Offering the best of the Himalayas, Ranikhet nestled among pine forests in the Kumaon hills near Naintal, Uttaranchal, is the perfect tourist paradise. At an altitude of 1829 mts above sea level, this lovely hill station has an overwhelming natural beauty that never fails to leave the onlooker spellbound.
Named after Rani Padmini, queen of Raja Sudhardev who chose this scenic place to be her abode, Ranikhet which means ‘Queen’s Field’ delights with lush green forests, exotic flora and fauna and majestic mountain peaks. Ranikhet is the headquarters of the Kumaoun Regimental Centre and the town also houses the KRC museum and memorial.
Ranikhet has visitors all the year round. Some of the popular tourist attractions are Upat Kalika, 6 km from the town on Almora Road, which has one of the best mountain golf course in the country, Kalika near Upat with its famous Kali temple, Chaubatiya Garden with orchards and a Government Fruit Reserch Centre, Bhalu Dam famous for fishing and Hairakhan Dham with the ashram of Hairakhan Baba. Go on 13 km from Ranikhet to get a spectacular close up view of the Himalayas from Majkhali. Besides this, Ranikhet offers excellent opportunities for walks, picnicking and trekking. It is a haven for bird watchers and visitors who seek a tranquil holiday, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The nearest airport is Pant Nagar (119km). Kathgodam (83 km) and Ramnagar (96km) are the nearest railheads. Ranikhet is connected by road with all the major towns of the region. There are regular buses to Almora, Nainital & Ramnagar operated by KMOU & State Roadways. It is 279 km from Delhi (279km) and 254 km from Haridwar.
