Ranikhet is one of the famous hill stations and a military cantonment of the Kumaon Regiment in the Almora district of Uttrakhand. Situated at an elevation of 1,869 meters (6,132 ft), this beautiful destination offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The tranquillity of this quaint little town is one such thing that makes it one of the best tourist destinations in Uttarakhand. Ranikhet is known for its serene atmosphere, captivating natural beauty, and pleasant weather that will leave you spellbound. There are many captivating places to visit in Ranikhet that attract thousands of tourists, adventure lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
Ranikhet is a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Ranikhet is all about the simplicity in culture, the warm hospitality of the people, delicious local food, beautiful rolling hills, the sweet sunrise, and the serene sunset. It is a perfect getaway to escape from the chaos of daily life. From the stunning green valleys to the historical temples, from panoramic vistas to a glimpse into the courage of the Indian Army, Ranikhet offers a plethora of experiences for visitors. Without any wait, let’s embark on a virtual journey to the most captivating places in Ranikhet.
Unveiling The Scenic Places To Visit In Ranikhet
With its serene environs, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and historical significance, Ranikhet has become an ideal tourist destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you are a peace seeker or want to indulge in adventurous activities, Ranikhet is the best place to be. The enchanting beauty of this quaint town is the reason why people come here to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of life and take a quick vacation. In this article, we have sought out some of the best places to visit in Ranikhet for a rejuvenating getaway.
1. Chaubatia Gardens – Where Nature Unfurls its Majesty
Chaubatia Orchards, with its sprawling orchards, is one such destination you must not miss on your trip to Ranikhet. Beautified with the colors of nature, Chaubatia Orchards is one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet. Spread across sprawling 600 acres, these gardens are famous for their various plantations of apples, plums, peaches, and apricots. The panoramic views of fruit-laden trees and serene atmosphere make a colorful scenery that will make you fall in love with this place.
This beautiful orchard also offers picturesque views of the peaks of Nanda Devi, Nilkanth, Nandaghunti, and Trishul. The beautiful view of these towering peaks against a clear blue sky is a sight to behold and creates a heavenly destination that leaves visitors in awe. The beauty of this place is not limited to the gardens; it is also a place for exciting activities like picnics and trekking. You surely add this place to your itinerary if you want to indulge in the beauty of nature.
2. Jhula Devi Temple – Where the Bells Echo Divine Blessings
Known for its religious significance and architectural brilliance, Jhula Devi temple is a historical temple and one of the famous tourist destinations in Ranikhet. Built in the 8th century, the temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is known for its cluster of elegantly designed bells. Situated near the Chaubatia Gardens amidst the serene hills of Ranikhet, the ancient Jhula Devi Temple is not just a place of worship but a place of faith, hope, and divine blessings.
The most interesting part about this temple is the many bells adorning the temple premises. Tying a bell on the temple premises is believed to fulfill one’s wishes, and many devotees offer the bell as an offering in the temple to seek divine blessing. Another attraction of this temple is the ancient architecture which looks simple, but the wooden doors, intricate carvings, and traditional design reflect the rich culture.
Also Read: Most Captivating Places To Visit In Dehradun To Experience Nature’s Paradise
3. Bhalu Dam – A Hidden Oasis in the Heart of Ranikhet
Bhalu Dam is an artificial lake surrounded by dense pine and cedar forests, snow-capped mountains, and Himalayan ranges. With thrilling activities like wild camping and trekking, it is an ideal tourist spot that offers a perfect escape from bustling city life. Located about 3 KM from Chaubatia and 11 KM from Ranikhet, it is a visual delight that attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year. The sound of birds, cool breezes, and panoramic views of snow-capped hills create a mindblowing ambiance that is nothing more than a natural delight for the eyes.
