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Uttarakhand itself is blessed with beautiful terrains and history, and similarly are the places surrounding it. Ironically, whether you are on the lookout for some calm and serene hill Stations, religious places, or adventurous wildlife tours, there are destinations for everything around Uttarakhand. If you’re exploring the top 10 places to visit near Uttarakhand or its neighbouring regions, this list offers a perfect blend of destinations, each with unique attractions.
Top Places To Visit Near Uttarakhand
This guide to the top places to visit near Uttarakhand will help you uncover some of North India’s most captivating getaways.
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Shimla, known as the “Queen of Hills,” is one of the most charming hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. While it is not immediately close to Uttarakhand, it is reachable in approximately 6-7 hours by road from Dehradun, making it a feasible getaway for travellers from Uttarakhand’s western region. It has a cultural and colonial influence feel, beautiful natural landscapes, beautiful weather, and is perfect for family and honeymoon. Go shopping, lazy walking to the Mall Road, or visit the Christ Church. Spend a day in Kufri and enjoy its thrilling activities. While Jakhu Temple has scenic views as it stands on a hilltop, and a spiritual feel.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
2. Rishikesh
Photo: Guptaele / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the banks of the river Ganga, Rishikesh is a spiritual hub at the edge of Uttarakhand. Shrine city Rishikesh is situated at the threshold of the state of Uttarakhand and is one of the most significant places of spiritual pilgrimage in the country. Rishikesh and its places of interest are still famous for yoga training, river rafting, and the famous suspension bridge, Laxman Jhula. It is also a base for exploring the Himalayas and gaining new knowledge in the spheres of meditation and a healthy lifestyle.
Best Time To Visit: September to June
3. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Numerounovedant / Wikimedia Commons
Kasauli is a quaint hill station nestled in the Shivalik range of Himachal Pradesh, reachable in about 5-6 hours by road from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is hard to beat the calm neighbourhood, buildings that reflect the Spanish colonial influence, and many trees. Take a walk along the serene Gilbert Trail, visit the historic Christ Church, and enjoy panoramic, stunning views at Monkey Point. Despite its status as a hill station, Kasauli does not experience the tourist rush that some of the more commercial hill stations do, making it a perfect getaway for those wishing to have some quiet time with nature.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
4. Lansdowne
Photo: Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD / Wikimedia Commons
Lansdowne is a beautiful hill station that is situated near the edge of the state of Uttarakhand. This visually appealing location is wonderful for a retreat since the area adjacent to the outlet is filled with oak and pine trees. Some of them include the cantonment that has colonial heritage, which has old churches and buildings. Check the Garhwali Museum for information on the region or go to Tip-in-Top to view the mountains of the Himalayas. Lansdowne has a more relaxed atmosphere, cooler weather, and less tourism, making it a perfect getaway for tourists with an appreciation for nature and travelling away from heavy traffic.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
5. Chandigarh
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, is a modern city renowned for its systematic urban planning and lush green spaces. Designed by the legendary French architect Le Corbusier, it is considered one of India’s best-planned cities. Located about 6-8 hours from Dehradun by road, Chandigarh is a convenient stopover for travellers venturing toward Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand. One of the most famous and unusual places is the Rock Garden, which was constructed of industrial waste, and the tourist will certainly pay attention to Sukhna Lake, good for boating and a pleasant walk in the evening.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Photo: Marcin Białek / Wikimedia Commons
Along the Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the oldest towns still in use in the world. It is also a spiritual centre. Varanasi is a very spiritual and cultural place to visit. It is known for the beautiful Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, its old temples, and its small streets that are full of life and culture. Both pilgrims and tourists come here to be blessed, perform rituals, and have times that stir the soul. The best time to go is from October to March, when the weather is nice and you can go sightseeing and take part in religious rituals.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Photo: Yann / Wikimedia Commons
Agra, one of India’s most iconic historical cities, is about 8-9 hours away from Uttarakhand, making it a slightly longer but worthwhile journey. The Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and it is a symbol of love and extraordinary architecture. However, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, which are also part of the UNESCO heritage, possess the Mughal drama in that nature. Apart from that, they are famous for the colourful markets and mouth-watering Mughlai food. Though a little longer, Agra is indeed worth visiting for history lovers as well as for anyone who wants to see the true essence of India’s history.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Sitikantha kheti / Wikimedia Commons
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are located in Himachal Pradesh and are around 9-10 hours from Uttarakhand by road. While not directly adjacent to Uttarakhand, they are easily accessible from northern India, making them a popular destination for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Dharamshala is the spiritual headquarters of Tibetan Buddhism in India and home to the Dalai Lama. McLeod Ganj, often called “Little Lhasa,” offers a unique blend of Tibetan culture, stunning monasteries, and vibrant cafes. Tourists can spend time exploring lovely mountain treks such as the Triund trek, or can also spend time at Bhagsu Falls.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
The places to visit near Uttarakhand offer a wealth of experiences, from tranquil hill stations to historical marvels. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, cultural exploration, or peaceful retreats, these destinations promise unforgettable memories. Ready to plan your next trip? Visit TripXL to discover curated travel guides, itineraries, and exclusive tips to make your journey seamless and memorable. So, pack your bags, and let the exploration begin!
Cover Photo: NARINDER PAL / Unsplash
