A Spontaneous Journey to Uttrakhand: 5 Places To See In Ranikhet

Some of the best trips are the ones you don’t plan, and ours was proof of that. One lazy morning in Lucknow, my brother and I found ourselves craving the mountains. We were searching on places to see in Ranikhet, but couldn’t decide final place. Without a second thought, we decided to drive towards Uttarakhand . We didn’t even bother to pick a destination. The idea was to figure it out when we reached the Uttar Pradesh–Uttarakhand border.

After packing a few essentials and grabbing some snacks, we hit the road. The drive was long, nearly five hours. But, as the air turned cooler and the flat plains slowly gave way to the first glimpses of hills, we knew we had made the right choice. When we finally crossed into Uttarakhand, standing right at the border, we opened Google Maps to pick a spot.

Nainital? Too crowded. Mukteshwar? Too far. Then we noticed the road leading towards Almora, winding through the Kumaon hills. Dotted with quaint little towns and lush forests. We decided to follow it and it turned out to be the best decision of the trip.

About Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, The Hill Station

As we drove through the scenic roads of the Kumaon region, the beauty around us kept growing. The hills were covered in pines and deodars. Valleys rolled beneath us, and the cool breeze carried the scent of the mountains. Every turn offered breathtaking views, and we couldn’t stop smiling.

By the time we reached Ranikhet, Uttrakhand, the hill Station, it was late afternoon. Neither of us had been there before, but the first sight of this charming hill station won our hearts. For those who don’t know, Ranikhet is a serene town in the Almora district, Uttarakhand. It is known for its pristine natural beauty, lush green meadows, and stunning views of the Himalayan range. According to legend, the name “Ranikhet” means “Queen’s Meadow. It was believed to be the favorite spot of a Kumaoni queen.

How to Visit Ranikhet

If you’re wondering how to visit Ranikhet, the easiest way is by road. It’s about 350 km from Delhi and about 280 km from Lucknow. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, about 75 km away, and the nearest airport is Pantnagar. From Kathgodam or Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ranikhet. For us, the road trip itself was part of the adventure. We highly recommended if you love long drives through the hills.

The Mesmerising Views from Ranikhet

After checking into a small hotel, we headed straight to one of the famous viewpoints. What we saw there was truly magical. The Himalyan view was panoramic. We saw snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul gleaming under the evening sun. The sky was painted in shades of pink and orange, and the silence of the mountains made the moment unforgettable.

Tourist Spots In Ranikhet

Although our trip was spontaneous, we managed to explore a few highlights the next day. If you’re planning a visit, here are some places to see in Ranikhet:

• Jhula Devi Temple & Ram Mandir — Ancient temples surrounded by peaceful forests.
• Chaubatia Gardens — Famous for orchards, lush greenery, and Himalayan views.
• Golf Course — One of the highest golf courses in Asia, with breathtaking scenery.
• Bhalu Dam — A small, beautiful reservoir perfect for a quiet picnic.
• Majkhali — Another stunning viewpoint to admire the Himalayan ranges.

Each of these spots offers its own charm and is perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the region.

Why You Should Visit Ranikhet

If you’re looking for a quiet, getaway far from the crowds of Nainital and Mussoorie, Ranikhet is the perfect choice. With its peaceful environment, lush forests, and amazing views, it feels like heaven in the Kumaon hills.

For us, the trip was more than just a destination. It was about the joy of discovery, the beauty of the journey, and the memories we created along the way. Somewhere between Lucknow’s chaotic streets and Ranikhet’s quiet meadows, we realised that the best experiences come when you let the road decide where to take you.

So next time you feel the mountains calling, don’t overthink it. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let your heart lead you. You might just find yourself in a place as beautiful as Ranikhet.

Quick Recap: Ranikhet to See

✅ Panoramic Himalayan views
✅ Serene temples and gardens
✅ Peaceful picnic spots
✅ Pine forests and clean mountain air

Ranikhet isn’t just a destination it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after you leave.

Thanks to UK Gov for making our journey smooth and happy during the covid times