The Garhwal Himalaya has long been associated with people’s need to introspect and find peace. Besides the spiritual importance of Devbhoomi, it is being recognized for its growing adventure activities and sports. The fascinating ice-capped hills at once release us from the stress of our day-to-day lives. The tranquillity feeding the mountains… adding to the lush green meadows, dense forest, crystalline lakes and streams, no doubt brings a soothing effect whenever you visit the Garhwal Himalayan region. With the growth of adventure tourism in Uttarakhand, the Garhwal Himalayan region has sprung up as one of the adventure holiday destinations in India, scoring with numerous outdoor adventure activities and sports like trekking, hiking, cycling, river rafting, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife safari, fishing, bungee jumping, rock climbing, cliff diving and rappelling. Further… the region also offers the best camping sites in India, like Beas Ghat on the bank of River Ganga, Dodital, Har Ki dun, Dayara Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal.

1. Rishikesh

Located in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayan region with the Ganges cutting and running the valley, Rishikesh, at an average elevation of 372 meters, is widely noted as “the world capital of Yoga”. The serenity of this place, which has exciting adventure sports, attracts tourists worldwide throughout the year. White Water River rafting in the Ganges, which starts from Kaudiyala and ends at Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh, with rapids ranging from II+ to IV+, is India’s most popular water sport. The 36-kilometre-long rafting stretch is ideal for both the experienced rafters and amateurs. Moreover, you will get lot of camping opportunities along with several other adventure activities like bungee jumping, cliff diving, kayaking, rock climbing and rappelling.

2. Beas Ghat

A destination that you must not be aware of… Beas Ghat, on the Ganges bank, is becoming popular for Angling and Fishing, one of the eco-friendly activities in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The best spot for Angling and Fishing in Beas Ghat is the Nayar Rivulet of the Ganges.

3. Tehri

Approximately 75 kilometers from Rishikesh, Tehri is one of the popular destinations in the Garhwal region that is noted for the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers, the site of the Tehri dam. It is also a major Hindu pilgrim site. Besides the religious significance, Tehri is also a renowned as a trekking destination and a hotspot for adventure activities. Some of the notable treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region that starts from Tehri are Nagtibba, Sehastra Taal and Khatling Glacier. Other adventure activities of Garhwal Himalayan region like rock climbing and cycling (commencing from Tehri at 770 meters and heads up to Gangotri at 3,200 meters via Dharasu, Uttarkashi and Harsil) are also available in Tehri.

4. Rajaji National Park

Named after C. Rajagopalachari, a prominent leader of the Indian freedom struggle, the Rajaji National Park is the abode of several animal species, and the major attraction remains the wild elephants. Other species like tiger, panther, different types of deer, wild boar, goral, Himalayan black bear and sloth bear and several bird species are also spotted. The Rajaji National Park is approximately 820 square kilometers and offers a rich biodiversity, combining the Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary and Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is open from mid-November to mid-June, and the authority organizes several wildlife safaris in Rajaji National Park. It has an easy access from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun and Kotdwar.

5. Dhanolti

Located approximately 24 kilometres from the popular hill station of Mussoorie, Dhanolti is one of the ideal trekking hubs. It is also one of the leisure destinations in Garhwal for several outdoor recreational activities like picnics and camping. The panorama of the peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpunch is clearly visible from Dhanolti. Tucked amid a quiet environment at an altitude of 2,286 meters… Dhanolti is the gateway to Surkanda Devi, Chandrabadni and Kunjapuri temples. Other popular trails via Dhanolti are Nagtibba and Kempty Falls. Adventure activities like horse riding and mountain biking are also possible in Dhanolti.

6. Nanda Devi National Park

Perfect for travellers seeking an ideal nature holiday in India, the Nanda Devi National Park that was dubbed by Sir Edmund Hillary as “God Gifted Wilderness”, is a world heritage site stretching approximately 630 square kilometres. It is also a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The Nanda Devi National Park surrounding the beautiful peak of Nanda Devi is home to the rare Brahma Kamal (flower) and blue mountain goat. It is also home to animals like Snow Leopards, Himalayan musk deer, Mainland serow and Himalayan tahr. The trail through Nanda Devi National Park goes through beautiful meadows, gorges and valleys that border the western edge of Nanda Devi Sanctuary. Once, you can also see the majestic peaks of Trishul and Dunagiri.

7. Valley of Flowers National Park

At an altitude of 3,600 meters lies the beautiful Valley of Flowers National Park that houses many exotic flowers like Inula, Himalayan whorl and Cobra Lily. From orchids to poppies to daisies… one will be astonished and lost to observe the fantastic varieties of flowers. It is a world heritage site that is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. It is said that the scent of flowers is so strong that one can even faint. No wonder… the locals believe that fairies used to dwell here. The trek to Valley of Flowers starts from Govindghat, close to Joshimath. One has to go along the river Lakshman Ganga. Ghangria, which is one of the notable camping sites in the Garhwal Himalayan region, is the gateway to Valley of Flowers… from where the trek is only 3 kilometres.

