Things to Do in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is one of those rare places where a single trip can include a sunrise yoga session by the Ganga, a rafting run through white water, an evening aarti and a night under the stars at a Himalayan campsite. Whether you want thrills, calm or culture, there is plenty to do.

This guide covers the best things to do in Uttarakhand, with the right season, who each activity suits and a few safety notes. For where to go, see our guide to the places to visit in Uttarakhand. For timing, check the best time to visit Uttarakhand.

Top Things to Do in Uttarakhand at a Glance

Adventure Activities in Uttarakhand

The adventure activities in Uttarakhand are the main draw for younger travellers and groups. Most are concentrated around Rishikesh and the higher Garhwal hills.

Trekking in Uttarakhand

Trekking in Uttarakhand ranges from easy half-day walks to multi-day high-altitude routes. Some favourites:

• Kedarkantha: A popular winter trek, known for snow and summit views. Good for beginners with fitness.

• Tungnath and Chandrashila (Chopta): A moderate route to one of the highest Shiva temples, with a summit above it. Suitable for most healthy travellers.

• Valley of Flowers: A scenic trek to a high-altitude meadow, best in the monsoon months when flowers bloom.

• Har Ki Dun, Dayara Bugyal, Brahmatal, Nag Tibba and Kuari Pass: Varied routes from short getaways to longer journeys.

• Roopkund: A famous but demanding trek with strict rules. Check current regulations before planning.

Tips: Train for a few weeks beforehand, carry layers, hire a local guide and check the weather. Not every trail is open all year. See the best time for each in our Best Time to Visit guide. [Photo]

River Rafting in Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is India's best-known rafting hub. Stretches on the Ganga offer rapids from gentle to exciting, with shorter routes for beginners and longer routes for experienced rafters. Rafting usually runs from autumn to early summer and is paused during the monsoon when water levels rise. A trained guide, life jacket and helmet are standard and should never be skipped. Best for: friends, couples and groups. [Photo]

Camping in Uttarakhand

Camping in Uttarakhand can mean a beach camp on the Ganga near Rishikesh, a forest tent in Kanatal, a meadow site in Chopta or a riverside stay near Jim Corbett. Many camps include bonfires, meals and light activities. Best for: families and friends. Choose camps with proper tents, clean toilets and a safe location. [Photo]

Skiing and Snow Activities in Uttarakhand

Skiing in Uttarakhand centres on Auli, where slopes open when snow settles, usually in the colder months. Beginners can take lessons and rent gear. If you only want to see snow, Chopta, Dhanaulti and Mussoorie can also get snow in peak winter. Conditions change, so confirm before you go. [Photo]

Wildlife Safari in Uttarakhand

A wildlife safari in Uttarakhand is easiest at Jim Corbett National Park, with jeep and canter safaris through several zones. Rajaji National Park near Haridwar offers elephant and bird sightings. Book early, as safari permits and zones are limited and rules vary by season. Early morning drives give the best chance of sightings. Best for: families and nature lovers. [Photo]

Bungee Jumping, Paragliding and Other Thrills

Rishikesh offers bungee jumping from a high platform, as well as a giant swing and flying fox. Paragliding is available at selected spots in the Kumaon lake region and other hill areas. Choose a licensed, experienced operator, follow age, weight and health rules, and avoid these activities in bad weather. [Photo]

Spiritual Experiences in Uttarakhand

Spirituality runs through everything in Uttarakhand.

• Ganga aarti at Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar: A lamp-lit ritual with chanting at sunset. Reach early for a good spot. [Photo]

• Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh: A quieter, calmer version of the ritual. [Photo]

• Char Dham Yatra: The Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath circuit, a journey of faith and scenery. Registration is required, so confirm the current process before travel. [Photo]

• Temple and ashram visits: Haridwar and Rishikesh are full of ancient temples and working ashrams. Dress modestly and follow local etiquette.

• Panch Prayag and river confluences: The meeting points of Himalayan rivers hold special religious meaning.

Explore our Char Dham and spiritual packages for planned routes with stays and transport.

Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is widely seen as a global capital of yoga. You can join a single drop-in class, a weekend retreat or a multi-week course. Many ashrams and studios offer morning yoga, meditation, breathwork and Ayurveda. Pick a retreat that matches your level and goals, and check teacher credentials and what is included. The annual International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh, usually held in spring, is worth planning around if the dates suit you. [Photo]

Things to See and Do in Uttarakhand (Beyond Adventure)

If adrenaline is not your thing, there is plenty to see in Uttarakhand.

• Boating on Naini Lake and Bhimtal: Calm water, hill views and a classic family activity.

• Cable car and ropeway rides: Mussoorie, Nainital, Auli and Haridwar all have ropeway rides with views.

• Birdwatching: Pangot, Binsar, Corbett and Sattal are good for birds.

• Sunrise and sunset points: Kausani, Chopta, Mussoorie and Nainital offer wide Himalayan views.

• Village and homestay stays: A good way to meet locals and eat home-cooked mountain food.

• Walks and day hikes: Easy forest and ridge walks in Mussoorie, Nainital and Almora.

Famous Things in Uttarakhand

Some of the most famous things in Uttarakhand are not places at all.

• Local food: Aloo ke gutke, kafuli, chainsoo, mandua ki roti, bal mithai and singori.

• Handicrafts and shopping: Woollens, shawls, ringal bamboo products, local honey and pickles. Browse Tibetan Market in Nainital, Mall Road in Mussoorie and the bazaars of Rishikesh and Dehradun.

• Festivals: Ganga Dussehra, Harela and the Kumbh in Haridwar when it is held.

• Folk music and dance: Garhwali and Kumaoni traditions are still part of local life.

Best Things to Do by Season

Safety Tips for Adventure Activities

• Book only licensed and experienced operators.

• Follow age, weight and health limits for each activity.

• Always wear helmets, life jackets and harnesses when provided.

• Avoid adventure activities in heavy rain or poor weather.

• Carry basic first aid and tell someone your plans before a trek.

• Be aware of altitude sickness at higher routes. Ascend gradually and rest.

Plan your visit to Uttarakhand and explore the activities that interest you most.