arts and crefts of uttarakhand

Arts and crafts of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is famous as the name of “the land of the gods” because there are a number of Hindu pilgrimage sites. Uttarakhand has a wealthy tradition of various arts and crafts like Painting, Ornament, Wood Carving, Murals of Aipan and Peeth, candle making and Temple architecture. Uttarakhand has become a great source of tourist attraction because of its multiple cultures. The people of Uttarakhand have a large spirit of inspiration because they live in a place where there is lush green, an aquamarine sky, and mountains filled with snow. The art and craft in the state of Uttarakhand are vibrant and need a thorough look. 

The state of Uttarakhand is an excellent centre to witness the outstanding items of art and craft. The variation of items of art and craft is a piece of evidence of the state’s rich cultural traditions. When you are on the mission to explore India, your best choice is to tour Uttarakhand because in this way you have an opportunity to look at the ideal craftsmanship, which is one of the hearts of the state. By exploring these art and craft items, you are able to look at the artistic ability of the people of Uttarakhand.

Though the state characteristic a vast range of artistic activities, one craft that is very famous is wood carving. Uttarakhand is also very well-known because of this craft. The people of Uttarakhand make beautiful sceneries with the help of this craft, which stirs the designer in every way. The example of wordcraft can be seen easily in the temples and other places of Uttarakhand state. These places give proof of the magnificent woodcraft.

Let’s discuss some art and craft in detail in Uttarakhand:

Paintings in Uttarakhand:

Uttarakhand is rich with greenery, natural beauty, dense forest, and sky-hugging peaks, this all has been asked as inspiration from generation after generation of Uttarakhand.  Therefore, you can also see some of the fantastic works of painting in the state of Uttarakhand. The most popular is the Garhwal School of Painting, which is visited by many people. Uttarakhand is property to one of the most attractive and defining Families or schools of the Pahari School of painting, known as the Garhwal School of Painting. Painting of Uttarakhand span from the folk arts of the women of Kumaon to the most beautiful small-scale arts of Garhwal.

Uttarakhand’s paintings are special and various. Garhwal in Uttarakhand is famous for the Mughal style of painting, started by a Mughal prince during the considerable Mughal region. The women folk of Kumaon practice Aipan, an in-demand art form of Kumaon.  by drawing many geometric and other gods, objects of nature walls, paper and pieces of cloth are decorated. 

Another kind of painting is called Peeth, where the floor of the seat of goads and goodness is decorated with geometric designs. Wall painting is one more form of painting, it is one of the early traditions of the region. On the occasion of the wedding, the walls and doors of the bonuses are decorated with wall paintings.

Traditional Ornaments:

The state of Uttarakhand is well-known for its ornaments. Silver and gold jewellery is an important part of traditional Uttarakhand clothing. When you tour Uttarakhand, you see women wearing gold earrings and sometimes having various piercings in their ears. 

People in Uttarakhand have different inherited backgrounds like Brahmins, Rajputs, and tribal populations like Jaunsari, Bhotia, and Tharu. That’s why, the traditional attires do have a lot of differences. 

In the Kumaun region, women which are married wear big naths made from gold covering. These are regarded as compulsory. In the Garhwal region, a married woman was assumed to wear hansuli. Sindoor along with bindi was also compulsory for a married woman. Even today, a Gulaband is a clear quality of a married woman. It is drawn on a maroon or blue strip with gold square pieces ordered on it.

Wood Carving:

The most famous craft of Uttarakhand is complicated wood carvings. Every home is decorated with wood carvings in Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand wood carving is very beautiful. It will bring the protection of the godly into your home. The windows, rugs, carpets, baskets, doors, copper utensils or the folk art Aipan created by Uttarakhand have a special connection to nature in their designs. The designs made by their people are unique, they are very creative in nature. Seeing their beautiful temples is 

Witnessing their creativity. The wood carvings of Garhwal and Kumaon are famed for their simple yet elegant and appealing designs.

Rich people can still praise the carved architecture in religious places like temples and homes. The architects improve the art of woodwork and were famous for their astonishing and stylish designs. Almost every door of Uttarakhand’s houses has wooden and well-designed doors. The maker used to do special netting to fill the windows open places to give it an alike effect to a screen. 

The amazing wood-carved admiration can be seen in famous tourist landings places such as the Temple of Srinagar, Chandpur Fort, Pandukeshwar, etc. If you want to see the best place of miniature on the stone, you should go to the various temples of  Uttarakhand.

Murals of Aipen and Peeth:

Uttarakhand has many to provide in the divinity of their art and culture. Every home and place of worship is embellished with some sort of mural done as a proper wall painting or as Aipan and Peeth. 

