Select Country
Celebrated author and raconteur Ruskin Bond once said about travelling the adventure is not in getting somewhere, it’s the on-the-way experience. It is not the expected: it’s the surprise. Bond could well be the epitome of the mountain-life in Uttarakhand, having lived for numerous years in Mussoorie in his quiet and picturesque cottage. Such is the beauty of the majestic mountains, greenery and natural splendors dotting the State of Uttarakhand that never fails to captivate travellers and locals alike.
For those of you struggling to cope with the lockdown blues and looking to get a whiff of fresh air (quite literally!), there is good news in store. You will now be able to enjoy your Uttarakhand travels as the Government has clarified that hotels and homestays can open for business again. So if you don’t live in a high-load COVID-19 city (cities with the highest numbers of cases), you can definitely explore an upcoming holiday in Uttarakhand.
A few basics that you must be aware about
Agreed, rules and regulations may sound morbid when you’re finally planning an elusive holiday. Yet, some guidelines should definitely be on your mind before you finalize your hotel booking. Don’t book hotels present in containment zones and within the DMC (Dehradun Municipal Corporation) jurisdiction while traveling to the State as per guidelines. COVID-19 negative test results are compulsory for traveling to the State (something you must endeavor to get before your vacation) along with minimum hotel bookings for 7 days.
As long as you carry this result, you can freely move about the State since borders have been opened once again for inter-district and inter-state travel and tourism. If you’re living in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, Lucknow or Noida, you will have to wait a while before venturing into the State. If you’re living in a city with a lower COVID-19 case count, you can definitely travel without venturing into tourism spots or public places. Undertakings may be sought by your hotel in this respect. The silver lining is that shopping malls and restaurants will function between 7 AM-7 PM.
Just a little more information overload (really important)
If you’re looking to visit Mussoorie, you should know that entry will only be provided once a 7-day booking is shown. A negative COVID-19 report is a must as mentioned before (should be issued in the last 72 hours). Without the same, a tourist will have to be quarantined for a period of 7 days. Night curfew starts from 10 PM and extends till 7 AM each day as well. For Dehradun, the Smart City Dehradun portal is where you will have to upload the COVID-19 test report while registering. Your hotel will have to make sure that those booking for periods less than 7 days get RT-PCR tests done from authorized laboratories within 72 hours.
Phew! While these guidelines do sound intimidating, the reality is that they are basic or standard protocols issued by the Government for the steady resumption of travel and tourism. You should follow all rules and regulations carefully while enjoying your trip to the veritable land of the Gods, one of India’s most revered States, Uttarakhand.
Top hotels in Uttarakhand that you can visit now
There are tons of reputed and clean hotels offering sanitized stays with all necessary precautions for guests. Here’s looking at them from a location-wise perspective:
Mussoorie:
Located strategically on the Mussoorie Road in Barlow Ganj, this is one homely establishment that will charm you with its amazing views and comfortable accommodation.
Top Attractions:
Visit the beautiful Mussoorie Park for a morning/evening stroll while digging into piping hot snacks and tea at Bewafa Chai Wala and other establishments. Evening entertainment can be found at the Nirvana Lodge and Lounge while some interesting attractions nearby include the gorgeous Bhatta Falls, St. Francis Monastery, Bhadraj Temple and Ikya Island.
Key Features:
Work or relax in peace with the charming rooms offering ample space and big picture windows with views to die for (Distraction alert sounded!). From televisions and air conditioning to hearty complimentary buffet breakfasts, you’ll be comfortable here in no time! Power backup ensures that you can work seamlessly minus interruptions.
Relish your Mussoorie trip like never before with a sanitized stay at this quaint homestay that is well-equipped with all necessary amenities. The strategic location near the Library Bus stand definitely helps.
Top Attractions:
Visit the Gun Hill and Panda Hill nearby for a glimpse of natural splendor along with the imposing Bhatta Fall which will certainly light up your Insta feed! The Christ Church is another nearby attraction that you should not miss along with hot meals at Chick Chocolate.
Key Features:
Work and play in style with the comfortable interiors and free Wi-Fi round the clock. Refrigerators, power backup, air conditioning, televisions and geysers make your stay doubly comfortable while parking space is a major plus.
Dehradun:
Nestled in a picturesque location near IMS University in Dehradun, this hotel at Bhagwant Pur will enliven your stay by all means.
Top Attractions:
Nature lovers will have a ball, visiting the nearby Shikhar Fall and also the Malsi Reserved Forest which is a must-visit for more adventurous tourists. You’ll love the Dehradun Zoo as well, for obvious reasons! Grab delicious bites at nearby eateries like Taste of Haryana, Gazebo Restaurant & Party Lawn and Sagar Ratna.
