10 Places to Visit Near Hairdwar

The Yoga Capital of the world”, Rishikesh is the perfect spot for those seeking spirituality yet adrenaline-spiking adventures. Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is populous for yoga and meditation along with Spiritual heritage. It is believed that Lord Ram did penance for killing Ravana here. 

Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula located here are of utmost importance and are said to be named after Lord Ram and his brother Laxman. Rishikesh is a hub for adventurous activities, especially river rafting; combining it further with trekking, camping, and bungee jumping.

Rishikesh is very well equipped with divergent ashrams such as Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, and Swarg Ashram; serving as a home of education, and spiritual learning and further making it a perfect spot for environmental enthusiasts. Rishikesh is closely located in Haridwar. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, situated just 20 kms away. This serene gateway is worthy of every single penny spent here. 

Well-known for its picturesque and magnificent beauty, Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley in the foothills of the Himalayas, cuddled up between Ganges and Yamuna. It is the core of institutions like the Indian Military Academy[IMA], Forest Research Institute[FRI], Doon School, etc.

The temperature experienced here is generally in the range of moderate to cold climates. This spot is the blend of various traditions; Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Dhanaulti uplifting it as a perfect rich cultural heritage. Dehradun is nestled with Paltan Bazaar, Gurudwara Nanaksar with its core as Ghanta Ghar.

Some of the famous tourist attractions offered here-

1. Robber’s Cave
2. Sahastradhara
3. Mindrolling Monastery
4. Tapkeshwar Temple 

The transport connectivity provided here is of great quality making it a perfect destination to spend the vacation.

A Halcyon location at an elevation of 2,286 meters above sea level, Dhanaulti is a hidden gem known for its placid environment, lush trees, and alluring views. Dhanaulti is blessed with the forests of deodar, oak, and rhododendrons trees. Further expanding its arms of escape, Dhanaulti also has an Eco Park, known as “Deva Dura Park” which offers magnificent views, lush greenery, walking spots, and horse riding.

Surkhanda Devi temple in Dhanaulti requires a short trek from Kaddukhal village. Adventure enthusiasts can also experience trekking, camping, and nature walks, provided that it is a great way to explore the wilderness of nearby forests.

The key highlight of Dhanaulti is its Apple Orchards and its pretty snowfall during the winter season. Unlike other options, Dhanaulti is a very calm and peaceful option for the rejuvenation of the soul.

Tourist Attractions:

1. Surkhanda Devi temple
2. Dhanolti Eco Park Amber
3. Tehri Dam
4. Apple Orchard Resort
5. Kanatal Adventure Camp
6. Aloo Khet
7. Camp Thangdhar

Queen of Hills, Mussoorie is one of the most charming hill stations located at an elevation of 1880 meters above sea level. If “Romantic nature had a face, it would be of Mussoorie!” Just 35 kms from Dehradun, Mussoorie is populous for its panoramic and beautiful views known for its ability to rizz the tourists and make them fall in love.

The town is famous for its winding roads, dense forests, and cascading waterfall. Hub of various renowned educational institutions such as Woodstock School and International School of Mussoorie; Mussoorie also accommodates various adventurous activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and paragliding.

This is an escapism from the scorching summers of the Northern part due to the presence of pleasant weather every time. Highlighting its history, the year 1991 is said to be the year of the beginning of the modern history of “Mussoorie- the tourism spot”.

Attractions and Landmarks:

1. Kempty Falls
2. Gun Hill
3. Lal Tibba
4. Mall Road
5. Bhatta falls 

Parallel picturesque world, away from the disturbing cities, Nainital is a resort town situated in the Kumaon region (the devbhoomi) of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 2,000 m. Founded by the P.Baron as a British town, this town is the perfect escapism. The scorching heat of summer can be avoided only by visiting this magnificent town.

Nainital is set around Nainital Lake, a populous boating site with Naina Devi Hindu Temple on its north shore. The British peeps once used this location to escape the heat of summer and the tradition remains continued by the Indians. This dreamscape is no less than a wonderland on Earth upholding the feature of inclusivity by offering something to everyone. 

Nainital has some favorite tourist attractions upholding its beauty:

1. Naini Lake
2. Mall Road
3. Nainital Zoo
4. Naina Devi Temple 
5. Tiffin top ( Dorothy’s seat)
6. Snow View Point
7. Hanuman Garhi
8. Tibetan Market
9. Jim Corbett National Park
10. St john in Wilderness

Home to gabled colonial-era houses, this picturesque location is located in the Solan district, in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Confounded with scenic beauty, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the hills; Kasauli has its colonial charm to date which is retained via churches and many buildings dating back to British Era.