The holy geometric design of Aipan and Peeth divinely clarifies complications. On all special occasions and household ceremonies and customs, like wedding ceremonies, Aipan is done. These designs have holy geometry, and people believe that they bring god blessing and luck. Peeth is a painting made all over the sitting area of Gods and Goddesses with the support of rice paste decorated with colourful natural dyes.

Temple Architecture:

Temple architecture in every part of India has always been looked down on by the kings and people in charge there. Anyone who wants to view the beauty of Uttarakhand state likes to explore the perfect architecture of the temples of Uttarakhand. Temple architecture is one of the crafts which is supported by the king and queen of states.  Temple architects are seeing it in every corner of the state. So, you’ll have time to spend searching the rich temple architecture. These temples contain large stone walls that are 

Furnished with different ornamental models and metal idols. These temples were also a place to meet with thinkers. 

Final words

Here I have explained the famous arts and crafts of Uttarakhand. You can also get any of them whenever you visited this heavenly place. And don’t forget to bring love gifts from this world. 

River Rafting in Rishikesh – Pricing Chart and FAQs

River Rafting in Rishikesh Complete Guide

Are you planning a river rafting activity in Rishikesh? So here is the complete information about the rafting and the average package pricing from the different rafting companies in Rishikesh which will provide you with the complete accommodation, meals and stay in your package.

The rafting season in Rishikesh starts from April to July, basically. There are many rafting companies in Rishikesh that provide rafting services in Rishikesh. Rishikesh is one of the popular rafting destinations in India.

Rafting in Rishikesh is the most popular activity to do in Rishikesh for adventure sports lovers. Indians as well as foreigners come here to enjoy the thrills of Ganga in the form of river rafting. River Ganga which flows from Gangotri (origin place of the Ganges) to Rishikesh is full of many adventurous rapids in between the flow.

River rafting package highlights – Rishikesh

  • Trusted and friendly rafting companies in Rishikesh
  • All the companies have legal licences provided by the Tourism and Forest department of Uttarakhand.
  • 10+ years of experience in River rafting.
  • Certified and experienced rafting guides.
  • Good choice of corporations and school groups.

Average Cost of River Rafting in Rishikesh

  • Brahampuri to Rishikesh(8 Km) Rs. 700/ person
  • Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 Km) Rs. 1800/ person
  • Marine Drive to Rishikesh (26 Km) Rs. 2200/ person
  • Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (35 Km) Rs. 2700/ person

The above pricing is the average pricing of rafting in Rishikesh from different travel and rafting companies, whose pricing may vary a little.

Note: Smoking and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited during rafting. Being overweight and pregnant or having any other suffering people are not allowed. So make sure you are fit for rafting.

Rafting package includes:

  • Transportation
  • Wetsuits, life jackets, raft and paddles
  • 1 experienced guide will be with you
  • 1-day package includes dinner breakfast and lunch

Except for river rafting, Rishikesh is very famous for some ancient temples and Ashrams. There are some most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Rishikesh, where you can also visit after.

Frequently asked Questions about Rishikesh Rafting

Is River rafting safe in Rishikesh?

As you all know, rafting is an adventure sport, and you have to follow the instructions provided by your guide. Wear all the safety equipment properly, recheck them, and rafting is safe.

What is the best time for river rafting in Rishikesh?

In May and June, the temperature at Rishikesh touches 35 degrees, and sometimes more. The best time for rafting in Rishikesh is in the month of September. The best time to visit Rishikesh is from March to May.

What is the minimum age for rafting in Rishikesh?

The minimum age required for rafting is 14 years old. Less than that is not allowed for river rafting.

Can kids do rafting in Rishikesh?

Kids below 14 years are not allowed to participate in river rafting at Rishikesh, but some people violate the rule. As well as adults above 60 are also not allowed for rafting. These guidelines are issued by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board.

Should we carry Rafting equipment together?

No, you don’t need to carry the rafting equipment together or life jackets etc. All the equipment will be provided by the rafting agency Rishikesh in the rafting package.

Rishikesh Uttarakhand – Top Places to Visit, Things to Do

Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh is the only place in the world-famous for adventure sports, Yoga, and tourism. It is located on the bank of the Ganga River in the Shivalik range of Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is located at a distance of just 20- 25 Km from Dehradun. Rishikesh is the hub of yoga, meditation, and spirituality.

Rishikesh has also become a popular and famous destination for adventure sports like river rafting, Bungee Jumping, Rock climbing, camping, hiking, and many more which attracts tourists not only from India but also from all over the world.

Mythology About Rishikesh

Rishikesh is widely known as one of the Holiest places in India, it is associated with many legends & mythological tales. The first myth says that once upon a time, Risi Raibhya performed a hard penance on the banks of the river Ganga. Lord Vishnu was impressed by his strict penance and appeared in front of them as “Hrishikesh” meaning “Lord of Senses” in the Sanskrit language. After that, the place became popular by the name Hrishikesh (another name of Lord Vishnu) and then later was named “Rishikesh”. In Kedar Khand of Skand Purana, there is the existence of Indrakund at that place.

