Mukteshwar - Mukteshwar Dham OR The Temple Tiger OR its shrines and temples

Located at a height of 7,500 ft above sea level the enchanting Himalayan destination of Mukteshwar majestically sits on a high ridge, in an isolated corner of the Kumaon Mountains. This charming tourist place is 42 km away from Haldwani, 51 km away from Nainital and 395 km away from the national capital, New Delhi.

It was at Mukteshwar that the God Shiva is believed to have granted mukti (immortality) to a demon that he killed at this very place. There’s a century-old Shiva Temple known as Mukteshwar Temple at this spot. This famous temple is located at a height of 2,315 m and can be reached using stone stairs.

The temple complex has a lingam made with white marble. The idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Ganesh, Nandi and Hanuman surround the lingam. Next to the temple is the Chauli Jali - a natural latticework on the rock. It is believed that if a barren woman touches this jali, she gets blessed with a child.

Surrounded by picture-perfect fruit orchards and verdant coniferous forests, Mukteshwar’s claim to fame mainly rests on the fact that it offers superb 180 degrees views of the scenic snow-capped Himalayas - maybe best viewed in autumn and spring. Another USP of this virginal beauty is that the so-called popular tourism has still not been able to affect it. No wonder, Mukteshwar demands and gets much more than just a day trip from the discerning visitors.

Lately, the choice of accommodation has also been increasing at Mukteshwar offering the travelers the chance to spend a few days in this serene and quiet tourist place, soaking in the lovely atmosphere, admiring the sights, or just going for long, leisurely walks and treks in the thick forests of the region.

A much sought after holiday hotspot of the English, the peaceful hamlet has several old colonial bungalows as well. There is also the renowned Veterinary Institute built by them. To enter the campus of the institute which was established way back in 1898, visitors are required to get special permission.

How to Reach

Mukteshwar is well connected by rail, road and air.

By Air: The airport which is closest to this place is at Pantnagar.

By Rail: The closest railway station is at Kathgodam.

By Road: The hilly destination is well linked by surface network with a number of famous towns and cities.