Credit: Khushboo Goel
Ranikhet, a hill station located in the Almora district, has a history that dates back to the time of the Katyuri dynasty that ruled the Kumaon region from the 7th to the 11th century.
According to mythology, Rani Padamini, the queen of Katyuri king Sudhardec, fell in love with the place and decided to stay here.
Later in the 11th to 18th centuries, the place came under the rule of the Chand dynasty. During their period, the place flourished in trade and commerce. During the British era, in 1869, Ranikhet was established as a military base to counter the Nepalese threat. They established a Kumaon regimental center here that became a center to train soldiers for World War 2.
Lord Mayo, the viceroy of India, was so enchanted with the view that he decided to move the headquarters of the army from Shimla to Ranikhet.
After the Independence of India in 1947, Ranikhet became a part of the newly formed state of Uttar Pradesh. Later in 2000, Ranikhet became a part of Uttarakhand.
Places to visit in Ranikhet
Credit: santosh kumar
Bhalu Dam
It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The hydroelectric power plant is operated by Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited. It was created in 1903 as a water reservoir to supply water to the town of Ranikhet. It’s located 3 kilometers away from the town. You can watch several bird species that sit beside the reservoir.
Credit: Anurag Singh
Haidakhan babaji temple
A popular spiritual destination is located in the town of Chillinaula, near Ranikhet in Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Haidakhan Babaji, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Credit: amar kanta goudo
Golf Course Ranikhet
It’s a popular tourist destination for golf enthusiasts and one of the most picturesque golf courses in India.
Built during the British colonial era, it is maintained by the Indian army. Surrounded by a pine and deodar forest that adds overall beauty to the surroundings.
How to Reach Ranikhet
By road: Ranikhet can be reached by road from major cities like Delhi, Nainital, and Almora. The nearest major city is Haldwani, which is about 80 km away from Ranikhet. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from Haldwani to reach Ranikhet.
By train: The nearest railway station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam, which is about 80 km away. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. From Kathgodam, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ranikhet.
By air: The nearest airport to Ranikhet is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 110 km away. Pantnagar Airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From Pantnagar Airport, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ranikhet.