The people of Uttarakhand come from different ethnicities, but they are all connected by their love and appreciation of their state and culture. The different ethnicities in Uttarakhand can be seen in the range of languages, traditional clothing and attire. Their cultural diversity is displayed in the clothing and jewelry they wear. Local women can be seen wearing long beaded necklaces with bright dupattas, along with salwar-kurta or saree, and men look graceful wearing dhotis and kurta. Garhwali and Kumaoni are the regional languages of Uttarakhand, but Hindi is the official language of the state. There are some people here who can both speak and comprehend English. Therefore, no language issues will be faced by foreign tourists visiting Uttarakhand.
Located in the north of India, Garhwal and Kumaon are two different geo-cultural regions of Uttarakhand. The Garhwal region reaches from the North-western side of Uttar Pradesh and continues into Uttarakhand. The area is known for its vibrant green hills and valleys, breathtaking views, and ancient Hindu temples. The Kumaon area, in Central Uttarakhand, is distinguished by its hilly terraces and deep valleys. Uttarakhand is known for its many religious sites, including the Badrinath Temple, Kedarnath Temple, Gangotri, Yamunotri and Hemkund Sahib. Both Garhwal and Kumaon possess a culture that is rich in its own language, rituals, customs, folklore, cuisine, and music. The people of both regions are well known for their traditional hospitality and genial nature. They have a strong love for nature, and show great respect for their nation, cultural and ancestral roots.
Hinduism is the predominant religion and makes up more than 80% of its population. M’s population. Muslims make up the largest religious minority group in Uttarakhand, while smaller groups of Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists and Jains make up the rest of the population.
Uttarakhand has a high literacy rate and a culture that is well respected. Uttarakhand’s inhabitants have gained renown in several industries, such as government, sports, show business, writing, and business. Hemwanti Nandan Bahuguna, who received the Padma Bhushan and was a social activist, was a famous leader from Uttarakhand. Prominent figures hailing from this state include Ajit Doval (NSA), Prasoon Joshi (renowned lyricist from Bollywood), Himani Shivpuri (actor and artist), Manasvi Mamgai (Miss India 2010 runner-up), Narendra Singh Negi (singer), and Sunder Lal Bahuguna, a renowned environmentalist who was an integral part of the Chipko Movement. The state is well-known for its highly educated population, who are passionate about protecting the environment and promoting social reform.
Narendra Singh Negi is one of the most famous folk singers from the area. Among the other most renowned folk singers are Chader Singh Rahi, Meena Rana, Gajendra Singh Rana, Sangeeta Dhoundiyal, Pritam Bhartwan, Basanti Bisht, and Madhuri Barthwal.
