Uttarakhand: The Land of the Gods (Devbhumi)

Location:
Situated in northern India
Bordered by Tibet (China) in the north, Nepal in the east
Indian states: Himachal Pradesh (west), Uttar Pradesh (south

Geography:
Divided into two main regions: Garhwal and Kumaon
Home to Himalayan ranges, glaciers, rivers, and dense forests
Source of major rivers: Ganga (from Gangotri), Yamuna (from Yamunotri)

Religious & Cultural Importance:
Known as Devbhumi due to numerous Hindu temples and pilgrimage sites
Char Dham Yatra: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath
Haridwar and Rishikesh are important religious and yoga destinations

Tourism & Adventure:
Popular Hill Stations: Nainital, Mussoorie, Almora, Ranikhet
Trekking & Adventure: Valley of Flowers, Roopkund Trek, Kedarkantha, Chopta
Wildlife Sanctuaries: Jim Corbett National Park (India’s first national park)

Economy:
Based on-
Tourism
Hydropower
Agriculture (millets, rice, fruits)
Handicrafts and handlooms

Culture:
Rich traditions in folk music, dance, festivals (e.g., Harela, Phool Dei)
Colorful local attire and unique cuisines (e.g., Kafuli, Aloo ke Gutke)

Challenges & Issues:
Prone to natural disasters (landslides, flash floods, earthquakes)
Climate change impacting glaciers and ecosystems
Struggles with migration from hills to cities