Ranikhet is a beautiful small hill station, near Almora Town in Almora district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Ranikhet is situated at an altitude of 1,869 meters (6,132 ft) above sea level, offering a scenic view of the western peaks of the Himalayas.
Trip from Delhi:
Ranikhet is about 370km away from Delhi. It can be a serene weekend gateway away from the city chaos, amid the lush greenery. You can plan a short trip of about 2-3 days. One can start early from Delhi, driving through the winding mountain roads. The crisp mountain air hits as one reaches this charming hill station.
Best time to visit:
March to June (Summer): The weather is very pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 8°C to 22°C. This period is perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the lush green landscapes.
September to November (Autumn): Post-monsoon, the weather is crisp, and the greenery is refreshed. The temperature is mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring.
Winters (December to February): Months are cold, with temperatures dropping below zero, and offering a scenic snow-covered landscape. It’s perfect for winter vacations and snow lovers.
It’s best to avoid travel during the monsoon season (July to August) as due to heavy rainfall, there are often landslides that hinder travel.
Routes:
By Road (Direct Drive)
One has to cover a distance of approx. 350 km. Starting from Delhi, take the highway to Hapur to Moradabad, Kashipur through Ramnagar, and finally reach Ranikhet in about 9-10hrs. This route offers scenic beauty as one ascends the hills towards Ranikhet. Roads are in good condition, but the hill section after Ramnagar requires careful driving.
By Train (Train to Kathgodam + Road)
One can take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam, which will be approx 5-6hrs. Once you reach Kathgodam, you can take a cab/bus from there to Ranikhet. Approx time – 2-3hrs.
By Bus
There is also direct bus routes from Delhi to Ranikhet. Buses (both private and government-run) can be taken from ISBT Anand Vihar or Majnu Ka Tila in Delhi. The journey can take around 9 to 10 hours. Overnight buses are available.
By Air
One can take a 1hr short flight from Delhi to Pantnagar Airport. From the airport, one can hire a taxi, to cover a distance of 110 km. One can reach Ranikhet in about 3-4hrs.
Things to do in Ranikhet:
Short hike to Jhula Devi Temple
It’s a short but scenic, peaceful walk in nature. The trail winds through pine and deodar forests, offering beautiful views of the Himalayas. The trek covers a distance of around 3 kilometers. The hike is not too steep, therefore suitable for beginners or for a gentle walk in nature. It typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to hike up the trek. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple opens at 6 a.m. till 6 p.m. on all days.
Visit to The Haidakhan Babaji Temple
It’s a revered spiritual site dedicated to Shri Haidakhan Babaji, a spiritual teacher who was believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, which adds to its spiritual allure. The temple complex contains a serene ashram, and meditation spaces, and is a place of pilgrimage for devotees. Temple is about 4 kilometers from Ranikhet, and it is accessible by road or a short hike. The temple remains open from 6.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on all days. Navratri celebrations are observed with great enthusiasm and can be a good spot to enjoy the festivities.
Have a picnic at Ashiyana Park
It’s a charming recreational spot located in the heart of Ranikhet. It is an ideal place for having a picnic with families, especially those traveling with children, to unwind and relax. The park remains open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on all days, having an entry fee of rs.5/- per person. The park is well-maintained with lush green lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a variety of swings and slides for kids. It also offers a stunning view of the majestic Himalayas. The park also houses an Herbal Park which is a must-visit. It’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a relaxing picnic day with family and friends.
Visit Kalika Temple
The temple is dedicated to Goddess kali. The Temple remains open from 7:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. on all days. This tiny hill town is about fifteen minutes away from Ranikhet. During winters, the area receives heavy snowfall. Navratri is celebrated with great fanfare.
The Ranikhet Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in Asia, is also located nearby and can be an addition to your trip.
