Ranikhet (Queen’s Meadow) is an evergreen hill station that attracts thousands of tourists through beautiful and panoramic views of the majestic mountains. In the British era when Ranikhet was developed, it was named as the summer capital of the state. Ranikhet is one of nature’s paradise in between the pleasant weather and lush greenery forest, ancient temple, famous golf course, and the most famous regiment of Indian Army Kumaon Regimental Centre. Ranikhet is also known for the most beautiful cantonment town of India, Ranikhet is the best place for all types of tourists children, couples, families, company, outsiders so that everyone can enjoy the Queen’s farm.

Ranikhet History

The ideal meaning of Ranikhet is queen’s farm, According to local beliefs, the story is about the Rani Padmini (Queen) wife of the ruler Raja Sukherdev (King). The Queen was surprised to see the panoramic view with serenity and calmness of place later she decided to stay in lush greenery place. Once the queen settled started to live king dedicate this place to his wife and named as Ranikhet. Another history lies when Ranikhet was once under the rule of Nepal after the war local Kumaoni people won under a single man leadership general Kashi Nath Adhikari, now a small city Kashipur third populous city of Kumaon region is dedicated to him. Later in 1869 when the Britishers arrived struck by the elegance and beauty of the place. Then Ranikhet is developed as a hill station for their soldiers for accommodation and established Ranikhet Cantonment Authority.  Now the Ranikhet is still a cantonment area and home of the Naga Regiment & Kumaon Regiment and maintained by the Indian Army

Ranikhet Geography

The Queens farm Ranikhet is located in the Almora district which is surrounded by the lofty mountains and covered with the dense dark forest in the greenery of deodar, cedar, oak, and pine trees, You can enjoy the splendid view of majestic  Himalayas mountains and peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nandaghunti The area of Ranikhet is around 22 sq km and divided in the seven small wards with a literacy rate of Ranikhet 93%. The major source of earning of the locals are Agriculture and Horticulture. Ganga, Kosi and Ramganga are the major rivers that flow through Ranikhet. 

Plan My Package Recommends Places to Visit in Ranikhet

Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum was built in the year 1970 is a symbol of bravery. The museum shows the history of the Kumaon and Garhwal Regiments. This museum having the most valuable treasures like  Rani Jhasi's silver scepter, World War II Japanese wireless field telephone, and Japanese and Chinese rifles from the 1962 wars. has its own significance. In the other section, you will find the medals, uniforms, armor worn by a soldier the rebel flags used in wars and different type of weapons gives you patriotic Vibes. The Regiment is Nicknamed as “Creed of the Man-Eaters”.

Jhoola Devi Temple

It s built in the 8th century dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga and fulfil the wish of all the devotees. According to the local beliefs, Jhoola Devi protects the village from wildlife animals. The temple's most attractive part is a cluster of bells that is the symbol of the fulfillment of the wishes of the devotees. Once wishes are complete they tied a new bell in the temple. There is also a Rama Mandir dedicated to Lord Ram on the top of the hill nearby. This Rama mandir is a hub of students who learned about Vedic & modern mathematics with ancient Vedas.

Majhkali

Majhkali is a picturesque location, full of natural and scenic beauty is just 12km from the Ranikhet. The most famous place in Majhkali is Goddess Kali Temple, which is still unexplored and untouched by flora and fauna. The Majhkali is covered with the dense green forest with the stunning view of Mt.Trishul and snow-capped mountains.

Chaubatia Garden 

Chaubatia Garden is known for the famous Apple orchards and apricot, This garden is one of the oldest from the British colonial time of India. It consists of more than 200 species of fruits and flowers. Chaubatia garden having many numbers of fruits trees like Apricot, Apple, Plums, Peaches, Honey & different type of Juices. Tea cafe is available inside where you can sit and relax enjoy the calmness and serenity of this place with the panoramic view of mountains.

Haidakhan Babaji Temple  

It is a popularly known fact that Haidakhan Babaji Temple was built by Haidakhan Babaji itself and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is just nearby to their ashram in Chidianuala 6 km from Ranikhet. There is two magnificent sculpture dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman for the local people it’s a perfect destination for the marriage ceremony with the blessing of Gods.

