Uttarakhand, often referred to as the "Land of the Gods," is a treasure trove of natural beauty and spiritual sanctity. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this northern Indian state offers a diverse range of experiences, from snow-capped peaks and lush forests to sacred rivers and ancient temples. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a spiritual traveler, Uttarakhand has something to offer everyone.

Our 7-day itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the most enchanting destinations in Uttarakhand. You'll start in the ski resort town of Auli, known for its stunning views of the Nanda Devi peak, before moving on to the tranquil forests of Binsar and the charming hill station of Ranikhet. From there, you'll explore the wildlife of Jim Corbett National Park, visit the sacred Badrinath Temple, and end your journey with the spiritual rituals of Haridwar.

As you travel through Uttarakhand, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious regional cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the people. With a mix of adventure, relaxation, and spirituality, this itinerary promises to be a memorable journey through one of India's most captivating regions.

Auli

Day 1: Arrival in Auli

Afternoon: Arrive in Auli, a picturesque ski resort town known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Check into your accommodation and take some time to relax and acclimate to the altitude. Consider staying at the Clifftop Club for its stunning views and cozy atmosphere.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at the hotel restaurant, where you can savor local Garhwali cuisine. Try dishes like aloo ke gutke (spiced potatoes) and kafuli (spinach curry) for an authentic taste of the region.

Day 2: Exploring Auli

Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, such as the Auli D's Café, known for its delicious parathas and chai. After breakfast, head to the Auli Ropeway, one of the longest cable cars in Asia, for a scenic ride offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding on Auli's pristine slopes. If you're new to winter sports, consider taking a lesson from one of the local instructors. Alternatively, you can explore the nearby Gurso Bugyal, a beautiful meadow offering stunning views of the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.

Evening: After a day of adventure, unwind with a traditional Garhwali dinner at the hotel. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local specialty, bhang ki chutney, a flavorful hemp seed chutney.

Binsar

Day 3: Travel to Binsar

Morning: Depart Auli in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Binsar, a tranquil forest reserve known for its rich biodiversity. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, so sit back and enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Binsar and check into your accommodation. Consider staying at the Binsar Forest Retreat, a charming eco-lodge nestled in the heart of the forest.

Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the forest, where you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Return to the retreat for a delicious dinner featuring organic ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.

Day 4: Discovering Binsar

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a guided nature walk through the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep an eye out for the elusive leopard, as well as barking deer, Himalayan black bears, and a variety of bird species.

Afternoon: Visit the Binsar Zero Point, the highest point in the sanctuary, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Trishul. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Evening: Return to the retreat for a relaxing evening. Consider joining a yoga or meditation session to unwind and connect with the tranquil surroundings.

Ranikhet

Day 5: Journey to Ranikhet

Morning: Depart Binsar in the morning and head to Ranikhet, a charming hill station known for its lush green meadows and colonial architecture. The drive takes approximately 2 hours.

Afternoon: Check into your accommodation, such as the Chevron Rosemount, a heritage hotel offering a blend of modern comforts and old-world charm.

Evening: Explore the town's main attractions, including the Jhula Devi Temple and the Chaubatia Gardens, known for their beautiful orchards and panoramic views. Enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant, where you can sample local Kumaoni dishes like bhatt ki churkani (black soybean curry) and singori (a sweet made with khoya and wrapped in a leaf).

Corbett

Day 6: Safari in Jim Corbett National Park

Morning: Depart Ranikhet early in the morning and head to Jim Corbett National Park, India's oldest national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The drive takes approximately 3 hours.

Afternoon: Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and deer. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Evening: Check into your accommodation, such as the Corbett Riverside Resort, a riverside retreat offering comfortable accommodations and a range of activities. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the river, followed by a delicious dinner at the resort's restaurant.

Badrinath

Day 7: Pilgrimage to Badrinath

Morning: Depart Corbett in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Badrinath, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India. The journey takes approximately 8 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding drive through the stunning Himalayan landscapes.

Afternoon: Arrive in Badrinath and visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and attracts thousands of devotees each year. Take some time to explore the temple complex and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Evening: Enjoy a simple yet satisfying dinner at a local dhaba, where you can sample traditional North Indian dishes like dal makhani and paneer butter masala. Spend the night in Badrinath, reflecting on the spiritual journey you've undertaken.

Haridwar

Day 8: Spiritual Experience in Haridwar

Morning: Depart Badrinath in the morning and head to Haridwar, a sacred city on the banks of the Ganges River. The drive takes approximately 7 hours.

Afternoon: Arrive in Haridwar and check into your accommodation, such as the Haveli Hari Ganga, a heritage hotel offering a blend of traditional charm and modern comforts.

Evening: Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat where devotees gather to offer prayers and witness the beautiful ritual. The aarti is a truly spiritual experience, with the sound of bells and chants filling the air as the river is illuminated by the glow of countless diyas (oil lamps).

As your journey through Uttarakhand comes to an end, you'll leave with memories of breathtaking landscapes, spiritual experiences, and the warm hospitality of the people. This 7-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and spirituality, making it an unforgettable journey through one of India's most captivating regions.