Ranikhet, Uttarakhand: Best Attractions & Things to Do
Ranikhet, in the district of Kumaon, Uttarakhand, is 1,830 metres above sea level, and it features prominently in the legends and folklore associated with the Himalayas.
Ranikhet was briefly held by Nepalese before becoming part of the British empire in 1816. Remembering this essential aspect is crucial. This has led to the hill station’s meteoric rise in popularity as a vacation spot for city dwellers seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tarikhet and Majkhali are two small villages outside of Ranikhet that are well worth seeing for the beautiful memories of rice paddies, quiet meadows, and babbling brooks that they will leave in your mind forever.
Some of Ranikhet’s most well-known landmarks are as follows. But before you read that, if you are a foreigner, check out this Indian visa application process.
Garden of Chaubatia
There are several places to visit in Ranikhet, but one of the most well-known is the Chaubatia Gardens, which are also well-known for its apple orchards. They’re encircled by verdant plants. About 600 acres in size, the Chaubatia Garden can be found 10 kilometres from Ranikhet’s main town.
More than two hundred varieties of apples, peaches, apricots, and plums, as well as other fruits and flowers, can be found in the orchard.
The orchard is not only a peaceful place to get in touch with nature, but also offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the snowy peaks of Nanda Devi, Neelkanth, Trishul, and Nandaghunti.
The orchard is a great spot for a picnic because it is secluded from civilization and surrounded by lush, natural landscapes.
Ranikhet’s Chaubatia Garden, home to the Horticultural Research Institute of India, is a major draw for visitors. Visitors can learn about Ranikhet’s agricultural scene and stock up on a wide selection of locally made products at this market.
Temple of Jhula Devi
The Jhula Devi Temple is one of Ranikhet’s most visited landmarks because of the beautiful bells housed in its sanctum, which are a tribute to Durga. According to urban mythology, this shrine dates back to the seventh century.
The deity of the Jhula Devi Temple is shown in a statue sitting on a jhula, the Hindi term for a cradle, hence the temple’s name. You’ll find it on Kumaon Hill, surrounded by the peace and quiet that nature provides.
As the legend goes, the goddess herself once visited a sleeping shepherd and guided him straight to the goddess’s idol. Here you can check out Indian visa passport requirements.
Because of their faith that she protects their home, the residents of this valley have a great deal of respect for the goddess Durga. In addition, there is a common notion that whoever hangs a bell on the temple wall would gradually see their wishes come true.
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
The Kumaon Regimental Centre is a famous museum in Ranikhet that has been around since the 1970s, showcasing the rich history of the Kumaon Area. The museum is now a popular destination for sightseers.
The museum was founded by the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army, and it now displays artefacts from past battles that reflect the skill and success of both the Kumaon and Garhwal regiments. Kumaon Regiment is honoured with a museum bearing its name.
Photographs of actual battles are on display alongside artefacts such as weapons, flags, medals, and more that have been used by the military. Tablets carved from stone are also on display.
The silver sceptre of Rani Jhansi, photos and documents from the Kargil War, a wireless field phone used by the Japanese during World War II, and Chinese guns captured in the 1962 conflict are just a few of the priceless artefacts it houses. These things were all obtained during the course of the war.
Bhalu Dam
The Bhalu Dam is a small man-made lake in the woods near the Chaubatia Orchard. Just 3 km from Chaubatia and 11 km from Ranikhet, it is conveniently located between the two cities.
The British Viceroy at the time, in 1903, built the semicircular Bhalu Dam to supply the troops with drinkable water. A small lake stretches for 70m, is 6.6m wide, and is 9m deep.
Spectacular views of the Himalayas can be seen in the landscape around this lake. The small but beautiful garden that encompasses the dam presents an unforgettable sight.
The area around the dam is one of the best places to visit in the world for nature lovers thanks to its pleasant climate and picturesque snow-covered valleys. Popular things to do there include having picnics and camping.
Sophia has done Masters’s in Mass Communication from Delhi University, India. She is a qualified new reporter and a columnist as well. She worked sometimes for BenjaNews as well.
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