Things To Do In Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi meaning Kashi of the North, is one the hidden gems in the Uttarakhand district offering a unique combination of outdoor activities and spiritual retreats that always tend to refresh and uplifts visitors’ spirits. The town is situated nearly 1158 meters above sea-level and is the ideal weekend getaway due to the stunning views, lush meadows and neighbouring Himalayan Mountain ranges. The town has a peaceful vibe to it thanks to the sheer number of unique temples found in and around the area. The Vishwanath Temple here is one of the most pious in the country and is frequented throughout the year. To learn more about the best things to do in Uttarkashi, read below.

A well-known haven for trekkers, Harsil boasts some of the most rewarding and scenic hikes in the region. Journeys to Gomukh and Sat Tal are also extremely popular amongst visitors. The Ganga River is the most sacred waterway in the Hindu religion and is the cradle of Gomukh. The glacier here measures nearly 30 km high. This is one the best things to do here, due to the unforgettable trails and panoramic views on offer.

Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Mount Thelu is a haven for mountaineering enthusiasts and adventurers at heart. The time period to scale this mountain is approximately 9 days even for experienced climbers. Trekkers would pass through Mount Saifi which is close to Gangotri National Park. This is a once in a lifetime experience and if visitors are brave enough to try this, the feeling of reaching the summit will be worth it!

The town presents multiple opportunities for professional and budding photographers thanks to the stunning landscape on offer. Pictures of the temples, villages and mountain peaks leave something to offer for all visitors. Dayara Bugyal is one such unique landscape that can be captured, weather permitting. Visitors need to trek nearly 9 km from Barsu Village to get to Dayara Bugyal and enjoy some relaxation in the lap of Mother Nature.

Uttarkashi is a notable heaven of apple plantations and the Harsil-Dharali is a perfect example of the rich natural beauty on offer here. A day trip to the apple and walnut plantations is a must-do activity for families and young couples especially. Visitors can enjoy a whole wide range of fresh produce made from these orchards.

Uttarakhand is regularly referred to as “Dev Bhoomi” or “The Land of Gods”. There are abundant blissful temples and shrines here and visitors are strongly recommended to venture out in search of these sacred spaces. Gangotri is one of the “Char Dhams” - a premier religious destination in the Hindu religion, situated a whopping 3415 meters above sea-level. The Gangotri Temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is not to be missed, weather permitting.

A highly recommended picnic spot, this Dam is an ideal location to spend the day enjoying a picnic with friends and family, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding landscape and just being at peace. The dam is made of concrete and is built on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. The dam diverts the water supply to facilitate the Bhali Hydroelectric and Tiloth Power Plants.

Skiing on the snow-caped slopes of Auli is one of the most exhilarating and fun things to do. Auli is a ski resort getaway and hill-station located nearly 2800 meters above sea-level. It is famed for its glistening slopes, orchards and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. During the winter months, thousands of visitors flock here to enjoy the slopes and other outdoor activities on offer.

A trip to Uttarakashi is incomplete without a visit to the Vishwanath temple, one of the ancient and most holy of temples in the area, located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. A lot of pilgrims visit this temple during their Char Dham Yatra and spend time here meditating and enjoying the stunning views of the valley below. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.