Uttaranchal became the 27th state of India on November 9, 2000, and earlier was a part of Uttar Pradesh. The region is a home of outstanding natural beauty, and most of the northern parts of the state are part of Greater Himalya ranges, covered by the high Himalayan peaks and glaciers, serving as a home for a number of animals, including bharal, snow leopards, leopards and tigers, plants, and rare herbs. Two of India's mightiest rivers, the Ganga and the Yamuna take birth in the glaciers of Uttaranchal. Both national and international tourists are attracted by hill-stations of Nainital, Mussoorie, Almora, Ranikhet and Bhimtal. Other most visited places include Haridwar, Badrinath, Kedarnath and Jageshwar, for fulfilling spiritual needs. Some of the holiest shrines also belong to this region and are visited by people for almost 2000 years.