Ashiyana Park, Ranikhet 

This one is also known as “Devdar Udhyan” or “Government Gaden” It is the first park built in Ranikhet and taken care of by the government. The park is enjoyable for all kinds and ages of people. As the garden is based on a jungle theme its the most preferable choice for the kids also there are much allure is there like the herbal park, colorful fountains, lush green lawn’s, children’s park with the splendid view of Mountains

Bhalu Dam

It was constructed in 1903 by British Viceroy as the major source of drinking water in Ranikhet for the British soldiers. It is just located 5 km from the Chaubatia Orchard neighboring by the long tower trees, a snow-capped valley makes a perfect destination for picnic spots and fishing activity

Upat Golf Course 

Upat Golf Course is located in a small town called Upat 5 km away from Ranikhet located in Almora district It is the highest golf course of Asia maintain by the Indian Army (Kumaon Regiment) with 9 hole course in lush greenery trails. Tourist comes from a far place to enjoy this sports and enjoy the enchanting calmness and scenic surroundings.

Mankameshwar Temple 

Mankameshwar Temple was built by the Indian Army (Kumaon Regiment) in 1978 covered in the forest with a large tree of deodar and pine. Mankameshwar temple is dedicated to the Radha Krishna, Lord Shiva, Mother Kalika. The best time to visit the Mankameshwar temple is Janmashtmi during this time Indian soldiers perform many cultural activities with the Beautiful Jhaanki with delicious Bhandara.

Places near Ranikhet

Binsar Mahadev Temple (approx 18.5 Km from Ranikhet)

Binsar Mahadev Temple also known by the name of Bindeshwar Temple built in the 9th century by the Kalyan Chand (King of Chand Dynasty). It is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Bindeshwar) also find the display of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Gauri and Goddess Mahisasuramardini and Goddess Parvati.Around the temples of Ranikhet rich flora and fauna of thick and long deodar and pine trees with a beautiful waterfall. Vaikunth Chaturdashi is the major festival that is celebrated in Mahadev Temple and the whole Binsar town.

Tarikhet (approx 8.5 Km from Ranikhet)

Tarikhet is a small town and popular hill station located  8 km from the Ranikhet. This picturesque town is famous for its pleasant weather, calmness, and serenity. The most famous attraction in Tarikhet is “Gandhi Kutiya” where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay a long time in the period of freedom.

Sun Temple Katarmal (approx 59 Km from Ranikhet) 

After the Konark sun temple is the second sun temple which is built in the 9th century BC by Katarmall (A Katyuri King from the Katyuri dynasty) This main temple is encircling of 45 small shrines and the sculptures were made of stone and metallic sculptures are  Shiva-Parvati and Laxmi-Narayan. It is dedicated to the old God Sun  Burhaditya or Vraddhaditya as the direct sun rays hit on the Shivling. The temple is also known by the name of Bara Aditya Temple and the most famous festival is celebrated Makara Sankranthi  

Kausani (approx 58.3 Km from Ranikhet)

Kausani earlier known as “Valna” hill station is situated at Bageshwar District in Uttarakhand. The picturesque Hill station is famous for the 300 splendid views of Panchauli Peaks, Nanda Devi, and Trishul. Kausani is covered with dense forest with a tree of pine and a tea garden. The sunrise and sunset with snowcapped mountains is the best time to click the photos.

Nainital (approx 57.6 Km from Ranikhet)

Nainital is 51 km from Ranikhet situated at the foothills of the Kumaon in region Uttarakhand. Nainital is famous for its Naina Devi Temple (dedicated to Goddess Parvati), Naina Peak Mall, Raj Bhawan, High Altitude Zoo, Sattal, Bhimtal and Naini lake with the panoramic view of the surroundings. This beautiful lake of the district is surrounded by the seven lofty mountains

Sattal (56.5 Km from Rainkhet)

Sattal means seven Tal(lake)  with freshwater and beautiful scenic beauty located just 55 km away from Ranikhet. Sattal is a perfect tourist spot the nature and adventure lovers as well for its reach flora and fauna like Bettles, Moths, Bugs, Butterflies, and different varieties of Birds as the  Birdwatching is the most famous activity in Sattal. The adventure enthusiasts love to do trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and rappelling, etc.

