Ranikhet is a small, very clean hill town at about 1,870 m in Almora district, spread over ridges of pine, oak and deodar. Most of the town is an army cantonment, the home of the famous Kumaon Regiment, so there are few big hotels and no crowded mall road. That calm is the reason people come.
On clear days the snow peaks of the Himalaya line the horizon. You can walk forest roads, visit apple and apricot orchards at Chaubatia, ring the bells at Jhula Devi temple, and play a round at one of the highest golf courses in Asia.
The story of Ranikhet
The name means 'queen's meadow'. Local legend says Rani Padmini, the queen of a Kumaoni king, fell in love with this green meadow, and the king built a palace for her here. No trace of the palace is left, but the name stayed.
The British set up a cantonment here in the 1860s, and Ranikhet became the base of the Kumaon Regiment. The KRC Museum in town tells the story of the regiment's battles, from the World Wars to Indian history after independence.
Why go to Ranikhet
Clean, quiet forests
Pine and oak walks with very little traffic or noise.
Himalayan views
Snow peaks from Chaubatia and the Upat ridge on clear mornings.
Army heritage
The Kumaon Regiment's home and its museum.
Main things to see
Jhula Devi temple
A temple of Goddess Durga covered in thousands of bells tied by devotees whose wishes came true.
Chaubatia Gardens
Government orchards of apple, apricot, plum and peach, with a Himalayan viewpoint.
Upat Golf Course
A 9-hole golf course on an open ridge with mountain views, about 5-6 km from town.
KRC Museum
The museum of the Kumaon Regiment, with medals, weapons and war stories.
Distances from Ranikhet
Before you go
- Much of Ranikhet is army land; some roads and areas are closed to visitors.
- Shops and restaurants are few and close early; plan dinner by 8-9 pm.
- The town has no big market; carry what you need from Haldwani.
- In winter, nights drop below freezing and light snow is possible.
Ranikhet FAQs
Is Ranikhet worth visiting?
Yes, if you want a quiet, clean hill town with forests and views. It is not for nightlife or shopping.
How far is Ranikhet from Nainital?
About 57-60 km, around 2 hours by road.
Does it snow in Ranikhet?
Sometimes, in late December to February. Snow is not guaranteed every year.
How many days are enough for Ranikhet?
Two nights: one day for town, Jhula Devi and Chaubatia, and one for Majkhali, Upat or Dwarahat.
Why is Ranikhet called the queen's meadow?
Local legend says a Kumaoni queen, Rani Padmini, loved this meadow and the king built her a palace here.
