Uttarakhand was established on 9 November 2000 as the 27th state of India, when it was carved out from Uttar Pradesh. It is mainly divided into two major regions namely Kumaon and Garhwal. Its stunning landscapes and natural beauty add to the resultant appeal of the place, thus being a tourist destination. Here are the interesting facts about Uttarakhand.
1. Sanskrit- the Official Language
What makes Uttarakhand very special is that it is the only Indian state where Sanskrit is declared an official language, along with Hindi. This certainly proves the attachment of the state to its ancient traditions and rich cultural heritage through religious texts.
2. Highest Shiva temple
One of the coolest things about Uttarakhand is it has the highest Shiva temple, found in Tungnath. This is a very ancient temple with beliefs linking its construction back to the times of the Mahabharat. This temple is approximately 1,000 years old.
3. Second Highest Peak
Nanda Devi, situated in the Chamoli Garhwal District of Uttarakhand, is the second highest peak in India. The view at this peak, standing tall at 7,816 meters above mean sea level, is simply incomparable. If you are all set for an expedition to this majestic peak, it is advisable to carry an oxygen cylinder along with you.
4. Highest Dam
The Tehri Dam, situated on the Bhagirathi River in the Tehri Garhwal area in the state of Uttarakhand, is the highest dam in India, with a height of 260.5 meters above sea level. It also finds a place among the top ten highest dams in the world.
5. Dev bhoomi
Uttarakhand has many religious places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath. So it is known as Dev Bhoomi or the Land of Gods. These regions share a significant place in the religious and cultural history of India.
6. Origin of Ganga and Yamuna
Two of India’s most cherished rivers the Ganga and the Yamuna flow from the state of Uttarakhand. The Ganga flows from Gangotri, while the Yamuna has its source in the majestic Himalayas at Yamunotri.
7. Floral Paradise
Valley of Flowers found at a height of 3658 meters. This place has several flowers and shrubs with more than 500 varieties of alpine flora. Due to its importance and cultural worth, the Valley of Flowers has awarded the status of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1988.
8. 400 year old water canal
Madho Singh Bhandari was brave general from the 17th century, famous for building a 400-year-old irrigation canal in Maletha town in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. This canal, called Maletha ki Kool, was dug through huge rocks and continues to supply water to the previously dry regions.
9. Champawat tiger
One of the most impressive facts about Uttarakhand includes the awarding of a Guinness World Record to the Champawat tiger. This tiger is said to have caused the highest number of human fatalities, 436 in number, because of its attack.
10. Skeleton lake
Roopkund Lake, situated at an altitude of 5,029 meters, has an air of mystery attached to it, for the simple reason that hundreds of skeletons were found here, dating back to the 9th century. Studies in genetics point to their origin being a group from Iran, probably migrants looking for new places to settle. Ancient origin and mysterious ambiance are responsible for these different theories and speculations.
11. Rishikesh yoga centre
Rishikesh and Haridwar are well-known spots in Uttarakhand, regarded as centers providing facilities for yoga and meditation. Many tourists visit these spots to practice such activities. People like to do yoga on the banks of the Ganga River to feel positivity.
12. Longest pilgrimage on foot
Nanda Devi Raaj Jaat yatra is of high spiritual value coupled with the world’s longest route by foot, stretching 230 kilometers. It happens every 12 years, and this march starts from Nauti village, located near Karnaprayag, to Roopkund, placed at an altitude of 5,000 meters amidst the enchanting Himalayas.
13. Contribution to Indian Army
The Uttarakhand contributes to the maximum number of officers per capita in the Indian Army. As such, it literally underlines that there is a great sense of patriotism and dedication amongst the residents of Uttarakhand for the protection of the integrity and sovereignty of the nation.
