5 perfect ways travellers can spend summer holidays in Uttarakhand

The summer heat at the plains may seem never-ending; however, it is precisely why Uttarakhand turns into one of the most favoured destinations for vacations in India during the months of May to July. Besides having its fair share of popular tourist spots like Nainital and Mussoorie, the state has many unique and enriching options such as bird watching in Himalayan forests, wildlife camping on riversides, and others. If you want to enjoy your summer vacation, here are five great ideas to explore Uttarakhand that you won’t regret.

Pangot is situated just 15 kilometers from Nainital and can be described as North India’s hidden jewel for bird enthusiasts. Being enveloped in lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendrons, this small Himalayan village boasts a large variety of avian life. As many as 250 types of birds have been spotted here, such as griffons, woodpeckers, blue-winged minlas, and khaleej pheasants. The mornings in summer at Pangot are particularly pleasant when the air is cool and the forests ring with birds’ chirping.

Summer is also considered one of the most amazing times for viewing wildlife at Jim Corbett National Park. With dwindling water sources, animals become easier to find in proximity to rivers and other water sources. The areas around Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Sitabani are filled with riverside jungle lodges and wildlife resorts where travellers can combine safaris with slow forest living. Jeep safaris, early morning bird watching along the banks of River Kosi, bonfires, and evenings spent amidst jungle sounds all add to the charm of Corbett.

For travellers interested in getting away from tourists altogether, Mukteshwar provides the rare chance to have a relaxing holiday among the mountains that are fast disappearing in many of the traditional hill stations. Set in the Kumaon district, Mukteshwar boasts orchards, pine forests, scenic Himalayan vistas, and a pleasant climate during summers. Not one of those places meant for ticking off sites on a checklist, the true appeal of Mukteshwar lies in doing nothing much at all. Travellers can take leisurely walks through forests, visit colonial era churches, tour fruit orchards, or simply watch the sunset over the snow-clad ranges.

Summer in Rishikesh is not just about yoga retreats anymore. Rishikesh has transformed itself into an Indian town that offers varied vacation experiences through spirituality, adventurous activities, coffee shops, and riverside leisure all at once. Visitors have the option to enjoy yoga classes in the morning by the Ganges river, relax in coffee shops in the afternoon, and witness the renowned Ganga Aarti in the evening at Triveni Ghat.

For many tourists, the true adventure of Uttarakhand does not begin when they reach their destination; it starts during their journey itself. For instance, Kathgodam, which is the railway entry point for Kumaon, is the beginning of some of the most picturesque drives in North India during summers. Travelling from Kathgodam to destinations such as Almora, Binsar, Kausani, Pangot, and Mukteshwar involves driving past the woods, winding mountain roads, lakes, hidden coffee shops, and views of the magnificent Himalayas. The summer season is perfect for such drives since the weather is relatively clear before the monsoon strikes.