Ranikhet

Initially ruled by Kumaoni rulers, later developed by British in 1869, Ranikhet is a secluded and serene hill-station adorned with nature’s enviable beauty.

Located in Almora district in Uttaranchal, Ranikhet is a cantonment maintained by Indian Army and the HQs of Kumaon regiment.

With not much to do, except enjoying nature walks and absorbing mesmerizing views, Ranikhet is more of a retreat than a hill-station. Its breathtaking undulating hilly-terrain, lush green forests and wonderful peacefulness make it an ideal holiday spot for nature lovers and those wishing to have a quiet holiday away from the hum-drum of cities.

Legend

Its believed that Rani Padmini, queen of King Sukherdev, while on a move through this area, was taken by its beauty and fell in love with it so much so that she decided to settle here and though there are no indications of a palace having been here, its said that the King built a huge palace here and named this place in her honour as ‘Ranikhet’ literally meaning ‘Queen’s Meadow’.

Places to Visit

Upat (5km)

Upat is famous for its high-altitude 9-hole Army golf-course where visitors can also try their hands on golf. With lush pines and blooming orchards all around and panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks, Upat is a major tourist attraction.

Kalika (6km)

A kilometer ahead of Upat is the town of Kalika known for its old temple dedicated to Goddess Kali and a forest nursery situated here.

Chaubatia Orchards (10km)

Chaubatia is known for its flourishing apple, peach, plum and apricot orchards and is a popular picnic spot. There is a government Fruit Research Centre and a fruit sales depot from where you can buy fresh fruits and their products.

Bhalu Dam (13 km)

Located on Kosi river that supplies water to Ranikhet, Bhalu dam is ideal for picnics with a small lake, a small beautiful garden and scenic surroundings.

You can also do angling here with prior permission from the Chief Wildfire Warden, Dehradun.

Binsar Mahadev (19km)

Binsar Mahadev is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva amidst a cedar forest and with a beautiful stream flowing close to it.

Also check out

Kumaon Regimental Centre Community Centre

Run by a welfare organization for Army widows, it has a factory where you can see workers at handlooms producing shawls and tweed and a modern shop selling the finished products and candles, condiments, shoes et al.

Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

Jhula Devi

Mankameshwar Temple

Things to Do

Angling

Golf

Walking

Trekking

Must Try

Bal Mithai, a Kumaon speciality, made of chocolate fudge coated with tiny sugar balls.

Fast Facts

Best Time to Visit: Mar-Jun