Uttarakhand

History:

Ancient rock paintings, rock shelters, palaeolithic stone tools (hundreds of thousands of years old), and megaliths prove that the region's mountains have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological remains also show early Vedic (c. 1500 BCE) practices in the area. The Pauravas, Khasas, Kiratas, Nandas, Mauryas, Kushanas, Kunindas, Guptas, Karkotas, Palas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, Katyuris, Raikas, Chands, Parmars or Panwars, Mallas, Shahs and the British have ruled Uttarakhand in turns. Among the first major dynasties of Garhwal and Kumaon was the Kunindas in the 2nd century BCE, who practised an early form of Shaivism and traded salt with Western Tibet. It is evident from the Ashokan edict at Kalsi in Western Garhwal that Buddhism made inroads in this region. Shamanic Hindu practices deviating from Hindu orthodoxy also persisted here. However, Garhwal and Kumaon were restored to nominal Vedic Hindu rule due to the travels of Shankaracharya and the arrival of migrants from the plains. Between the 4th and 14th centuries, the Katyuri dynasty dominated lands of varying extents from the Katyur valley (modern-day Baijnath) in Kumaon. The historically significant temples at Jageshwar are believed to have been built by the Katyuris and later remodelled by the Chands. Other peoples of the Tibeto-Burman group, known as Kirata, are thought to have settled in the northern highlands and pockets throughout the region. They are believed to be Bhotiya, Raji, Jad, and Banrawat.

Geography:

Uttarakhand has a total area of 53,483 km2 (20,650 sq mi), of which 86% is mountainous, and 65% is forest. Most of the northern part of the state is surrounded by high Himalayan peaks and glaciers. In the first half of the nineteenth century, the expanding development of Indian roads, railways, and other physical infrastructure raised concerns over indiscriminate logging, particularly in the Himalayas. Two of the most important rivers in Hinduism originate in the glaciers of Uttarakhand, the Ganges at Gangotri and the Yamuna at Yamunotri. Myriad lakes, glacial melts, and streams feed them.

Architecture And Crafts:

Among the prominent local crafts is wood carving, which appears most frequently in the ornately decorated temples of Uttarakhand. Intricately carved designs of floral patterns, deities, and geometrical motifs also decorate village houses' doors, windows, ceilings, and walls. Paintings and murals are used to decorate both homes and temples. Pahari painting is a form of painting that flourished in the region between the 17th and 19th centuries. Mola Ram started the Garhwal Branch of the Kangra School of Painting. Guler State was known as the "cradle of Kangra paintings." Kumaoni art often is geometrical, while Garhwali art is known for its closeness to nature. Other crafts of Uttarakhand include handcrafted gold jewellery, basketry from Garhwal, woollen shawls, scarves, and rugs. The Bhotiyas of northern Uttarakhand mainly produces the latter.

Arts And Literature:

Uttarakhand's diverse ethnicities have created a rich literary tradition in languages, including Hindi, Garhwali, Kumaoni, Jaunsari, and Tharu. Many of its traditional tales originated in lyrical ballads, were chanted by itinerant singers, and are now considered classics of Hindi literature. Abodh Bandhu Bahuguna, Badri Datt Pandey, Ganga Prasad Vimal, Harikrishna Raturi, Mohan Upreti, Naima Khan Upreti, Prasoon Joshi, Shailesh Matiyani, Shekhar Joshi, Shivani, Shiv Prasad Dabral' Charan', Taradutt Gairola, Tom Alter; A Garhwali Singer Anil Raturi, Lalit Kala Akademi fellow – Ranbir Singh Bisht; Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardees – B. M. Shah, Narendra Singh Negi, Prem Matiyani and Urmil Kumar Thapliyal; Sahitya Akademi Awardees – Leeladhar Jagudi, Manglesh Dabral, Manohar Shyam Joshi, Ramesh Chandra Shah, Ruskin Bond, and Viren Dangwal; Jnanpith Awardee and Sahitya Akademi fellow Sumitranandan Pant are some prominent literary, artistic and theatre personalities from the state. Famous philosophers, Indian independence activists, and social-environmental activists; Anil Prakash Joshi, Anusuya Prasad Bahuguna, Basanti Devi, Chandra Singh Garhwali, Gaura Devi, Govind Ballabh Pant, Chandi Prasad Bhatt, Deep Joshi, Hargovind Pant, Indramani Badoni, Jayanand Bharati, Kalu Singh Mahara, Kunwar Singh Negi, Mukandi Lal, Nagendra Saklani, Sri Dev Suman, Ram Prasad Nautiyal, Sunderlal Bahuguna, and Vandana Shiva are also from Uttarakhand.

