Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a beautiful hill station and a cantonment town in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 1,869 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Ranikhet means “Queen’s Meadow” in the local Kumaoni language, and it is said that it was named after Rani Padmini, the queen of a Katyuri king, who fell in love with the place and made it her residence. There is no historical evidence to support this legend.
What to See in Ranikhet?
Ranikhet is a popular tourist destination, as it has many attractions and activities for visitors. Some of the main attractions are:
- Chaubatia: A scenic spot that offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains. It is also famous for its orchards, where you can buy fresh fruits and juices.
- Jhula Devi Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located near Chaubatia. The temple is adorned with hundreds of bells, which are offered by devotees to fulfill their wishes.
- Sunset Points: There are several points in Ranikhet where you can witness the spectacular sunset over the Himalayas. Some of the popular ones are Ram Mandir, Kalika Temple, and Bhalu Dam.
- Rani Jheel: A man-made lake that was created by the British as a water source for Ranikhet. It is now a recreational spot where you can enjoy paddle boating or walking on the Burmah Bridge.
- Ram Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located near Rani Jheel. The temple has a peaceful ambiance and a beautiful garden.
- Kalika Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located near the golf course. The temple is revered by the locals and attracts many pilgrims during Navratri.
- Bhalu Dam: A dam that was built by the British as a water reservoir for Ranikhet. It is now a picnic spot where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and the surrounding hills.
Ranikhet is also a paradise for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, as it offers many opportunities for trekking, camping, jungle safari, stargazing, golfing, and more. The best places for these activities are:
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- Majkhali: A small village that is ideal for stargazing, as it has clear skies and minimal light pollution. You can also enjoy camping and bonfire here.
- Jungle Safari: Ranikhet is surrounded by forests of pine, oak, and deodar trees, which are home to various wildlife species such as leopards, barking deer, mountain goat, and langur. You can take a guided safari or drive around Ranikhet to spot some of these animals.
- Trekking: Ranikhet has many trails that offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the valleys. One of the most popular treks is to Haidakhan Temple of Lord Shiva, which is about 4 km from Ranikhet town.
- Trekking: Ranikhet has many trails that offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the valleys. One of the most popular treks is to Haidakhan Temple of Lord Shiva, which is about 4 km from Ranikhet town.
Best Time to visit Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a place where you can experience the beauty and heritage of Uttarakhand. It has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 24°C to 30°C in summer and from 3°C to 7°C in winter. The best time to visit Ranikhet is from October to May when the weather is dry and sunny. You can also visit Ranikhet during the monsoon season from June to September, when it receives heavy rainfall and strong winds.
How to Reach Ranikhet?
Ranikhet is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Pant Nagar Airport, which is about 119 km from Ranikhet. You can take a taxi or a bus from there to reach Ranikhet. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 86 km from Ranikhet. You can take a taxi or a bus from there to reach Ranikhet. You can also drive to Ranikhet from Delhi (366 km), Nainital (60 km), Kathgodam (86 km), or Ramnagar (96 km).
Accommodation
- Ranikhet has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. You can find guest houses, hostels, homestays, cottages, hotels, and resorts in Ranikhet that offer comfortable and clean rooms with basic amenities. The average price for a night in Ranikhet ranges from Rs. 600 to Rs. 10,500 (7 to 135 USD) depending on the location and quality of the accommodation.
- Ranikhet also has a variety of food options to suit different palates and preferences. You can find Indian, Chinese, Thai, Continental, Seafood, and other cuisines in Ranikhet that offer delicious and authentic flavors. You can also find street food stalls that sell snacks such as samosas, pakoras, chaat, and dosa.
Why is Ranikhet Famous?
Ranikhet’s fame stems from its captivating blend of natural beauty, serene climate, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the picturesque Himalayan mountains, the town offers panoramic vistas that enchant visitors. Notably, the Kumaon Regimental Centre and its historical significance contribute to its renown. The charming golf course, spiritual sites like Jhula Devi Temple, and the lush Chaubatia Gardens all add to Ranikhet’s allure. Whether for its peaceful retreat, cultural immersion, or breathtaking landscapes, Ranikhet stands as a beloved destination.
Ranikhet is a place where you can relax, rejuvenate, and explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. It is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the charm of a hill station and the thrill of an adventure destination. It is a place where you can create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
