Uttarakhand Districts

Uttarakhand Districts List, Uttarakhand Districts Names, Population

Uttarakhand, also known as the Land of the Gods, is a state located in northern India. It is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, serene landscapes, and spiritual significance. The state is divided into 13 districts, each offering a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and historical importance.

In this blogpost, we will explore the districts of Uttarakhand, their names, and their population, you can see and explorer uttarakhand map with district for more uttarakhand geography map overview.

List of Uttarakhand Districts

Complete list of 13 district name of Uttarakhand Districts (zilla) of sorted by population (source Census 2011)

#	District	Sub-districts	Population	Literacy	Sex Ratio
1	Haridwar	Tehsils	1,890,422	73.43%	880
2	Dehradun	Tehsils	1,696,694	84.25%	902
3	Udham Singh Nagar	Tehsils	1,648,902	73.10%	920
4	Nainital	Tehsils	954,605	83.88%	934
5	Garhwal (Pauri Garhwal)	Tehsils	687,271	82.02%	1,103
6	Almora	Tehsils	622,506	80.47%	1,139
7	Tehri Garhwal	Tehsils	618,931	76.36%	1,077
8	Pithoragarh	Tehsils	483,439	82.25%	1,020
9	Chamoli	Tehsils	391,605	82.65%	1,019
10	Uttarkashi	Tehsils	330,086	75.81%	958
11	Bageshwar	Tehsils	259,898	80.01%	1,090
12	Champawat	Tehsils	259,648	79.83%	980
13	Rudraprayag	Tehsils	242,285	81.30%	1,114
	Source Census of India 2011

1.Dehradun District

Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is the largest district in terms of population. Situated in the Garhwal region, it is known for its pleasant climate and picturesque surroundings. The district has a population of approximately 1,696,694, making it one of the most populous districts in Uttarakhand.

• Dehradun is famous for its educational institutions, including prestigious schools and colleges.
• The city is a hub of government offices, making it an important administrative center.
• Dehradun offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as trekking, camping, and river rafting, attracting adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Here it noteworthy to mentiond that famous toriust places Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Chakrata are part of Dehradun district.

2.Haridwar District

Haridwar is a significant district in Uttarakhand, renowned for its religious and cultural importance. It is home to the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat, which attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year. The district has a population of around 1,890,422, with a mix of urban and rural settlements.

• Haridwar is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, and its name translates to “Gateway to God.”
• The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Haridwar, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of pilgrims.
• The district is dotted with ancient temples, ashrams, and yoga centers, offering a spiritual retreat for seekers.

3.Nainital District

Nainital is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand, famous for its enchanting Naini Lake and stunning views of the Himalayas. The district is surrounded by beautiful lakes, lush forests, and charming hill stations. With a population of approximately 954,605, Nainital offers a serene and tranquil environment.

• Nainital is known as the “Lake District of India” due to its numerous lakes, including Naini Lake, Bhimtal, and Sattal.
• The district is a paradise for nature lovers, with opportunities for boating, bird-watching, and nature walks.
• Nainital offers a delightful shopping experience with its vibrant markets, showcasing traditional handicrafts, woolens, and local delicacies.

4.Almora District

Almora is a picturesque district in Uttarakhand, known for its rich cultural heritage and panoramic views. The district is adorned with ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, and scenic landscapes. With a population of around 622,506, Almora attracts tourists and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.

• Almora is famous for its intricate handicrafts, including woodwork, copperware, and traditional Kumaoni jewelry.
• The district offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, making it a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering.
• Almora hosts several cultural festivals, such as the Nanda Devi Fair and the Uttraini Festival, showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of the region.

5.Pauri Garhwal District

Pauri Garhwal is a district located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is blessed with stunning views of snow-clad peaks, dense forests, and gushing rivers. The district has a population of approximately 687,271 and is a gateway to various treks and pilgrimage sites.

• Pauri Garhwal offers breathtaking views of prominent peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Kamet, attracting mountaineering enthusiasts.
• The district is known for its ancient temples, including the Kandoliya Temple and the Nag Dev Temple, which hold great religious significance.
• Shrinagar at Pauri Garhwal is a base for treks to popular destinations like Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Tungnath, providing an adventurous experience for nature lovers.

