The Sun blazing in the sky,

                                                                 Icing clouds fetching high,

                                                           Feathery - weatherly soothing minds

                                                               Making vacation to a healthy life.

Given the prevailing humid weather conditions, it is obvious that the people would look for respite in the hills and cool mountains. When searched for the most soothing places to visit in Summer, Uttarakhand counts first.

Now, to escape the scalding omnipresent heatwave, several tourists are hitting the road leading to Uttarakhand. Due to the ongoing summer vacation season, several enthusiastic pilgrims have left their homes with bags and baggage for the Char Dham yatra.

Temperature is a key of attraction:

With the daytime temperatures reaching the 45 to 49 degrees mark in India, tons of tourists are looking up to the mountains of Uttarakhand to cool off. According to the news reports, more than 80000 vehicles pass through Haridwar every day, as told by Janmejay Khanduri, SSP Haridwar to a news daily. The same situation prevails in popular tourist destinations like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Rudraprayag, Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Nainital.

It has been reported that the debris left after making the all-weather roads is the reason for the traffic issues beyond Rishikesh. The widening of the roads was temporarily stalled due to the tourist season, and the debris lying on Chamoli-Joshimath road turned into the main source of traffic blockage.

Ready to face traffic:

The main problem leading to the traffic jams is the shortage of parking lots and the increase in the number of small vehicles visiting Uttarakhand. The highways connecting different parts of North India to Uttarakhand state are jammed with vehicular traffic. All these factors have literally choked the roads in the Garhwal region with double the expected number of vehicles entering Uttarakhand this summer. Reportedly, because of this reason, it is taking more than double the time to take Badrinath and Kedarnath.

Social media users have reported that they had a hard time reaching Kedarnath, and finding a parking lot was another impossible challenge. On top of that, even small hotels and guest houses are charging exorbitant rates from tourists and there is a very long queue even to get a cab to reach Gauri Kund to begin the trek to Kedarnath temple on Monday, the Mussoorie-Haridwar road witnessed a long traffic jam. Many people remained stuck in traffic for 4-5 hours.

Experiencing Land of Peace:

Uttarakhand, Considered as Dev Bhoomi or “Land of Gods” by Hindus, one can easily fall in love with this enchanting land. Earlier known as Uttaranchal, the state is famous for ancient holy places, spectacular meadows, lush greenery, snow-covered soaring peaks, breathtaking hill stations, magnificent temples as well as picturesque lakes. Offering a range of experiences like rafting, bird watching, skiing, yoga, camping as well as wildlife tours, this Indian state has something for one and all. Uttarakhand undoubtedly is truly a land of sublime beauty that offers an unforgettable experience to one and all. Boasting a perfect combination of nature and adventure, there are a plethora of places to visit in Uttarakhand where you can not only connect with your inner self but also channel the innate explorer.

Landour

It is undoubtedly amongst the most serene places to see in Uttarakhand. Home to one of India”s renowned authors, Ruskin Bond, this beautiful town is located in close proximity to Dehradun. This is amongst those places which have not been touched by commercialization and continue to be a place where one can unwind in serenity.

Dehradun

Surrounded by the breathtaking Doon valley, Dehradun is a well-known hill station, which never fails to entice travelers, be it families, couples, or backpackers. The capital city of Uttarakhand boasts of pleasant climate all year round, which makes it an ideal place to plan a memorable getaway.

Mussoorie

Located in the midst of Garhwal Himalayan ranges, Mussoorie enjoys wonderful weather all year round. Some of the must-visit places in Mussoorie are Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, and The Mall. Home to different hills, lakes, and temples, this place derives its name from a shrub known as Mansoor, which is found here in large quantities.

Nainital

Situated by the renowned Naini Lake, this lake city boasts of a plethora of scenic spots such as Eco Cave Gardens, Snow View, Naina Peak, and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary.

Haridwar

Haridwar is home to a number of temples and ashrams. Literally translated as “Gateway to the Lord”, Haridwar is also famous for Kumbh Mela. Apart from housing different temples, Haridwar is home to a renowned 13th-century dargah too named Piran Kaliyar.

Rishikesh

Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Rishikesh is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. Resting on the foothills of the Himalayas, this place is renowned for ashrams, which are known for teaching spirituality, meditation, and Ayurveda.

Almora

This romantic destination is one of the perfect places to escape the scorching heat. Offering spectacular views of the Himalayas, this quaint hill town is famous for beautiful handicrafts, delectable food, and rich flora and fauna. A verdant paradise, Almora sits on a horseshoe-shaped ridge.

Auli

Known as one of the best ski destinations in India, Auli is a beautiful hill station of Uttarakhand which offers stunning views of snow-covered peaks.