Travel and photography go hand-in-hand, not only it lets one capture the views but it also gives an opportunity to relive the moments later. Every traveller/photographer reading this will agree with me. On this auspicious occasion of the World Tourism Day, I want to share some moments I captured on repeated visits to Uttarakhand. The land of the majestic Himalayas and the life

Spotted this breathtaking sunrise while on one of the ghats in Haridwar. The sun rays steering from within the clouds made this beautiful painting in the sky.

Haridwar is one of the most sacred towns of Uttarakhand and is also believed to be a divine entry to this holy land. Everywhere you can see offerings used in rituals to the river Ganga. I am particularly allured by these flower boats, you can buy them in different shapes and sizes.

Traditionally these flower-filled boats are lightened up with diyas and offered to river Ganga after the evening aarti.

The temple of Chandi Devi is not only famous because of its religious importance but also for the views it offers plus the cable car. While I was coming down from the temple, the cable cars stopped midway. After a moment of panic, I started enjoying the cool breeze and the serene views around.

I have been to Rishikesh so many times that it feels like a second home now. Every time I visit this town, there is something new to see. The best time to take a stroll around this traveller’s paradise of Uttarakhand is just after the sunset, the reflection of the city in river Ganga is eye-pleasing.

Apart from the natural beauty, water sports make Rishikesh a bustling town all round the year expect the monsoon months. White water rafting is a ritual which everyone follows who visits this town. It is a life-changing experience.

While in Rishikesh, one must visit the evening aarti at Parmarth Niketan. The sound of music and bhajans can calm your senses and post aarti you can spend some quiet moments by the side of river Ganga all by yourself.

Spotted this sunbathing monkey in Rishikesh on my way to the taxi stand for Neelkanth Mahadev temple.

A two-hour uphill drive leads you to the temple. Travel advisory: Always take a taxi with an expert driver as it is difficult terrain.

Located in the premises of Daksheshwar temple in Kankhal, his life-size statue of Lord Shiva holding Sati has always intrigued me. If someone sees this from distance Lord Shiva looks in extreme anger but as you move close to the statue, you can see pain and remorse on his face.

A journey through Uttarakhand can be a revelation in more ways than one.

Text and images by Supriya Aggarwal

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