Best Time to Visit Ranikhet

Ranikhet Weather and Temperature

• Ranikhet can be visited throughout the whole year with an average temperature of 7°C to 23°C to see the nature and mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas. The most recommended time to visit Ranikhet is March to July just before the monsoon the weather is calm and pleasant during this time and can enjoy the natural beauty. In monsoon, there is moderate rainfall with a lovely smell of soil after rain. If you want the experience the snowfall in Ranikhet then must have to visit in the winter where the temperature goes below -2°C so it’s advisable to carry warm clothes to enjoy this pleasant weather in Ranikhet.

Ranikhet in Summer

• Ranikhet in Summer (March-June) It is the best season to visit Ranikhet. This time the temperature goes to a minimum of 10°C whilst the maximum goes to 27°C. Ranikhet in summer has its own charm from the beautifully bloomed flowers in the Himalayas to the colorful and melody sound of birds. This season tourist crowd is at its peak its better to get your room blocked prior to reaching and at the end don’t forget to visit the sunset point.

Ranikhet in Monsoon

• Ranikhet in Monsoon (July-August) Monsoon is may not be the perfect timing to visit Ranikhet place have a chance of landslide, road blockage, and flooding so it can change your Plan. The average temperature in this season is 21°C to 30°C. Outdoor activities in Ranikhet are strictly restricted. After heavy rainfall the whole Ranikhet intermix with the lush greenery surrounding. If you are a budget traveler it’s the best time for you to visit Ranikhet and get the best deals in accommodation and restaurants.

Ranikhet in Winter

• Ranikhet in Winter (September-February) is very chilled in Ranikhet. Ranikhet receives a major snowfall in this period. The temperature of Ranikhet in winter daytime highest of 10°C while at Night goes to the below of 3°C. Most tourists come to this place in the months of  December, January, February to enjoy the experience of snowfall and to see the beauty of the snow-capped mountain of the Himalayas. There are many outdoor activities happened in this place trekking, skiing,  rock climbing, etc. Know More

How to Reach Ranikhet

The beautiful town Ranikhet is located in Almora district which is 50 km from the Almora also the same distance from the Nainital. The nearest domestic airport is the  Pantnagar airport (110km) while  Capital Delhi and International airport is 350 km while the Dehradun (capital of Uttarakhand) is 320 km from the Ranikhet. Kathgodam (75km) is the closest railway station connected by the major trains.

Ranikhet by Air

• Ranikhet By Air Nearest Airport is Pantnagar Airport (IATA CODE- PHG)  which is 110 km from the airport. Air India is the regular flight from New Delhi via Dehradun with a duration of 2 hours. After reaching the airport the affordable taxi and  Cabs are available to take you to the Ranikhet.

Ranikhet by Railways

• Ranikhet By Railways Kathgodam is the most famous railway station and well connected to major stations. Kathgodam station is located just 75 km from the Ranikhet. Taxi and Buses are the most common form of transportation to reaching Ranikhet. Haldwani and Ramnagar station is the second option for reaching Ranikhet.

Ranikhet by Road

• Ranikhet By Roadways Ranikhet is well connected by the road of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttarakhand. Nearby cities are Almora, Nainital, Haldwani, Bhowal, Khairna, and Kathgodam. If you are travelling to Ranikhet from Delhi via Bus first you have to reach Anand Vihar ISBT from there are different kinds of buses from economy to luxurious one. The buses are for the destination of Almora, Nainital, Haldwani or Nearby the Ranikhet. Once reached take the Uttarakhand Bus Transportation to reach up to the destination. If you going by taxi, cab or private vehicle there are three routes to reach Ranikhet via Bazpur, Ramnagar & Haldwani you choose the router to your comfort.

Places to Stay in Uttarakhand

If you are looking for accommodation in the Queen’s Farm Ranikhet there are many options to stay from a small budget hotel to a  star category of hotels. Some of the common types of accommodation are  Resorts, Vilas, Homestays, farms, and Hotels. If you are going in rush hour Its always advisable to book your stay online or prior to reach the destination through various portals and get the best deal out of it. While in the off-season better to do direct check-in at the hotel to get discounted rates.