The second myth tells that Lord Rama came there thousands of years ago for meditation and for annihilating Ravana with his younger brother Lakshamana who crossed the river Ganga by a jute rope bridge which is named Lakshmana Jhoola. In 1889 the bridge was reconstructed and replaced by steel and Iron rope suspension. A similar bridge was made in 1986 which was named Ram Jhoola. Also, there are many ancient temples in Rishikesh made by Adi Guru Shankaracharya.

There are several ancient temples, Ashrams in Rishikesh which are related to our historical & mythological background. A dip in the holy water of the river Ganga cleanses all the sins(bad works paap) of a person.

Rishikesh Travel Destination

Rishikesh is a medium-populated town famous for Yoga & Meditation. It is the gateway to the Himalayan Ranges and is the bank of the river Ganga and the ideal destination for adventure sports and camping and enjoying holidays.

Rishikesh is situated at an altitude of 356 meters above sea level and is distinct with three areas Muni- Ki- Reti, Rishikesh & Swargashram. It is located at the foothills of the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand and is easily accessible by road. It is the starting point of exploring the Himalayan region.

Rishikesh – Meditation & Yoga destination

Thousands of years ago, saints came there for meditation & spirituality because this place was fulfilled with peace. After that, Rishikesh became the birthplace of Yoga, Meditation, Spirituality, Spa therapies, and Ayurveda.

Rishikesh, also known as “The world Capital of Yoga” has many Yoga centers which attract tourists all over the world. It is believed that meditation and a dip in the flow of Ganga bring one closer to the Moksha.

Activities to do in Rishikesh

Yoga & Meditation: Rishikesh is also considered the “Yoga Capital of the World”. Tourists from all over the world come here for meditation and spirituality and to find inner peace.

Rafting: Rafting in Rishikesh is popular all over India where huge waves of Ganga make it a more popular adventure sport in Rishikesh. Adventure and rafting seekers come here in large amounts to feel the thrill of the river Ganga.

Adventure Sports: Apart from rafting there are many other adventure sports which are also the attraction point for tourists in Rishikesh like Bungee Jumping, flying fox, Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Rock climbing, etc.

For what Rishikesh is famous?

  • Rishikesh is famous for Yoga, Meditation, Rafting, Adventure Sports, Bungee Jumping, Pilgrimage, Tourism, Temples & Ashrams.
  • Rishikesh is recommended for all people as Family, Couples, Friend Groups, Solo, Kids, and Foreigners.
  • Rishikesh is a popular destination for the following activities: Rafting, Adventure Sports, Bungee Jumping, Pilgrimage, Tourism, Temples, Yoga & Meditation, Spirituality, Peace, Trekking and Mountain climbing, Hiking, New Year and Christmas, and Weekend trip.

Overview Rishikesh

  • Temperature: 29(Max) and 14(Min) in Celcius
  • Location: Dehradun, Garhwal
  • Stay(Recommended): 2 days(Min)
  • Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar, Dehradun(22 Km)
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun(20 Km)
  • Famous for: Yoga, Meditation, Adventure Sports and Rafting, Temples and Ashrams
  • Best time to visit:  January – December(All the months of the year are recommended)

Rishikesh’s distance from Delhi, India is 250 Km and it will take up to 5 Hours 49 Minutes approx

Note: River Rafting at Rishikesh closes in the monsoons due to high rainfall in the hilly areas, as a result, the water level of Ganga increases.

Rivers in Uttarakhand – Tributes of Ganga and other Rivers

Rivers of Uttarakhand

“Uttarakhand” is a state which is known for its hundreds and thousands of small and big rivers, sacred temples, and holy places, situated on the banks of the holy rivers. Some rivers have relevance in Hindu mythology and these rivers have religious significance in India. The Source of these rivers is the glaciers of the Himalayas (western Himalayas) situated within India, Nepal, and Tibet borders. These rivers play a very important role in economical, social, cultural, and environmental issues in India.

The important dams in Uttarakhand on these rivers are providing electricity to thousands of homes in India. These rivers are the backbone of the Indian economy because of their huge usage in farming, drinking water, fishing, trading, electricity, etc. In some parts of Uttarakhand rivers like Tons, Ganga (rafting in Rishikesh), Yamuna and Kali are very famous for a wide variety of water sports. These rivers are clean and less polluted till they enter the plains (Tarai region).

Some Major Rivers of Uttarakhand

Alaknanda River

The River Alaknanda flowing in Uttarakhand is one of the two headstreams of the holy river Ganga. The origin or source of the Alaknanda River is in the Badrinath region.

