On your way to nirvana in Uttarakhand

It does have valid reasons when travellers call the state of Uttarakhand the 'Land of Gods'. The scenic landscapes of the region present a treat for the sore eyes. It is not only the heart stirring views of the Himalayan peaks but also hordes of pilgrimage destinations that magnetise visitors to the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. The state features hordes of holy shrines, ancient temples, devotee-packed ghats, world renowned ashrams and reputed religious centres among others. Travellers flock to the state to soak up the impressive panorama and the spiritual aura that pervades all over. Though visitors keep coming to towns and cities of Uttarakhand all the year round, the ideal time to visit here is between November and February, the winter months.

The chardhams (four highly sacred destinations) in Uttarakhand are held in high regard by the Hindu community all across the world. These four holy destinations include Gangotri, Yamunotri,
Kedarnath and Badrinath . Gangotri is the glacial source from where the holy Ganges originates in the Himalayas. The town of Haridwar and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand known worldwide for a number of places of worship, ayurveda/ meditation centres and ashrmas.

The northern part of the state of Uttarakhand is covered by the mountain ranges of the Greater Himalayas. Soaring peaks of Himalayas, icy glaciers and verdant Himalayan foothills add outstanding beauty to the region. The state of Uttarakhand also represents a wonderful Himalayan eco-system. Tiger, leopard, bharal and snow leopard are the major wildlife species found in this region. The diversified vegetation includes pine-deodar forests, sal forests, grassland and scrubland. The Himalayas have also been a rich resource of unique plants and herbs, gathered for medicinal purposes.

Uttarakhand in northern India also invites a good number of adventure lovers. A trekking expedition through the Himalayan valleys, meadows and villages truly rejuvenates one's inner self. The Har ki Doon valley (meaning the valley of God) in the Himalayas happens to be one of the finest for trekkers. Though the trekking route here is a bit challenging, the effort is well worth the experience. Passing through deep forests, stopping by meadows and halting at the camp for lunch are all of a part of the trekking expedition. Noticing the shepherd playing a tune on his flute, the freshly washed look of trees and grasses, the sight of flower-laden meadows and watching the mountain goats and sheep grazing close to the campsite can really make your trekking expedition a lifetime experience.

The state of Uttarakhand offers travellers a number of trekking opportunities. Popular treks in Uttarakhand include Har ki Doon trek, Panch Kedar trek, Gangotri-Kedarnath trek, Gangotri-Gaumukh-Nandavan-Tapovan trek, Dodi Tal trek etc. During your trek through these areas in Uttarakhand, you will pass by exotic hamlets, places of worship and a number of other mythological sites. Your trip will also take you to famous temples, ashrams and meditation centres in the holy towns of Haridwar , Rishikesh and Joshimath in Uttarakhand.