Uttarakhand Tour & Trip Packages - Best Adventure Travel Itinerary

Uttarakhand Tour Overview

Uttarakhand, a hill state in northern India, is known for its diverse geography comprising Himalayan peaks, valleys, and forests. It’s home to the sources of the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna, making it a significant site for religious pilgrimages. Its cultural fabric blends Hindu traditions with local Pahari (hill) customs, reflected in the region's festivals, temples, and traditional arts. Uttarakhand is also known as the land of ancient kingdoms and sacred texts and has attracted spiritual seekers for centuries. Its rich biodiversity and array of national parks also contribute to the popularity of Uttarakhand travel packages worldwide.

Uttarakhand Visitor Insights

• Continent: Asia

• Country: India

• Capital: Dehradun

• Time-Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST)

• Language: Hindi, English, Garhwali, Kumaoni, Punjabi, Nepali

Currencies Accepted in Uttarakhand

The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Uttarakhand, especially at tourist sites. Authorized money exchangers can be found in all major cities. 

Major Attractions of Uttarakhand

• Rishikesh

Rishikesh, also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," sits on the banks of the Ganga River. It draws pilgrims, adventure seekers, and yoga enthusiasts alike. The city is famed for its ashrams, especially the Beatles Ashram, yoga centers, and the iconic Laxman Jhula suspension bridge. Rishikesh is also a hub for white-water rafting, trekking, and spiritual retreats, making it a top destination on most Uttarakhand itineraries. 

• Pipalkoti

Pipalkoti is a small town that serves as a popular stopover for pilgrims traveling to Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib, the two great shrines for Hindus and Sikhs, respectively. Nestled amid hills, it offers unparalleled views. The town is surrounded by greenery and terraced fields, making it an ideal place to relax and prepare before continuing challenging mountain treks ahead.

• Ghangaria

Ghangaria serves as the base camp for the trek to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers, which are major destinations on the Uttarakhand itinerary. Situated at 10,006 feet (3,050 mt), this hamlet is all agog during the trekking season with simple lodges, campsites, and local eateries. Its surroundings include alpine meadows and streams that are worth the visit.

• Valley of Flowers 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers National Park is renowned for its alpine flora and matchless beauty. During the blooming season from July to September, the valley transforms into a spectacle of rare and exotic flowers like the blue poppy and the cobra lily. Nestled in the Western Himalayas, it attracts botanists, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts for its biodiversity and awe-inspiring vistas, alongside being a spiritual destination for Hindus. 

• Govindghat

Govindghat is a charming town located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers in Uttarakhand. At an altitude of approximately 5095 feet (1,800 mt), it’s a crucial base for trekkers and pilgrims heading to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers. Surrounded by hills, Govindghat is a starting point for spiritual journeys and nature treks. It is accessible by road and offers a place for pilgrims and trekkers to rest and acclimatize before venturing into higher-altitude destinations on their Uttarakhand tours. The town also features a prominent gurudwara (Sikh shrine), providing accommodation and food for travelers. 

• Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek is a highly sought-after winter trek on adventurous Uttarakhand trips. Known for its spectacular views and relatively easy-to-moderate trail, the trek rises to an altitude of 12,500 feet (3810 mt), offering 360-degree views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Swargarohini. The journey to Kedarkantha also starts from Sankri, passing through pine and oak forests, meadows, and quaint hamlets. 

• Har Ki Doon Trek

The Har Ki Doon Trek is a journey through one of the most picturesque valleys in the Garhwal Himalayas. At an altitude of approximately 11,699 feet(3,566 mt), this cradle-shaped valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Swargarohini, and is believed to be linked with the legendary path taken by the Pandavas to heaven in Hindu mythology. 

The trek begins from Sankri village, traversing through pine and deodar forests, and traditional Himalayan villages like Osla. The Har Ki Doon Valley is known for its diverse flora and fauna and with its moderate difficulty level, the trek is accessible to beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand

The best time for Uttarakhand travel is from March to May and mid-September to mid-October. 

Here is what you can expect from Uttarakhand in various seasons:

• March - June: Peak season and the most pleasant time of the year, marking the transition from spring to summer. Temperatures range from 68°F to 95°F (20°C to 35°C). Most activities are open but be prepared for large crowds and higher costs.. 

• July - September: The low season brings the monsoons to Uttarakhand, making travel risky due to frequent flooding and landslides in the region. Many activities are closed during this time because of high river levels and the risk of avalanches. 

• October to February: Ideal for snow enthusiasts and trekkers, winter offers opportunities to explore snow-covered mountains. Average temperatures range from 35°F to 59°F (2°C to 15°C), with January being the coldest month as temperatures often drop below freezing. The thinner crowds and lower accommodation prices make it an attractive time to visit.

Essential Advice and Tips for Uttarakhand Tour

• Altitude Sickness: If you’re trekking in Uttarakhand, acclimatize before heading to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. 

• Local Customs: Uttarakhand is also known as the “Dev Bhoomi” loosely translated as the land of gods. Replete with local deities and customs related to these deities,  respect and follow these at all times. 

• Water: Clean potable water is freely available from natural sources. Bottled water is also easily available. 

• Phone Service: Most of the remote areas have patchy to no service. If you are relying on online maps or music, downloading before travel is advised. 

• Cash: Carry cash in lower denominations for use in rural areas. Cards are accepted in major establishments but not everywhere. 

• Sunscreen: The UV rays can be really damaging when you’re at high altitudes so use a high SPF sunscreen.

• Remote Travel: Traveling alone in remote areas can be unsafe given the wildlife, especially after dark. 

Uttarakhand Tour Cost

The cost of a 7-10 day budget trip to Uttarakhand can start at $400 and a mid-range Uttarakhand trip at $800.  Luxury Uttarakhand tours are likely to start at $1,500. 

AdventureTripr offers several affordable Uttarakhand tour packages to suit your budget and preferences. 

Uttarakhand Accommodation

Accommodation Options in Uttarakhand:

• Hotels: From luxury and heritage properties to boutique and budget options, hotels are widely available in all major cities and towns.

• Guesthouses: Affordable accommodations found in both large and small towns, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

• Homestays & Hostels: Perfect for backpackers and globetrotters, these options are commonly found in urban and semi-urban areas.

• Eco Lodges & Camps: Designed for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, these sustainable accommodations are set in natural surroundings and often offer activities like trekking birdwatching, and adventure sports.

• Ashrams & Spiritual Retreats: Popular in spiritual hubs like Rishikesh and Haridwar, these budget-friendly stays cater to those on spiritual or yogic journeys and provide basic amenities.

• Cottages & Cabins: Ideal for families, groups, or couples seeking a private and personal experience, these standalone units are typically located in scenic areas.

• Tented Camps: Luxurious tents offering modern amenities, commonly used as trekking base camps or near national parks for a comfortable camping experience.

• Farmstays: Rustic accommodations on working farms, perfect for experiencing rural life and participating in farming activities.

The overall cost of your Uttarakhand tour package depends on the accommodation and inclusions you choose. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question 1: Do I need a permit for trekking in Uttarakhand?

Answer 1: If you plan to enter reserved forest areas, you will need prior permission. For treks like Kedarkantha and Har Ki Doon, you must get permits from the local forest department and mountaineering authorities. The permits depend on your travel plans, so check with your travel agency to arrange them in advance.

Question 2: Are medical facilities easily available in Uttarakhand? 

Answer 2: Major cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar have modern hospitals, but remote areas offer only basic medical facilities due to their location and tough terrain. It’s a good idea to carry an updated first-aid kit and any necessary medications, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.