Uttarakhand, often known as the "Land of the Gods" (Devbhumi), is a north Indian state celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and profound religious significance. Previously known as Uttaranchal until 2007, this scenic state is divided into two regions, Garhwal and Kumaon, comprising a total of 13 districts.
Dehradun, the largest city in Uttarakhand, serves as its winter capital, while Bhararisain in the Chamoli district has been designated as the summer capital. Situated in the majestic Himalayas, Uttarakhand shares its borders with Tibet to the north, Nepal to the east, Uttar Pradesh to the south, and Himachal Pradesh to the west and northwest. The state is famous for its diverse landscapes, from the lush Terai region to the foothills of the Himalayas.
In this article, we will further explore the enchanting realm of Uttarakhand.
The name Uttarakhand finds its origins in ancient Sanskrit, where "Uttara" translates to 'north' and "khaṇḍa" to 'section' or 'part', thus signifying 'Northern Part'. Despite earlier assumptions of barrenness, this region boasts a rich history tracing back to prehistoric times. Evidence of Stone Age settlements discovered in Kumaon and Garhwal indicates early human presence.
During the Vedic era, Uttarakhand was a part of the Uttarakuru Kingdom. Successive dynasties such as the Kunindas and Katyuris governed different territories within Uttarakhand. In the medieval era, it was divided into the Kumaon Kingdom and the Garhwal Kingdom. Subsequently, it came under the dominion of the Gorkha Empire of Nepal and later the British post the Anglo-Nepalese War. The Garhwal Kingdom was reinstated as a princely state in 1816.
Following independence, Uttarakhand was merged into Uttar Pradesh until demands for separate statehood culminated in its establishment as India's 27th state on November 9, 2000. Uttarakhand gained prominence for the Chipko movement in the 1970s, a notable environmental and social protest spearheaded by activists like Gaura Devi, Sunderlal Bahuguna, and Chandi Prasad Bhatt, pivotal in shaping India's ecological consciousness.
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Uttarakhand boasts a breathtakingly diverse landscape. The state predominantly consists of mountainous terrain, spanning an area of 53,566 square kilometres, with verdant forests adorning 65% of its expanse.
Towards the north, towering peaks and age-old glaciers give birth to revered rivers such as the Ganges and Yamuna, which sculpt the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage route, featuring sacred sites like Badrinath and Kedarnath.
Within this enchanting natural haven lies the renowned Jim Corbett National Park, serving as the habitat for Bengal tigers, alongside the distinguished UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks. Within these realms, creatures such as snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, langurs, orange-breasted green pigeons, jungle babblers, and chestnut-winged cuckoos thrive.
The state's landscape is also adorned with sal trees, rhododendrons, and silk cotton trees. Simultaneously, botanical treasures like Picrorhiza kurroa, Aconitum violaceum, and Podophyllum hexandrum further enhance the region's biodiversity, beckoning nature enthusiasts and conservationists.
Despite its scenic splendour, Uttarakhand faces challenges. The destructive floods of 2013 and 2021 and persistent forest fires underscore the intricate interplay between safeguarding biodiversity and safeguarding communities. Nonetheless, endeavours such as the Indian Forest Act and sustained conservation initiatives are dedicated to protecting Uttarakhand's ecological riches for posterity.
Uttarakhand harbours a diverse populace spanning its two distinct geocultural realms: Garhwal and Kumaon. The indigenous inhabitants, referred to as Uttarakhandi, are commonly classified as Garhwali or Kumaoni based on their ancestral roots.
According to the 2011 Census, the state's population is 10,086,292, with 69.77% residing in rural areas. The population density averages 189 individuals per square kilometre, and the population grew by 18.81% between 2001 and 2011.
The gender ratio stands at 963 females per 1000 males. Rajputs comprise around 35% of the population, followed by Brahmins at approximately 20%. Other notable groups include Other Backward Classes (18.3%), Scheduled Castes (18.76%), and Scheduled Tribes (2.89%).
Languages spoken in the state include Hindi, Garhwalli and Kumaoni, with Sanskrit designated as a secondary official language. The religious landscape is predominantly Hinduism, with notable Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, and Jain minorities.
Uttarakhand operates under a parliamentary democracy, as per India's Constitution. The Governor, with a five-year tenure, holds a ceremonial role, while executive authority rests with the Chief Minister, presently Pushkar Singh Dhami. Its legislative assembly comprises 70 MLAs, with periodic elections for representation in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The state is politically dominated by two parties, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC).
The state is divided into 13 districts across Kumaon and Garhwal divisions, each overseen by a district magistrate and further administrative subdivisions. Municipalities manage urban areas, while rural areas operate under a three-tier administrative structure. Haridwar, Dehradun, and Udham Singh Nagar emerge as the most populous districts based on the 2011 census.