The Christ Church is one of the most renowned churches, built in the 19th century, and is known to be a prominent landmark. Kasauli is another escape from the hot summers due to its pleasant weather throughout the year. Kasauli finds pride in itself due to the divergence of cuisine offered including Sidu( a type of bread), Babru(fried stuffed bread), and Madra ( a traditional curry).

Trains are easily accessible here and Kalka Mail is considered as one of the most important trains due to its connection to metropolitan cities. For Airport, Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport. The hotels here are well-built with furnished rooms and warm hospitality. Although Kasauli is home to tourist spots there are some major tourist attractions:

1. Sunset Point
2. Gilbert Trail on Kachcha Road
3. Gurkha Fort
4. Baba Balak Nath Temole
5. Christ Church
6. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple 
7. Monkey Point 
8. Central Research Library

These tourist destinations make Kasauli a worthy spot in the foothills of Himalayas.

Unearthed in the Dehradun district of the state of Uttarakhand, India; Kalsi is located at the banks of Tons River. This stunning beauty happens to be perched at an elevation of 780 meters. Delivering an easy path to the Jaunsar-Bawar tribe, Kalsi can be accessed easily via road. Populous for the Rock Edicts of Kalsi also known as Ashokan Rock Edict.

This inscription dates back to the rule of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century and is beautifully carved on a rock that has edicts issued by Emperor Ashoka. This is of historical importance as it highlights Emperor Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma which stands for morality and righteousness. These edicts uphold the values of nonviolence, tolerance, and welfare.

Influenced by the Garhwali tradition, Kalsi is a hub of exquisite local culture. Opportunities for trekking and exploration are also offered here complimented by its serene beauty, lush greenery, and pretty mountains. The best time to visit here is from February to May and October to November. Kalsi is also known for its picturesque picnic spots highlighting its beauty. 

Some of the major tourist attractions and joyous sports are-

1. Ashokan Rock Edict
2. Asan Barrage
3. Dakpathar
4. Chakrata Hills
5. River Rafting
6. Kayaking
7. Bird Watching
8. Water Skiing
9. Boating
10. Sailing
11. Canoeing

Well-known for its scenic splendor and glorious 300 km vast view of the Himalayas, Kausani lies in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. Perfect spot for nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts, Kausani perches at an elevation of about 1890 meters above sea level. Easily accessible by road and is located 120 kms north of Nainital and 52 kms north of Almora, contributing greatly to its popularity.

Prominent for its snow-covered mountains and serene beauty this quaint town falls under the category of one of the most recommended places near Haridwar. Mahatma Gandhi once called Kausani the “Switzerland of India”.

The vibrant local culture is famous for handicrafts, woolen shawls, and blankets. Kausani is easily accessible via roads. The perfect time to visit here is from April to June and October to February.

Some of the major attractions include- 

1. Rudhradhari Falls & Caves
2. Gwaldam
3. Kausani Tea estate
4. Stargate Observatory
5. Sumitranandan Pant Museum
6. Trekking to Pinnath
7. Shopping

Originating as a military garrison under the British Raj, the Garhwali museum in Lansdowne still has traces of the legacy of the Garhwal Rifle Regiment. Situated in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is at an elevation of approx 1700 meters above sea level. It is easily accessible via road and train.

With lush forest, mesmerized hills, and an escapism via nature, this town is less commercialized which preserves its serene beauty to a great extent. Lansdowne put forward a potpourri of experiences which includes Bhulla Lake, War Memorial, Tip-top Viewpoint, St.Mary Church, and Nature Walk. The perfect spot to quench your wanderlust desire.

Stuffed with Himalayas and packed with rich cultural beauty, Pauri is at an elevation of approx 1814 meters above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas. Pauri is a hub of various religious and spiritual sites i.e. Kyunkaleshawar Mahadev Temple, Danda Nagraja Temple, and Kandoliya Temple.

Inhabited by Garhwali traditions and cuisine, Pauri is a blend of natural colors. The climate experienced here is of pleasant quality and nourishes the body. This destination pulls the nature lovers and peace seekers by offering them the perfect sunset viewpoints which are Sunset Point and Lansdowne Point. The best time to visit here is from April to June and September to October.

Some of the major highlights are:

1. Chaukhamba Viewpoint
2. Kandolia Temple
3. Khirsu
4. Trekking
5. Fishing
6. Rafting