Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a mountain state in northern India with two regions, Garhwal and Kumaon. People often call it Dev Bhoomi, the land of the gods. The pilgrim circuit is the Char Dham of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. It is open roughly from late April or May to November. Haridwar and Rishikesh are the gateways. For nature, the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi national parks are a UNESCO site, and Jim Corbett offers tiger safaris. Hill stations include Mussoorie, Nainital, Almora and Ranikhet, while Auli is the main ski resort. Trekkers head to Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, Roopkund, Dayara Bugyal and the Valley of Flowers trek, usually July to September. Rishikesh is the rafting and yoga centre. Spring and autumn are most reliable. The monsoon brings landslides and road closures. Winter suits snow treks and lower hills. Distances are long and roads are slow, so pick one region per trip. Garhwal is for pilgrimage and treks, Kumaon for lakes and wildlife. Plan seven days or more.