Do you picture yourself in the category of people who dream of visiting certain places but scrap the plan owing to budget issues? If yes, then this post is what you were looking for. No more of money related ‘bahanas’ or ‘family-friends ka without invitation aana’. Why worry when you can explore the most beautiful places on earth in a budget. India is home to a bunch of great budget-friendly places that suit everyone’s pockets, from north to south and east to west, there is no place that cannot be travelled. This post highlights places to visit in Uttarakhand that are worth every dime.
Uttarakhand is blessed with abundant natural resources and awe-inspiring landscapes that have been captivating tourists (mostly wanderlusts) for a long time. It is a popular travel destination among youth for being the best weekend getaway to have fun and frolic amidst nature. It’s high time to ditch clichéd places like Auli, Mussoorie, Lansdowne, and Nainital, and embark on a journey leading to unknown epic adventures. We bring you the hidden gems of Uttarakhand you should be heading on your next weekend getaway to unravel the best nature has to offer.
Khirsu
Cooped up in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Khirsu is a whimsical town with an astonishing view of snow-clad Himalayan peaks. The place is a heaven for those seeking solitude, peace and some ‘me’ time. Wrapped in a green blanket during summers and snow blanket in winters, this tiny hill station gives you enough time to spend your ‘unforgettable moments’. If you want to leave behind the commotion of the cities and feel closer to nature, then Khirsu is your go-to place. Khirsu is a welcoming place with complete isolation where you can rejuvenate yourself in the lap of nature full of thick pine, oak and deodar forest, green moss, plush wildflowers and herbs, and clear sky.
Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is an idyllic Himalayan getaway for those who are tired of visiting same-old hill stations for relaxation. It is one of the least explored places in the country which makes it all the more exciting and alluring. If tranquility is what you wish for, then a short trip to Mukteshwar is what you should be doing next. Located in the foothills of the Himalaya, Mukteshwar is a quaint village with green surrounding, abundant flora and exotic wildlife. There are plenty of things to keep you occupied on your vacation to this dreamland. You can simply bask in the warm sun rays or watch birds chirping or simply coop up in the blanket and read your favorite novel or explore nature with nature-walks. Apart from this, there are ample of adventure sports opportunities you can seize to pump your adrenaline rush if you feel like so.
Naukuchiatal
Imagine yourself in a place surrounded by mountains, greenery, heart-thumping landscape, balmy environment with soul-soothing gusty winds, and unpolluted land. Didn’t it felt good? That’s what Naukuchiatal offers you. Situated 1220 meters above sea level, this wee-town in Uttarakhand gives you the feeling of being closer to nature and to yourself. If you want to escape the rush of cities, there couldn’t be a better weekend getaway than Naukuchiatal.
The name ‘naukuchiatal’ literally stands for ‘lake of nine corners’ which is the deepest of all lakes in Nainital district. If you have an appetite for adventure, you can also opt for numerous water sports organized here. The place is one of the least travelled destinations in the country thereby you can expect less crowd here. Naukuchiatal is a perfect place for wanderlusts seeking their space and figuring out things.
Sattal
Sattal is a lovely town in Uttarakhand which is home to the migratory birds who come to escape the extreme cold of the Himalayas. Enclosed with dense forest, clustered lakes, orchards, greenery and exotic birds, Sattal is a great place for a weekend getaway. It is one of the few unspoiled and untouched places in the region that has been successful in retaining nature’s glory. The mysterious aura of Sattal combined with unique biodiversity makes Sattal a great place to chill and relax. No doubt it is one of the favorite spots of wildlife photographers.
Ranikhet
Located in Almora district in Uttarakhand, Ranikhet is a cantonment town managed by the Indian army. Ranikhet literally means ‘queen’s meadow’ which completely justifies its name as this hill station is swaddled with beautiful landscapes and breathtaking meadows. The town was once chosen to be the summer capital of British government. However, the plan never really saw the light of the day. Legend has it that Ranikhet once was the resident of queen padmini. But due to lack of evidence, this rumor disappeared in thin air. Ranikhet is more than merely a relaxation spot for tourists. It’s a place to feel connected to nature and think about life. A visit to Ranikhet leaves inerasable imprints on one’s heart.
Joshimath
How can we talk about hidden travel destinations in Uttarakhand without mentioning Joshimath? No, that would not be fair. Joshimath is what you can call one of the most budget-friendly places for travelers and soul seekers where they should be prepared for getting more than they bargained for. A gateway to the Himalayan expedition and trekking trails, Joshimath is a stop-over for many adventure junkies. To be honest, it is more than being a mere stop-over.
The place is winter abode of lord Badrinath loaded with awe-inspiring landscapes, river, towering mountain, dense oak and pine forest and snow-clad peaks. It is not only an important pilgrimage center for Hindus but a perfect place for solitude seekers too. The celestial aura of the place is known to heal wounds of the place and give people the motivation to keep moving in life and enjoy everything it offers.
Munsiyari
Located in Pithoragarh district, Munsiyari is an offbeat place with a panoramic view of snow-capped mountains, meadows and clear sky. It is a base for several trekking and mountaineering trails. Talk about a budget-friendly place and Munsiyari is the destination for that. The stunning backdrop of Munsiyari reminds one of beautiful Kashmir valley which is the reason why it is also called ‘mini/little kashmir’. If you wish to spend quality time with your friends and loved ones, escape the humdrum of the cities and head to Munsiyari. Chances are you won’t want to come back from the place. Munsiyari will cast its spell on you and on top that rejuvenates your soul, mind and body.