6.Tehri Garhwal District

Tehri Garhwal, situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, is known for its majestic Tehri Dam, which is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India. The district offers an abundance of natural beauty, including lakes, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains. With a population of around 618,931, Tehri Garhwal is a popular tourist spot.

• Tehri Dam, constructed on the Bhagirathi River, not only generates electricity but also forms a scenic reservoir attracting tourists.
• The district is home to Tehri Lake, where visitors can indulge in various water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides.
• Tehri Garhwal is surrounded by several trekking trails, including the Nag Tibba trek and the Chandrashila trek, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.

7.Chamoli District

Chamoli is a district in Uttarakhand renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking landscapes. It is home to several famous temples, including the Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines. The district has a population of approximately 391,605 and is a gateway to the revered Char Dham Yatra.

• Chamoli is considered the “Abode of Gods” due to the presence of important pilgrimage sites like Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, and Valley of Flowers.
• The district is blessed with stunning natural beauty, with meadows, waterfalls, and flower-filled valleys dotting the landscape.
• Chamoli offers opportunities for adventure sports like skiing, river rafting, and mountaineering, attracting thrill-seekers throughout the year.

8.Rudraprayag District

Rudraprayag is a district located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. It holds great religious importance and is named after Lord Shiva. The district has a population of around 242,285 and serves as a base for trekking and pilgrimage tours.

• Rudraprayag is a significant pilgrimage destination, with famous temples like Rudranath, Koteshwar, and Agasteshwar dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• The district offers mesmerizing views of the confluence of the rivers, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery.
• Rudraprayag is the starting point for the popular Char Dham Yatra, which includes visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

9.Uttarkashi District

Uttarkashi, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. The district is home to numerous temples, including the famous Gangotri shrine. With a population of approximately 330,086, Uttarkashi offers a tranquil escape for those seeking serenity and adventure.

• Uttarkashi is considered the “Kashi of the North” (Uttar Ki Kashi) due to the presence of ancient temples and ashrams, including the Vishwanath Temple and the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
• The district is a gateway to the Gangotri Glacier, the source of the holy River Ganges, attracting religious and nature-loving tourists.
• Uttarkashi offers opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and camping, with popular trails like Dodital and Dayara Bugyal showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

10.Bageshwar District

Bageshwar is a district in Uttarakhand known for its religious and historical significance. It is located at the confluence of the Gomti and Saryu rivers and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The district has a population of around 259,898 and is famous for the Bagnath Temple.

• Bageshwar is considered a sacred place, with the Bagnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva attracting devotees throughout the year.
• The district is known for its ancient temples, including Baijnath Temple and Chandika Temple, exhibiting intricate architecture and religious fervor.
• Bageshwar hosts the annual Uttarayani Mela, a vibrant fair celebrating the arrival of the Sun in the zodiac sign of Capricorn, attracting a large number of visitors.

11.Champawat District

Champawat is a district in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, known for its rich history and natural beauty. It is home to ancient temples, historic forts, and lush green valleys. With a population of approximately 259,648, Champawat offers a serene and offbeat experience for travelers.

• Champawat was once the capital of the Chand dynasty and is known for its archaeological sites, including the Baleshwar Temple and the Champawat Fort.
• The district is blessed with scenic beauty, with panoramic views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and meandering rivers.
• Champawat offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, with the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary and the Musk Deer Sanctuary harboring a variety of flora and fauna.

12.Pithoragarh District

Pithoragarh is a scenic district in Uttarakhand, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its majestic peaks, including the Nanda Devi and Panchachuli ranges. The district has a population of around 483,439 and is a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts.

• Pithoragarh is often referred to as the “Little Kashmir” due to its resemblance to the scenic landscapes of Kashmir.
• The district offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, lush valleys, and pristine rivers, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
• Pithoragarh is a base for several treks, including the Pindari Glacier trek and the Kafni Glacier trek, providing an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts.

13.Udham Singh Nagar District

Udham Singh Nagar is a district in Uttarakhand renowned for its industrial and agricultural importance. It is home to the famous Jim Corbett National Park, which attracts wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. With a population of approximately 1,648,902, Udham Singh Nagar offers a mix of urban development and natural beauty.