Built during the British period, this beautiful reservoir is an ideal picnic spot for visitors and one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet. Blessed with immense natural beauty, it is the abode of many species of birds and flora and fauna that attract nature lovers. To reach this beautiful reservoir, tourists first have to trek about 3 km and during this trekking, you will also experience some amazing natural views of the surrounding area, which will surprise you. The road to Bhulu Dam is in very bad condition and the directions are also poor, but it is a must-visit during your Ranikhet trip.
4. Majhkhali – An Untouched Serene Destination
Majhkhali is another amazing destination situated in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. Majhkhali is a quaint hamlet situated just 12 Km from the Ranikhet. Despite being located near a famous tourist destination, Majhkhali is an offbeat destination still untouched by the tourist rush. This serene destination is ideal for every solo traveler and offers a perfect retreat for those who want to enjoy tranquillity surrounded by panoramic views. If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, then this is the place you must visit once.
Surrounded by dense pine and oak forests and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the village provides an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s bounty. The best thing about this place is that it is not crowded with tourists, so you can enjoy its beauty without any hassle. The air here is pleasant, and the only sounds you will hear are rustling leaves and the sweet chirping of birds. Being situated at a high altitude, the village allows visitors to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets against the backdrop of high mountains, making it one of the top places to visit in Ranikhet.
5. Dwarahat – A Journey in the Heart of Kumaon
Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, Dwarahat is a charming town famous for its ancient temples, historical significance, and picturesque surroundings. Dwarahat is also known as the Cultural heritage and home to a series of temples, each with a unique architectural style and cultural significance. Katyuri Kings constructed these temples in the 7th to 11th Century. Doonagiri and Naithna Devi Temple are the most famous among them. Dwarahat means ‘way to heaven’ in the local language and this place fully justifies its name.
The intricately carved wooden doors and ancient Shikhara architecture enhance the eternal charm of the temple. Surrounded by dense pine forests and with the Himalayas as a breathtaking backdrop, Dwarahat exudes a serene and delightful charm. Its panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush green surroundings make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Beyond its architectural and natural wonders, Dwarahat allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the city’s warm hospitality and rural lifestyle.
6. Dunagiri Temple – A Spiritual Odyssey in the Himalayas
About 400 km from Delhi, a group of six small villages form the place known as Dunagiri, Drongiri, and Doonagiri. Situated at an altitude of 8,000 feet above sea level, Dunagiri is famous for its Shakti Temple, known here as Mata Dunagiri Devi Temple. Mata Dunagiri Temple is an ancient temple located lush green forest in Dwarahat, in the Almora district in Uttarakhand. The shrine is dedicated to Maa Dunagiri, an incarnation of the Mother Goddess. It is one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet. It is revered as an important sacred site for the devotees who strongly believe in Maa Durga.
This place is very important from a spiritual point of view, as many mythological stories are associated with it. Built with a unique architectural style, the Dunagiri temple reflects the region’s cultural richness. Intricately carved stone structures and ornate sculptures grace the temple, narrating stories of a bygone era. Pilgrims and travelers have to climb 365 steps to reach Dunagiri Temple. The visual feast of nature’s grandeur through the scenic trails leading to the temple offers mesmerizing memories.
7. Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Nestled in the ancient hills of Ranikhet, the Kumaon Regimental Center Museum is a testament to the rich history and bravery of the Kumaon Regiment. For those interested in the history and culture of the region, this museum provides an insight into the military history of the Kumaon region. Established in 1974, this museum is a wonderful treasure trove of artifacts and memorabilia, offering visitors a poignant journey through the history of time and telling the heroic stories of the brave soldiers who served in this respected regiment. This museum is one of the most amazing places to visit in Ranikhet, so you must include it in your travel itinerary.
The galleries of the Kumaon Regimental Center Museum are adorned with an impressive array of weapons and war artifacts of historical importance, particularly those belonging to the Garhwal and Kumaon Regiments, which were acquired by the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army in the 1970s. It also displays many war weapons, documents, medals, photographs from the Kargil War, and memorials from the time of Rani Lakshmi Bai. The enormous collection of this museum makes it a typical tourist destination in Ranikhet.