Are you planning to explore the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand? Ranikhet, a small hill station situated in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush green forests, snow-capped Himalayas, and serene environment, this place offers a perfect getaway for those seeking solace in nature’s lap. In this article, we will explore the top 7 places to visit in Ranikhet that you should not miss out on during your trip.
1. Introduction
Ranikhet, which means “Queen’s meadow” in Hindi, is a hill station located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1829 meters above sea level and is known for its pleasant climate throughout the year. Ranikhet is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped Himalayas, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
2. Chaubatia Gardens
Chaubatia Gardens is a beautiful garden situated about 10 km from Ranikhet. The garden is known for its apple orchards and has a variety of fruits like peaches, apricots, and plums. It also has a research laboratory for growing high-quality apples. The garden is open to the public and is a great place to spend some peaceful time amidst nature.
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3. Jhula Devi Temple
Jhula Devi Temple is a famous temple located in Ranikhet. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its thousands of bells. According to the legend, the temple was built to protect the villagers from a man-eating tigress who used to roam the forests. The villagers tied a bell to every tree in the forest, and the sound of the bells scared away the tigress. The temple is believed to grant wishes to its devotees.
4. Majhkhali
Majhkhali is a small village situated about 12 km from Ranikhet. The village is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas and is a popular destination for trekking and camping. The village is surrounded by oak and pine forests, and the trek to Majhkhali is a must-do activity for adventure enthusiasts.
5. Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum is a famous museum located in Ranikhet. The museum showcases the history of the Kumaon Regiment, which was formed in 1813. The museum has a collection of weapons, photographs, and artifacts used by the regiment during various wars.
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6. Bhalu Dam
Bhalu Dam is a small lake situated about 3 km from Ranikhet. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists. The lake is also a great place for bird watching, and one can spot various species of birds here.
7. Upat and Kalika
Upat and Kalika are two small villages situated about 5 km from Ranikhet. These villages are known for their beautiful views of the Himalayas and are a popular destination for trekking and camping. The villages are surrounded by apple orchards, oak, and pine forests, and offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Upat is known for its ancient Shiva temple, while Kalika has a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The trek from Upat to Kalika is a must-do activity for those seeking adventure and beautiful views of the Himalayas.
8. Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple is a famous temple located in Ranikhet. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region. The temple is known for its unique architecture and beautiful carvings. It is also believed that praying at the temple can fulfill one’s wishes.
Conclusion
Ranikhet is a beautiful hill station that offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality. The top 7 places to visit in Ranikhet mentioned in this article are a must-visit during your trip to this serene destination.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Ranikhet? Ans: The best time to visit Ranikhet is between March and June and between September and November.
- Is Ranikhet a safe destination for tourists? Ans: Yes, Ranikhet is a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions while traveling.
- Are there any adventure activities to do in Ranikhet? Ans: Yes, there are many adventure activities to do in Ranikhet, such as trekking, camping, and bird watching.
- How far is Ranikhet from Delhi? Ans: Ranikhet is approximately 360 km away from Delhi.
- What is the local language spoken in Ranikhet? Ans: The local language spoken in Ranikhet is Hindi, but most people understand and speak English as well.
