Garhwal

Garhwal is a historic and cultural region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, located in the western Himalaya. It forms part of the Garhwal Division and covers high mountain ranges, forested valleys, and major river basins. The Ganga's upper course is shaped by its main tributaries, Bhagirathi and Alaknanda, which join at Devprayag to form the river. In the upper Garhwal lie glaciers such as Gangotri and Yamunotri; lower Garhwal features deep valleys and landscapes shaped by monsoon and alpine climates.

Historically, Garhwal was the Garhwal Kingdom, a princely state that played a role in northern India's history. It acceded to the Indian Union after independence and was incorporated into Uttar Pradesh; with Uttarakhand formed in 2000, it became part of that state. The region has long been a center for religious pilgrimage, learning, and routes linking the plains with the Himalayas.

The region is inhabited mainly by Garhwalis, who speak Garhwali alongside Hindi. Garhwali culture is expressed through traditional music, dance, temples, and distinctive foods such as chainsoo and kafuli. Festivals and religious practices reflect Hindu traditions and local legends.

Economy centers on tourism and pilgrimage. The Char Dham circuit—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—draws thousands of visitors each year. The area is also known for trekking and wildlife, including the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park, which together comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site.