20 Best Places To Visit In Ranikhet For A Delightful Weekend In 2023

Orange sky after sunset in the mountains

8 Nov 2021

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Amid the peace and serenity of the Himalayas, at the height of 1,869 m lies the gorgeous little Ranikhet. In the valleys of this little town, one can hear the mellow sound of hundreds of bells and Himalayan forest thrush all day long.There are many best places to visit in Ranikhet that attract thousands of mountain lovers from Delhi and other major cities to this cantonment town of Almora district. Here’s a complete list of best places to visit in Ranikhet on your next weekend trip to Uttarakahnd.

20 Best Places To Visit In Ranikhet

Looking for the best Ranikhet sightseeing sites? A vacation amidst the lush green valleys of Ranikhet are not restricted to natural beauties as there are numerous interesting places in Ranikhet to be explored on your next hilly escape! Let’s look at some of the best places to visit in Ranikhet.

Golf Ground – A Picturesque And Expansive Golf Course
Chaubatia Garden – The Sprawling Fruit Orchard
Ashiyana Park – A Jungle Theme Wonderland For Kids
Rani Jheel – The Sparkling Lake Of The Town
Bhalu Dam – A Natural Nirvana
Sunset Point – For A Stunning View
Majkhali – Amazing View And Astounding Beauty
Kalika – Serene Town With Magnificent Architectures
Manila Village – Nature’s Delight
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum – Patriotic Vibes
Tarikhet Village – Scenic Landscapes
Sadar Bazaar – Shopaholic’s Delight
Jhula Devi Temple – The Wish Fulfilling Abode
Haidakhan Babaji Temple – Peace Of Mind And Solemn Happiness
Mankameshwar Temple – A Temple Raised By The Indian Army
Sun Temple – Illuminating Hours
Binsar Mahadev Mandir – Visit An Ancient Temple
Dwarahat – A Simple Town
Ram Mandir – Temple On A Hillock
Apple Garden – Vast Pretty Red Farms

1. Golf Ground – A Picturesque And Expansive Golf Course

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Golf Ground is among the best places to see in Ranikhet on your upcoming trip. Situated at an altitude of 6132 feet and recognized as one of the highest golf courses in Asia, this is a sprawling and luxuriant nine hole golf ground, surrounded by mighty Kumaon Mountains and lush green forests.

Location: Khari Bazar, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: Open throughout the day. One can play golf between 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Charges: There is no entry charge. For playing it is INR 150/game
Things to do: Play golf
Famous for: Second largest golf course in India
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours

Suggested Read: Top 44 Amazing Places To Visit In Uttarakhand

2. Chaubatia Garden – The Sprawling Fruit Orchard

Spread over 600 acres of rolling land, Chaubatia Garden is one of the best tourist places in Ranikhet. Known for plantation of plums, pears, apples, and apricots, it’s a beautiful orchard painted with different colors. This charming landscape is ideal for leisurely strolls and family picnics. One can also spot Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nilkanth from here on a clear sunny day. This is one of the most beautiful Ranikhet tourist places.

Location: Chaubatia, Uttarakhand 263651
Opening hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Things to do: Explore the orchids of apple, peaches, apricot and more
Famous for: Orchids, beautiful views
Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: NA

3. Ashiyana Park – A Jungle Theme Wonderland For Kids

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Featuring well-manicured lawns, herbal orchards, fountains, and most importantly, kid’s play area—Ashiyana Park is one of the most picturesque theme parks not only in Ranikhet but in entire Uttarakhand. Located at the heart of the cantonment town, it is one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet.

Location: Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Things to do: Best place for kids, enjoy the fountains
Famous for: Jungle theme design
Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: INR 10

4. Rani Jheel – The Sparkling Lake Of The Town

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Rani Jheel is an artificial lake built by Cantonment Board of Indian Army for the purpose of rainwater harvesting, but it has now become a popular tourist place in Ranikhet. Snuggled at an elevation of 2500 feet, Rani Jheel is a beautiful spot for picnics, romantic walks, and boating. This is surely among the most romantic tourist places in Ranikhet.

