Ranikhet (The Queen's Field) has come to be known so because according to popular belief, this spot had won the heart of Rani Padmini, Queen of Raja Sudhardev and she chose this scenic spot to be her abode. To view nature & its elements in full harmony, the right place to be is Ranikhet. It is the place which wonderfully mirrors the best of the heavenly Himalayas offering excellent views of the snowcapped Nanda Devi (7817m), lush green forests, delicate plant life and attractive wild life.
If you want to quickly escape the noise of the city, planning a tour to Ranikhet in Almore district can just be the perfect option. Situated at 1,829 above sea level, the hill station keeps attracting tourists from different places in India and outside. Ranikhet offers excellent opportunities to spend some quality time with your near and dear ones. Wonderful views of the Himalayan peaks, dense forests and a pristine flora and fauna make Ranikhet a must-see place for all. Given below are some of those attractions that you wouldn't want to miss during your holidays in Ranikhet.
Jhula Devi Temple & Ram Mandir :
The Jhula Devi temple was constructed during the 8th centaury AD. The shrine is counted among the oldest temples of Uttarakhand state as well. The dome is about 7 kilo meters away from Ranikhet. The temple is offered to the lady Goddess Durga who is also known as the Hindu Goddess of Power. It is conceived by the people that if some one hang up a bell in the temple during the wish, the wish will be fulfilled. It is also said in the mythos that the temple was constructed to shield the Goddess Durga fro wild animals.
Nanda Devi Mela :
The Nanada Devi Temple is the place where Nanda Devi Mela happens. The Nanda Devi Mela has remained the essence of the cultural significance in the region. The main reason behind this mela is to give honor to the Goddess, Nanda Devi and Sunanda Devi. It was 16th century when Raja Kalyan Chand ruled over the area, hence the fair was begun. Nanada Devi Mela is held in the month of September every year.
Rani Jheel :
This is one of the interesting and impressing destinations of Ranikhet town. Rani Jheel is an artificial lake developed in between the two natural ridges of the city, Canossa Convent School and Kendriya Vidyalaya. This Jheel was made by the Cantonment board for rain water harvesting. Rani Jheel also draws the minds of the people here a lot..
Mankameshwar Temple : The Mankameshwar shrine was existed in the year 1987 by Indian Army's Kumaon Regimental Centre. There are three deities in this shrine are Ma Kalika, Lord Shiva and Radha-Krishna. It is the perfect place for sightseers providing the pleasant atmosphere round the year. A few steps away from the temple there is a Sikh Gurudwara and woolen factories
Chaubatia Orchard : From the main area of Ranikhet there is Chaubatia Orchard just 10 kilo meters away. The Chaubatia Orchard is equipped with at least 200 varieties of fruits and flowers. Those who take interest in enjoying the flora and fauna, they must visit this sits. From this site tourist can also see the beautiful snowcapped peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nilkanth and Nandaghunti.
Upat and Kalika : Upat and Kalika destination is very popular for its magnificent snow covered mountains of Himalayan. Upat and is situated at a distance of 5 kilo meter from Ranikhet. At this area there is a Army Golf Course which very interesting for Golf lovers. The name of Kalika is taken from the very much popular Kali temple located 1 kilo meter in the town from Upat.
