The cities of Uttarakhand either belong to the Garhwal or Kumaon region and accordingly the people are known as Garhwali or Kumaoni. The high Himalayan peaks and glaciers as well as the dense forests provide the cities with a cool ambience. The people mostly speak in Hindi language. The main cities of Uttarakhand are Dehradun, Haridwar, Almora, Badrinathpuri, Barkot, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Uttarakashi, Haldwani and Roorkee.

Uttaranchal or Uttarakhand became the 27th state of the Republic of India on November 9, 2000. The state finds mention in the ancient Indian Puranas as being the abode of many gods and goddesses. Since the cities of Uttaranchal harbour many pilgrim spots, the state is often known as "the Land of the Gods" (Dev Bhoomi).

Dehradun is the capital city of the state of Uttarakhand. The city is located in the Garhwal region. The city was chosen as one of the "Counter Magnets" of the National Capital Region (NCR) and is developed as an alternative centre of growth to help ease the migration and population explosion in the Delhi metropolitan area. Dehradun is well known for its natural resources, publishing services, and for its prestigious educational institutions like the Forest Research Institute, Indian Military Academy and several day and boarding schools which are highly reputed across the nation.

Haridwar, another city of Uttarakhand is considered as one of the seven holiest places to Hindus. This city is a popular pilgrimage centre and has an important historical value. In Mahabharata the name of Haridwar is mentioned. This city is the entry gate to the Char Dham. Here the Ganga River emerges from the mountains to touch the plain. The important places to visit in Haridwar are Har ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Kankhal, Bhimgoda Tank, Bharat Mata Mandir and many others.

Cities of Uttarakhand that have immense beauty and value for tourism are Almora, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Uttarakashi etc.

Almora has great historical value as Swami Vivekananda had spent some days in this city. Swami Satyananda Saraswati of Bihar School of Yoga and Rikhiapeeth was born in Almora. Almora has several noted temples, comprising Kasar Devi, Banari Devi, Chitai, Jageshwar, Binsar Mahadev, Garhnath and Baijnath Temple.

Rishikesh is a place that attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. This city is also known as the gateway of Himalayas. Rishikesh is a famous Yoga centre of the country. Rishikesh is becoming a popular spot for white water rafting enthusiasts, both from India and abroad.

Mussoorie is a popular Indian hill station. It is also known as the Queen of the Hills. This place has a wonderful scenic beauty that draws the attention of every traveller. Mussoorei Lake, Bhatta Falls, Jwalaji Temple are some places that are worthy to visit.