Explore the top places to visit in Ranikhet, a serene Uttarakhand hill station. Visit Chaubatia Gardens, Jhula Devi Temple, and enjoy stunning views and tranquil charm.”
With summer in full swing, living in Delhi can be a real challenge. The rising mercury increases frustration, and the hope for rain dwindles each day. It takes no more than five minutes for me to transform into Gru from the movie “Despicable Me.” So, to tackle my fluctuating temperament, my husband suggested the beautiful Ranikhet. And I decided it was time to explore one of the top places to visit in Ranikhet after my adventurous garden party last week.
Off to Ranikhet: A Traveller’s Paradise
We picked Ranikhet this time. This charming town, which translates to “Queen’s Meadow,” is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, Ranikhet offers magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges on a clear day and top places to visit. The road to Ranikhet is excellent and the scenic route includes breathtaking views of mists rising from Naini Lake.
Enroute Adventures: Kainchi Dham
On our way, we stopped at Kainchi Dham, a stunning ashram in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand and one of the top places to explore in Ranikhet. Inaugurated in June 1964, it is dedicated to Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj. This place has welcomed everyone from cricketer Virat Kohli to countless other famous personalities. If you’re heading to Ranikhet or staying in Nainital, the ashram is definitely worth a visit.
Our Stay in Majkhali- A Beautiful Village in Ranikhet!
Majkhali, a picturesque village located 13 kilometers from Ranikhet, is a must-see on your list of places to visit in Ranikhet. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Trishul and lush green landscapes, Majkhali offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil environment, diverse birdlife, and scenic beauty of the region.
The Ranikhet temperature remains pleasant throughout the year, with mild summers and cool winters, making Majkhali an ideal destination for nature lovers and peace seekers. Whether you’re admiring the Himalayan vistas or exploring nearby attractions, Majkhali promises a rejuvenating experience.
10 Nautical Miles- A Luxury Retreat!
Our chosen property, “10 Nautical Miles,” was easily reachable and floored me at first sight. Nestled in a lush green forest, this gem is truly one of the best Airbnb in Ranikhet for families. The three-story cottage features beautifully decorated rooms with cozy furnishings and charming rustic décor, each offering a stunning view of the valley and the Himalayas from the balcony.
The ground floor is ideal for parents, with a spacious bedroom, a tastefully decorated living room, and an attached bathroom. The spacious living areas boast elegant wooden furniture and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The attic on the second floor is perfect for kids—or escaping from them!
The first floor will sweep you off your feet with immaculately designed rooms, each filled with quirky touches and adorable details. The balcony, with its cute blue wooden table and chairs, is the perfect spot for morning tea. As you sip, the wind chimes sing a sweet melody of nature, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The music is so harmonious you might find yourself looking around for woodland creatures to join in.
For the bookworms, a charming bookshelf brimming with interesting reads awaits. Imagine curling up with a good book while nature’s soundtrack plays in the background. One evening, I grabbed a novel, only to be interrupted by a curious squirrel that seemed eager to hear the story too. The little guy perched on the balcony rail, as if critiquing my taste in literature!
This stay is the best way to give your tired feet and refreshed mind a chance to re-energize when you come back after ticking off all the must-visit places in Ranikhet.
Blue Skies, Himalayan Highs, and Gazebo Vibes
Outside, the cottage is surrounded by a vast garden bursting with vibrant flowers, creating a serene and colorful environment. A charming gazebo offers the perfect spot to relax and enjoy uninterrupted views of nature. The caretaker, Mr. Jeewan, is a great cook, ensuring every meal is a delight, while the hosts, Mr. Ajay and Mrs. Purnita, were incredibly friendly and helpful.
From the moment you step in, “10 Nautical Miles” feels like a whimsical retreat where every detail invites you to relax and enjoy the magic of the mountains. Compared to typical hotels in Ranikhet, this property provides a unique, homely atmosphere perfect for a family retreat.
