Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is blessed with a magical feel. Myth narrates the peaks and valleys as the abode of Gods and Goddesses. The cliffs, snow-shrouded mountains and the serpentine river add to the charm of the place.

Demographic

The state records a population of approx 8.48 million. However, it is expected that by the next census of 2011, the population will exceed 10 million. The Punjabis make up the most of the total population, but the other communities include Nepalis, Bengalis and Tibetans. The common dialects spoken here include the Kumaoni and Garhwali, which are spoken in the Kumaon and Garhwal region, respectively. However, in the urbanized areas most of the people speak Hindi.

Geography

Most of the northern part of the state is covered by the Himalayan peaks and glaciers and the lower foothills are shrouded in dense forest. The mighty rivers of Ganga and Yamuna that feed the plains of India rise from the glaciers of Uttarakhand. It is a land with a variable elevation and the vegetation is greatly influenced by that. At the highest altitudes, you would find only ice and bare rocks and in the lower altitudes, you would find the Jim Corbett National Park, which is rich in flora and fauna.

Climate

The two distinctive regions of Uttarakhand are the hilly terrain and the smaller plain region. Those staying at the plains enjoy a climatic condition that shares similar climatic conditions of the Gangetic region. Summers are hot with high humidity and temperature crossing the 30 degree C mark. Winter is marked with shivering cold with a temperature plummeting below 5 degree C.

Flora and fauna

It is a land rich in flora and fauna. You find a varied species of plants and trees that exposes you the new world of green diversity. Plums and peaches are the most popular fruit trees and the region is home to sal, jacaranda and yellow laburnum. The floral species include the varied types of roses asters, lilies, anemones, primula, marigold, gerberas, dahlias and many more. You will be fascinated by the little spice garden that has the touch of assorted lemon grass, basil, mint rosemary, chives, thyme and much more. The bird world includes warblers, pigeons, myna and the woodpeckers, while the animal kingdom has bears, leopards, foxes and deers in their stock.

Major attractions

Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are the major pilgrimages swarmed by pious tourists year round. You should also visit Almora, which is the cultural center of Kumaon. Corbett National park is another destination that throws you in the innocence of wilderness. The other tourist attractions include Dehradun, Hardwar and Ranikhet.

Tips

- Changing money is possible in large towns like Haridwar, but not easy everywhere
- The roads are a bit tricky and not safe. So make sure that you avail the right conveyance.