Ranikhet is a wonderful getaway for people who enjoy the beautiful vision of lush forests and the southern elevation of India’s warm Himalayas. It is noted for its serenity, breathtaking temples, and cultural heritage, which such temples and Ranikhet itself are the best possible combination approach for both nature lovers and those looking for fun activities around the world.
Chaubatia Gardens
The Chaubatia Gardens is a very large fruit orchard where Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nilkanth are soaring peaks in the background. The blends of apple, apricot, and peach make this garden a veritable Eden for nature and photographers. Ample opportunities exist for walking, relaxation, and education about all types of fruit that are grown here. If you wish to visit when it is good to see, visit from March to December when the gardens blossom.
Jhula Devi Temple
Jhula Devi Temple belongs to Goddess Durga, this temple is among the most sacred and revered temples that you can find in Ranikhet. This temple is known for the wide variety of bells offered to the shrine which its devotees bring along. It is said that if a person offers a prayer here, it can come true, and as such, the bell can help remove one’s issues. In addition to being a religious point, the temple is situated in a location that has dense forests making it a great place to enjoy being surrounded by nature.
Haidakhan Temple
Haidakhan Temple is located on the top of a mountain and serves as a great viewpoint as valleys and peaks can be seen from all directions. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was established by a spiritual guru named Haidakhan Baba. The calmness of the place combined with the breathtaking scenes of the Himalayas makes the temple a good site for photography and sightseeing. Other than Shivaratri when many devotees visit the temple in large numbers the temple is quite busy at all times.
Ranikhet Golf Course
The Ranikhet Golf Course is one of the highest snow-clad golf courses in Asia, situated amidst a wonderful landscape. This stunning 9-hole course is located in Upat and is bordered by nature and gigantic hills. This site point would be great for those looking to relax whether you are a golfer or not. The well-manicured green fields along with the chilled breeze from the mountains make the experience wonderful.
Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple was constructed by the Kumaon Regiment and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Kali, and Radha-Krishna. The towering temple has a soothing effect and offers a great opportunity for meditation and self-reflection. As it is located near the Kumaon Regiment Center, a curious aspect is that you can see the temple being frequented by soldiers. You must also check out the souvenir shop and woolen garments shop which are located nearby.
Kalika
A couple of kilometers northwards from Ranikhet, there is a quaint little hamlet named Kalika which is famous for its lush forests and its Kalika Temple and Kalika mandir. The temple is revered throughout the year for the Goddess Kali, and many pilgrims come to visit the temple regardless of the season. Besides this, there is also a horticultural garden in the area that has some high-quality exotic flowers. For anyone whose aim is to unwind and escape, Kalika is an ideal destination.
Binsar Mahadev Temple
Spending some time away from the chaos of the cities, the Binsar Mahadev temple offers peace and quietness in the middle of thick cedar and pine trees. The temple is located in a picturesque area, not only surrounded by scenic beauty but also a stream of water and many Lord Shiva devotees. The temple makes for a wonderful day trip, packed with picnics, short hikes, and a beautiful temple environment and grounds.
Katarmal Sun Temple
The Katarmal Sun Temple, a 12th-century architectural wonder dedicated to the Sun God is nestled a short drive away from Ranikhet. This temple is lesser known and is one of the few sun temples present in India where it showcases the culture of the Kumaon region. The temple offers serene surroundings and is of immense historical value which makes it worth the visit.
Majkhali
Majkhali, a tranquil village close to Ranikhet is most known for its beguiling views of the snow-capped mountains, more remarkably Mount Trishul. This village is a perfect location for an individual wanting to rejuvenate in nature for a day. Participating in ecological parks where local plants are showcased is but one of the many offerings the village has. Photographers and nature lovers alike will thoroughly enjoy their time here.
Dwarahat
Dwarahat which is approximately thirty-five kilometres away from Ranikhet, is a small but beautiful location rich in ancient temples and history. Dwarahat is home to the renowned Katyuri temples constructed during the rule of the Katyuri dynasty. These temples are artifacts of architectural glory and beauty which showcase the rich history of the region. In addition Dwarahat also serves as a point for the Dunagiri Temple, another important temple in the area.
Conclusion
Ranikhet is a beautiful destination that combines stunning landscapes, peace of mind, and rich culture in one place. From temples to thick gardens and panoramic views of the Himalayas, Ranikhet will surely freshen you up. All the places mentioned here make your holidays to the hill station enjoyable and unforgettable by creating their personal touch to the experience. So, get ready, grab your bags, and take a trip to these out-of-the-world places Ranikhet has to offer!
Ranikhet is a year-round location but the best time would be from March to June and September to November. These months have an ideal temperature that makes sightseeing and other outdoor activities a lot easier.
Ranikhet is reachable via bus or taxi going to major locations such as Delhi. The closest railway station is Kathgodam and the nearest airport is at Pantnagar so there are always lots of buses or taxis available.
Ranikhet offers several activities from trekking and walks to nature and bird watching. With beautiful landscapes and forest paths available outdoor activities are bound to be a great success.
Ranikhet snowfalls during winter and that is between December to February. It tends to turn into a winter fairyland which invites tourists who want to partake in snow activities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation ranging from economy hotels to high-class resorts in Ranikhet. There are also Homestays available for people who want more personalized services.
