UTTARAKHAND TOURISM

Live the thrill of the story of “Ali Baba And The Forty Thieves” at this adventure spot near Sahastradhara that is also known as Gucchipani. Trek for a distance of about 1 kilometer to finally reach this surreal spot that brings out nature’s beauty unlike any other, thereby becoming one of the best things to do in Dehradun. On your way back, sit down to enjoy a plate of Maggi.

Established in 1906, this premier institute under the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) is designed in the Greco-Roman architectural style and is a National Heritage thereby among the best places to visit in Dehradun. The lush green expanse of its property spread over 450 hectares is an admirable edifice that evidences the alluring confluence of Colonial and Greco-Roman architecture, making it impossible to skip from a Dehradun trip itinerary.

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this heavenly abode is known for the respite that it provides. Among the many offbeat things to do in Dehradun, this is quite famous with tourists. Embracing Lord Shiva and spending some time in retrospection amidst the beckoning pine, deodar and oak is an ideal way to experience the calm sought by one and all.

One of the first places to visit in Haridwar is the holy ghat of Har Ki Pauri – which means Lord Shiva’s steps – located on the banks of the Ganga River. Interestingly, the Vedic literature mentions that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited this place, and you can also see a large footprint on a wall that is said to be of Lord Vishnu. Also known as Gangadwar, this is the place where the Ganga River first leaves the mountains and enters the plain. Har Ki Pauri is considered to be the most sacred ghat in the entire city where the mythological bird Garuda accidentally dropped Amrit (elixir), and it is believed that if you take a dip here, then all your sins get washed away. The Ganga aarti held at the ghat at dusk and dawn attracts devotees in large numbers.

Kankhal, one of the Panch Tirths in Haridwar, is a small colony that is home to the renowned Daksha Mahadev Temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram. The former is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by innumerable devotees, especially during the holy month of Sawan. The latter is a spiritual centre, built in honour of the Bengali mystic leader Maa Anandamayi. Kankhal is also home to the holy ghat of Kushavarta, which is one of the Panch Tirths and the famous Patanjali Yog Peeth that is probably the largest yoga centres in the world. Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple in Harihar Ashram, located on Kankhal Road, is famous for the unique Parad Shivalinga that is made from 151 kg mercury.

Pawan Dham, an ancient temple and a social non-profit organization, is managed by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. Along with the elaborate architecture, stunning interiors and exquisite glasswork, the beautiful idols adorned with precious jewels and stones are the highlights of this revered site. The main attraction is the beautiful Lord Krishna idol that is seen preaching his disciple Arjun. Owing to the intricate mirror and glasswork, the temple is often referred to as the Glass Temple that enjoys great fame not only among Hindu devotees, but also among local and foreign tourists.