Succeeding the Macedonian march across the Himalayan foothills, an imperialist tradition was instituted around 330 AD by the Guptas. The Vardhanas followed this in the 5th century AD. The ultimate downfall of the Vardhana Empire saw the emergence of a number of small principalities controlled by petty chiefs. Subsequently, during the time of the Turkish onslaught on the plains they were subject to change in size and power as additional waves of migration took place. Whoever was in power added to the tradition of meditation and worship in these unspoiled mountain enclaves. Today, if a resident is asked about the history of the region, the answer is more likely to be shaped by myth than by chronicle. This is largely due to the efforts of the saint, Adi Shankaracharya, a Namboodri Brahmin from the Malabar in South India. He was almost entirely responsible for the revival of Hinduism in early 9th century AD. At the time that he set out on his reformist mission, Uttarakhand was a medley of mystic cults, naga (snake) worship, Tantric rites and animistic faith. He established a series of dhams and maths (seats of Hindu religion) at elevated sites in the midst of the Himalayas.

Nature has endowed this region with so much beauty and spiritual bliss that the place is also known as 'Dev Bhoomi' or the Abode of Gods. Blessed with magnificent glaciers, sparkling and joyful rivers, gigantic and ecstatic Himalayan peaks, natural biosphere, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage. The four most sacred and revered Hindu temples, namely Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are nestled in these Mighty Mountains. This is the land where Vedas and Shastras (Holy Scriptures) were composed and the great Indian epic, the Mahabharata was written. The land has always been the source of inspiration for nature lovers and seekers of peace and spirituality..

Garhwal today remains a land of myth and legend, where every stone tells a story. Kumaon, which lies almost south to the great Himalayan range, is moderate in its constitution. The lie of its land is gentler in its undulations, its lore more lyrical. What permeates the open valleys is a simpler, singular faith in the presiding deity of Kumaon, Nanda Devi, the goddess of Bliss. The graceful peak of Nanda Devi is visible from almost everywhere in Kumaon. Other famous peaks of Uttaranchal are the Kedarnath, Nilkanth, Trishul, Bandar punch and Mt. Kamet. The major Glaciers include Gangotri, Pindari, Milam and Khatling. The scenic northwestern corner has hill stations sprinkled along the foothills of the Himalayas with many rivers, tributaries and streams. It offers some excellent trekking and river rafting opportunities. For an Indian, a venture into the Himalayas is more than a mere journey; it is a Yatra. And a pilgrimage does not hold more importance than it does in Garhwal and Kumaon.

ALMORA
Almora is a hill district in the central Kumaon region of Uttaranchal. It is perched atop the 5km long saddle-shaped ridge of the Kashyap hill, which is mentioned in ancient scriptures. This beautiful scenic place known for its healthy climate is situated at an altitude of 5900 ft. Balo Kalyan Chand, the Raja of Champavat, who later made it the capital of the Chand kingdom, founded the town of Almora about 1560 AD. It was ruled by the Chand Rajas upto the 18th century. The Gurkhas ruled for about 25 years, after which it was captured by British and remained under their control till Independence. Almora is the cultural centre of Kumaon. The people have still preserved the traditional customs of the region and one can still find the traditional carved houses with slate covered roofs and flagstone streets. From the town one can have splendid views of the Trishuli, Nanda Devi, Nadakot and other peaks of the Himalayas. In September the Nanda Devi Fair is celebrated here for 3-4 days, which people of many of the surrounding village attend. There are various programs of traditional songs and dances by the village people.

Around Almora
Chitai Temple - located about 6km from Almora, is dedicated to the local God, Golju. It is the most sacred temple for the people of Almora and the neighboring villages. The walls of the temple are covered with court stamp papers by those who did not get justice in the court. Around the temple are hanging hundred of bells, which have been donated by those people whose wishes have, been fulfilled. Jageshwar - located about 34km away, this deodar filled valley has about 160 temples, and each delicately carved and richly ornamented. It is also a Hindu pilgrimage site.

