Nestled in the breathtaking Kumaon Himalayas, Ranikhet, which means “Queen’s meadow,” is a captivating hill station that beckons with its natural beauty. According to legend, Queen Padmini was so captivated by the enchanting surroundings that King Sudhardev built a palace for her here, bestowing upon the place the name Ranikhet.
A serene sanctuary replete with verdant meadows, abundant fruit orchards, and towering coniferous forests, Ranikhet offers a plethora of activities for those seeking respite from the chaotic city life. Here, we present our top recommendations:
10 Extraordinary Ventures in Ranikhet
1. Embark on a soul-stirring expedition at Jhula Devi Temple
As the mellifluous chime of countless bells fills the air, spirituality envelopes you in the revered sanctuary of Jhula Devi temple. According to local folklore, Goddess Durga answered the prayers of shepherds, safeguarding them and their livestock from the ferocity of wild creatures. The temple stands where the idol was discovered by a shepherd. The sight of numerous bells adorning the temple, each tied by devotees to manifest their desires, will leave you in awe.
Visiting Hours: From sunrise until sunset
2. Delight in joyful moments with your family at the jungle-themed Ashiyana Park
For those seeking enjoyable activities in Ranikhet, the jungle-themed Ashiyana Park in the heart of the town is an excellent destination to spend a few hours. While the children revel in the swings of the children’s park, take a stroll through the herbal gardens and marvel at the vibrant fountains. Moreover, this scenic spot offers breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Also known as the Deodhar Udhyan, owing to its lush forested area, Ranikhet’s inaugural theme park guarantees an unforgettable family outing.
Opening Hours: 7AM to 7PM
Admission Fee: INR 10 per person
3. Embark on a revitalizing stroll amidst the flourishing orchards of Chaubatia Gardens
Immerse yourself in a rejuvenating ambiance as you traverse the enchanting orchards of Chaubatia Gardens. A mosaic of vibrant flowers and fruit-laden trees, this mesmerizing destination offers an invigorating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take a leisurely walk and be enraptured by the sublime beauty of the surroundings.
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An enchanting journey of approximately 20 minutes from Ranikhet will bring you to the verdant beauty of Chaubatia Gardens, where you can bask in the serenity of nature’s embrace. Unwind your mind with a serene stroll amidst the towering cedar and pine trees, blossoming rhododendrons and lilies, and fruitful orchards teeming with apples, plums, peaches, and more during the appropriate season. Spanning over 600 acres of land at an elevation of 1800 meters, this breathtaking garden also provides an ideal vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring snow-covered Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Nanda devi, Neelkanth, and Trishul. After immersing yourself in this refreshing nature walk, undoubtedly one of the best activities in Ranikhet, take a moment to rejuvenate with a quick break, indulging in a comforting serving of Maggi and tea at the inviting UK tourism canteen.
Operating Hours: Open from 10AM to 5PMAdmission: No admission fee. We suggest hiring a guide (starting from INR 100) for an enlightening tour.
4. Immerse Yourself in Tranquility at Bhalu Dam
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In close proximity to Chaubatia resides the magnificent Bhalu Dam, an exquisite man-made reservoir initially constructed by the Viceroy to supply water to the British soldiers. Today, this dam has transformed into a haven of tranquility, offering a breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks. It is an idyllic spot for a family or friends’ picnic or a memorable camping experience. Immerse yourself in the aromatic scent of the surrounding forests, be enchanted by the melodic songs of the birds, and create everlasting memories in this picturesque setting. Spending a few hours at Bhalu Dam is without a doubt one of the most rejuvenating activities in Ranikhet.
5. Seek Divine Blessings at Haidakhan Babaji Temple
Located approximately 5 kilometers from the main bus stand in Ranikhet, you will find the immensely popular and deeply revered Haidakhan Babaji Temple. This spiritually significant temple is named after the revered guru Haidakhan Baba, considered by the locals as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Perched atop a hill, it offers panoramic vistas of the valleys below. The temple and ashram attract devotees from around the world, seeking solace and devotion. Among the myriad of activities to partake in Ranikhet, meditating at the Haidakhan Babaji Temple and marveling at the towering Hanuman statue will leave an indelible impression. Surrounded by awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped Himalayas, the spiritual energy of this place is bound to uplift your soul.
6. Engage in a Game at the Exquisite Upat Golf Course
Ranked among the most elevated golf courses in Asia, the expansive 9-hole Upat Golf Course, featuring flawlessly manicured lawns, is impeccably upheld by the Indian Army. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, just 6 km away from Ranikhet, this activity is a must for golf aficionados seeking to test their skills in the mountains. Additionally, tourists can visit the nearby Kalika Devi temple to seek blessings from the goddess Durga.
7. Experience the awe-inspiring Himalayas in Majkhali
Although the entire landscape surrounding Ranikhet is a treat for urban-weary souls, there are a few recommended locations nearby that offer unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan vistas. One such captivating place is the quaint village of Majkhali, situated only 12 kilometers away from Ranikhet on the Almora road. Witnessing the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi and Mount Trishul while enjoying a hot cup of tea in this charming village is one of our favorite activities in Ranikhet.
8. Marvel at the ancient shrines in Dwarahat
The scenic Himalayan village of Dwarahat, near Ranikhet, holds immense religious and historical significance. Perched at an elevation of 1500 meters in the Kumaon Himalayas, the village is home to 55 ancient temples constructed by Katyuri kings. Divided into eight distinct groups, these shrines house idols of significant Hindu deities, showcasing the grandeur of temple architecture during that era. In close proximity lies the remarkable Vibhandeshwar Shiva temple and the highly revered Dunagiri temple. Devotees must climb 500 steps to receive the divine blessings of goddess Durga at Dunagiri, where they are also rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
9. Witness the architectural splendor of the Katarmal Sun Temple
Considered the second most significant sun temple in the country, after the Konark Sun Temple, this ancient site, located 25 kilometers from Ranikhet, holds great historical value. Constructed around 800 years ago, the Katarmal Sun Temple features intricate carvings adorning its walls and panels, serving as a testament to the craftsmanship of artisans in ancient India. A visit to this ancient shrine should definitely be included in your list of things to do in Ranikhet.
10. Enjoy a memorable day at the breathtaking Naukuchiatal
Located approximately 40 kilometers from Ranikhet, you will find the stunning and tranquil Naukuchiatal. It is the largest and deepest lake in the Nainital district. Driving up to Naukuchiatal is a highly popular activity in Ranikhet, offering various options for a fun-filled day. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in paragliding, exhilarating Flying Fox or Zorbing experiences, as well as enjoy boating and kayaking on the lake. Nature lovers can simply unwind in this serene spot and immerse themselves in the picturesque scenery of the surrounding forests, hills, and valleys.
Price for Paragliding: The short flight (3 to 5 minutes) starts from INR 1500 per person. Price for Zorbing: It starts from INR 200 per person. Price for Zip-lining: It starts from INR 1500 per person.
For further information, visit: Top 22 Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In Summer To Escape the Heat
If you have more days to spare, Ranikhet has so much more to offer in this idyllic hill town. Don’t hesitate, book a Ranikhet Tour Package from Fred and Fuzzys and enjoy an unforgettable getaway with your loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Activities in Ranikhet
What can I purchase in Ranikhet?
There are several popular items to buy in Ranikhet. One of them is Ball Mithai, a delectable sweet that will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth. Another popular treat is Singaudi, a mixture of ghee and sugar. Additionally, you can find high-quality shawls at renowned outlets in Ranikhet such as Tweed Factory and KRC Shawl.
