Top Religious Places in Uttarakhand

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Rishikesh, located in Uttarakhand, is renowned as a significant spiritual hub, drawing seekers and devotees from around the world. Nestled along the holy Ganges River, it's often called the 'Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas' and holds a deep-rooted religious significance in Hinduism. Famed for its ashrams, the town serves as a starting point for the sacred Char Dham Yatra, further enhancing its spiritual prominence.

Religious Sites: Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula.

Best Time: Throughout the year

53 Rishikesh Attractions

Known For : Ganga Aarti in Haridwar Har Ki Pauri Chandi Devi Temple

Haridwar, situated in Uttarakhand, stands as a timeless spiritual destination, attracting pilgrims and spiritual seekers globally. Positioned where the revered Ganges River exits the Himalayan foothills, Haridwar is a major pilgrimage city, often referred to as the 'Gateway to God'. Its religious significance is further amplified as it's one of the sites for the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering.

Religious Sites: Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Haridwar Attractions

Known For : Kedarnath Temple Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi Sonprayag

Kedarnath, nestled in the peaks of Uttarakhand, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India. Situated in the Rudraprayag district, it is part of the Char Dham Yatra and is primarily known for the ancient Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Positioned at a high altitude amidst the snow-clad Himalayas, Kedarnath is not just a spiritual epicenter but also offers mesmerizing natural beauty, attracting both devotees and nature enthusiasts alike.

Religious Sites: Kedarnath Temple, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Bhairavnath Temple.

Best Time: May to June, September to October

14 Kedarnath Attractions

Known For : Badrinath Temple Mana Village Bheem Pul

Badrinath, located in Uttarakhand, is a pivotal pilgrimage town revered by Hindus worldwide. Situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River, amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Badrinath is a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra. The town is primarily renowned for the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and holds immense spiritual and cultural significance.

Religious Sites: Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund, Neelkanth Peak, Charanpaduka.

Best Time: May to June, September to October

19 Badrinath Attractions

Known For : Janki Chatti Yamunotri Temple Hanuman Chatti

Yamunotri, set in the pristine landscapes of Uttarakhand, is the source of the sacred Yamuna River and a cardinal pilgrimage site in the Char Dham Yatra. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this sacred spot is not only a religious beacon but also a testament to the region's captivating natural beauty. Yamunotri is primarily celebrated for its temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and the thermal springs which dot its vicinity.

Religious Sites: Yamunotri Temple, Janki Chatti, Surya Kund, Divya Shila.

Best Time: May to June, September to November

9 Yamunotri Attractions

Known For : Gangotri Temple Gangotri Glacier Surya Kund

Gangotri, located in Uttarakhand's rugged terrains, is a significant pilgrimage site marking the origin of the holy Ganges River. Positioned in the midst of the Garhwal Himalayas, Gangotri is both a spiritual magnet and a testament to the serene beauty of nature. Renowned for its temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga, this sacred locale is also the starting point for the Gaumukh trek, leading to the actual source of the river.

Religious Sites: Gangotri Temple, Gaumukh Glacier, Pandava Gufa, Bhagirath Shila.

Best Time: April to June, September to November

20 Gangotri Attractions

Known For : Dodital Lake Nachiketa Lake Dodital Dayara Pass Trek

Uttarkashi, nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, is often termed as the 'Kashi of the North' owing to its high religious significance. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Bhagirathi River and surrounded by the Garhwal Himalayan range, Uttarkashi serves both as a religious destination and a base for several Himalayan treks. This town is not only known for its temples but also for its natural beauty and the institutions dedicated to the study and promotion of mountaineering and adventure sports.

Religious Sites: Vishwanath Temple, Kuteti Devi Temple, Ekadash Rudra Temple, Shakti Temple.

Best Time: March to June, September to November

9 Uttarkashi Attractions

Known For : Augustmuni Koteshwar Mahadev temple Ukhimath

Rudraprayag, a town in Uttarakhand, is known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. Situated at the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini, Rudraprayag is one of the Panch Prayags (five confluences) of the Alaknanda River. It offers both a serene environment for religious activities and serves as a gateway for trekkers and pilgrims heading to destinations like Kedarnath.

