Ranikhet, the Queen’s Meadow

Ranikhet, the Queen’s Meadow as the translation from Hindi reads, is adorned with beautiful pine trees and lush green forests. Nestling in the lap of the Himalayas, it’s also home to unique mountainous wildlife. While you set foot on its majestic lands, it welcomes you with fragrant, crisp mountain breeze, while the birds sing amidst the backdrop of lofty peaks! Located at high altitudes, it is an ideal escape from city life and a perfect way to see the best of the Himalayas.

Historical Account

Talking about history of Ranikhet, this is the very place where Raja Sudhardev won over Queen Padmini and chose this place for her residence. The British fell in love with this place as did Raja Sudhardev at one time, and made it the headquarters for their regiment. They also enjoyed it as a retreat for escape from the oppressive heat of the plains. Now, it is an army cantonment hill station, located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand.

Places to See

There are a variety of places to see in Ranikhet, from religious sites to pretty parks to refreshing gardens. Try to add following to your itinerary for a more enriched trip:

Jhula Devi Temple

The Jhula Devi temple is located near Chaubatia, about 7 kilometers away. Dedicated to Durga Mata, its outstanding feature is the large number of bells adorning the temple walls. Devotees pay their homage by tying bells to the walls. It’s believed that by doing so, you can fulfill all your desires.

Army Museum

It showcases weapons, flags, LTTE boats, and other military memorabilia including those from the Pakistan and China wars.

Chaubatia Gardens

About 10 kilometres away, you will find Chaubatia Gardens. Famous for its orchards of apples, peaches, and apricots, it is also home to interesting Himalayan wildlife. You can also buy fruit juice, jams, and honey here.

Rama Mandir

Close to the Jhula Devi temple, you will find Rama Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the main attraction here is the rock paintings. The ancient Vedas are taught to modern pupils in peaceful environs here.

Golf Course

Managed by the army, this 9-hole golf course is one of the highest golf courses in Asia. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery among the pine and oak trees.

Ashiyana Park

This Man-made park is a treat for the eyes! Spoiling the tourists with its pretty fountains, trails, and even swings, it’s an ideal location for spending a day with family and kids. Its Jungle theme adds more to its vibe.

Mankameshwar Temple

Located near the Ranikhet Cantonment area, the temple houses idols of various deities, such as Lord Shiva, Radha-Krishna, and Maa Kalika. Run by the army, it’s a peaceful sanctuary for meditation and inner reflection.

Excursion Places

Just a few kilometers away, there lies a plethora of beautiful sites, just waiting to be explored. Give the following a try:

Manila – Situated at a distance of 87 km from Ranikhet, Manila is the seat of Manila Devi. It sits among the magnificent woodlands of the lush surroundings and offers remarkable vistas.

Chaubatia – This wonderful hill escape is situated at a distance of 10 km from Ranikhet. Popularly known as the orchard nation, it gives stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas.

Almora – Known for its panoramic views of the breathtaking surroundings, it exudes immense Himalayan beauty through and through. On top of that, Almora is just 1 hour and 45-minute drive from here, which makes your visit here absolutely worth it.

Upat Kalika – Located at a comfortable distance of 5 km from Ranikhet, it’s full of picturesque jungles and unparalleled greenery. Offering a nice retreat, Upat Kalika can be your next favorite hilly escape!

Flora and Fauna

Situated at a high altitude where the temperature is favorable for a thriving biodiversity, Ranikhet is a hotbed for the development of a diversified range of flora and fauna. Replete with lush greenery, it attracts a variety of birds and animals.

You can easily spot here the Indian hare, red-faced monkey, jackal, leopard, mountain goat, red fox, and porcupine. Talking about the flora, forest cover here includes trees of pine, oak, and deodar.

Best Time to Visit Ranikhet

Summer (March – June)

This is the best time to visit Ranikhet as the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 27 and 10 degrees Celsius. If you are looking to beat the summer heat, then heading to Ranikhet is one of your best options. Do expect some crowd at this time since this is the peak season.

Monsoon (July – August)

The entire area experiences extremely heavy rainfall, and the landscape is prone to landslides and avalanches. It is advisable not to travel here during these months since your plans may be hindered.

Winter (September – February)

The winter season in Ranikhet is extremely cold, and the area gets covered with snow. In case you want to avoid the crowd and experience snow (the temperature ranges between 15 to -3 degrees Celsius), then visiting Ranikhet during this time is advised.

How to Reach

There are a variety of ways via which you can reach Ranikhet, such as:

By Air: You can fly to Pantnagar airport, which is located 115 km away from the hill station. From here you can take a taxi or a bus to get here.

By Train: The train ride from Delhi to Kathgodam by the Ranikhet Express is pleasant, and you can traverse the remaining 75 kilometres by road.

By Road: You can get to Ranikhet from Delhi by bus, a distance of 279 kilometers or a five-hour drive through scenic countryside.

Accommodation

There are a number of stay options available in Ranikhet, which range from luxury to medium to home stays, depending on your budget. Resorts are also available here for a more lavish experience. Here are some well-known staying options that you can consider:

Chevron Rosemount

This heritage hotel impresses guests with lush gardens and an architecture inspired by the colonial era. If you’re a couple looking forward to nice times or travelling with family, this is an ideal option in Ranikhet.

Woodsvilla Resort

Located on the outskirts of Ranikhet, staying here is a great choice, because, for one, it’s complete with all modern amenities (bonfires, indoor games, and nature walks), and for two, it offers you stunning panoramic Himalayan views. This makes it a full-on worthwhile to book here.

Parijat Retreat

This mid-range boutique hotel is adorned with wooden interiors, giving the tourists a rustic, countryside feel. It also offers guests facilities like WiFi, a TV, and a tea/coffee machine in each room.

Hotel Moon

This hotel checks all the boxes on hygiene, comfortable stay, and good food. Great location and service are some of its other perks.

The Himalayan Bungalow

This homestay prides itself on providing a personalized experience. Whether you’re looking for home-style meals or want to live the local experience, this budget lodging does it all for you!

Hotel Snow View

Located very near to the Jhula Devi Temple, it’s popular for its affordability and quality service. This budget stay also comes loaded with amenities like parking and room service. Rooms with great views is another advantage of staying here.

Food Availability

Ranikhet is well equipped with a range of restaurants and cafés which offer a variety of food items like North Indian and Chinese cuisines. Dhabas and food stalls are also made available where you can savor on some of the most delicious locally prepared cuisines. While you’re there, you must try the signature dishes of the region, such as:

Mutton Curry with Wild Herbs: taste the Pahadi mutton prepared with locally grown spices and herbs and savour the rich taste of traditional Kumaoni flavours.

Bhatt ki Churkani: Get taste and health in one bowl with this black soybeans curry, cooked slowly in spices to make for rich, flavourful experience.

Aloo Ke Gutke: These spicy boiled potatoes can be your new comfort food. A Pahadi staple, it’s often enjoyed with roti or deep-fried puris.

Kafuli: Get your spinach dosage with this thick gravy involving fenugreek leaves. Seasoned with spices, it gives an aroma and taste like no other.

Kumaoni Raita: You might have eaten Raita, a way too many times in your life, but trust us when we tell you that you got to try this special dish. Made with curd, grated cucumber, and special local spices, this Raita will impress you in no time.

Some notable restaurants here include:

• Queen’s Meadow Café
• Foresta Café
• Dolia Pahadi Roof Top Café and Restaurant
• Woodsvilla Residency Restaurant

Visit Ranikhet and get mesmerized by its hilly charm, verdant valleys, and lush green meadows. With its colonial-era charm and military history, you’re sure to be impressed!