Ranikhet - Queen's Meadow
One of the perhaps best hill stations in India and a key tourist hotspot of the country, Ranikhet is yet another lovely place to cover in Uttarakhand. It gives amazing vistas of the Western Himalayas. This wonderful destination offers dazzling and unmatched views of the Nanda Devi as well. Ranikhet inspires travelers from practically all over the country and beyond.
Since long it has been a paradise of sorts for the people of the plains. Ranikhet draws its name from Rani Padmini. Legend has it that when she visited this lovely place for the first time she was so captivated by its natural splendor that she asked her husband, Raja Sukherdev, to build built a palace for her here.
Tourist Attractions
There are many tourist hotspots in and near Ranikhet that much inspire the visitors. Chaubatia Gardens is one such spot. It is a mammoth orchard spread over a total area of 265 acres. There are some famous temples as well in Ranikhet which double as the leading tourist attractions of the region. Jhoola Devi Ka Mandir is one such place. It was built about four centuries back in the honor of the local Goddess, who protected the people from the man-eating tigers then prowling the region. Kali Devi ka Mandir is another such attraction. The temple said to be more than 5000 years old has several bells.
As far as the tourist attractions around Ranikhet are concerned, Almora besides Nainital, are the leading names. These two lovely tourist places are located between 50 and 60 kilometers away from Ranhikhet. Both spots must be covered while on a visit to Ranikhet.
Ranikhet also offers few thrilling treks for the trekking enthusiasts. Such visitors can enjoy trekking to certain places near Ranikhet, including Dunagiri, Sitalakhet and Kausani.
Best Time to Visit
The period between April and June is considered the best time to visit the place as it offers an escape of sorts to those looking for the same.
How to Reach
Ranikhet is well connected by air, road and train. Pantnagar - located at a distance of 113 kms - is the nearest airport, while the nearest railhead is Kathgodam, situated nearly 82 kilometres away.