Location: Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Charges: Entry is free. INR 30-50 for a half an hour boat ride.
Things to do: Boating, strolling around the lake
Famous for: Calming and serene views of the nature
Ideal duration: 2-4 hours

5. Bhalu Dam – A Natural Nirvana

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Perfect for camping and trekking—Bhalu Dam is an artificial lake encircled by lush green forests, valleys, and snow-capped Himalayan ranges. Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of the main town, this serene and beautiful place is a hot favourite of couples. This is also one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet for bird watching.

Location: Diholi, Uttarakhand 263651
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Things to do: Camping and picning
Famous for: Trekking
Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee: NA

6. Sunset Point – For A Stunning View

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Ranikhet is home to many sunset points, from where one can see a glorious sunset. People generally trek up to these points to feel a gush of cool Himalayan wind and enjoy the most photogenic sunset from here. Among many, Majhkhali is one such popular viewing point in Ranikhet. This is undoubtedly the most beautiful tourist places in Ranikhet.

Location: Dairi, Uttarakhand 263653
Opening hours: Always open
Things to do: Enjoy the sunset
Famous for: Views of the mountains and valley
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: NA

Suggested Read: Trekking In Uttarakhand

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7. Majkhali – Amazing View And Astounding Beauty

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Well-known for immense natural beauty, Majkhali is among the best places to visit in Ranikhet for peace seekers. Situated on Almora Road, 12 kms from Ranikhet- Majkhali is a quaint and picturesque hamlet, popular for viewing Himalayan peaks, particularly Trishul. The place is a habitat for rich varieties of flora and fauna and also popular for a vintage Kali temple.

Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263652
Opening hours: Always open
Things to do: Picnic, Trekking, Camping
Famous for: Views
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Entry Fee: NA

8. Kalika – Serene Town With Magnificent Architectures

Kalika is located at a distance of 6 kilometers from Ranikhet and is known for its mesmerizing sites. It is amongst the most visited places by the travelers staying in Ranikhet. If you love exploring impeccable places away from the hustle bustle of the city then you must surely head to this small town located on the foot skirts of Ranikhet.

Location: Ranikhet Range, Uttarakhand 263652
Opening hours: NA
Things to do: Enjoy a vacation
Famous for: Kalika temple, golf course
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Entry Fee: NA

Suggested Read: 7 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Uttarakhand

9. Manila Village – Nature’s Delight

Manila is quite famous for Maa Manila Devi Temple and welcomes tourists staying in Ranikhet throughout the year. This serene town is home to mesmerizing spots that will surely revive your soul with its picturesque beauty. You can interact with locals here and listen to the popular folklores of Manila. If you are a nature admirer then you must surely head to this place on your next vacay to Ranikhet.

Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening Hours: NA
Things to do: Sightseeing, Trekking
Famous for: Manila Devi temple
Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee: NA

Suggested Read: River Rafting In Uttarakhand

10. Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum – Patriotic Vibes

This museum was established by the Kumaon Regiment of Indian Army in the early 1970s to showcase the rich legacy of this region. The museum is home to war artefacts exhibiting the glorious contributions and achievements of Kumaon and Garhwal regiments in the Indian Army. This is one of the most visited tourist places in Ranikhet.

You can glance at the war photographs along with weapons used by the forces and medals. The museum also offers an enormous collection of important documents including those related to the Kargil war and a few silver sceptres of Rani Laxmi Bai.

Location: Bus Station, KMOU, Sarna Garden Road, Raneth, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 9:00 AM
Things to do: Visit the museum
Famous for: Historical significance
Ideal duration: 5-6 hours
Entry Fee: INR 20

Suggested Read: 11 Beautiful Valleys In Uttarakhand

11. Tarikhet Village – Scenic Landscapes

Another delightful Ranikhet tourist places for nature lovers holidaying in here is Tarikhet Village. It is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from the main town and is well-connected to the major centres. Tarikhet gained popularity during the pre-independence era as Mahatma Gandhi used to reside here. You can also head to Gandhi Kutiya to catch the glimpse of his presence at this place. The village has access to some amazing Ranikhet resorts for a leisure stay.

