Ranikhet
The lush green forests, the majestic Himalayas, the sights, sounds and smell of the flora and fauna have an enchanting effect on the visitors. Ranikhet draws hundreds of tourists each year for its unforgettable natural beauty, ancient temples, fascinating picturesque picnic spots and exciting treks. Ranikhet also headquarters one of the glorious regiment of Indian Army – Kumaon Regiment
Location of Ranikhet
The charming hill station of Ranikhet is located in the Almora district of Uttaranchal. Standing at a height of 1829mts above sea level, the hill resort of Ranikhet is 50kms from Almora and 59kms from Nainital.
What to see in Ranikhet?
Jhoola Devi Mandir: It is an 8th century old temple of Goddess Durga where people visit to fulfill their wishes.
Naithna Devi: This is also a famous temple frequented by the people to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga.
Tarikhet: 8kms from Ranikhet, this is a temple of Golu Debta worshipped largely by the locals.
Binsar Mahadev Temple: Binsar Mahadev Temple is a temple of Lord Shiva set amidst the beautiful pine and deodar trees. A small and beautiful stream flows close to the temple.
Hairakhan Temple: This is a famous temple established by Hairakhan Maharaj at Chiliyanaula, 4kms from Ranikhet.
KRC (Kumaon Regimental Centre) Museum: Established in the 1970s, the Regiment Museum showcases the history of Kumaon and Garhwal regiments. It also dislays valuable treasures like Rani Jhasi’s silver sceptre, Chinese rifles from the 1962 war, a World War-II Japanese wireless field telephone and documents related to the Kargil War
Chaubatia orchards: 10kms from Ranikhet, this is a very popular tourist spot. This is a famous apple orchard from where you can even get a picturesque view of the Himalayas.
What to do in Ranikhet
At Ranikhet there are plenty of things that you can indulge in. The Army Golf Course in Upat offers you an opportunity to play golf in the midst of this picturesque town. Just one km from the golf course is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali where you pray or meditate.
Trekking is perhaps the best activity in Ranikhet. A quiet walk down the forest trails will enliven your soul. Another pleasant walk is the stretch from the Mall to the AMU Guest House. Some spectacular treks from Ranikhet lead to Kausani, Dunagiri and Sitalakhet.
Excursions from Ranikhet
Sitalakhet: Just 29kms from Ranikhet, this is a splendid secluded forest area of Ranikhet. You can visit Siyahi Devi Temple, if you plan to stay here for a day.
Dunagiri: 47kms from Ranikhet, Dunagiri is popular for its scenic beauty and a 12th century temple of Goddess Durga.
Dwarahat: 37kms from Ranikhet along the Kamaprayag Highway lies Dwarahat which was once a seat of the Katyuri and the Chand dynasties. There are several temples sanctioned by Adi Shankaracharya that date back to the 10th and 12th century AD.
Khairna: 22kms from Ranikhet, this is a famous fishing place near Ranikhet.Another popular excursion from Ranikhet is Kausani
Accomodation selection in Ranikhet
Accommodation in Ranikhet is not a problem. Government accommodation includes Tourist Rest House, Himadri Tourist Rest House at Chileyanaula, Monal Tourist Rest House, Sadar Bazar, Forest Rest House, Mall Road, Forest Rest House, Kalika P.W.D. Inspection House, Mall Road and M.E.S. Inspection House, N.E. Railway and Aligarh University have their holiday homes in Ranikhet. The most alluring heritage homestead in Ranikhet is Holm Farms which derives its name from William Holmes, a British tea planter. Mountbatten and Jawaharlal Nehru stayed in this hotel. West View Hotel is also a popular hotel built as a club by the British soldiers.
Best season to visit Ranikhet
If you want to experience snowfall, then you can visit Ranikhet in winter during December and January. The traffic is heavy during the summer months from April to June.
How to reach Ranikhet
By Air: The nearest railhead is Pant Nagar, (Nainital) 119 kms from Ranikhet.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, 81 kms from Ranikhet.
By Road: Ranikhet has good network of road system connected with Nainital, Almora, Kathgodam, and Kausani. Buses also leave for Ranikhet from Delhi’s ISBT.
