Uttarakhand History

Uttarakhand also known as Uttranchal is a fascinating land full of fantastic glaciers, valley of flowers, skiing slopes, snow-clad mountains and dense woods. This ‘abode of Gods’ is a rich repository of innumerable shrines and pilgrimage spots. It is a pictorial state that promises its tourists a sojourn replete with fun and treasured moments. There are many things about Uttarakhand that draw the tourists from not only abroad but also from the world over.  

History of Uttarakhand:Uttarakhand has several mythical and historical associations also known as Devbhoomi (land of the gods). According to the ancient scriptures, this place was known as Uttarakhand and the ancient kingdoms such as Pauravas, Kushanas, Kunindas, Guptas, Katyuris, Palas, the Chands, and Parmars are said to have ruled this place. The Pandavas are said to have frequented this region and Sage Vyasa is said to have written the Mahabharata here. Uttarakhand also has its mention in the 7th-century travelogue of Hiuen Tsang.

The Kumaon region was for a long period of time under the rule of the Katyuri dynasty during the medieval times. They ruled from the seventh to the 11th century, exercising complete control over large areas of Kumaon, Garhwal, and western Nepal. The capital of this dynasty was the town of Baijnath near Almora and at the same time was a key center of the arts. The Katyuris built a large number of temples and the important architectural innovation introduced by them was the substitution of bricks with hewn stone. After the Katyuris, the Chand rulers gained control over the region and built the wonderful temple complex at Jageshwar, with its group of a hundred and sixty-four temples.