Uttaranchal
Introduction

There
are a number of reasons that set Uttaranchal apart from the rest of the
world. The state, lying in the northern part of India, is an ideal location
whether you talk of adventure, wildlife or eco-tourism. Besides, the rich
culture and the historical significance of the state can never be denied.
Broadly speaking, Uttaranchal can be segregated into Kumaon and Garhwal
zones. It shares it boundary with Nepal on its east, China on its north,
Himachal Pradesh on its west and Uttar Pradesh on its south.
Climate
Owing to altitudes and physio-graphic complexities, the climatic conditions
in Uttaranchal vary from tropical to polar types. Summer continues from
March till May while winter spans from October to February. The maximum
rainfall measures 1200 mm. A decrease in rainfall can be observed as one
moves to higher altitude areas. Places which lies 2,000 m above sea level
also experience snowfall. You can plan your trip here anytime between April
and November.
Important Cities and Towns
The state of Uttaranchal consists of 13 districts - Pithoragarh, Almora,
Nainital, Bageshwar, Champawat, Uttar Kashi, Udham Singh Nagar, Chamoli,
Dehra Dun, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, Rudraprayag and Haridwar (Urban).
Among these, mostly popular among tourists are the hill stations of Almora,
Nainital and Dehradun. Haridwar and Rudraprayag are famous pilgrimage
centres.
People & Culture
The native people inhabiting the mountainous call themselves Garhwali or
Kumaoni. A major part of the total population of the state is formed by the
Hindus (almost 90%). The upper caste of the region can be divided into the
Khas tribes and those who migrated here from North-Central India. Other
ethnic groups of the state are the Bhotiya (comprising Jadh, Marcha, Tolcha
and Shauka), the Bhuska, the Tharu, the Raji and Gujjars. Kumaoni and
Garhwali are the chief regional dialects spoken here.
Famous Travel Attractions

The
state boasts immense tourism potential whether it's adventure, pilgrimage,
wildlife or eco-tourism. To breathe in some cool and fresh air, you can move
to pristine hill stations like Dehradun, Almora, Mussorie, Nainital and
Ranikhet. Uttaranchal is also home to what the Hindus sacredly call Chardham
comprising Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri and Gangotri. Besides, you
can also plan your spiritual tours to important religious centres like
Haridwar and Rishikesh. Wildlife riches of the state can be experienced at
such popular national parks as the Jimm Corbett and Rajaji. Besides, those
who are in search of high-adrenaline activities can indulge in activities
like trekking (both high and low altitude treks), river rafting,
paragliding, hanggliding, skiing etc.
Air/ Rail/ Road Links
One can easily access the cities and towns of the state of Uttaranchal. The
Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun has regular Indian Airlines flights from
Delhi. The state has three major railheads Dehradun, Haridwar and
Kathgodam. Regularly scheduled mail and express trains connect these railway
stations with the key destinations of the country. Though there are a few
places that remain inaccessible (due to landslides and snowfall) for limited
period, National Highways 58, 73, 74 and 87 provide the state links with
major destinations of India.