Ranikhet is a cantonment town that houses the Kumaon Regiment and the Naga Regiment and is maintained by the Indian Army. The town is located at an average altitude of 1869 meters above sea level in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The name Ranikhet literally means ‘Queen’s meadow’ and is considered to be the residence of Queen Padmini from a local legend.
The climate due to the town’s high altitude and location near the Himalayan Foothills is usually pleasant during summers and can experience snow fall in winters. In this article we shall discuss in brief the best 7 places you can visit in Ranikhet.
1. Jhula Devi Temple
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Pilgrimage.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from sunrise to sunset.
- Duration: 45 mins.
About Jhula Devi Temple
Located at a short distance of 7 kilometers from Ranikhet, the Jhula Devi Temple is considered to be 700 years old. The present temple complex however was constructed in 1935 and is dedicated to a form of the Goddess Durga. The livestock roams freely in the area despite of the area being a home to Tigers and Leopards who do not attack due to the Goddess’ influence.
Other attractions near Jhula Devi Temple:
- Rama Mandir.
- Chaubatia Orchard enroute.
- Monastery dedicated to teaching vedas.
2. Chaubatia Orchard
- Famous for: Nature, Orchards, Viewpoints.
- Tickets: Guided apple garden tour for 200 INR, 300 INR for dense forest tour & Bhalu dam tour for 500 INR.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from 7 am to 7 pm.
- Duration: Depends on the activity with the typical duration being 2.5 hours.
About Chaubatia Orchard
The Vantage point located between the gardens provides some of the clearest views of the surrounding hills and landscapes. The Chaubatia Orchards are a home to the Government Fruit research center that is known for its various types of apples. The orchards contain more than 200 varieties of fruits and flowers and are a popular attraction during the season.
Things to Do at Chaubatia Orchards:
- View the western peaks of the Himalayas.
- See the botanical garden.
- Trek to Bhalu Dam.
- Explore the dense forests.
3. Upat Kalika
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Nature, Golf, Forests, Viewpoints.
- Tickets: 150 INR to visit the golf course.
- Opening Timings: Open all days.
- Duration: 2 hours.
About Upat Kalika
The home to a marvelous high altitude golf course, Upat and Kalika is located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Ranikhet and is located at an altitude of 1829 meters above sea level. The spot is also famous among the tourists as a viewing spot that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Things to Do at Upat and Kalika:
- Pay your respects at Kalika temple.
- Visit the famous 9 hole golf course.
- Visit a well known forest nursery.
4. Mankameshwar Temple
- Famous for: Pilgrimage.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from 5am to 12 pm & 4 pm – 9pm.
- Duration: 30 mins.
About Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple was constructed and is maintained by the Indian National Army and is located at Ranikhet. The temple is amidst a rich cover of flora and its serene and lush green surroundings attract a huge number of tourists.
Things to Do near Mankameshwar Temple:
- Visit the Gurudwara nearby.
- Shop for woollen shawls.
5. Haidakhan Babaji Temple
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Pilgrimage, Viewpoints.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from 7am to 11am & 12pm to 8pm.
- Duration: 30 mins.
About Haidakhan Babaji Temple
Dedicated to Haidakhan Babaji, spiritual leader who lived and preached in the Kumaon mount region of Uttrakhand, the temple is one of the 9 temples built by him. The temple is also a spiritual facility or Ashram and is also called Anand Puri. The ashram is in a beautiful location that provides some great panoramic views of the mountains.
Things to Do near Haidakhan Babaji Temple:
- View the entire Nanda devi Range at Himdarshan point.
- Shop at the main market.
- Visit a book centre or library.
6. Shitlakhet
- Famous for: Hill station, Viewpoints, Relaxation.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days.
- Duration: One day.
- Distance from Ranikhet: 1 hr (30.3 km).
About Shitlakhet
Located in the Almora ranges, Shitlakhet is an undiscovered gem near Ranikhet. A perfect harmony between tranquility and scenic views, this place is perfect for people looking to spend some time in solitude. The place has some stunning views of the nearby Himalayan ranges with peaks like Nanda Devi and also it remains undiscovered by thores of tourists coming to nearby places.
Things to Do around Shitlakhet:
- Camping.
- Forest Treks.
- Pay your respects at Syahi Devi.
- Viewpoints of Himalayan ranges.
7. Dwarahat Temples
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Temples.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from 9am to 6pm.
- Duration: Half a day.
- Distance from Ranikhet: 1 hr (33.7 km).
About Dwarahat Temples
Literally meaning ‘Gateway to Heaven’, Dwarahat is dotted with many ancient temples built by Katyuri clan of kings. A total of 55 ancient temples are spread over the city dedicated both Hinduism and Jainism. Out of them, Ratan Deo, Gujar Deo, Kacheri, Maniyan and Mrityunjaya Group of temples are known for their exquisite architecture and significance.
Places of attractions near Dwarahat Temples:
- Padukholi.
- Doonagiri.
- Someshwar.
- Chaukhutiya.
Apart from these famous places, Nanda Devi Mela held in Ranikhet during the month of September is also a must visit for everyone who wants to be a part of religious festivity.
Despite of being a cantonment town, Ranikhet is one of the popular hill stations in India. The various temples and tourist places in Ranikhet makes it one of the most serene and relaxing tourist places in India.
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