Kausani - located 53 km north of Almora at 6075ft, is a picturesque hill station nestling amongst thick, dense pine forests, atop a narrow ridge and separated from the towering mountains of the Nanda Devi range by low, medium mountains. Here, the grandeur of the Himalayan scenery comes alive. The view of the snow covered Trishul and Nanda Devi is so clear that one gets a feeling of the snows being within touching distance. It's ethereal sunrise and spectacular 300km

AULI
Auli is nestled in the lap of snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Chamoli district of Uttaranchal and near the world-famous religious shrine of Badrinath. The Auli slopes, descending from 3050m to 2915m are flanked by stately conifers and oaks, which cut wind velocity to the minimum. These well-dressed slopes not only offer a panoramic view of the mountains, but are also an ideal ski resort with slopes comparable to the best in the world. Adding to the thrill of skiing is a 180-degree view of Himalayan peaks, which include Nanda Devi (7817m), Kamet (7756m), Mana Parbat (7273m) and Dunagiri (7066m), seemingly only a snowballs throw away.

 Skiing in Auli - The conditions for skiing are perfect at Auli. A 500m long ski-lift and an 800m long chair-lift link the upper and lower slopes, and snow beaters and snow-packing machines maintain the smoothness of the slopes. Skiers can enjoy almost 20km of virgin slopes, which provide excellent opportunities for cross-country slalom and downhill skiing events. The Skiing season extends from January to March during which time skiing festivals and the National Championships are held. While its slopes beckon daring and gallant skiing enthusiasts, its pristine natural beauty and its alpine atmosphere lure many tourists. A haven for those who want to escape the humdrum of everyday life, conquer their fear of heights, savor nature in its purest form or just throw snowballs at each other.

Auli is not only the battle-ground for experienced skiers, who come here armed with their skiing equipment, it is also a training ground for those aspiring to ski skillfully with the help of expert guidance. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) conducts 7 and 14 days skiing courses and also provides special provisions for day tourists. Ski equipment is also available on hire.

BADRINATH & KEDARNATH
The temples of Vishnu and Shiva at Badrinath and Kedarnath respectively, have been the destination of pilgrims for centuries. Every devout Hindu aspires to visit these shrines once in his lifetime. Once reached after tortuous treks but easily accessible today by road. At Uttarkashi at a height of over 3000m, the snow melts to form the sacred rivers of Ganga and Yamuna is a deep recess of the mountains. The route to the two sources begins at Rishikesh and passes ancient temples and Valleys along the way. The Shrines are open from 1st week of May up to the festival of Diwali in October/November. The towns close up for the severe winter season and everyone moves down to towns lower down the slopes.

Badrinath (3122m) - is considered the holiest of the four main shrines of Uttarakhand. The town, situated on the left bank of the Alaknanda, is equidistant from the Twin Mountains of Nara and Narayan. Badrinath is on the itinerary of every devout Hindu. The place is also known as Badri Van after the forest of Badri trees, which grow here. The present temple was built about two centuries ago by the kings of Garhwal. The principal idol in the temple is of black stone and represents Vishnu seated in a meditative pose, and flanked by Nara-Narayan. Badrinath is also known as Vishal Badri and is one of the Panch Badris.

The temple remains closed from October to April due to severe winter conditions. During this period the idols of Utsavo Murti are taken to Pandukeshwar. It is said that "There are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be" The temple shows an unmistakable resemblance to Buddhist shrines. In front of the temple is the Tapt Kund, a tank where the Alaknanda and Rishi Ganga rivers meet. It is a hot water spring with medicinal properties.

CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
 One of the finest habitats of the tiger in India, the Corbett National Park nestles in the foothills of the Himalayas, in the area known as South Patlidun. Extending over a tract of 521 sq. km, the park is a large valley with forested ridges running through it. The Ramganga River winds through its entire length in a south-westerly direction and the numerous forest streams and rivulets that flow into it, carve up the area into little ridges and ravines. Dense stands of sal and mixed deciduous forests are found throughout the Park while the 'chaurs' or the grasslands in the valleys, about one tenth of the core area, offer visitors a better view of the wildlife. With elevations in the Park ranging from 400m to 1210m there is a rich diversity in habitat. Flora and fauna of the Himalayas and those of peninsular India can both be seen here.
 With its varied topography, diverse flora and fauna and the natural splendor of its landscapes the Park is a precious heritage. Established in 1936, this reserve was known as the Hailey National Park. It was later renamed after Jim Corbett the famous hunter, author and pioneer conservationist who helped set up this wildlife sanctuary. Corbett was the first designated Project Tiger Reserve, in 1973, though its tigers are extremely elusive. There are viewing towers as well as elephant/jeep rides for visitors, every morning and evening.

