Ranikhet – An Alluring Hill Station in Uttarakhand
Ranikhet, situated in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, is a beautiful hill station with a stunning landscape and serene atmosphere. It is a popular tourist destination, boasting of picturesque beauty, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings. Ranikhet is located at an elevation of 1,869m above sea level. The great Himalayan range can be seen from here, making it a magnificent sight. Ranikhet literally means ‘Queen’s meadow’ and is said to have been founded by the Raja of Kumaon in the 18th century.
A Tourist’s Paradise – Top Attractions in Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a paradise for nature lovers and is dotted with several places of interest. Here are some of the best attractions in this hill station.
Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple is a revered Hindu temple situated at the heart of Ranikhet. It is said that the temple was constructed by the gods themselves. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its intricate architecture. This is an ideal place for devotees to seek blessings and peace of mind.
Jhula Devi Temple
Jhula Devi Temple is located at a distance of 4 km from Ranikhet. This temple is devoted to Goddess Durga and is visited by several devotees from all over the country. It is believed that the temple was constructed around 500 years ago.
Chaubatia Gardens
Chaubatia Gardens is a beautiful garden situated at a distance of 8 km from Ranikhet. It is spread across an area of 10 hectares and is known for its vast variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas from here.
Haidakhan Babaji Temple
Haidakhan Babaji Temple is a revered temple located at a distance of approximately 9 km from Ranikhet. It is devoted to Babaji, a saint who is believed to have been here for centuries. The temple is known for its serene ambiance and is visited by several devotees from all over the country.
Kainchi Dham
Kainchi Dham is a Hindu temple located at a distance of 17 km from Ranikhet. It is believed that the temple was built by Neem Karoli Baba in the 1960s. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is visited by several devotees from all over the country.
Things to Do in Ranikhet
Ranikhet is known for its stunning beauty and is an ideal place for nature lovers. Here are some of the best things to do in this hill station.
Trekking
Ranikhet is a paradise for trekkers and offers some of the best trekking trails in Uttarakhand. Some of the popular trekking routes include the Khatling Glacier Trek, the Kuari Pass Trek, and the Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek.
Paragliding
Paragliding is one of the most popular activities in Ranikhet and is an ideal way to explore the stunning landscapes. Professional instructors are available to assist those who want to try paragliding.
Skiing
Skiing is another popular activity in Ranikhet and is a great way to explore the mountainous terrain. Professional instructors are available to help those who are new to skiing.
Shopping
Ranikhet is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs. The Mall Road and Sadar Bazaar are popular shopping destinations in the hill station, offering a variety of items to choose from.
Golfing
Ranikhet is home to one of the highest Golf Courses in Asia, the Ranikhet Golf Course. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Bird Watching
Ranikhet is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Some of the common bird species found here include the Himalayan Bulbul, Black-headed Jay, and Red-billed Blue Magpie.
Picnicking
Ranikhet is blessed with several scenic spots that are perfect for picnics. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day amidst nature at places like Chaubatia Gardens, Upat Golf Course, and Majkhali.
Exploring Heritage Sites
Apart from its natural beauty, Ranikhet is also known for its historical and heritage sites. Visitors can explore places like the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, which showcases the history and achievements of the Indian Army.
Relaxing
Above all, Ranikhet is a place to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature. Visitors can simply unwind, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and soak in the tranquility of this charming hill station.
Conclusion
Ranikhet is truly a gem in the crown of Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual retreat, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or simply a peaceful getaway, Ranikhet has something for everyone. With its breathtaking landscapes, serene atmosphere, and plethora of attractions and activities, Ranikhet promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler’s heart.