Regardless of the method of transport you choose, reaching Uttarakhand is easy and hassle-free. All you need to do is plan your itinerary ahead.
Your Uttarakhand getaways don’t just have to be about a spiritual experience. Parts of the state are so beautiful that it is often referred to as Little Kashmir. When taking a weekend trip there, make the most of your visit by checking out the following locations for fun activities and relaxation:
With your SOTC packages, you will be able to visit most of these places on your weekend vacation. You can always opt for additional supplementary packages to visit the other locations and cherish the abundance of serenity that the small towns and big cities in Uttarakhand have to offer.
If you are not particularly inclined to adventures and seek a spiritual experience, both the pilgrimage as well as the spas and resorts can be quite enlightening. If, on the other hand, you feel like living on the razor’s edge and taking advantage of the life that we have, the state is filled with adventures for thrill seekers. Either way, you cannot go wrong.
Ski trips are not the only thrills you can find in Uttarakhand. As we have mentioned, you can partake in diverse activities as per your preference for Adrenaline Rush. From Mountain climbing to cable cars, you will find it all in the beautiful towns.
Additionally, if you are a nature lover, don’t miss the aesthetics at the Valley of Flowers and Hemkunt Sahib. You can combine it with a visit to the two renowned national parks and enjoy the complete wildlife experience.
If you are looking to get to know the locals and understand the conflicting history of the area, there are no better places than the old towns and small villages. You can also pick up a picnic basket and spend some time alone with your spouse on your weekend getaways in Uttarakhand or take a trip to the popular cities of Dehradun, Mussoorie, etc. With friends for celebrations.
Food in Uttarakhand :
As rich a history as this mystical state holds in itself, Uttarakhand getaways are not just about sightseeing and pilgrimage. The culinary charms of the locals are to die for, and you must try them before you end your trip.
Here are a few popular delectable offerings from Uttarakhand that you absolutely must taste:
- Kandalee ka saag
- Aloo Gutook
- Dubuk
- Aloo Tamatar ka Jhol
- Gharwal ka Fannah
- Chainsoo
- Baadi
- Kafuli
- Phaanu
- Bhang ki Chutney with Pahari snacks
- Thhatwani
- Kumaoni Raita
- Singori
- Arsa
- Jhangora ki Kheer
- Gulgula
The popular food of Uttarakhand in detail:
- Kandalee ka saag, a popular immune booster prepared with Bichhu ka saag and spices.
- Aloo Gutook with hot chapatis for a taste of the locals of Kumaon.
- Dubuk, which is essentially a meal in itself consisting of dal and spices, served with hot rice and a side of bhang ki chutney.
- Aloo Tamatar ka Jhol with steaming hot rice for spicy and tangy flavours.
- Gharwal ka Fannah is a dish predominantly consumed in Mussoorie for its incredible health benefits and mouthwatering appeal.
- Chainsoo, a dish rich in ghee, Urad dal, and sensational spices.
- Baadi, a famous local dish that is regarded for its nutritional value and homely feel.
- Kafuli, a traditional delicacy of the Pahari locals. It is made of leafy vegetables that are not only mouthwatering but also extremely nutritious.
- Phaanu with a side of hot rice for a wholesome meal of lentil proteins.
- Bhang ki Chutney with Pahari snacks. It packs a tangy punch and is quite popular among the locals.
- Thhatwani, another variant of lentils enjoyed with some hot rice or Indian bread.
- Kumaoni Raita, a combination of curd with cucumber to accompany your meals.
- Singori, a khoa-based dessert served on a Maalu leaf popularly found in the Almora region.
- Arsa, is a traditional festive sweet dish prepared from rice and is a preferred choice for people on a diet.
- Jhangora ki Kheer, a delicious milk-based dessert prepared with millet instead of the traditional rice or vermicelli.
- Gulgula, a fried dessert primarily consisting of jaggery and wheat flour.
If you are in Uttarakhand for a short trip, you must try these dishes. Although they sound pretty simplistic and commonplace, they really aren’t. The culinary appeal of the region is exploring tanginess with a twist, which is what most of these dishes contain.
Furthermore, the locals of Uttarakhand have carried on recipes through generations, especially ones that are high in nutrients and boost the immune system. Just a little taste is all you’ll need to crave more Uttrakhand getaways just to taste the local cuisine one more time.
Shopping in Uttarakhand :
Steeped in rich history and local craftsmanship, Uttarakhand is a great place to procure delightful items. There are several places such as Mall Road where you can find unique items of clothing, linen, and whatnot. The real stuff, however, is available in local markets.
For starters, the spices of Uttarakhand are uniquely manufactured, and you should certainly get some during your weekend travel. These spices will certainly bring back the memories of your trip when you use them to cook homemade meals.
Other types of items you should look for are Pashminas and winter items made from Angora. These materials are used to create wraps, items of clothing, accessories such as gloves, hats, etc., and other handiwork.
If you are a keen collector of styling items for your home, Uttarakhand is the perfect destination to purchase waxworks with intricate designs, Aipan-embroidered knickknacks and fabrics, wall art pieces and bags made with Ramban handicrafts, and woodworks of prestigious craftsmanship. Additionally, baskets, pieces of furniture, kitchen items, mats, etc. Created with the unique Ringaal styles of handicrafts are also excellent additions to your collection.
Travelling is a means to enhance our understanding of the world beyond what we know. Uttarakhand getaways are experiences that can enrich the mind, body, and soul. Simple interactions with locals and delving into the deep cultural roots of the state can expand your horizons, not to mention, add a few topics to discuss at your next party.
If you are looking for ‘weekend destinations near me,’ definitely add a visit to Uttarakhand at the top of your list.