Among the predators are the tiger, leopard and the dhole (wild dog). There are antelopes, nilgai (blue bull), and varieties of deer, primates (rhesus and langur) and other animals like jackals, foxes, civets, wild boar, sloth bear, and black bear. Elephant herds and a range of reptiles including cobra, python and crocodiles. The rare fish eating, long snouted gharial and the more robust mugger (a large marsh crocodile) can be seen basking along the sand-banks and pools of the Ramganga. The river, which is also noted for its sporting fish, the mighty mahaseer is also popular with anglers. A fine reservoir on the river formed with the building of a dam at Kalagarh attracts diverse species of birds, both local and migratory. Bird life ranges from water birds such as the pied kingfisher to pheasants and birds of prey, including the crested serpent eagle, Pallas's fishing eagle and Himalayan grey-headed fishing eagle.

The best season to be here is Mid November to Mid June or April/ May. The park remains closed from Mid-June to Mid-November.

GANGOTRI & YAMUNOTRI
GANGOTRI - located in the hinterlands of the Himalayas in the Garhwal region is Gangotri (3140m) where it is believed the Ganga touched earth for the first time. According to the Hindu religious scriptures, the heavenly goddess Ganga manifested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Sagar's sons. After three generations of severe penance, performed over several centuries, Ganga conceded to descend to the Earth. At the legendary source of the river, Goddess Ganga is worshipped in the form of deity. Gangotri is one of the Char Dhams of Uttaranchal, the other three being Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

DEHRADHUN
The interim capital of the State of Uttaranchal is nestled in the Shivalik Hills in the fertile Doon Valley with the rivers Ganga flowing in the east and Yamuna in the west. Dehra means camp and the town derives its name from the event when the Sikh Guru Ram Rai had camped here. The epic Mahabharata relates that area was the Ashram of Guru Dronacharya, the teacher of the Pandava Brothers. The area was once a stronghold of the Garhwal kings and later appropriated by the British as a residential resort. The valley is well known for its salubrious climate and natural beauty. It is due to this reason, Dehradun has been one of the favorite residential cities. It is also an important educational centre of the country. Some of the best public schools and convents are housed here. The famous Indian Military Academy is also situated here. The climate is conducive to the growth of fruit trees and Dehradun is famous for its fruit orchards.

HARIDWAR
Haridwar, literally meaning 'Gateway to God', is one of the first towns where the Ganga emerges from the mountains to touch the plains. The town is located on the right bank of the river and stands at the foothills of Shivalik mountains. And that's why the water is crystal clear and cool. Lush green forests and small ponds adorn the scenic beauty of this holy land. Associated with both Lord Shiva and Vishnu, Haridwar is among the seven sacred places where the maximum spiritual merit may be acquired. It is also one of the four venues for the Kumbha Mela, held in its magnitude every twelve years.

Mentioned variously as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, Mokshadwar, Kapilsthan, in the ancient scriptures and epics, Haridwar stands as the gateway to the four pilgrimages of Uttaranchal, namely Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it weaves through the life and time stretching from the period of Buddha to the more recent British advent. Down the ages, it has retained a special importance as being the ever-refreshing mystic venue for the purification of the mind, body and soul. This was the place of meditation for sages and rishis (holy men). It is one of the venues of the Kumbha Mela that takes place once every 12 years and the Ardh (half) Kumbha Mela, which comes once every six years.

 At all times, Haridwar is a splash of colour with saffron-robed sadhus (sages) and gaily-dressed devotees wandering in and out of the ghats and temples. People carry the holy water from the Ganges, which is said to be pure and remain fresh for years. Devotees throng this place to take a holy dip in the Ganges and every evening Aarti (ritual prayer) is performed at the Har-ki-Pauri Ghat, which is a sight indeed, as thousands of diyas (lamps) and marigold flowers float and illuminate the Holy waters. Essentially a religious centre, which holds promise of salvation for devotees, Haridwar is also a centre of herbal medicine, and traditional studies at Gurukul Kangri. There are many places of scenic beauty on the outskirts of the town.

