Ranikhet Travel Guide: Viewpoints, Golf & Temples
Ranikhet, the Queen's Meadow, is a tranquil cantonment town in the Almora district at around 1,870 metres. Maintained largely by the Indian Army's Kumaon Regiment, it is clean, green and refreshingly unhurried, with thick deodar forests and wide Himalayan views that make it a favourite for travellers seeking a quiet getaway rather than a busy hill resort. There are no clamouring crowds or honking traffic here, just pine-scented air and gentle ridge walks, which is precisely why so many people return.
Gardens and orchards
The area around Ranikhet is well known for its fruit orchards and research gardens, which are at their most beautiful in spring blossom and again in autumn.
- Chaubatia Gardens, sprawling apple, apricot, peach and plum orchards about 10 km away, with a fine viewpoint of the snow peaks and a government fruit research station.
- Bhalu Dam, a small artificial lake near Chaubatia, perfect for a quiet walk and a packed lunch.
Temples and culture
Ranikhet has a handful of meaningful shrines and cultural stops that reward a slow visit.
- Jhula Devi Temple, famous for the thousands of brass bells tied by devotees whose wishes were granted; the courtyard literally rings with them.
- Haidakhan Babaji Temple at Chiliyanaula, a peaceful hilltop ashram with calm gardens.
- Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, displaying war memorabilia, weapons and the proud history of the regiment.
Viewpoints and the golf course
The town is dotted with scenic points and is home to one of the highest golf courses in Asia, set among the pines.
- Upat Golf Course, a sweeping nine-hole course ringed by deodar forest, open to visitors.
- Majkhali, a quiet spot on the road to Almora with clear, close-up views of Nanda Devi.
- Ranikhet Club area and the small mall for an easy evening stroll.
Best time to visit
April to June offers warm, comfortable days perfect for sightseeing, while September to November brings the clearest Himalayan views once the monsoon clouds have lifted. Winters are cold with occasional snowfall, giving the town a quiet, postcard feel. The monsoon is lush and green but driving is slower and views are often hidden. Whatever the season, mornings here are crisp, so carry a jacket.
How to reach
Ranikhet is about 80 km from Haldwani and roughly 60 km from Nainital. The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, around 75 km away, and the nearest airport is Pant Nagar. The drive winds steadily through pine and oak forests and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours from Haldwani, with several pull-off points for photos along the way.
A practical tip: Ranikhet's attractions are spread out across several kilometres of ridge, so a car is by far the most comfortable way to cover Chaubatia, Jhula Devi, the golf course and Majkhali in a single relaxed day without backtracking.
Arjun Travels offers comfortable taxis and tailored day trips to Ranikhet from Haldwani, often combined with Almora or Kausani into a longer Kumaon tour. To book your cab, call or WhatsApp +91 90844 04569.
Planning this trip?
Book a clean, comfortable taxi from Haldwani with a professional driver — outstation, one-way or round trip, at transparent fares.