Uttarakhand is one of the most beautiful states of Uttarakhand, situated in the lap of the Himalayas. The state is a perfect example of beauty, with its mesmerizing landscapes, so many high peaks, some of the most challenging trekking routes, and what not. Notably, Uttarakhand is also known for its spiritual importance as a lot of important Hindu pilgrimages are situated in Uttarakhand as well. In fact, there are a lot of Hindu temples on the high peaks of Uttarakhand which a lot of devotees visit every year. Uttarakhand is definitely a state of culture, good food, and colours, let us have a quick look at the top 10 mountains of Uttarakhand which one can explore.
Nanda Devi is one of the most popular peaks in India since it is the second-highest one. The name Nanda Devi comes from the “Bliss-giving goddess”, and when you look at this mountain range, you actually feel that bliss. The mountain is surrounded by a ring of peaks and all are very important from a geographical point of view. Moreover, the Nanda Devi Sanctuary where the mountain is situated is also a World Heritage Site. With its magical beauty, Nanda Devi is definitely the crown jewel of Uttarakhand.
Kamet is a very popular peak, situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is the third-highest peak in India. The name of the mountain ‘Kamet’ comes from a Sanskrit word, which means ‘one who is longed for’. This peak is again situated in the lap of the Himalayas and looks like the ultimate example of beauty when it is covered with snow during the winter.
It is totally obvious, that this peak is named after the trident of Lord Shiva, which is Trisul. It is a spiritually important peak situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The mountain looks spectacular and it is quite different from any normal mountain range. As the name suggests, the mountain has three peaks, which symbolize the three prongs of Lord Shiva’s trident, and this justifies the religious significance of the mountain. The trek to this peak is really very challenging and definitely not beginner-friendly, however, a lot of devotees still visit the peak every year. Trisul can be called one of the most difficult treks of Uttarakhand, so do plan a trekking trip here if you think you are fit for this adventure.
Dunagiri can be called the hidden gem of Uttarakhand as this mountain is not the most talked about, as it is situated amid a lot of higher peaks, which sometimes overshadow the glory of this mountain range. The name Dunagiri means “beautiful gem” and this peak is actually mesmerizingly beautiful. The trek to Dunagiri is moderate and you should definitely go for it if you are in Uttarakhand. The views while trekking on this mountain are breathtaking, and the environment is so peaceful, which makes it one of the top choices for trekkers during all seasons.
Shivling is the symbol of lord Shiva, and the mountain named after this symbol already highlights its religious importance. Situated in the Garhwal range of Uttarakhand, Shivling is definitely a striking mountain that has almost an accurate pyramid shape and stands tall and straight unlike the other mountains. The base of this mountain is the Tapovan meadows, which are already popular being the base of a lot of popular treks. Trekking to this mountain is not very easy considering its shape and hence, rarely do people try this adventure. Both Tapovan and Shivling are popular pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand, and notably, Shivling is based near the Gangotri glacier, which is one of the biggest glaciers in India.
Chaukhamba is another very important mountain range from the religious point of view since it already has been mentioned in Hindu mythology and people treat it as a sacred mountain range. Chaukhamba is a Sanskrit word that translates as “four pillars”. This mountain range has four peaks, just like four pillars and each peak is named after one of the Hindu mythology characters. The names of the four peaks are – Agrashain, Kuber, Bishan, and Rishabh Dev. Apart from its religious importance, the beauty of this mountain is also breathtaking.
Kedarnath is definitely the most popular among all the peaks of Uttarakhand, not only because it’s a pilgrimage site and also the highest among all the peaks of the Gangotri region, it is actually a very beautiful peak. The mountain is named after the famous Hindu temple, Kedarnath. The trek to this peak is not merely a spiritual journey but it is a treat to your eyes. This is going to be one of the best experiences of your life as the flora and fauna of this region is just breathtaking. During the winters, the snow-covered mountains all around the temple just look like heaven. Especially the backdrop of the temple with that peak looks so beautiful that you can’t take your eyes off that scenery. This trek should definitely be on everyone’s travel bucket list.
Bhagirathi is a popular name as it is the name of one of the primary tributaries of the Ganges and notably, this mountain range is named after this river since it is the source of this river. It is a group of 3 peaks, which are Bhagirathi I, II, and III. It is a very important peak not just from the geographical point of view but also from the mythological point of view since the Ganga is a holy river and is very important for those who follow Hinduism. For the trekkers, it is one of the most challenging treks, and hence, the adventure lovers definitely put this on their travel list. If you are someone who is looking for a challenging travel adventure, keep this trek in your upcoming travel plans.
If you are someone who loves to explore the unexplored, then Satopanth is the peak for you. It is one of the hidden gems of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The name of the range is a mix of 2 different words, which is ‘sat’ and ‘path’ which means ‘truth’ and ‘pathway’, which makes the meaning of the word, the righteous way to divinity. The trekking experience of this mountain is surreal and totally unforgettable. You experience the lush green meadows and panoramic views, and you will be surrounded by alpine trees all over, which will enhance this experience even more. If you are someone who loves to spend time in nature, you should definitely keep this trek on your bucket list.
Maiktoli unlike the other ranges is situated in the Milam region of Uttarakhand which has one of the most beautiful landscapes. It is also popularly known as Balakun. Since the range is mostly covered with snow, it is called the ‘necklace of snow’ and the beauty of this place totally justifies the beautiful name given to it. The views during the trek toward this peak are breathtaking and you won’t be able to take your eyes off the scenery. Everything about this peak is just so surreal and you are going to love every bit of your trekking experience. If you are someone who loves to trek and wishes to enjoy some of the most beautiful views of your life, you must plan a trip to Maiktoli soon.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand has two beautiful sides, which makes this state one of the favourite places for family trips and adventure trips. It is home to a lot of Hindu temples and of course some of the most adventurous trekking experiences. There are so many beautiful and popular peaks situated in Uttarakhand, which not only adds to its beauty but at the same time, also makes it a very important travel destination. As we learned about some of the best peaks of Uttarakhand, we suggest you keep most of them on your travel bucket list and explore Uttarakhand and its peaks soon. Your time in Uttarakhand is always going to be memorable and your trekking journeys are going to be the best adventure experiences ever. One can visit Uttarakhand any time of the year, as the weather is pleasant, but if you particularly wish to experience snowfall, then December to February is the best time to visit. Plan your travel to Uttarakhand soon.
FAQs
Q1: What makes Nanda Devi a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
A: Nanda Devi is one of the most popular mountain ranges in India, and the ring of peaks situated there makes it a World heritage site. It is definitely an ecological island with unbeatable biodiversity which makes it even more admirable.
Q2: Do the trekkers face any challenges while trekking to these peaks which are lesser known?
A: Yes, trekking to the lesser-known peaks is quite challenging for the trekkers sometimes since the locations are remote and there are rugged terrains, but many trekkers seek such adventures, so they enjoy it.
Q3: When should I plan my trekking trip to the above peaks?
A: You can plan your trekking trip any time of the year, as the mountains always have pleasant weather conditions. However, if you wish to experience snow in the mountains, then late winter, which is December to February is the best time to plan your travel.
Q4: What I should carry for my first trek?
A: As a beginner, you should always carry basics like good trekking shoes, an umbrella for sudden rains, a torch, a medical kit, and a lot of woollen clothing to protect yourself from the chilly mountain weather.
Q5: What makes the above peaks so popular and special?
A: Not just the geographical significance but the religious importance of these peaks makes them even more popular as a lot of pilgrims visit these peaks, not just for adventure but because they have a spiritual connection.
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