The Himalayas are home to many legends that have passed from one generation to another through songs and oral traditions. Among all the folk tales of Uttarakhand, Rajula–Malushahi holds a special place. It is not just a romantic story. It is a tale of love, courage, sacrifice, faith, politics, and the rich cultural heritage of Kumaon.
The Mana Pass MTB Challenge 2026 is back with another thrilling edition in the high Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Recognised as one of India’s highest mountain biking events, this race gives cyclists a rare chance to ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the Indo-Tibet border region. From the high-altitude terrain of Mana Pass to the holy town of Badrinath, the challenge is a true test of endurance, skill and determination.
If there is one place in Uttarakhand where nature still rules, it is Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Spread across the beautiful Shivalik hills, this vast forest is home to majestic elephants, elusive Bengal tigers, leopards, hundreds of bird species and countless other wild animals. Every year, thousands of nature lovers, wildlife photographers and adventure seekers visit Rajaji to experience its rich biodiversity. While many tourists come here for a jeep safari, Rajaji offers much more than wildlife sightings. It tells the story of the Himalayan foothills, the Ganga River, ancient forests and the continuous efforts being made to protect one of India’s most important ecosystems.
The villages of Uttarakhand have always followed a different kind of calendar. It is not just the calendar hanging on the wall. Instead, it is a calendar made by nature itself. The blooming of Buransh flowers, the arrival of the first monsoon clouds, the melting snow on the Himalayan peaks, and the songs of birds all tell farmers when to prepare their fields, sow seeds, or harvest crops.
When people talk about Himalayan food, they often think about dishes like Chainsoo, Kafuli or Mandua ki Roti. However, the forests of the Himalayas have always been another important source of food for mountain communities. Every season brings its own gift, and one such gift is Linguda, a wild vegetable that appears with the arrival of the monsoon.
When we talk about the traditional food of Uttarakhand, names like Kafuli, Phanu, Jhangore Ki Kheer, Dubuk and Arsa often come to mind. However, there is one dish that perfectly represents the wisdom of Himalayan villages – Chainsoo (चैंसू).This thick and smoky curry made from roasted urad dal has been a part of Garhwali kitchens for generations. It is not just a food item. It is a reflection of mountain life, local farming practices, and the nutritional knowledge of our ancestors.