Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It was formed on November 9, 2000, when it was carved out of northern Uttar Pradesh. It borders Tibet to the north, Nepal to the east, the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the south, and Himachal Pradesh to the west and northwest. Dehradun is the capital city, serving as the political and administrative hub, as well as the main gateway to the region.
Uttarakhand is often referred to as the "Land of the Gods" (Dev Bhoomi) due to the many Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers found throughout the state. It is a key destination for religious tourism, with sites such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath drawing millions of devotees every year.
The state is also famed for its natural landscapes, including the Himalayan mountain range, verdant valleys, and diverse wildlife. It is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Jim Corbett National Park, which is renowned for its Bengal tigers, and the Valley of Flowers National Park, known for its alpine flowers and natural beauty.