Around Haridwar
 Chila Wildlife Sanctuary - located about 10km away is part of the larger Rajaji National Park and covers an area of around 240 sq. km. It attracts wildlife lovers with its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity. It has many species of fauna such as elephants, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, sambar, chital, barking dear, wild boar, langur, sloth bear, king cobra and a variety of birds. The river shelters fish in abundance and fishing is allowed with permits. The best time to visit is mid November to mid June.

RISHIKESH
Situated 24km upstream from Haridwar, on the right bank of River Ganga, Rishikesh has long been a spiritual centre. The holy river emerging from the high mountains not far from here runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Terai that straddles this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty awaits here. Not to mention the peace and tranquillity of a landscape associated with 'rishi-munis' (sages and holy men) and meditation. According to legend, sage Raibhya Rishi did severe penance here and as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of a Rishi (sage), hence the name. Today, Rishikesh has become a centre for learning and research in yoga and meditation - the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health.

Rishikesh is one of the most popular pilgrim centres and gateway to the Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. There are numerous ashrams, bathing ghats and shrines along the Ganges. Some of the ashrams are internationally recognized as centers of philosophical studies, yoga and meditation. The Yoga Centres of Rishikesh have enhanced the significance of the place. The International Yoga Festival that attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually for one week in the month of February on the banks of the serene Ganga.

Adventure Opportunities - for the adventurous, there are many opportunities for rafting on the Ganga and trekking. Rafting expeditions are organized at Brahmpuri, 10km from Rishikesh and Shivpuri, which is 18km away.

MUSSOORIE
Located at an altitude of 2000m and about 36km uphill from Dehradun, Mussoorie has been a popular hill station since it was 'discovered' in 1823 by Captain Young of the British army. This erstwhile aristocratic resort is now a popular hill station and promises a variety of entertainments throughout the year. It offers views of both the Himalayan ranges to the north and the Shivaliks and plains to the south.

NAINITAL
Nainital, the city of lakes, lies in the lap of the Kumaon Hills surrounded by seven mountains. The first recorded discovery of this now popular hill station of Nainital, was in 1841 when a British, Mr. Barron, chanced upon the lake. Moved by the scenic beauty of the lake and thickly forested hills, he constructed a house named Pilgrim's Cottage. It was the first of many residences, which were to transform Nainital into a popular resort. By 1858, Nainital became a well-known hill station, and within a few years the summer seat of the provincial government. Nainital was the summer capital of Uttar Pradesh before Uttaranchal was carved out for many years during the British regime and also after independence.

The origin of Nainital traces back to legend. It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying the corpse of his first wife Sati, her body disintegrated and her eyes (naina) fell here near the lake. At this site now stands the Naina Devi temple. The waters of the lake are therefore considered sacred and the Naina Devi temple is the venue of an autumnal fair. In ancient times, the lake was know as the Tri Rishi Sarovar, the lake of three rishis (sages) namely Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha.

Nainital is divided into two segments, Tallital and Mallital, at the lower and upper ends of the lake, respectively. The North Mall running along one side of the lake, and the South Mall along the other, connect the two parts. On the shores of the lake, at Mallital stands the beautiful temple of Naina Devi. Nainital offers a number of enchanting lakeside picnic spot and many pleasant walks. Trekking, yachting, boating and fishing are other attractions. Its quaint cottages, colourful markets, the sylvan landscape and the charming lake at the very heart of it, make Nainital a delightful place

RANIKHET
Located north of Nainital and at an altitude of 1829m, this sylvan retreat offers an interesting mix of hill and military cultures. It is an important army town and the headquarters of the Kumaon regiment. According to legend, a Rani (queen), in the course of a journey came here and was so enchanted by its beauty that she settled down here. Ranikhet has forests of oak and pine and is a fine place to enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas from the Bhagirathi peaks in the west to Nanda Kot in the east. It is an ideal holiday spot for nature lovers.