Ranikhet is situated in Uttaranchal. It is located at the height of 6000 ft above sea level
in the Kumaon hills. It is 54 km from Nainital.
Long ago a Kumaoni queen, Rani Padmini, got so enamored with the green glades and fields of a tiny hill heaven that her husband, Raja Sukherdev, built her a grand palace there. He named the place Ranikhet, or 'queen's meadow’ after his wife Rani Padmini. So this is what legend is. But now there are no remains of the palace to lend credence to this legend. All those who have visited Ranikhet have no qualms about the charm of this small town.
Part of the Ranikhet experience is in getting to this place. One gets to see the vistas that make the hill stations of Uttaranchal simply amazing - thick, forested slopes of pine and deodar which sparkling white, lively mountain streams and, far below, unspoiled valleys carpeted with flowers.
As one goes towards Ranikhet, one should keep a lookout for the best view of all as the snow clad Himalaya comes into clear view.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
With museums, temples, lively bazaars and orchards full of fruit, there is a lot to see and do in Ranikhet. It is also a great place to relax and gaze leisurely at the superb Himalayas.
One should also see The Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, KRC widows' Organisation and weaving factory, Jhula Devi and Mankameshawar temples.
Majhkhali
It is 13km down the Almora Road. This village has many sweet picnic spots. Awe-inspiring snow peaks provide superb views. So here one can just get lost in the beauty of the nature.
Upat and Kalika
Upat is a golfing hub. Here one can do golfing at high altitudes, and a high-powered shot can land far, far below in the valley! Visitors can enjoy a game of golf at the Army Golf Course on Upat.
The weather remains pleasant year round and during is best from March to June and again from October to February. One should avoid the months from July to September due to heavy rainfalls
GETTING THERE: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station. One can hire a cab from Kathgodam which generally costs $20. A shared cab to Ranikhet costs $5 per person. If one takes taxi back to Kathgodam, it costs more at $20.The drive scenic drive from Kathgodam, over twisting roads is simply amazing.