Religious Sites: Rudranath Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple, Koteshwar Temple, Basukedar Temple.

Best Time: April to December

22 Rudra Prayag Attractions

Known For : Confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Raghunathji Temple Chandrabadani Temple

Devprayag, a revered town in Uttarakhand, holds immense religious and geographical importance. Positioned at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, it is here that they unite to form the sacred Ganges River. Laced with mythology and surrounded by the verdant landscapes of the lower Himalayas, Devprayag is both a pilgrim's destination and a haven for those seeking nature's tranquility.

Religious Sites: Raghunathji Temple, Dashrathshila Temple, Chandrabadni Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

3 Devprayag Attractions

Known For : Vishwanath Temple, Guptakashi Manikarnik Kund Ardhanarishwar Temple

Guptakashi, situated in Uttarakhand, is a prominent town steeped in mythology and religious significance. Located on the way to the Kedarnath shrine, Guptakashi is renowned for its ancient temples and the legend of Lord Shiva's concealment. The town offers a blend of spirituality and scenic beauty, with the majestic Chaukhamba peaks forming a picturesque backdrop.

Religious Sites: Vishwanath Temple, Manikarnik Kund, Ardhanarishwar Temple.

Best Time: March to June, September to November

7 Guptakashi Attractions

Gaumukh, located in Uttarakhand, is a significant pilgrimage and trekking spot famed as the source of the sacred Ganges River. Situated at the base of the Gangotri glacier, its name, translating to "Mouth of the Cow," is derived from the shape of the ice formation resembling a cow's snout. As both a spiritual destination and a natural wonder, Gaumukh attracts devotees seeking blessings and trekkers enchanted by the allure of the Himalayas.

Religious Sites: Gaumukh Glacier, which is considered sacred as the origin point of the River Ganges.

Best Time: February to September

1 Gaumukh Attractions

Known For : Berinag Patal Bhubaneswar Temple Haat Kalika Temple

Patal Bhuvaneshwar, located in Uttarakhand, is a revered destination renowned for its ancient limestone cave temple. Situated deep beneath the earth's surface, this unique cave is a wonder of nature and spirituality combined. The cave's complex network of tunnels and intricate stalagmite and stalactite formations captivate visitors, while the echoes of mythological tales resonate within its chambers.

Religious Sites: Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple.

Best Time: October to June

4 Patal Attractions

Known For : Madhyamaheshwar Temple Kanchani Tal Budha Madhyamaheshwar

Madhyamaheshwar, situated in Uttarakhand, is one of the revered destinations known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Positioned amidst the lush meadows and snow-clad peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, this place offers spiritual solace combined with scenic beauty. As one of the Panch Kedars, Madhyamaheshwar holds special significance in Hinduism, attracting pilgrims who come to pay homage to the navel and stomach of Lord Shiva, as represented by the temple deity.

Religious Sites: Madhyamaheshwar Temple, Buda Madhyamaheshwar (a small lake nearby), and Har ki Dun, a trek often undertaken alongside the visit to the temple.

Best Time: May to October

4 Madhyamaheshwar Attractions

Known For : Mahamrityunjaya Temple Jageshwar Mahadev Temple Archaeological Museum, Jageshwar

Jageshwar, located in Uttarakhand, is a serene pilgrimage town renowned for its cluster of over 100 ancient temples. Nestled amidst the Deodar forests in the Jataganga river valley, Jageshwar is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva came to meditate. With its tranquil ambiance, rich history, and architectural marvels, the town attracts both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.

Religious Sites: Jageshwar Mahadev Temple, Dandeshwar Temple, Mritunjaya Temple, and Jhanker Saim Mahadev Temple, among many others in the temple complex.

Best Time: April to June, September to November

4 Jageshwar Attractions

Known For : Tungnath Temple Chandrashila Deoria Tal

Tungnath, positioned in Uttarakhand, stands as the highest Shiva temple in the world. Located in the Rudraprayag district, it is one of the Panch Kedars and is revered for its ancient Tungnath temple. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan range, Tungnath not only offers spiritual solace but also captivates visitors with its panoramic views and vibrant alpine meadows.