Key Features:
Contemporary furnishings, big cupboards, king/queen sized beds and center tables create a comfy vibe in the rooms while free Wi-Fi and power backup are a godsend for those looking to get some work done on their trip. Other features include televisions, air conditioning, mini fridges, tea/coffee makers, parking, hair dryers, intercom facilities and more. In short, everything you need to be snug and happy.
Located on Canal Road, this stylish hotel elevates your experience by several notches with spacious rooms and easy access to the Dehradun Railway Station and Rajpur Road.
Top Attractions:
Once you venture out, there’s a lot to take in, including the Khalanga War Memorial, Malsi Deer Park, MDDA Park, Sahastradhara and even Robber’s Cave for some adventure and fun! Indulge in retail therapy at the Pacific Mall nearby while feasting on sumptuous local grub at nearby eateries.
Key Features:
Power backup is a major feature that will help you stay connected without any hassles while ample parking space, televisions, geysers, air conditioning, 24-7 check-in (a boon for business travellers) and clean bathrooms are major features enabling a more comfortable trip.
Nainital:
Located in close proximity to the Bilaspur Road at Naukuchiatal, this hotel promises warm and comfortable experiences for all travellers.
Top Attractions:
The list of nearby attractions includes the awe-inspiring Mathpal’s Museum and Art Gallery for culture aficionados along with the Karkotak Mandir. Relish delicious meals at several nearby eateries and restaurants.
Key Features:
Free Wi-Fi and power back-up help you work in peace while the wooden décor theme and plush sofas create a comfortable ambience whenever you’re in the mood to relax. Parking space aside, intercom facilities, king sized beds, geysers and televisions enable comfortable experiences as well.
This comfy and warm homestay is located near Rajkiye Inter College in Bhumiyadhar. The age-old proverb simplicity is elegance is best reflected through this establishment. Proximity to the NH-109, Nainital Bus Stand and Bhowali Bus Stand certainly helps.
Top Attractions:
Get access to some of the biggest and most popular attractions in Nainital from here, including the Tiffin Top, Nainital Lake and Cave Garden. Head out to the famous Naina Devi Temple and spend a quaint afternoon exploring the Ghorakhal Tea Factory. Shop till you drop at the Tibetan Market and Mall Road, picking up unique souvenirs and delightful candles to take home. Fancy a delicious meal? Try the Machaan Restaurant nearby (you’ll thank us later!).
Key Features:
Basic amenities include televisions, parking space and 24-7 check-in provisions. Additionally, you’ll appreciate uninterrupted power supply, especially if you have work to get done along with geysers (for those lingering hot baths) and mini fridges in rooms (for that nightly snack or sudden cold beverage).
Rishikesh:
Located near the Laxman Jhoola Enclave at Tapovan, this comfortable hotel offers access to several nearby attractions along with adventure activities.
Top Attractions:
Red Chilli Adventure and Outbound Adventure organize several adventure activities in the vicinity while you can easily visit Laxman Jhoola as well. The Neergarh Waterfall is another beautiful landmark nearby and will fill your heart with sheer delight. Fancying a bite or two? Check out happening cafes nearby including The Ganga View Café, Tatev Café and Bistro Nirvana.
Key Features:
The WFH brigade will appreciate free Wi-Fi and complete power backup while geysers, spacious rooms, clean bathrooms, air conditioning and televisions add to the comfort factor. You can take periodic breaks at the in-house restaurant with its wide selection of lip-smacking treats.
Situated strategically near the picturesque Rajaji National Park and Chilla Dam in Rishikesh, this beautiful hotel looks out onto lush natural greenery and a lovely garden. Both the Raiwala Junction Station and Jolly Grand Airport are situated nearby.
Top Attractions:
The beautiful Ganges flows nearby and you can check out the Rajaji National Park if you’re in for some adventure and natural bliss alike. The Chilla Dam is another hotspot in the vicinity along with popular eateries like Bonfire Pizza Point, Mohan Ji Lehri Wale and Ever Green Fast Food.
Key Features:
Power back-up, 24-7 check-in, parking facilities and a charming garden/backyard are major plus points along with comfortable twin beds, kitchens, air conditioning, an in-house restaurant and more.
Haridwar:
Located near Aakash Institute at Ranipur More, this delightful hotel offers comfy interiors and a soothing ambience. You can access the hotel easily from the Haridwar Railway Station and Jwalapur Railway Station.
Top Attractions:
Relish some much-needed solitude at the famous Ganga Ghat or visit Har Ki Pauri along with the hallowed Shri Mata Mansa Devi Mandir for a spiritual experience unlike any other! Feast on sumptuous local delicacies at Mocha 93 Café, The Village Restaurant and Maharaja Bakers and Fast Food Joint.
