Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are two of India’s most breathtaking states, filled with towering mountains, lush forests, and ancient temples. Whether you’re after a challenging trek, a peaceful cultural escape, or a quick adrenaline rush, these regions deliver. We’ve rounded up the best tours that showcase their natural beauty, rich traditions, and outdoor adventures. Among our favorites is the Nag Tibba trek, which offers stunning mountain views and manageable hikes for beginners, perfect for a weekend escape.
If you prefer something more immersive, the Dayara Bugyal and Surya Top Trek provides access to expansive meadows and snow-capped peaks during winter, while the Kedarkantha Trek is renowned for its winter wonderland experience with fresh snow and mythological stories. We also love exploring spiritual sites like the Rishikesh Day Tour, which combines serene river walks with vibrant ashrams. Each of these experiences offers a unique way to connect with the Himalayas’ stunning landscape and culture.
1. Nag Tibba 2 Days Trek (Pantwari to Pantwari)
At number 1, the Nag Tibba 2 Days Trek stands out as an ideal weekend getaway. This trek is perfect for those in North India craving a wilderness escape without a week-long commitment. It starts in Pantwari and takes you to the small temple dedicated to a Snake God before reaching Nag Tibba Peak, where panoramic views of Mt. Swargarohini, Mt. Bandarpunch, and other Himalayan giants unfold before your eyes. The 5-6 km hike to the campsite and the following day’s summit climb are straightforward enough for beginners but still offer a sense of achievement.
Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 272 reviews, this trek is praised for its accessibility, friendly guides, and stunning vistas. The small temple visit on Day 1 adds a cultural touch, while the sunrise view from Nag Tibba Peak on the second day makes early mornings worth it. The trek’s affordability—at just $64 per person—makes it a superb value, especially considering the quality of scenery and experience. Suitable for families, first-time trekkers, or anyone looking to breathe fresh mountain air over a weekend.
Bottom Line: Easy to do, beautifully scenic, and budget-friendly, this trek offers a quick Himalayan escape that leaves you refreshed and inspired.
2. Nagtibba Trek (Pantwari to Pantwari)
Number 2 on our list is the Nagtibba Trek, a beginner-friendly overnight adventure. This trek shares a similar route but emphasizes a more rustic outdoor experience with tent camping. It’s priced attractively at $25.69 per person, including all meals and basic camping gear. The tour starts with a relaxing evening in Pantwari, where you’ll enjoy hot tea, Pakoda, and maybe some piping hot Maggi if you’re craving comfort food. Later, a bonfire under the stars sets the mood before an early wake-up at 3:30 am for the summit attempt.
The highlight of this trek is reaching the Nag Tibba summit at dawn, offering a spectacular sunrise and views of snow or clear peaks, depending on the season. The tour’s emphasis on camping, local food, and guided navigation makes it ideal for novice trekkers or those wanting an authentic overnight Himalayan experience without strenuous effort. The reviews note the “majestic sunset” and “friendly, knowledgeable guides” as strong points. The value is high, with a full overnight experience included.
Bottom Line: If you’re new to trekking but eager to see the Himalayas, this budget-friendly, guided overnight trek is hard to beat.
3. Dayara Bugyal and Surya Top Trek
Number 3 is the Dayara Bugyal and Surya Top Trek, a four-day adventure that combines breathtaking high-altitude meadows with snow-covered peaks. The journey begins from Dehradun, taking you through scenic routes along the Bhagirathi River, with stops for Garhwali cuisine at Pahadi Dhaba and spectacular views of Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba. The trek’s highlight, Dayara Bugyal, is a sprawling, lush meadow at approximately 3,500 meters, offering postcard-perfect views especially in summer when wildflowers bloom, or winter when snow transforms it into a ski paradise.
Enroute, you’ll camp at various sites like Devkund and Siyari Bugyal, experiencing a range of landscapes from grassy fields to rugged mountain slopes. The trek is rated perfect for those craving a mix of nature, culture, and photographs. The 10 reviews all praise the scenery and the comfortable campsites. This tour is pricier at around $144 but provides a comprehensive experience for serious nature lovers ready for a multi-day trek.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic trek perfect for travelers seeking high-altitude meadows and mountain views over several days.
4. Charcoal Painting Workshop
Number 4 on our list is the Charcoal Painting Workshop, a 3-hour class that teaches you how to create portraits using charcoal. Located in Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand, this experience is ideal for those wanting to explore their artistic side or add a creative souvenir to their trip. The instructor provides personalized guidance in a relaxed setting, helping you learn composition, shading, and brushwork to craft beautiful portraits.