Cuisine:

Bal Mithai is a famous sweet from Kumaon. The primary food of Uttarakhand is vegetables, with wheat being a staple, although non-vegetarian food is also served. A distinctive characteristic of Uttarakhand cuisine is the sparing use of tomatoes, milk, and milk-based products. Due to the harsh terrain, coarse grain with high fibre content is prevalent in Uttarakhand. Crops most commonly associated with Uttarakhand are Buckwheat (locally called Kotu or Kuttu) and the regional crops, Maduwa and Jhangora, particularly in the interior regions of Kumaon and Garhwal. Generally, either Desi Ghee or Mustard oil is used for cooking food. Simple recipes are made interesting using hash seeds Jakhya as a spice, and chutney made of Bhang is also a regional cuisine. Bal Mithai is a popular fudge-like sweet. Other popular dishes include Dubuk, Chains, Kap, Bhatiya, Jaula, Phana, Paliyo, Chutkani, and Sei. Swal, Ghughut/Khajur, Arsa, Mishri, Gatta, and Gulgulas are popular sweets. A regional variation of Kadhi called Jhoi or Jholi is also popular.

Dances And Music:

The region's dances connect life and human existence and exhibit myriad emotions. Langvir Nritya is a dance form for males that resemble gymnastic movements. Barada Nati folk dance is another Jaunsar-Bawar dance practised during some religious festivals. Other well-known dances include Hurka Baul, Jhora-Chanchari, Chhapeli, Thadya, Jhumaila, Pandav, Chauphula, and Chholiya. Music is an integral part of the Uttarakhandi culture. Popular types of folk songs include Mangal, Basanti, Khuder, and Chhopati. These folk songs are played on instruments including Dhol, Damau, Turri, Ransingha, Dholki, Daur, Thali, Bhankora, Mandan, and Mashakbaja. "Bedu Pako Baro Masa" is a popular folk song of Uttarakhand with international fame and legendary status within the state. It serves as the cultural anthem of the Uttarakhandi people worldwide. Music is also used as a medium through which the gods are invoked. Jaguar is a form of spirit worship. The singer, or Jagariya, sings a ballad of the gods, with allusions to great epics, like Mahabharat and Ramayana, that describe the adventures and exploits of the god being invoked. B. K. Samant, Basanti Bisht, Chander Singh Rahi, Girish Tiwari' Girda', Gopal Babu Goswami, Heera Singh Rana, Jeet Singh Negi, Meena Rana, Mohan Upreti, Narendra Singh Negi, and Pritam Bhartwan are famous folk singers and musicians from the state, so are Bollywood singer Jubin Nautiyal and country singer Bobby Cash.

Fairs And Festivals:

One of the significant Hindu pilgrimages, Haridwar Kumbh Mela, takes place in Uttarakhand. Haridwar is one of the four places in India where this mela is organized. Haridwar most recently hosted the Purna Kumbh Mela from Makar Sankranti (14 January 2010) to Vaishakh Purnima Snan (28 April 2010). Hundreds of foreigners joined Indian pilgrims in the festival, considered the most significant religious gathering globally. Kumauni Holi, in forms including Baithki Holi, Khari Holi, and Mahila Holi, all of which start from Vasant Panchami, are festivals and musical affair that can last almost a month. Ganga Dashahara, Vasant Panchami, Makar Sankranti, Ghee Sankranti, Khatarua, Vat Savitri, and Phul Dei are other major festivals. In addition, various fairs like Kanwar Yatra, Kandali Festival, Ramman, Harela Mela, Kauthig, Nauchandi Mela, Giddi Mela, Uttarayani Mela, and Nanda Devi Raj Jat take place. The festivals of Kumbh Mela at Haridwar, Ramlila, Ramman of Garhwal, Vedic chantings, and Yoga are included in the Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO list.

Places To Visit In Uttarakhand:

Rishikesh:

Located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is a prominent pilgrimage centre and also has been renowned as the world capital of Yoga. In recent years, this place has grabbed the attention of adventure junkies as it offers many adventure sports. River rafting, camping, bungee jumping, and ziplining are some activities that can be enjoyed at their best here. The scenic beauty of Rishikesh is due to its location at the foothills of the lofty Garhwal Himalayas, which is accentuated by the mighty Ganges cutting right through the city. The picturesque town looks suspended between the stunning riverside promenades, acres of forests, lush mountains, and clear blue skies, lending it a surreal appearance. The city is synonymous with its grand temples, rituals, architectural marvels, and yoga ashrams. Every temple here, be it the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple, or the 13-story Trimbakeshwar Temple, has a beautiful legend that attracts people worldwide. The twin Ram & Lakshman Jhulas are outstanding architectural feats in themselves. These suspension bridges span over 750 ft. over the Ganges. Numerous ashrams here lead people into the spiritual world of ancient forms of Yoga, meditation, and vipassana to cleanse their souls and de-stress.