Key Features:
From free Wi-Fi and power backup to private entrances, 24-7 check-in provisions and intercom facilities, everything is tailored to help you work productively while relaxing in style as well. Other comfort features include televisions, air conditioning, plush queen sized beds and more.
Located strategically near the Jwalapur Railway Station, Jwalapur Bus Stop and Shastry Nagar Bus Stop near the Enfield Showroom, this hotel is a traveler’s delight by all means.
Top Attractions:
Embark on a visit to Haridwar’s popular attractions including Har Ki Pauri, Vaishno Devi Mandir and Shri Parshwanath Digambar Jain Temple. The Bharat Mata Temple is also worth a visit. If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, try Bikanerwala and McDonald’s nearby.
Key Features:
Workation inclined travelers will have ample support in the form of free Wi-Fi, dedicated seating and dining areas for guests, power backup and a conference room. The charming furnishings, wooden fixtures and basic offerings like geysers, televisions, air conditioning and parking facilities will definitely make your stay more comfortable. Sink into the plush queen sized beds once you’re done for the day or relish a piping hot meal at the in-house restaurant.
These are some of the top hotels in Uttarakhand that you can consider for your trip, that is if you’re planning one anytime soon!
Why should tourists have all the fun?
Indeed, why should tourists be the only ones enjoying the pristine beauty of Uttarakhand alone? Locals and residents of nearby States, cities and towns can certainly book weekend trips to various destinations in Uttarakhand. If you’re among the local holiday brigade, here are some of the top tourist spots in various locations that you might be interested in.
Rishikesh
Nestled in the Himalayan foothills along the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is where spirituality convalesces harmoniously with adventure. The Yoga capital of the world is an amazing weekend destination for locals. Here are some of the top activities/spots for you to indulge in here:
Haridwar
If Rishikesh is the Yoga Capital, then Haridwar is definitely the country’s spiritual capital. Devotees and pilgrims congregate at this famous holy town every year during the iconic Kumbh Mela and it is believed that a dip in the sacred Ganga will cleanse away all sins. Here are some of the top activities for you in Haridwar:
Kedarnath
The main Jyotirlinga, Kedarnath is another popular holy town in Uttarakhand and is one of the famous Char Dhams amidst the Himalayas. Situated 3584 meters above sea level, the views are straight out of a dream! Here are some of the top activities worth enjoying in Kedarnath:
Badrinath
Another one of the Char Dhams, Badrinath is an equally popular holy town that worships Lord Vishnu and is nestled at a whopping 10,279 feet in terms of height. Here are some of the activities that you cannot miss during your stay here:
Dehradun
Uttarakhand’s Capital, Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley and is one of those charming mountain towns straight out of a novel. Located between the Yamuna and Ganga Rivers, this spectacular hill retreat is dotted with colonial-era monuments and is an amazing picnic spot too. Here’s what you simply cannot miss:
Nainital
Named after the pristine Naini Lake, Nainital is popularly known as the City of Lakes, offering majestic backdrops of the Himalayas covered in snow along with lush natural greenery and picturesque surroundings. Here’s what you should not miss during your stay:
Almora
An offbeat destination often preferred by locals, Almora offers cool weather, colonial-era charm and rows upon rows of magical pine and fir trees. The interesting bit is that Almora is shaped like the saddle of a horse, lending it a special character of its own in a manner of speaking. Here’s what you should do while you’re here in this delightful hillock:
Auli
India’s Skiing Capital, Auli, is a treat for those who love snow and adventure alike. Thinking of giving skiing a try and finally taking those lessons? This is where you do it and with panache no less! Here’s what you shouldn’t miss here:
Lansdowne
Lansdowne and summer vacations were once synonymous with the British and locals alike! This picturesque pine forest dotted hill station is a lesson in cleanliness as well, being a Cantonment Area of the Garhwal Rifles. Snow-laced mountain peaks and amazing natural beauty aside, here are the top things that you should enjoy here:
Mussoorie
Visiting Uttarakhand will always be incomplete without traipsing up to Mussoorie, the Queen of Hills nestled amidst the Doon Valley and Shiwalik Ranges. From awe-inspiring colonial relics to delightful waterfalls and natural splendor, Mussoorie has something for everyone. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss here:
Now that you’ve got all the deets on Uttarakhand’s best places to visit and regulations concerning the arrival of tourists, it is time to plan a much-needed trip that you’ve been putting off for a while now. Happy travelling!
Please go back to portrait mode for the best experience
April 15, 2024 
