Ranikhet is a picturesque and relatively unexplored hill station in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. This place offers a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas, ranging from the Bhagirathi peaks in the West to Nanda Kot in the East. It is definitely a tourist’s paradise. Blessed by the Himalayan climate and beauty, this place is a favourite summer destination for holidaymakers.
Legend has it that Rani Padmini, the queen of Raja Sukherdev, a local ruler, saw this place and was mesmerized by its beauty. The beauty of this place captivated her to such an extent that she decided to stay on here and thus this place got the name Ranikhet, literally meaning The Queen’s Field. Later, the region around Ranikhet came under British rule that developed an army cantonment in 1869. Ranikhet is today a cantonment town and the base for the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army.
Places to visit
With the panoramic views of the Western Himalayas, Ranikhet also has added attractions in the form of ancient temples, pretty picnic spots and lanes for nature walks. The picturesque snow-capped mountains in the distance, pine forests, and the native flora and fauna are just some of the things that make a traveller return to this destination again and again.
Chaubatia Orchards
Chaubatia Garden, which is spread across 600 acres of undulating terrain, is Ranikhet’s most popular tourist destination. It’s a lovely orchard decorated with different hues, known for plums, pears, apples, and apricots. This lovely setting is excellent for family picnics and strolls. Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nilkanth may be seen from here on a clear bright day. This is one of the most stunning tourist places in Ranikhet..
Jhoola Devi Temple
Jhula Devi Temple, dedicated to the great Goddess Durga, is one of Ranikhet’s most heavenly tourist attractions. According to legend, this temple was erected to defend the locals from attacks by wild creatures from the nearby woodlands. Many devotees come to this fortunate location to make wishes and, when their prayers are granted, present a bell to the goddess as is customary. This is one of the most popular things to do in Ranikhet.
Golf Course
Golf Ground is one of the most picturesque and extensive golf courses which makes it one of the best places to see in Ranikhet. This spacious and luxurious nine-hole golf course, flanked by the massive Kumaon Mountains and beautiful green woods, is located at an altitude of 6132 feet and is known as one of Asia’s highest golf courses.
Bhalu Dam
Bhalu Dam is a manmade lake surrounded by lush green woods, valleys, and snow-capped Himalayan mountains, making it ideal for camping and trekking. This peaceful and lovely location tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main town, is a hotspot for couples. This is also one of the greatest spots to go bird viewing in Ranikhet.
Sunset Point
There are many great spots for sightseeing in Ranikhet, from which one may witness a spectacular sunset. People usually go up to these vantage spots to experience the cold Himalayan breeze and the most beautiful sunset. Majhkhali, for example, is a famous gazing spot in Ranikhet. This is without a doubt one of Ranikhet’s most stunning tourist attractions.
Binsar Mahadev Mandir
Binsar Mahadev Temple is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular temples. Bisaona was the name given to the temple when it was built in the 10th century. King Pithu, who worshipped Bindeshwar, an incarnated form of Shiva, commissioned the temple. Numerous Hindu deities’ idols may be found here. You may unwind for hours here, surrounded by Mother Nature’s flawless splendour.
Majkhali
Majkhali is one of the greatest spots to visit in Ranikhet for peace seekers, because of its vast natural beauty. Majkhali is a quaint and scenic village located 12 kilometres from Ranikhet and Almora Road. It is renowned for seeing Himalayan peaks, notably Trishul.
Kalika
Kalika, a tranquil town with wonderful architecture, is 6 kilometres from Ranikhet and is recognised for its captivating sights. It is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Ranikhet. If you enjoy visiting amazing scenery away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you must visit this little village on the outskirts of Ranikhet.
Manila Village
The Maa Manila Devi Temple in Manila is well-known, and it welcomes visitors to Ranikhet all year. This tranquil hamlet is home to enthralling locations that will undoubtedly rejuvenate your spirit with its gorgeous charm. You may engage with the people and listen to Manila’s renowned folklore. If you enjoy nature, you must visit this location on your next visit to Ranikhet.
Rani Jheel
Rani Jheel is a manmade lake created by the Indian Army’s Cantonment Board to collect rainwater, but it has since become a famous tourist attraction in Ranikhet. Rani Jheel, nestled at a height of 2500 feet, is a lovely place for picnics, romantic walks, and boating. This is perhaps one of Ranikhet’s most romantic tourist destinations.
Dwarahat
It is now famous for its 55 temples divided into 8 groups dating from the 11th century and have some fascinating stone carvings.
Tarikhet
Tarikhet Village is another wonderful Ranikhet tourism destination for nature enthusiasts. It is 8 kilometres from the main town and well connected to the major cities. Mahatma Gandhi used to live at Tarikhet, which helped it gain fame during the pre-independence era. You can also visit Gandhi Kutiya to see whether he is present there.
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
The Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army founded this museum in the early 1970s to honour the region’s rich history. The museum houses combat items depicting the Indian Army’s Kumaon and Garhwal battalions’ illustrious efforts and achievements. The museum also has a large collection of historical papers, including those about the Kargil conflict and a few silver sceptres belonging to Rani Laxmi Bai.