Corbett:

Situated in Nainital, Corbett is known to provide shelter to the endangered Bengal tigers. 1936 it was declared the first tiger reserve in Mainland Asia. Its geographical location in the Himalayan belt and the Terai regions makes it a rich treasure of remarkable biodiversity. Apart from Bengal tigers, other wild residents of this park are Asiatic elephants, Himalayan black bears, Indian grey mongoose, and about 600 species of avifauna. Trekking, camping, wildlife safari, birding, and fishing are some activities you can indulge in at the park.

Mussoorie:

We do not need to describe Mussoorie because great author Ruskin Bond has already done that in his immortal novels and short stories. He used this great town and the tourist places in Mussoorie as the backdrop of his stories, and the natural beauty of this town has created many landmarks in the field of "nature's romanticism." If you are in love with nature's romanticism and follow literature for that, then the enchanting beauty of Mussoorie is your wonderland waiting for you.

Sattal:

Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Sattal is a group of seven freshwater lakes per its literal meaning. Encompassed by dense forests of oak and pine trees, it is among the few freshwater ecosystems in India. A cluster of seven interconnected lakes makes this place a habitat for numerous migratory birds. Being home to a unique avifauna, this place is a paradise for bird lovers.

Sitlakhet:

At a distance of about 24 km from Ranikhet, Sitlakhet is a peaceful town in Uttarakhand. This place, full of spectacular sceneries, blooming orchards, and rejuvenating environs, has emerged as an ideal picnic spot. Perched at an elevation of 3870 meters, the place provides activities like rock climbing, trekking, rappelling, hiking, and ziplining to enthral visitors.

Auli:

Auli is a hill station in India's Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state. It has rightly derived its name Auli - meaning meadows, from the characteristics of its topography. The hill station is on the slopes and has stunning far-stretching fields. Auli is fondly called a place where nature comes alive in all its glory and splendour. It is rich in natural resources and offers a stunning landscape of the surrounding hills. The hill station has many wildflowers and trees like deodars, oaks, coniferous, and pine forests. The slopes here are as high as 9000 feet above sea level and offer stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dunagiri, and Mana Parvat. There are several attractions here at the hill station. The most famous one amongst tourists is the ropeway.

Lansdowne:

With thick oak forests, mesmerizing hills, and spellbinding views, there are numerous places to visit in Lansdowne, which will take you closer to nature. A quaint hill station perched at an elevation of 1700 meters, Lansdowne brings you a potpourri of attractions and memorable experiences. From trekking the treacherous trails of Lover's Lane and exploring the vibrant streets of Lansdowne Main Market to visiting the holy shrines of Jwala Devi and Durga Devi Temple, there is a multitude of ways by which you can quench your wanderlust in this snow-clogged beauty.

Adventure Activities In Uttarakhand:

Trekking:

The most beautiful Himalayan pinnacles and mountain trails change from simple to intense evaluation; Uttarakhand is among the most well-known trekking destinations in India among experience seekers. Trekking in Uttarakhand, Himalayas, is also prevalent for what is worth as much an undertaking as a profound experience. The World Heritage trail of Valley of Flowers joined with otherworldly Hemkund Sahib, is prominent during the storm. While the snow-loaded Nag Tibba summit is well known during winters, there are all-season treks to Deoriatal – Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila. There is no lack of trekking courses in Uttarakhand for those anticipating experiences joined with delight.

Paragliding:

The rush of flying alongside hawk eye perspective on the great encompassing mountainscape as the adrenaline surge takes over as you paraglide in Uttarakhand. No big surprise taking off high like a falcon is a fixation among the experience, which is unique. Even though not one of the most prevalent spots for paragliding in India, Uttarakhand offers large operations for paragliding for those looking for the rush of flying. The best thing about paragliding in Uttarakhand is that you don't require earlier information on paragliding as pair paragliding flights are offered via prepared specialists at Mukteshwar and Ranikhet are the two most famous spots for paragliding in Uttarakhand.

Ziplining:

Zipline is one more experienced sports action gaining popularity among guests from abroad. Uttarakhand offers the best options with its suitable geology and excellent characteristic magnificence. The rush of the hop will make you fly at a speed of 140-160 kilometres for each hour. It is also exciting to see moving slopes, falling water streams, and thick backwoods. The best spot for flying fox exercises is probably in Rishikesh, where you could embrace a couple flying over the zipline traversing over the length of 1 kilometre. Total adrenaline junkies prefer this adventure as a source for acquiring an extensive feel. Situated at a great altitude, Sitlakhet is an excellent destination for enjoying zip lining. Gliding over a spectacular landscape while being tucked into the harness presents a panoramic view of the snow-clad mountains of Nanda Devi.