Location: Tarikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: Always open
Things to do: Picnic, trekking
Famous for: Historical significance
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Entry Fee: NA

12. Sadar Bazaar – Shopaholic’s Delight

For all the shopaholics staying in Ranikhet, Sadar Bazaar is surely a paradise as it offers really interesting household items you surely don’t want to miss out. You can also grab delicious local nrefurfood here to get the true vibe of the Kumaon region. This market is located in proximity to the popular hotels in Ranikhet.

Location: Khari Bazar, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 10:00 AM
Things to do: Shopping
Famous for: Sweets, fruits, traditional items
Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: NA

13. Jhula Devi Temple – The Wish Fulfilling Abode

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Dedicated to mighty Goddess Durga, Jhula Devi Temple is one of the most divine tourist places in Ranikhet. Mythological stories reveal that this temple was built to protect the local people from attack of wild animals of the surrounding forests. Numerous devotees visit this auspicious place to make wishes and on fulfillment, offer a bell to the goddess as a tradition. This is amongst the most popular things to do in Ranikhet.

Location: Chaubatia, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Things to do: NA
Famous for: Its architecture
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: NA

14. Haidakhan Babaji Temple – Peace Of Mind And Solemn Happiness

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Raised by Haidakhan, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, this age old temple is surely another popular place to visit in Ranikhet. With gigantic figurines of Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva, it only attracts devotees from surrounding areas but also foreigners who want to get married following Indian traditions. To attain inner peace and solitude and participate in Satsang Bhajans amid the scenic town, one must visit this temple. This is one of those Ranikhet tourist places that welcomes pilgrims and visitors throughout the year.

Location: NH 87, Chiliyanaula, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset
Things to do: NA
Famous for: Haida khan who is believed to be human form of god
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: NA

Suggested Read: 60 Honeymoon Destinations In India

15. Mankameshwar Temple – Built By The Indian Army

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Mankameshwar Temple is devoted to three deities—Ma Kalika, Lord Shiva, and Radha Krishna. Constructed by the Kumaon Regiment of Indian Army, this place is a must visit for spiritual tourists. A Gurdwara is also located near the temple.

Location: Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Things to do: NA
Famous for: History of temple
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: NA

16. Sun Temple – Illuminating Hours

Sun Temple in Ranikhet is an iconic attraction here and is also known as Katarmal. It is amongst the most ancient temples in the region and is believed to be established nearly 800 years ago. The temple exhibits ancient architectural patterns and is home to 44 small shrines. You can also visit this temple if you love exploring the historical places that played significant roles in the growth of society.

Location: Katarmal, Uttarakhand 263656
Opening hours: 6:00 AM
Things to do: Explore the monument
Famous for: Ancient architecture
Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee: NA

17. Binsar Mahadev Mandir – Visit An Ancient Temple

Binsar Mahadev Temple is among the most visited temples in Uttarakhand. The temple was known as Bisaona during its inception in the 10th century. The temple was commissioned by King Pithu who worshipped Bindeshwar, an incarnated form of Shiva here. There are idols of numerous Hindu deities here. You can spend refreshing hours here amidst the impeccable beauty of Mother Earth.

Location: Bisaona, Uttarakhand 263664
Opening hours: 7:00 AM
Things to do: Worship
Famous for: Historical significance
Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee: NA

Suggested Read: Camping In Uttarakhand

18. Dwarahat – A Simple Town

Image Credits: Charles F. Xavier Xth for Wikipedia

Dwarahat is a small town and one of the best places to visit in Ranikhet with temples. With 55 temples in the region, you can expect a lot of simplicity across the town. You can find some of the best homestays in Ranikhet located near these temples. Visit here if you are looking for an experience that is not the typical. The serene town is situated within the Kumaon hilly areas and one that serves as the gateway to some of the best hill stations near Ranikhet.