Religious Sites: Tungnath Temple, and nearby Chandrashila peak, which is often visited in conjunction with Tungnath.

Best Time: April to November

5 Tungnath Attractions

Known For : Ropeway Ghangaria Nanda Devi National Park

Joshimath, nestled in Uttarakhand, is a significant pilgrimage and trekking destination, serving as a gateway to several sacred shrines in the region. Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers, Joshimath is often referred to as "Jyotirmath." It holds immense religious importance and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a base for pilgrims and trekkers exploring the Garhwal region.

Religious Sites: Narsimha Temple, Shankaracharya Math, and it's the starting point for the Hemkund Sahib Yatra and the Auli and Badrinath pilgrimage routes.

Best Time: April to November

11 Joshimath Attractions

Baleshwar Temple, located in Champawat, Uttarakhand, is an architectural marvel renowned for its intricate stone carvings dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 10th-12th centuries, the temple stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Kumaon region under the Chand rulers. Its serene environment combined with the rich history makes it a prime attraction for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

Timings: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM 

Bagnath Temple, located in Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers, the temple is especially crowded during the Shivratri festival. The name "Bagnath" translates to "Tiger Lord", referring to Lord Shiva, and the temple is historically significant, with its foundation linked to ancient legends.

Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Hemkund Sahib, situated in Uttarakhand, is a revered Sikh pilgrimage site set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. Located at a lofty altitude of over 4,600 meters, the gurdwara (Sikh temple) is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, who meditated at this very spot. The serene lake beside the gurdwara reflects its picturesque surroundings, and the site is accessible through a challenging trek, making it both a spiritual and adventurous destination.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Accessibility: The pilgrimage requires a trek, typically commencing from Govindghat. Due to extreme weather conditions, it remains open only between May to October.

Best Time: June to October

Har Ki Pauri, located in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, is one of the most significant ghats along the Ganges River. Revered by Hindus, it's believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here, making it a prime spot for devotees who come to take a holy dip. The evening Ganga Aarti performed here is a mesmerizing spectacle, drawing both pilgrims and tourists alike.

Timings: Open throughout the day, with the Ganga Aarti typically held at sunset.

Mansa Devi Temple, perched atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, is a prominent religious site dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to grant wishes to devotees. As one of the Panch Tirths within Haridwar, the temple attracts a multitude of pilgrims, especially during the Navaratri and Kumbh Mela. Visitors can reach the temple either by a paved pathway or through a cable car service, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Ganges River.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Rudranath Temple, situated in the Garhwal Himalayan mountains near Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, is one of the revered Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Set amidst alpine meadows and dense woods, the temple is unique as it houses the face (or 'mukh') of Lord Shiva. The trek to reach the temple, while challenging, offers stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, attracting both pilgrims and adventure enthusiasts.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Accessibility: The temple requires a trek, often commenced from the villages of Sagar or Gopeshwar. Given the high altitude and weather conditions, the temple typically remains accessible from May to October.

Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, located in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been built when Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, visited the location during their exile. Positioned near the Bhimtal Lake, the temple not only holds spiritual significance but is also set amidst picturesque landscapes that enhance its allure.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple, nestled in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tucked amidst the tranquil setting of lush green forests on a hill, the temple offers a serene environment for devotion and meditation. The temple is known not just for its spiritual importance but also for the panoramic view of Haridwar city and the flowing Ganges from the hill.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Budha Madhyamaheshwar, located near Madhyamaheshwar in Uttarakhand, is a revered site known for the ancient Madhyamaheshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at a higher altitude compared to Madhyamaheshwar, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The locale becomes even more enchanting during monsoons when the "Chaukhamba" peak is reflected in the pristine waters of the Budha Madhyamaheshwar lake.

Accessibility: After reaching Madhyamaheshwar Temple, Budha Madhyamaheshwar requires a trek, which is moderate to challenging, especially during the final ascent.

Chandrabadani Temple, located near Devprayag in Uttarakhand, is a renowned shrine dedicated to the Goddess of Power, Chandrabadani Devi. Perched atop a mountain, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers. The site is steeped in legends, notably the tale of the dismemberment of Sati's body and the dropping of her torso at this location.

Timings : 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM