Ranikhet

Ranikhet is a hill station in Almora district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.

About

The charming hill station of Ranikhet is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. It is at an altitude of 1869 metres above sea level and within sight of the western peaks of the Himalayas. It has everything to pacify the nerves of an avid city dweller.

The literal meaning of word Ranikhet is Queens Land. It is a place that reflects the best of the great Himalayas. The charming and majestic views of the pine trees, lush green forests, delicate plant life and attractive wild life. The scented mountain breeze, the fresh and pure, the singing of birds, the panoramic view of the Himalayas sight, all adds to the heavenly and pure feeling of Ranikhet.

Ranikhet has a spectacular view of the permafrost ranges of the Himalayas. Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nanda Khat are a few peaks that are clearly visible and they are quite a sight at dawn. With a pleasant mountain chill, an early morning walk down the Golf course road is as romantic as it can get.

Climate

Ranikhet becomes very cold in the winters and remains moderate in summers. The best time to visit is March to October. Ranikhet gets snowfall in the winter season, mainly in the months of December, January and February. But, in the rest of the months the weather of Ranikhet remains pleasant.

Places to visit

Army Museum

Army museum is maintained by the Kumaon and by the Indian Army. The museum has a wide collection ranging from stories of the heroics of the First World War till date.

Chaubatia Gardens

Located about 10 km from Ranikhet. This place has plantation of apricots, peaches, chestnuts, and almonds and is famous for apple orchards. With a wide variety of Himalayan flora, it also offers the picturesque views of snowcapped Himalayas. Apart from fruits, one can buy fresh juices and artisan honey from the garden store on the way out.

Transport

Ranikhet is situated at a distance of 350 km from Delhi, well connected by road and railway. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, approximately 68 km from Ranikhet (GMAPS). Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport. Nearest hill stations are Almora – 50 km, Nainital – 60 km. Places like Chaubatia, Dwarahat, Kausani, Chaukhutia, Majhkhali, Naina Gaon, Jalali, Doonagiri, Naithna, Masi and Pali are also recommended to visit.