• Udham Singh Nagar is an important industrial hub, with various industries, including textile, pharmaceutical, and automobile, contributing to the district’s economic growth.
• The district is blessed with abundant agricultural land, producing crops like rice, wheat, sugarcane, and vegetables.
• Udham Singh Nagar is famous for the Jim Corbett National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, elephants, and rare bird species.

Uttarakhand is a state blessed with diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. Its 13 districts showcase the beauty and essence of the Himalayas, attracting tourists from near and far. Whether it’s the serene lakes of Nainital, the spiritual aura of Haridwar, or the majestic peaks of Pithoragarh, each district has something unique to offer. Explore Uttarakhand’s districts, embrace the tranquility, and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this heavenly abode.

*Note: The population figures mentioned are based on Censues of India 2011, this can be used. Aproximate current year polulation can be calcualted by multiplying by decadel growth rate if required.

Censues for 2021 is delayed due to covid and may be condcuted after general elction of 2024, whenever new cenuses condcuted and data will be relsed we will update it.

Proposed New Districts of Uttarakhand

The government has proposed the creation of 4 new districts in Uttarakhand which are still under consideration but not announced and notified officialy till date.

1. Didihat District: To be carved out from Pithoragarh district
2. Ranikhet District: To be formed from parts of Almora and Nainital districts
3. Kotdwar District: To be formed from parts of Pauri Garhwal and Nainital districts
4. Yamunotri District: To be carved out from Uttarkashi district

The creation of new districts will improve administration and development in Uttarakhand.

Quick Facts About Uttarakhand Districts

• Uttarakhand has 13 districts after statehood was granted in 2000. Originally it had only 6 districts when part of Uttar Pradesh.
• According to Census of India 2011, Dehradun is the most populous district with 16.96 lakh people while Rudraprayag is the least populous with only 2.42 lakh people.
• Nainital district has the highest population density at 267 persons/sq km while Uttarkashi has the lowest at 41 persons/sq km.
• Garhwali language, an Indo-Aryan dialect, is the main language spoken in 8 districts while Kumaoni language is predominant in the 5 Kumaon division districts.
• Pauri Garhwal is the largest district by area at 5,230 sq km while Champawat is the smallest spanning just 1,766 sq km.
• The districts are administered by a District Magistrate and divided into smaller administrative units called tehsils.
• The districts of Uttarakhand fall under two administrative divisions – Garhwal division (7 districts) and Kumaon division (6 districts).

Which District is Famous For What?

District	Known For
Dehradun	Pleasant climate, scenic beauty, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Chakrata
Haridwar	Hindu pilgrimage, Kumbh Mela
Nainital	Lakes, mountains, hill station
Almora	Rich cultural heritage, temples
Pauri Garhwal	Trekking, Himalayan views
Tehri Garhwal	Tehri lake and dam, Surkanda Devi temple
Chamoli	Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, skiing
Rudraprayag	Confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini, Kedarnath
Uttarkashi	Gangotri temple, Bhagirathi peaks
Bageshwar	Confluence of Sarju and Gomti rivers
Champawat	Ancient temples, forts
Pithoragarh	Magnificent Himalayan peaks
Udham Singh Nagar	Jim Corbett National Park

How to Reach Various Districts of Uttarakhand?

By Air

The nearest airport for most districts is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun located about 25 km from the city center. It connects Dehradun to Delhi and other major cities.

By Train

The major railway stations in Uttarakhand are Dehradun Railway Junction (connecting trains for Delhi, Agra, Lucknow etc), Kathgodam Railway Station (entry point for Nainital) and Rishikesh Railway Station, Haridwar Railway Station, extnstion work of train network up to high himalayas at Karnprayag, Chamoli is still construction and supposed to be completed by 2025-26.

By Road

Uttarakhand has good road connectivity. Buses for Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun etc are available from Delhi. For hilly districts like Almora, buses from Haldwani can be taken.

Final Words

Uttarakhand is a scenic state with great diversity across its 13 districts. The mix of holy sites, Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, forests, lakes and hill stations make each district unique and worth exploring.

We hope this detailed guide gives you a complete overview of all the districts in Uttarakhand along with how to reach them and what makes them special. Let us know in the comments if you need any other information!

Frequently Asked Questions