What makes this workshop stand out is its emphasis on mindfulness and connection to earth through art. It’s a quiet, enriching activity that offers a break from outdoor adventures while still engaging with the local culture. The review scores a perfect 5.0 for its approachable instruction and immersive environment. At just $16.17, it’s excellent value for a hands-on artistic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for anyone wanting to try something different, this workshop offers a memorable creative outlet in the mountains.
$16.17 per person
5. Explore Saint City on a Day Tour in Rishikesh
Number 5 is the Day Tour of Rishikesh’s Saint City, blending spirituality, culture, and nature in a single day. Starting with meditation at Vashishta Cave, the tour guides you through the tranquil Neer Waterfalls, and along the Ganges’ banks. Crossing the Sirasu Suspension Bridge and visiting the bustling Laxman Jhula and Parmarth Niketan, you’ll get a taste of the spiritual energy that makes Rishikesh special.
The tour includes a traditional lunch at Chotiwala, famous for its local cuisine, and a walk around lively markets and temples. The highlight is the peaceful walk along the river and the chance to swim in the waterfalls. With a review rating of 5.0, it’s perfect for those interested in spiritual reflection, scenic walks, and cultural exploration in a manageable day.
Bottom Line: An accessible, enriching day tour ideal for anyone wanting a quick spiritual and cultural fix in Rishikesh.
$95.76 per person
6. Kedarkantha Trek
Number 6 is the Kedarkantha Trek, a six-day journey renowned for its winter scenery and mythological lore. This trek is a winter favorite, known for fresh snow, glittering powder, and accessible paths that make it suitable for most trekkers. Starting from a base near Dehradun, you ascend through thick forests, camp at scenic viewpoints, and reach the summit at around 3,900 meters for a stunning sunrise.
Rated highly for its adventure and natural beauty, the trek offers a mix of snow-covered landscapes and cultural stories tied to local mythology. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels and those looking for a winter challenge with breathtaking rewards. The $108.88 price covers guiding, camping, and meals, making it a good value for a six-day trek.
Bottom Line: For winter lovers, this trek combines snow, story, and scenery into one memorable Himalayan adventure.
$108.88 per person
7. Pottery in Rishikesh A Healing Clay Experience
Number 7 offers a pottery workshop in Rishikesh, providing a tactile, mindful activity perfect for grounding yourself in the moment. This 1.5-hour session in Tapovan introduces you to earth’s natural clay and helps you craft your own pottery piece. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a creative outlet that promotes relaxation and connection to the land.
The workshop is praised for its calming atmosphere and personalized guidance. It’s a unique way to take a piece of India home — literally — and offers a different kind of souvenir than a photo. At $22.95, this experience offers good value for its hands-on, meditative focus.
Bottom Line: A soothing, creative activity suitable for all ages and those interested in local arts and crafts.
$22.95 per person
8. 24 km White Water Rafting Expedition in Rishikesh
Number 8 is the 24 km White Water Rafting Expedition, a fun-filled 3.5-hour adventure on the Ganges River. This activity is designed for thrill-seekers and is led by certified guides with safety gear provided. It includes transfers from Tapovan or Rishikesh, ensuring smooth logistics.
Along the river, you’ll experience thrilling rapids, with opportunities for cliff jumping and body surfing. The reviews note that while the activity is exciting and well-organized, some found the price a little high at $19.17, but the safety and fun factor make it worthwhile. This tour is perfect for adrenaline junkies or families wanting a memorable outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: For a quick, adrenaline-pumping experience, this rafting trip delivers excitement and safe fun.
$19.17 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For beginners or those short on time, the Nag Tibba and Nagtibba Trek are accessible and affordable. If you’re after a longer, more immersive experience, the Dayara Bugyal trek offers stunning multi-day scenery, while the Kedarkantha trek is a winter highlight. Culture and relaxation enthusiasts may prefer the Rishikesh day tour or the pottery workshop.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular treks like Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal, which fill quickly during peak seasons. For outdoor adventures like rafting, check weather conditions and safety reviews.
In summary, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand offer diverse tour options, from quick escapes to multi-day treks, cultural explorations, and creative workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker, a spiritual seeker, or someone looking for a fun outdoor activity, there’s something here for everyone. Consider your interests and fitness level, and don’t hesitate to book ahead for the best experience.