Ganga River

The holy River Ganga also referred to as the Ganges emerges from Devprayag and exists at…

Gaula River

River Gaula is a Himalayan river which flows in India. The origin or source of the river is Paharpani and the destination point is Kichchha. The length of the river is approx 103 Km. The River Gaula emerges from …

Dhauli Ganga River – Kumaon

It is situated in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand. The River Dhauli Ganga originates from Govan Khana Himani and exists at Tawadhar.

Dhauli Ganga River – Garhwal

Dhauli Ganga also known as River Dhauli is one of the six source streams of the holy river Ganga.

Bhagirathi River

River Bhagirathi is a Himalayan river which flows in Uttarakhand state. It is one of the two headstreams of the…

Bhilangana River

River Bhilangana in Uttarakhand, India is a major tributary of the Bhagirathi river…

Gori Ganga River

Gori Ganga ruver also known as Ghori Ganga and Gori Gad is a river in Munsyari tehsil…

Kali River

Kali River also known as “Sharda River” and “Kali Ganga” or “Mahakali River” is also a Himalayan river which flows in Uttarakhand.

Kosi River

Kosi River is also a Himalayan river which originates from Dharpani Dhar in the Baramandal region of the Almora district in Kumaon mandal…

Mandakini River

River Mandakini emerges from Chorabari glacier near Kedarnath temple.

Nandakini River

River Nandakini is one of the five tributaries of the holy Ganga River. The holy river originated from Nanda Ghunghati and exists in…

Nayar River – Eastern

Nayar River is a tributary of the holy River Ganga, it originates from the Dudhatoli ranges of Garhwal.

Nayar River – Western

Like as eastern Nayar river, the western Nayar River also originates from the Dudhatoli ranges of the Garhwal region.

Pinder River

Pinder river also known as the Pindari river is also a Himalayan river which emerges from the Pindari Glacier and meets with Alaknanda river at Karnaprayag Sangam.

Ramganga River – Eastern

Ramganga is a tributary of the river Ganges, originating in Uttarakhand state, India.

Ramganga River – Western

Ramganga(west) river emerges from Dudhatoli ranges of Pauri district of Uttarakhand. The length of the river is approx 155 Km, read more.

Saryu River

Saryu or Sarju is a Himalayan river which flows in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The source of Saryu River is Sarmool and the destination point is Pancheshwar.

Tons River

Tons river is a major Himalayan river which flows through Garhwal division of Uttarakhand and touches Himanchal Pradesh state.

Yamuna River

The River Yamuna is a sacred river of India according to Hindu mythology. It is also known as Jamuna river which originates from Yamunotri Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rivers In Uttarakhand

Which is the longest river in Uttarakhand?

The Alaknanda river is the longest river in Uttarakhand, which is also the major source of river Ganges.

Which dams are situated in Uttarakhand?

The Haripura dam, Srinagar Hydroelectric project and Tehri Dam are situated in Uttarakhand which is an earthen embankment built on the Bhakra river in Udham Singh Nagar, Alaknanda River and on Bhagirathi river.

In which state Ramganga river is situated?

The Ramganga is situated in Uttarakhand, which originates from Doodhatoli ranges in the district of Pauri Garhwal.

shivpuri rishikesh

Shivpuri Rishikesh Travel Guide and Activities To Do

Shivpuri Rishikesh Travel Guide – Rafting Hub

Shivpuri is the most famous whitewater river rafting location near Rishikesh. Shivpuri is just 16 Km away from Rishikesh, which offers some beautiful river beaches on the bank of the river Ganga. It is a crowded place during the weekends because of the adventure lovers who come there to test their skills with amateur white water river rafting in Rishikesh.

The 16 Km rafting route from Shivpuri to Rishikesh (Lakshmana Jhula) offers a thrilling experience to the rafters with lots of adventurous rapids like as Golf course, Club house, Roller coaster and Return to sender and many more rapids are there. The rafting route takes approx 3 hours to complete.

Shivpuri is also the best location for camping, while camping in Shivpuri not only rafting you can also enjoy nature trails, rappelling, kayaking and beach activities. It is a perfect destination for adventure lovers.

For what Shivpuri is famous for?

Shivpuri is famous for White Water River Rafting.

It is a recommended destination for all couples, adventure lovers, individuals, groups, travellers, family and kids and for all.

Shivpuri is famous for the following activities: White water Rafting, Adventure, Char Dham Route, weekend getaway, New year and Christmas, and Camping.

Overview Shivpuri

  • Temperature: Average
  • Location: Tehri Garhwal, Near Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
  • Best times to visit: January, February, March, April, May, October and December
  • Famous for: Adventure and White Water Rafting