Cities are given nicknames all over the world, including India. These nicknames are used to highlight the specialty of these cities. Similarly, the cities in Uttarakhand have been assigned various nicknames according to their unique specialties. So, here is a list of the various cities and their nicknames.
1. Dehradun – School capital of India
Dehradun is famous for its world-class schools. Not only India but students from all over the world come here to study. That gives it the title of ‘School capital of India’.
2. Dehradun – Dron Nagri
It is believed that the Ashram of Guru Dronacharcha was situated in Dehradun, where the Pandavas and Kauravas got their education. So, Dehradun is also known as Dron Nagari.
3. Nainital – Lake city
Nainital is widely known for its scenic beauty. The main attraction is its crescent-shaped Naini lake. So, the city is also known as Lake City.
4. Haldwani – Gateway of Kumaon
Haldwani is located in the foothills of lower Himalayas. Haldwani was the main trade center for centuries between the hilly and plain areas. Even traders from Tibet used to come for trade in Haldwani and used to give woolen clothes, kesar and dry fruits and used to take salt, gud and ration with them.
5. Kotdwar – Gateway of Garhwal
Before 2000, Kotdwar had the same significance for Garhwal division as Haldwani has for Kumaon. Kotdwar was the main center in Garhwal and also the way to get entry into all parts of Garhwal.
6. Almora – Cultural Capital of Kumaon
Almora is one of the oldest cities in Uttarakhand. Almora is widely known for its cultural heritage. Many artists like Prasoon Joshi are from this city. Almora was founded in 1568 by Kalyan Chand during the rule of the Chand dynasty.
7. Kausani – Switzerland of India
Kausani is a beautiful place situated in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. Once Gandhi visited this place and named it “Switzerland of India” on seeing its breath-taking beauty.
8. Mussoorie – Queen Of Hills
Mussoorie is one of the most beautiful towns in India and it is also known as the Queen of Hills for its beauty
Rishikesh – Yoga Capital of the World
It is believed that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to the attainment of moksha, as does a dip in the holy river that flows through it. It has numerous yoga centers that attract tourists.
10. Haridwar – Teerth Nagari
Haridwar is also known as Teerth Nagri. Haridwar is regarded as one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) to Hindus. According to the Samudra Manthan, Haridwar along with Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayag (Allahabad) is one of four sites where drops of Amrit, the elixir of immortality, accidentally spilled over from the pitcher while being carried by the celestial bird Garuda.