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About Ranikhet – A Tranquil Escape Amidst Nature
Nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, Ranikhet is a charming hill station that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and cultural heritage. A popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace, Ranikhet boasts breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lush green forests, and rolling meadows. The town, with its cool climate and scenic landscapes, is ideal for a relaxing getaway.
Ranikhet, meaning “Queen’s Meadow,” is steeped in history and folklore. It is believed to have been named after the wife of the Kumaon King, who once fell in love with its beauty. Today, visitors can explore its lush pine forests, visit ancient temples, and take in panoramic vistas that are nothing short of magical.
Among Ranikhet’s must-visit attractions is the famous Chaubatia Garden, a sprawling orchard offering spectacular views of the Himalayas, and the Jhula Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess of the region. Adventure seekers can indulge in trekking, camping, and bird watching, as Ranikhet is home to diverse flora and fauna. The town also serves as a peaceful retreat for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re planning a spiritual retreat, an adventure-filled trip, or a quiet escape in nature, Ranikhet is a place that promises an unforgettable experience.
At The Vacation Holidays, we offer curated travel packages to Ranikhet, making it easy for you to explore the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in Uttarakhand. Discover the magic of Ranikhet with us today! Visit The Vacation Holidays for more details.
History & Mythology
Ranikhet, a charming hill station nestled in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its breathtaking views, pine forests, and pleasant climate. But beyond its natural beauty, Ranikhet holds a deep historical and mythological significance.
The name “Ranikhet” translates to “Queen’s Meadow,” which has its roots in a fascinating legend. According to local mythology, Ranikhet was once a favorite spot of the wife of the King of Kumaon. The queen, who adored the serene surroundings and the picturesque landscape, used to visit frequently. In honor of her love for the place, the region was named Ranikhet, which means “the queen’s field” or “the queen’s meadow.”
Beyond the tale of the queen, Ranikhet is steeped in the history of the Kumaon Regiment, a prominent unit in the Indian Army. The town served as the headquarters of the regiment for several decades, adding a military heritage to its character. The Kumaon Regiment has been part of India’s defense forces since the British colonial era and has earned a reputation for valor and courage. The presence of the regiment in Ranikhet brought a certain charm to the town, with colonial-era buildings and beautiful cantonments reflecting the history of this place.
Another interesting aspect of Ranikhet is its association with Hindu mythology. It is said to be linked to the ancient scriptures and gods of the region, particularly Lord Shiva. The sacred temples of Ranikhet, such as the Jhula Devi Temple and the Binsar Mahadev Temple, further connect the town to its spiritual heritage. According to myth, the region was once inhabited by sages and saints, and it continues to be a pilgrimage destination for devotees.
Today, Ranikhet stands as a tranquil blend of history, mythology, and nature, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors who come to explore its scenic beauty and rich past.
Weather/Climate of Ranikhet:
Ranikhet, a charming hill station located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India, is known for its lush greenery, panoramic Himalayan views, and serene atmosphere. Though Ranikhet doesn’t have its own airport or railway station, it is well connected by road, and reaching here is fairly easy through a combination of air, rail, and road travel.
The nearest airport to Ranikhet is Pantnagar Airport, located approximately 110 km away. It operates limited flights, mostly from Delhi.
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (PGH)
Distance to Ranikhet: 110 km
Travel Time: Around 3.5 to 4.5 hours by road
Other Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (approx. 350 km away)
From Pantnagar: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ranikhet. Taxis are readily available at the airport.
The closest railway station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 75–80 km away. Kathgodam is a major railhead in the region and is well connected with cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (Station Code: KGM)
Distance to Ranikhet: 75–80 km
Travel Time: Around 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road
Major Trains to Kathgodam:
Ranikhet Express (from Delhi)
Bagh Express (from Kolkata)
Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express
From Kathgodam, taxis and buses are available to Ranikhet.
Ranikhet is well connected by a network of motorable roads from major cities in North India.
Distance: ~350 km
Travel Time: 8–10 hours
Route: Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Ranikhet
Distance: ~60 km
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Distance: ~45 km
Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
Regular government and private buses operate from Delhi, Haldwani, Almora, and Kathgodam.
Overnight Volvo buses are also available from Delhi to Haldwani/Kathgodam, followed by a taxi or local bus to Ranikhet.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November (avoid monsoon due to landslides)
Road Condition: Generally good, but can be slippery during rains or snow; drive carefully.
Local Transport: Shared taxis and private cabs are the main mode of transport in Ranikhet.
Weather: Pack warm clothes even in summer, as it can get chilly, especially in the evenings.
Ranikhet, a peaceful hill station nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, offers a range of modern and basic facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for visitors and a smooth lifestyle for residents. From healthcare and accommodation to connectivity and local amenities, the town blends nature with convenience.
Ranikhet has a variety of lodging options catering to different budgets and preferences:
Luxury Hotels & Resorts:
Chevron Rosemount
Woodsvilla Resort
WelcomHeritage Windsor Lodge
Mid-Range Hotels:
Hotel Parwati Inn
Queen’s Meadow Hotel
Budget Guesthouses & Homestays:
KMVN Tourist Rest House
Local homestays with scenic views
Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi, room service, travel assistance, and parking facilities.
Though Ranikhet is a small town, it is equipped with essential medical services:
Government Hospital:
Ranikhet Military Hospital – One of the best in the region (mainly for army personnel but assists civilians in emergencies)
CHC Ranikhet (Community Health Center)
Private Clinics & Nursing Homes:
Numerous general physicians and small clinics
Basic diagnostic labs and pharmacies
For serious medical cases, residents often travel to Haldwani or Nainital.
Local Transport:
Taxis, shared jeeps, and auto-rickshaws are available for local sightseeing and travel.
Connectivity:
Well-connected by road to Almora, Nainital, Haldwani, and Kathgodam
Public Buses:
Regular services by Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators
Taxi Services:
Easily available for short trips or full-day hire
Ranikhet has branches of major national and private banks, along with ATM facilities:
Banks in Ranikhet:
State Bank of India (SBI)
Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Bank of Baroda
Axis Bank
ATM Availability:
Available in main market areas and near popular hotels
Digital payment options (UPI, cards) are accepted in most shops and restaurants.
Ranikhet offers a mix of local Kumaoni food, Indian cuisine, and continental options:
Popular Restaurants & Cafés:
Café Ranikhet
Embassy Restaurant
Mayur Restaurant
Street Food & Local Eateries:
Serve momos, parathas, pakoras, and chowmein
Local Cuisine to Try:
Bhaang ki chutney
Aloo ke gutke
Bal Mithai
Ranikhet has several schools and training institutes, especially catering to army families:
Army Public School, Ranikhet
Kendriya Vidyalaya Ranikhet
St. Mary’s Convent School
Vocational and degree colleges available in nearby Almora
Ranikhet’s markets are known for handicrafts, woollens, and local produce:
Sadar Bazaar: Main shopping hub
Khari Bazaar: Known for traditional items
Popular Items:
Woollen clothes
Hand-knitted shawls
Local jams, pickles, and handicrafts
Mobile networks such as Jio, Airtel, and BSNL work well, though signal can be weak in remote areas.
4G internet is available, but speeds may vary.
Many hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi.
India Post Office, Ranikhet – Offers all postal services
Courier services like DTDC and Blue Dart are available in town
Police Station: Ranikhet Police Station ensures law and order
Emergency Contacts:
Police: 100
Fire: 101
Ambulance: 108
Army presence adds an extra layer of safety and order to the region
10 amazing attractions to visit in Ranikhet:
Things to Do in Ranikhet