Uttarakhand, with its rich cultural tapestry, showcases a vibrant array of art, cuisine, and festivals. Among its renowned crafts is Likhai, a traditional wood carving seen embellishing the temples and homes of Kumaon, featuring intricate designs of deities and floral motifs.
Garwhali Miniature painting thrived from the 17th to the 19th century, with Mola Ram leading the Garhwali branch. Aipan, a Kumaoni ritual art certified as a Geographical Indication, employs white rice flour paste on brick-red walls to invoke blessings during special ceremonies.
The state's literature, encompassing languages like Hindi, Garhwali, and Kumaoni, has given rise to literary giants like Sumitranandan Pant and Ruskin Bond. Uttarakhand's cuisine, known for its use of coarse grains such as Buckwheat and Maduwa, offers delights like Bal Mithai and Dubuk, alongside unique dishes like Bhatt and bhutwa.
The region's dances, including Langvir Nritya and Barada Nati, depict a range of human emotions, while folk music, performed on instruments like Dhol and Damau, echoes the essence of the land. Festivals like Kumbh Mela, Almora Dussehra, and Phool-Dei infuse the cultural fabric with vibrancy, honouring traditions and welcoming each season with joy and reverence.
Uttarakhand's economy has been on a rapid growth trajectory, emerging as the second fastest-growing state in India. From FY2005 to FY2012, its gross state domestic product (GSDP) more than doubled, reaching ₹60,898 crore, with a real GSDP growth rate of 13.7%.
The service sector contributed over 50% to the GSDP in FY2012, reflecting the state's diverse economic landscape. With a per capita income of ₹198738 in FY 2018–19, Uttarakhand surpasses the national average, indicating its growing prosperity.
Agriculture forms a vital part of the state's economy, with crops like Basmati rice, wheat and fruits such as apples and oranges playing significant roles. The state's agricultural export zones focus on promoting products like lychees and medicinal plants.
Tourism and hydropower are key industries, while sectors like IT, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals hold promise for future development. Initiatives like Integrated Industrial Estates and industrial sectors in public-private partnership mode underscore Uttarakhand's commitment to fostering industrial growth and creating employment opportunities.
Uttarakhand boasts 2,683 km of roads, including 1,328 km of national highways and 1,543 km of state highways. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation operates around 1000 buses on national routes, while private operators manage 3000 buses for local travel. Local transportation includes auto and cycle rickshaws, along with shared jeeps linking remote hill towns.
Air transport is expanding, with Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and Pantnagar Airport offering connections to Delhi. Moreover, plans are underway to develop additional airports in Pithoragarh, Uttarkashi, and Chamoli districts, along with helipad services at key tourist destinations.
The state’s rail services are limited due to hilly terrain, with Kathgodam as a key station connecting to Delhi, Dehradun, and Howrah. Other important stations include Pantnagar, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
Education holds a prominent position in Uttarakhand, with 15,331 primary schools serving a student population exceeding 1 million. According to the 2011 census, the literacy rate is 78.82%, bolstered by esteemed institutions such as The Doon School and Woodstock.
The state is also home to prestigious establishments like the Forest Research Institute, IIT Roorkee, government medical colleges, and AIIMS Rishikesh. In 2011, the inauguration of an IIM in Kashipur further enriched Uttarakhand's educational milieu.
In the realm of sports, Uttarakhand's breathtaking mountains and rivers draw adventure enthusiasts, providing opportunities for activities such as paragliding, rafting, and bungee jumping. Golf has seen a surge in popularity, especially in Ranikhet.
The state actively engages in cricket, with the Uttarakhand cricket team participating in various tournaments, utilising the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun as its home ground. Association football is overseen by the Uttarakhand State Football Association, with matches hosted at the Indira Gandhi International Sports Stadium in Haldwani.
Uttarakhand is a paradise for tourists, drawing visitors from around the globe with its diverse attractions. The state features ancient temples, dense forest reserves, expansive national parks, serene hill stations, and majestic peaks, creating a compelling destination for travellers.
Referred to as the "Land of the Gods," Uttarakhand is home to some of Hinduism's most sacred sites, such as Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath, which together form the revered Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Spiritual seekers flock to Haridwar for the Haridwar Kumbh Mela and to Rishikesh, renowned worldwide for yoga and meditation.
The state also embraces pilgrims of various faiths, featuring sites such as Piran Kaliyar Sharif for Muslims and Gurudwara Darbar Sahib for Sikhs. Adventure enthusiasts are drawn to Auli and Munsiari for skiing, while wildlife enthusiasts find solace in Jim Corbett National Park. Uttarakhand offers many adventure activities, including whitewater rafting in Rishikesh, trekking to Roopkund, and enjoying water sports at Tehri Dam and Lake.
In essence, Uttarakhand embodies the abundant natural beauty and cultural richness, inviting travellers to explore its marvels.
