauty and spirituality, home to sacred sites like Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Haridwar. Discover scenic gems like Nainital, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Valley of Flowers.
Rishikesh
Nainital
Kedarnath
Mussoorie
Jim Corbett National Park
Badrinath
Auli
Valley of Flowers
Heritage of Uttarakhand
The heritage of Uttarakhand is deeply rooted in its ancient temples, spiritual traditions, and rich cultural practices. From the sacred shrines of Char Dham to the architectural marvels of Katarmal Sun Temple and Jageshwar, the state reflects centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. Its folk music, traditional dances, and vibrant festivals add a colorful dimension to its cultural identity. Nestled in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand preserves a living legacy of spirituality, art, and nature.
The Performing Art of Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand’s culture is deeply rooted in spirituality and nature. Known for its sacred temples in the Char Dham circuit, the state celebrates festivals like Makar Sankranti and Harela. Folk music and dance, such as Langvir and Chholiya, reflect its rich traditions. The region is also famous for handicrafts like woolen shawls and wooden carvings, and its cuisine, including Aloo Ke Gutke and Bal Mithai, adds to its cultural charm.
Music Form
The music form of Uttarakhand is deeply rooted in spirituality and folk traditions. Garhwali and Kumaoni folk songs, like *Bedu Pako Baro Masa*, reflect the region’s landscapes and culture. Devotional hymns and bhajans dedicated to local deities are central to the state’s musical heritage. Festivals like Nanda Devi Raj Jat celebrate these traditions, with music and dance that connect the people to their spiritual roots.
Chhopati
Chhopati is a traditional monsoon music form from Uttarakhand, often performed with local
Kumaoni Folk Music
Kumaoni folk music, with its distinct rhythms, celebrates the traditions and stories of the Kumaon region.
Bhotiya Music
Bhotiya music is influenced by the Bhotiya community and combines spiritual and folk elements.
Dance Form
Uttarakhand is known for its vibrant dance forms like Chholiya, Langvir, and Jhumelo, rooted in the region’s cultural and spiritual traditions. These folk dances, performed during festivals, reflect the state’s deep connection to nature and community life. Additionally, music in Uttarakhand complements these dances, enriching its cultural heritage.
Jhora Dance
Jhora is a traditional group dance performed by men and women in Uttarakhand, often during agricultural festivals and fairs.
Langvir Nritya
Langvir Nritya is a ritualistic dance performed by the people of Uttarakhand to invoke divine blessings.
Jhumelo Dance
Jhumelo is a lively dance performed by the people of Uttarakhand to celebrate harvests, involving body movements and foot stamping.
Others dance forms –Dhamyal Dance, Rasleela, Chhapeli Dance, Nanda Devi Raj Jat Dance, Bhotia Dance, Gidda Dance, Tungi Dance
Festivals and Celebrations
Celebrates vibrant festivals that blend spirituality and culture. Makar Sankranti marks the harvest season, while Harela honors nature with tree planting. Kumbh Mela attracts millions of devotees to the holy rivers, and Nanda Devi Raj Jat is a sacred pilgrimage with rituals and dances. Baisakhi, Deepawali, Holi, and Janmashtami are also celebrated with devotion and community spirit, reflecting the state’s rich traditions and cultural heritage.
Nanda Devi Raj Jat
Kumbh Mela
Makar Sankranti
Uttarakhand's Cuisine
Aloo Ke Gutke
Bhang Ki Chutney
Jhangora Ki Kheer
The cuisine of Uttarakhand is simple, earthy, and nutritious, reflecting the state’s mountainous terrain and traditional lifestyle.
- Aloo Ke Gutke – A spicy stir-fried potato dish flavored with local spices.
- Chainsoo & Kafuli – Protein-rich lentil curry and a thick spinach gravy, popular in Garhwal.
- Bhang Ki Chutney – A tangy and spicy chutney made from roasted hemp seeds.
- Arsa – A sweet deep-fried rice and jaggery snack, often made during festivals.
- Jhangora Ki Kheer – A traditional millet pudding, light and perfect for celebrations.
Popular Shopping Items
Uttarakhand is a shopper’s delight, offering a mix of traditional crafts and natural products.
- Woolen Shawls & Sweaters – Handwoven in places like Almora and Nainital.
- Pashmina Scarves – Soft, luxurious scarves crafted from fine wool.
- Copperware – Traditional copper utensils and decorative items from Almora.
- Wooden Handicrafts – Intricate woodwork reflecting Kumaoni and Garhwali culture.
- Organic Products – Honey, jams, and herbs sourced fresh from the hills.
- Woolen Rugs & Carpets – Colorful handwoven pieces from rural villages.
Best shopping places: Tibetan Market (Dehradun), Mall Road (Nainital), Almora local markets, and Rishikesh handicraft shops.
Woolen Shawls & Sweaters
Copperware
Organic Product
Wooden Handicrafts
Evolution of Uttarakhand
⇒ Early Habitation: Traces of prehistoric human settlements found in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.
⇒ Ancient Dynasties: Ruled by powerful clans like the Kunindas, Katyuris, and later Chand dynasties.
⇒ Medieval Era: Witnessed flourishing trade routes between India and Tibet, and development of hill kingdoms.
⇒ Colonial Period: Came under British rule with key towns like Nainital and Mussoorie developing as hill stations.
⇒ Modern Formation: Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh and became a separate state on 9th November 2000.
Safety Measures and Tips
- Temple Etiquette – Dress conservatively when visiting temples like Kedarnath and Badrinath. Remove footwear, follow rituals, and respect photography restrictions.
- Trekking Safety – In regions like Valley of Flowers and Roopkund, always trek with guides, check weather forecasts, and carry essentials like first-aid kits.
- Transport Safety – Prefer government buses or trusted cabs for hilly travel. Avoid traveling at night in remote mountain roads prone to landslides.
- Monsoon Travel – During the rainy season, especially in areas like Rishikesh and Nainital, watch for floods, slippery trails, and keep emergency kits handy.
- Wildlife Zone Caution – In areas like Jim Corbett National Park, follow safari rules strictly, maintain safe distances from animals, and stay within designated zones.
- Shopping Awareness – In local markets of Dehradun and Mussoorie, bargain smartly but buy handicrafts and woolens from reputed or government-approved stores.
- Festive Crowd Management – During events like the Kumbh Mela or Char Dham Yatra, plan visits carefully, stay in registered accommodations, and keep valuables secured.
- Emergency Contacts – Save key numbers: Police (100), Ambulance (108), Disaster Helpline (1070), and Uttarakhand Tourism Helpline (1364). Major cities have good hospitals.