8. Auli

Located at 3050 meters, Auli is one of the best skiing spots in the Indian Himalayan region that has received worldwide fame. GMVN provides modern ski equipments and certificates also. The Auli – Kuari Pass Tapovan trek via Gurson is one of the famous treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region that you can add to your itinerary during your adventure holiday in Garhwal Himalaya. Nonetheless, the Gurson Bugyal and Kwari Bugyal are ideal spots for campers and travellers in Garhwal. The Chattrakund and Chenab Lakes are two major attractions in and around Auli. The panoramic view of the farfetched snow-capped peaks – Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat, Dunagiri and Nanda Devi – adds a spiritual spectacle to your eyes.

9. Chopta

At 2,680 meters, Chopta is the gateway to Tungnath Temple, which is the highest seat of Lord Shiva. This remote valley is famous for its pristine natural beauty, surrounded by an alpine forest of Pine and Deodar. One can capture a breathtaking panorama of several Himalayan peaks. The Chandrashilla, Tungnath and Devariyatal are notable treks that commence from Chopta. The trekking routes involve going through jungles, meadows and small villages. The journey becomes exciting for bird watchers as the region is home to several alpine and migratory birds.

10. Chakrata

Located above the Yamuna Valley, Chakrata is a small town that is a perfect hub for adventurous holiday trips in the Garhwal region. Dotted by thick deodar forest with a backdrop of a section of snow-clad Himalayan peaks… Chakrata is noted for snow viewing. Tiger Falls, ancient temples and meadows are the major attractions in Chakrata. The destination is ideal of family camping, school camping and corporate camping as Chakrata is noted as one of the best places for adventure camping holidays in Garhwal Himalaya.

11. Harsil

It is a scenic village situated on the bank of River Bhagirathi and is notable for several apple orchards and winding roads. Trek to Chitkul via Lamkhaga Pass and pass through the dense alpine forest of Juniper, Deodar, and Bhojpatra, which is one of the best adventure activities that you can go for from Harshil. The dramatic climb to Lamkhaga Pass is an exciting part in the journey. If you are lucky enough you may come across ibex, fox and several alpine birds. Further, an escape to Harsil allows you to experience the folk lifestyle of the Bhotias, and the tranquil ambience makes it perfect for a meditation and yoga holiday.

12. Dayara Bugyal

Located at 3,038 meters, Dayara Bugyal offers a breath taking view of the farfetched Himalayan range. The trek route commences from Barsu village. The major attraction remains the Barnala Tal, a small natural lake that is surrounded by Oak trees. There is another starting point from Raithal village. During the winter season, Dayara Bugyal is also notable as one of the best ski destinations in India… having moderate to difficult ski slopes. The ski trip begins from Bhatwari via Barsa to Dayara Bugyal.

13. Dodital

Dodital is one of the prominent freshwater lakes in the Indian Himalayan region at an altitude of 3,024 meters. According to a legend, Lord Ganesha chose this place as his abode. It is also a common destination for fishing. The gentle trek to Dodital is approximately 21 kilometres and commences from Sangamchatti, a few hours’ drive from Uttarkashi. Dodital is a very popular location for family camping and school camping. Bebra, which is 9 kilometres from Sangamchatti, is one of the best places to camp in the Garhwal Himalayan region.

14. Bedni Bugyal

Located at an elevation of 3,354 meters in the Chamoli district, Bedni Bugyal is considered as one of the most fascinating alpine meadows. It offers the best view of Trishul Parvat. The trek to Bedni Bugyal commences from Lohajang Pass and is one of the easy treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The major attractions in Bedni Bugyal are Bedni Kund, which holds great religious importance amongst the locals; Ali Bugyal, which is another sprawling meadow at an elevation of 3,300 meters; and Wan village, which is the last village en route to Bedni Bugyal.

15. Har Ki Doon

Located at the base of Fateh Parvat at 3,556 meters, Har Ki Doon Valley is a cradle-shaped hanging valley in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The farfetched snow-clad mountains, streams and rich alpine vegetation are the main attractions in Har Ki Doon Valley. The trek to Har Ki Doon Valley starts from Sankari, followed by Osla. From there, the trek follows a steep climb of 14 kilometres. The Har Ki Doon Valley trek is another easy-to-moderate trek in the Garhwal Himalayan region, suitable for families. The Morinda Tal and several shepherd villages on the Har Ki Doon Valley trek often attract the mind of travellers.

Link(s) and Sources(s):

TourMy India