Tourism plays a prominent role in Uttarakhand`s economy.

Some of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage circuits are situated in Uttarakhand. Gangotri (the source of the Ganges), Yamunotri (the source of the Yamuna), Badrinath (dedicated to Vishnu) and Kedarnath (dedicated to Shiva) fall in the upper reaches of the state. Pilgrims visit the region in the hopes of salvation and purification from sin.

Haridwar (the Gateway to God), another prime Hindu destination is situated in the state. Rishikesh near Haridwar is famously known as the Yoga capital of India.

Uttarakhand is a place of pilgrimage not only for the Hindus but also for Sikhs and Budhas. Hemkund nested in the Himalayas is a prime pilgrimage centre for the Sikhs. Buddha Stupa, one of the world’s largest Bhudhist centre is located in southwest of Dehradun.