Exploring the best places in Ranikhet, Finding Ourselves – Day 1
Traveling with our parents, we aimed to embrace the slow-paced life that the mountains offer. Our first day was spent indulging in simple pleasures: talking, chilling, and soaking in the breathtaking views. In the morning, I played a lively game of badminton with my husband, a refreshing change from our usual rushed routines in the city.
The crisp mountain air and the serene surroundings made every rally feel like a breath of fresh air, both literally and metaphorically. In the evening, we gathered around for a cozy game of cards, the perfect antidote to the frenetic pace of urban life.
Unlike the constant hustle and bustle of the city, where time always seems to slip away, the mountains encouraged us to slow down and reconnect with ourselves and each other. The tranquil environment allowed us to savor each moment, making even the simplest activities feel special and rejuvenating. It was in these quiet, unhurried moments that we truly appreciated the beauty of nature and the joy of being together.
Ranikhet, with its serene ambiance and stunning landscapes, stands out among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Whether it’s the peaceful mornings spent admiring the rolling hills or the tranquil evenings filled with laughter and games, this mountain getaway offered a perfect blend of relaxation and connection that we sorely miss in our fast-paced urban lives.
Temple Mysteries, Golf Dreams, and Military Legends- Day 2
1. Jhula Devi Temple
Built in the 8th century, this beautiful temple is a sacred and religious site for local Hindus. Located 7 km from Ranikhet, the route to the temple is quite picturesque, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Adorned with hundreds of bells, the temple has an interesting story behind it. According to legend, it was established to protect locals from wild animals that used to attack them. You can take prasad with a small bell, which you can tie inside the temple premises after making a wish.
2. Golf Course
Has the thought of playing golf in a picturesque hill station ever crossed your mind? You can fulfill your dream here. Just 6 km from the main city of Ranikhet lies the Upat Golf Course. Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, this 9-hole golf course is the ultimate paradise for sports enthusiasts.
3. Kumaon Regimental Museum
Located inside the cantonment region, the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum stands as a testament to the rich military heritage and gallantry of the Kumaon Regiment. The museum showcases a captivating collection of artifacts, weapons, and memorabilia, including vintage weaponry and personal belongings of war heroes, reflecting the legacy and customs of the Kumaon region. One of the best places to visit in Ranikhet to witness courage, devotion and love for the nation, firsthand.
Best Time to explore top places in Ranikhet
The best months to visit Ranikhet are February through November. The climate is warm and temperate, with mild summers. While the monsoon season from mid-June to August brings average rainfall, it’s generally avoided by tourists.
How to reach here?
a). By Road: Ranikhet is well-connected by motorable roads to major cities in Uttarakhand and beyond. Regular Uttarakhand Roadways buses make travel convenient and affordable, linking Ranikhet with the national capital and neighbouring states. This is one of the most budget-friendly transportation options for Delhi & NCR residents. We started our journey at 5:30 in the morning and we reached our accommodation around 2:30 PM. However, we also stopped in the middle for food and washroom breaks.
b). By Air: Ranikhet does not have its own airport. The nearest domestic airport is Pantnagar Airport, located 109 km away in Udham Singh Nagar district, which is about a 3.5-hour drive from the hill station. Pantnagar Airport is connected to major cities through regular IndiGo flights. From the airport, you can hire taxis or cabs to reach Ranikhet.
c). By Rail: The closest railway station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam Railway Station, situated around 75 km from the hill station. Taxis, cabs, and tempo travelers are readily available at the station for your onward journey. Alternatively, Ramnagar Railway Station, 97 km from Ranikhet, is another option with similar transportation facilities.
Why should you visit Ranikhet once in a Lifetime?
Escaping Delhi’s scorching heat for the tranquil hills of Ranikhet in Uttarakhand is a perfect getaway. If you ask me, it is one of the best places in Uttarakhand which has not been commercialized yet. It is still far away from the touristy vibes and crowd.
The combination of stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and interesting stops along the way made for a memorable trip. Whether you seek solitude or a chance to reconnect with loved ones, explore the top places in Ranikhet that offer a serene retreat from the bustling city life.
Have you visited Ranikhet yet? Do share your experience and things to do in Ranikhet in the comment section below!