What is the story about?
Mussoorie is the most popular destination in Uttarakhand—thanks to the mountains, the views, and the cool air. But Uttarakhand’s got so much more up its
sleeve. If you’re craving peace, real mountain air, and landscapes that’ll make you forget the rest of the world, you’ll want to check out these lesser-known spots. No crowds, no noise—just you and the hills.
Auli
Auli is all about wide-open, snowy slopes and jaw-dropping Himalayan views—Nanda Devi, Hathi Parvat, Mana Parvat, you name it. Winter turns this place into India’s skiing paradise. Even if you’re not into skiing, just hop on the Auli Ropeway which runs between Joshimath and Auli. It is one of Asia’s longest and highest cable cars, and the ride is an experience in itself. Walk around, breathe in that crisp air, and soak up the quiet. No traffic and no mess. It is all about a peaceful experience.
Munsiyari
Also called 'Little Kashmir,' Munsiyari is located in the district of Pithoragarh. Panchachuli peaks surround this place, and sunrise and sunset here are something else. Trekkers love it—trails like Khaliya Top and Milam Glacier all start from this little town. It never really gets noisy, and even in summer, the weather stays cool. If you want to see what raw mountain life feels like, this is it.
Harsil
Harsil is a small village that sits quietly along the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by apple orchards and thick forests. Most people just pass by on their way to Gangotri, but if you stop, you’ll find slow riverside walks, deodar forests, and little villages to wander through. The air is always fresh, and the whole place just feels calm. It’s the definition of peaceful.
Chopta
People call Chopta the 'Mini Switzerland of India'—and they’re not wrong. It is a small meadow and the starting point for the trek to Tungnath (the highest Shiva temple in the world) and Chandrashila Peak. Chopta offers beautiful views of the Himalayan range, including Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba. It is quiet year-round, perfect for birdwatching, camping, or just walking through the forest. After the monsoon, the meadows go bright green and in winter, snow covers everything.
Khirsu
Khirsu is tucked away near Pauri, and it feels like a secret. On a clear day, you can spot around 300 Himalayan peaks from here. Khirsu is known for its pleasant weather and clean environment. Surrounded by oak and deodar forests, the village stays cool and clean, and it’s a great window into Garhwali life. No commercial chaos, no traffic—just a slow, relaxing vibe.