WoodsVilla Resort

WoodsVilla Resort is situated in the heart of Ranikhet, It’s the first choice of every traveler to stay in this luxurious place. The scenery from the resort is beautifully covered with Oak and Pine trees. These 3-star luxury resorts offer you 90 rooms with a private balcony in which 30 rooms are with panoramic views of the Himalayas.  Woodsvilla Resort also having a banquet, multicuisine restaurant named cloud9 and In-room dining facilities also offers the adventure activities like camps, treks, rappelling, river crossing, bonfire, and chess many more.

Hotel Chevron Rosemount, Ranikhet

Hotel Chevron Rosemount, Ranikhet is a classic heritage hotel built in 1900 AD. This hotel was once the glory of British Bungalow now it’s the accommodation with attraction. There are 14 Rooms, suits, cottages inside this hotel with a beautiful garden. The hotel having many facilities like Wi-fi, complimentary breakfast, Tea coffee setup, fruit basket, Doctor call requests, and well-equipped amenities.   

Parwati Inn Hotel, Ranikhet

Parwati Inn Hotel, Ranikhet is located on Main Market Sadar Bazar in Ranikhet. The hotel was built in 1992 of comprises 32 rooms in different categories like Semi Deluxe, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Luxury, Family Rooms, and Family Suites. The hotel also offers free parking, television, Television, Wi-fi, Doctor on-call requests, also you can purchase jams, jellies, pickles, and honey from the hotel’s shop. Indoor activities like Table tennis, Chess, Games of Billiards can enjoy in the leisure time.

Xomotel Ranikhet Heights

Xomotel Ranikhet Heights the rooms are spacious and cozy with a green lawn from their can enjoy the beautiful views of the Himalayas. Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli peak. Xomotel having two categories of room standard room and suite double room with valley view. The most famous amenities of the hotels are Laundry, coffee shop, Doctor on call. Telephone service and In-room dining Facilities.

The KMVN TRH Ranikhet 

The KMVN TRH Ranikhet also known as Kalika TRH. It is the best hotel for backpackers and budget travelers. It has 10 dormitory beds, 06 deluxe and 12 super deluxe cottages for the Luxury one, The hotel has a multicuisine restaurant inside with delicious food. The hotel covers all the basic amenities  Television Room. Smoking Room. slippers, Attached bathroom, Room heater with the Laundry services.

Hotel Meghdoot,Ranikhet

Hotel Meghdoot is located on the crowded market Mall road of Ranikhet with the beautiful scenery of the Himalayas. The surrounding of the hotel is covered with Rhododendrons trees. Room categories of the Hotel Meghdoot are single room, double room in deluxe and luxury category also having a family suite luxury room with a splendid view of Himalayas. Meghdoot having a facility of the multicuisine restaurant, H/C water, Internet Facility, Laundry Services & dry cleaning with the modern facilities.

Best Places To Eat In Ranikhet

Mayur Restaurant, Ranikhet

Mayur Restaurant, Ranikhet located in the Khari Bazar, Ranikhet. The services are available for Dine-In as well as Takeaway. It is the most famous Punjabi restaurant. Thali’s are the most affordable food for all kinds of people also this restaurant for the budget traveler with the average meal for two people is Rs 350.

Foresta Cafe Ranikhet 

Foresta Cafe Ranikhet is located near the Jhula Devi Temple in Chaubatia Road, Ranikhet. The cuisines served in this restaurant are Indian, Chinese, Asian, and fast food types.  The beautiful surrounding with the delicious foods makes worth it all to spend money here. Chicken Thukpa is the signature dish of this restaurant.

Do`s & Don`ts in Ranikhet

Do`s

• Do carry your essentials in a small backpack.
• Do carry your medical kit as per your requirements
• Do carry a good pair of trekking shoes
• Do wear a mask and carry sanitizer.
• Do carry chocolates or an energy bar for instant energy.

Dont’s

• Do not carry extra luggage while traveling pack according to season.
• Do not litter on the mountain.
• Do not go near cliff ends.
• Do not consume alcohol while trekking.
• Do not harm animals and do not waste natural resources.