Location: Almora, Uttarakhand 263653
Opening hours: Always open
Things to do: Relax, rejuvenate
Famous for: Temples, views,
Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee: NA

19. Ram Mandir – Temple On A Hillock

The sacred Ram Mandir located on a hillock is one of the finest places to visit in Ranikhet. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the holy temple is located in the proximity of Jhula Devi temple. With easy access from Ranikhet, this is a must-visit to witness the power and aura of the natural destination. To reach the temple, you need to take stairs that will guide you to the hilltop.

Location: Unnamed Road, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: Always open
Charges: No entry fee
Things to do: Pray, witness the panoramic views
Famous for: Being an isolated temple atop a hill
Ideal Duration: 1 hour

20. Apple Garden – Vast Pretty Red Farms

One of the prettiest places to see in Ranikhet is the Apple Garden. An orchard comprising several acres of land, you will find the most authentic apples here. The huge lush green fields have a reddish color coming out of it all. Try and buy some fresh apples if you please.

Location: Raneth, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645
Opening hours: Always open
Charges: No entry fee
Things to do: Witness the apple farms, watch sunset
Famous for: Authentic apples
Ideal Duration: 1 hour

Further Read: Fly Like A Bird: 30 Gorgeous Places In India For An Exhilarating Paragliding Experience

Are you planning a weekend trip to Ranikhet? It’s true that all these best places to visit in Ranikhet are meant to provide an amazing weekend getaway. They will surely lift up your spirit and soul. Check out these weekend vacay plans and you can also get an itinerary customized according to your preferences. You can also share your weekend getaway experiences with us by commenting below!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Ranikhet

What are the top attractions to visit in Ranikhet?

The top attractions to visit in Ranikhet consist of several sacred places such as Mankameshwar Temple, Haidakhan Temple, Ram Mandir, and Jhoola Devi. Other attractions may include popular picnic locations such as Ashiyana Park, Rani Jheel, and Chaubatia Garden.

How many days are enough for Ranikhet?

For a hassle-free experience during your visit to Ranikhet, you may need at least 3-4 days to explore the town, as there are various tourist attractions that cannot be covered in less than 3 days.

Is it safe to visit Ranikhet during Covid times?

As the Government of Uttarakhand has now opened its border to tourists, some mandatory guidelines have been issued for people traveling from other states such as producing Covid Vaccination Certificate for both doses and RT PCR Test Report. Visitors should follow Covid Protocols like wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and using hand sanitizers while visiting public places.

Which is better, Almora or Ranikhet?

Both Almora and Ranikhet are special in their own way and offer scenic views of the Himalayas, but the major difference is that Ranikhet is comparatively less crowded than Almora and offers a calm and relaxing environment.

What is Ranikhet famous for?

Ranikhet is famous for its boundless beauty and temples. There are many popular places to visit in Ranikhet that are worth visiting such as Haidakhan Temple, Ram Mandir, Jhoola Devi, and Ashiyana Park.

Does it snow in Ranikhet?

Yes, it does snow in Ranikhet during winters but only for a few days as the temperature drops down to an average of 4.5°C. Since it doesn’t snow for very long, the probability of witnessing it is quite low.

How to reach Ranikhet?

People commute to Ranikhet by road, by rail, or by flight. The Pantnagar Airport located at a distance of 115 km and Kathgodam Railway Station located at a distance of 88 km from Ranikhet are major modes of transport. Travellers also find it convenient to travel by road as it connects really well with all the major towns in Uttarakhand.

How far is Ranikhet from Almora?

Ranikhet is located at a distance of 48 km from Almora which can be covered either by rail or by road in approximately 1.5-2 hours.

What is the best time to visit Ranikhet?

April to July (before the monsoon) and September to November (after the monsoon) is the best time to visit Ranikhet as the weather is perfect to explore the lush green mountains and enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas.

What can I buy in Ranikhet?

Many visitors purchase Bal Mithai and Singaudi which are the famous sweets in Ranikhet. Other things may include woolen clothes, handicrafts, and much more which you could get from the local markets.

What are the best resorts in Ranikhet?

Woodsvilla Residency, Queen Meadows, and Windsor Lodge are some of the most luxurious resorts in Ranikhet. If you are on a budget, then resorts such as Frozen Woods, Xanadu, and Snow View are some of the pocket-friendly resorts to opt for.