Canoeing & Kayaking:

The adrenaline rush from water rowing, Kayaking and Paddling is generally considered after experience exercises in Uttarakhand, particularly over the problematic rapids close to Shivpuri and Rishikesh. Kayaking and Paddling are regularly utilized synonymously. However, they separate Kayaking from Paddling through. Kayaking is an individual movement in a shut kayak with a single seller paddling with the twofold bladed oar. Paddling should be possible by at least one individual. Started as an oar pontoon utilized by Eskimos to angle and chase through narrow and steep water channels, Kayaking in rapids nowadays has become a rush looking for action to arrange the wild flows of the Ganges in Uttarakhand. The main catch is that tenderfoots couldn't attempt Kayaking and Paddling. The related knowledge or exercises are compulsory to embrace this adrenaline-surging movement. Professionals provide these introductory courses on a chargeable basis.

Cable Car Ride:

These are those adventure sports which bring something new to experience. By opting for this, you will get one of its kind experiences which will soothe your mind. While riding, you can view the surroundings, which look very beautiful. Cable Car Ride starts with one mountain vantage point and then onto the next. It provides a perspective on the thickly forested valleys and snow-capped mountain pinnacles of the Himalayas, energizing link vehicle rides. It is one of the most exciting experience exercises to embrace when visiting Uttarakhand. The best spot for a Cable Car ride in Uttarakhand, unarguably, is Auli. Besides, the perspective on Himalayan pinnacles, particularly Bandarpunch, Trishul, and Om Parvat, is incredible on a sunny morning. Mussoorie and Nainital are not a long way behind. This is one of the unique adventure sports activities in Uttarakhand.

Bungee Jumping:

The adrenaline rushes to the utmost level by opting for bungee jumping. It is one of the best adventure sports in Uttarakhand. Feel the blood hurrying to your face and beating your heart. Bungee Jumping is, so to state, the mother of all experience sports. The best spot to go Bungee Jumping in India is Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. At 83 feet, Jumpin Statues – with bounce aces from New Zealand in India's most noteworthy Bungy. With its inexhaustible characteristic excellence, the bungee bouncing in Rishikesh beats the experience of hopping from a tall crane or shopping centre quickly. This is one of Uttarakhand's top adventure sports, providing a scintillating feel. \Moreover, bungee jumping is getting its share of popularity as it allows for an extreme sense of relief by giving a unique experience. This is getting very popular among the tourists. One limitation: if you are not confident about the height and having issues while freely suspending, you shouldn't try this. This is an adventure sport preferred by solid hearts.

Elephant Safaris:

Uttarakhand happens to be perhaps the best spot for Elephant safaris in India. One could enjoy these rides at Corbett National Park, close to Ramgarh, or Rajaji National Park, close to Haridwar. Riding on the strongest animal offers a great vantage point to watch the excellence just as a natural life very close. Elephant safety at these national parks is accessible on the first started things serve premise. This provides a sense of wildlife while sitting on the elephant. This safari is just a mesmerizing virtual treat of nature. It is one of Uttarakhand's most popular adventure sports among tourists from inside or outside the country. Haridwar is one of the best destinations for adventure sports in Uttarakhand.

Camping:

Camping- particularly for a city individual is an encounter that isn't simply approachable but a rationally and profoundly elevating experience and an approach to recovering your 'self.' It resembles returning to nature and sets oneself united, surrounded by wild and peacefulness of nature, to rediscover oneself. Away from the hassles of the city and the advances like versatile and PDAs, outdoors gives you a chance to get away from the props of tumultuous city life and watch things and achieve viewpoints in another improved manner. It likewise allows you to acknowledge the compelling force of nature. You are seeing and valuing the magnificence of the outside. Uttarakhand tucks the absolute best average campgrounds in its chest. Be it the mysterious Deoria Tal with its thickly forested greenery perspective on more than 5 Himalayan pinnacles or the lavish knolls of Chopta spotted with pine, deodar, and rhododendron backwoods filled by transcending the Himalayas, there are some of the world and enchanted places in Uttarakhand that make it one of the top goals for outdoors in India.

Skiing:

Skiing is one of the most enthralling adventure activities in Uttarakhand, which one can enjoy. That passion for sliding over the land of snow is a different experience entirely. The snow-covered mountain peaks of Auli are the best to experience this thrilling activity. One can enjoy the experience of gliding down the snow bed or otherwise take classes to master the art of skiing.

White Water Rafting:

This is considered one of the most adventurous sports to indulge in India, which gives an adrenaline rush. The sport is hosted over the gushing rapids of the Ganges and Tons rivers in Uttarakhand. Shivpuri also hosts white water rafting and camping near the banks, which makes a great weekend getaway.