Uttarakhand is a dream for road trippers. These 10 routes offer the best combination of dramatic scenery, spiritual significance, and accessible roads for a comfortable cab journey.
Uttarakhand — Devbhoomi, the Land of Gods — is a paradise for road trips. The state has everything: glacial rivers, ancient temples, pine forests, rhododendron valleys, and Himalayan panoramas. Here are 10 routes that every cab traveller should experience.
1. Rishikesh to Badrinath (301 km)
The classic Char Dham route along the Alaknanda river valley. Every bend reveals a new temple, a new waterfall, a new view of the peaks.
2. Kathgodam to Munsiyari (260 km)
The most dramatic drive in Kumaon. Through Almora, Bageshwar, and Birthi Falls to the "Little Kashmir" of Uttarakhand.
3. Dehradun to Chakrata (90 km)
Barely known outside adventure circles. Dense forests, the 50-metre Tiger Falls, and views of the Tons valley. No crowds.
4. Nainital to Ranikhet (60 km)
A leisurely mountain drive between two beautiful hill stations. Oak forests, Himalayan views, and the charming army cantonment town of Ranikhet.
5. Haridwar to Gangotri (260 km)
Along the Bhagirathi river to the source of the Ganga. The scenery gets more dramatic the higher you go.
6. Almora to Binsar (33 km)
Short but spectacular. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a 300 km panorama of Himalayan peaks on a clear day.
7. Rishikesh to Chopta (200 km)
Through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath to Chopta — the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand."
8. Lansdowne to Pauri (55 km)
Two of the most underrated hill towns in Uttarakhand connected by a beautiful forest road.
9. Ramnagar to Ranikhet (115 km)
From the Corbett gateway through Kaladhungi (Jim Corbett's winter home) up to the cool Ranikhet plateau.
10. Bareilly to Nainital via Bhimtal (150 km)
Our home route. Takes you through Bhimtal, Sattal, and the lesser-known Naukuchiatal before arriving at Naini Lake.