AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT IN UTTARAKHAND IN WINTER SEASON

PLACES FOR WINTER SEASON  

 Sweltering climate, exhausting heat waves, and merciless drought & dust makes life in summers agonizing. On the contrary, winters bring an uncharacteristic hope that appeases the soul. People are content, festive, and brimming with energy that was once sapped out of them. Thus, they start looking for options to travel. And Uttarakhand is one such option. Uttarakhand, or Devbhumi as it is fondly called, boasts of serene, quaint, and economical destinations that would be a definite help in getting over the summer woes. As most of these places are relatively unexplored, they seem promising and won’t cease to surprise you. Have a look at some of the most beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand in winter

Auli – The Winds Of Winter

Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Rest House Auli

A favorite skiing destination and one of the best snow places in Uttarakhand, Auli is among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December as well as one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in January. Of all the snow places in Uttarakhand, skiing is best enjoyed here as it is one of the best things to do in Auli. The ski slopes of Auli rise from 2,500 to 3,050 meters above sea level and both amateur and professional ski enthusiasts head to Auli for a rejuvenating holiday experience. The awe-inspiring & panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks – Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, and Dunagiri – make Auli a much sought after destination in India.

How to reach

  • By air: Jolly Grant Airport (279 km away) is the nearest airport. Taxis are available from the airport till Auli.
  • By rail: Nearest railhead is Raiwala near Rishikesh (250 km away).
  • By road: Buses ply regularly between Joshimath and Rishikesh. Auli to Joshimath is approximately 15 km.

Best time to visit: Auli has a refreshing climate throughout the year. March – June are pleasant and November – February witness heavy snowfall.

Things to do: Skiing, trekking, gondola rides, and camping.

Where to stay: The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam has its own resorts that offer both comfort and luxury. Dormitories are also available.

Places To Visit: Dwarika, Barahbeesh Villa, Kanasar Ecolodge, Apple Farm Stay

Chopta – A Blend Of Adventure And Quietude

Snowclad path to Tungnath temple in chopta

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Among the unexplored winter destinations in Uttarakhand, Chopta Valley is the starting point for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila and one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in January. This tiny abode is an ideal getaway and one of the places to visit in Uttarakhand in winters for those wishing to travel on the road less taken and escape the hustle-bustle of city life.

How to reach

  • By air: Jolly Grant Airport (226 km away) is the nearest airport.
  • By rail: The nearest railhead is in Rishikesh which is approximately 200 km away.
  • By road: Chopta is well connected by road to cities such as Rishikesh, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Pauri.

Best time to visit: April – June and September – November

Things to do: Trekking (Chopta Chandrashila Winter Trek), yoga, photography, birdwatching, and camping

Where to stay: Mayadeep Resort, Alpine Adventure Camp, and Magpie Camps Resort are the best places to stay in Chopta.

Don’t miss: The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary located close by.

Places To Visit: Villotale Chopta CHC, Akashdeep Resort Chopta, Hotel Govind, Dwarahat house

Chamoli – The Stepping Stone To Jouissance

Ancient temple of Lord Shiva in Gopteshwar town near Chamoli

Also known as the ‘abode of Gods’, Chamoli is among the important places to visit in Uttarakhand in winter. It is the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and sightseeing. The dramatic landscapes along with freezing cold, make Chamoli a haven for backpackers.

How to reach

  • By air: Jolly Grant Airport (222 km away) is the nearest airport.
  • By rail: The nearest railhead is in Haridwar, which is approximately 150 km away. Buses and taxis are available from Haridwar.
  • By road: Buses and taxis are easily available from Rishikesh, Uttarkashi, and Rudraprayag.

Best time to visit: November – March and July – August

Things to do: Take a trek to Valley of Flowers National Park and Hemkund Sahib.

Where to stay: Himalayan Eco Lodge, Hotel Snow Crest, and Valley of Flowers Camp are economic stay options.

Places To Visit: Birdsong & Beyond, The Rudralok Hotel, Saagar(Rudra) home stay, Hotel Aradhna

Binsar – The Land Of Supreme Bliss

Mist takes cover over the hills of Binsar

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A trekker’s paradise, Binsar is among the famous places to visit in Uttarakhand in November. With undulating walking trails, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and picturesque valleys, Binsar is an oyster for those seeking solitude and peace.

How to reach

  • By air: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the nearest airport, approximately 150 km away.
  • By rail: Kathgodam (120 km away) is the nearest railhead.
  • By road: Buses are easily available from Nainital, Almora, and Haldwani.

Best time to visit: April – June and September – November

Things to do: Hiking, trekking, local sightseeing, photography, and jeep safari

Where to stay: Binsar Forest Retreat and Club Mahindra Valley Resort Villa are excellent stay options.

Places To Visit: Binsar Adventure Camp, Simba cafe & lodge, Binsar Forest Retreat, The Kumaon

 Chaukori – In The Land Of The Mighty Himalayas

Beautiful and peaceful looking Chaukori area in Uttarakhand

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Famous for its tea gardens, diverse flora & fauna, and lofty peaks, Chaukori is one of the underrated yet best places to visit in Uttarakhand in winters. The mighty peaks of Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, Nanda Kot, Trishul, and Chaukhamba are distinctly visible from this tiny hamlet. Renowned for its captivating sunrise and sunset, Chaukori is among the essential places to visit in Uttarakhand in December.

How to reach

  • By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 205 km from Chaukori. Taxis are available to Chaukori from the airport.
  • By rail: Kathgodam (180 km away) is the nearest railhead.
  • By road: Buses to Chaukori are available from Almora, Kausani, Pithoragarh, and Didihat.

Best time to visit: April – June and October – March

Things to do: Taking long walks, camping, star gazing, and visiting tea gardens

Where to stay: Misty Mountains Resort, Chestnut Grove Himalayan Lodge, and KMVN Tourist Rest House are some of the best stay options in Chaukori.

Places To Visit: The Misty Mountains, Hotel Border Way And Restaurant, Hotel Sunrise, Hardik Resort

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