Top 10 Places to Visit in Ranikhet (2025)

April 25, 2025

Nestled in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region, Ranikhet is a serene and beautiful hill station with a beautiful aura. The top places to visit in Ranikhet showcase a blend of nature, spirituality, and local culture, making it an excellent destination for both short breaks and longer vacations.

Ranikhet offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Ranges, especially on a clear day. The town is surrounded by dense forests, open grassland, and well-kept hiking trails that are perfect for walks and excursions. The top places to visit in Ranikhet include multiple temples, gardens, and historical sites that attest to its illustrious cultural past.

One of The Best Places to Visit in Ranikhet

There’s no rush here. The city allows you to breathe fresh air and relax in a serene environment. Ranikhet deserves a spot among the best hill stations in India because of its quiet charm. Whether you are travelling by yourself, with your family, or with friends, Ranikhet has places of interest for everyone. 

In this article, we’ll take you through the top 10 places to visit in Ranikhet that are worth adding to your travel list. From scenic viewpoints to tranquil temples, these locations give you a full taste of what this wonderful town has to offer.

10 Tourist Places in Ranikhet Uttarakhand

Ranikhet is dotted with charming sites that reflect the natural, spiritual, and cultural character of the region. From peaceful temples to lush orchards and gardens, each spot offers a unique experience. The top places to visit in Ranikhet provide a well-rounded glimpse into what makes the town special. Check out the top 10 must-visit places that beautifully showcase the town's tranquil appeal and scenic beauty.

1. Jhula Devi Temple

Spiritual souls booking Ranikhet tour packages must visit the Jhula Devi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the temple is known for its peaceful ambience and the thousands of small bells that surround its structure. 

This is one of the Ranikhet near visiting places that is also common among locals. Locals believe that tying a bell while making a wish increases the chances of it being fulfilled. 

The temple is set against a beautiful forest backdrop, making it a serene stop for both worship and reflection. The architecture is simple yet striking, and the surroundings offer a quiet escape from a busy life. This is one of the Ranikhet tourist places that serves as a symbol of local belief and tradition. Many visitors also enjoy the walk to the temple, which is lined with tall pine trees and occasional sightings of monkeys, which are considered sacred in the area.

  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 7 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

2. Chaubatia Gardens

Chaubatia Gardens is a popular Ranikhet tourist spot known for its orchards and scenic walking trails. Located slightly outside the main town, this garden spreads over a vast area and offers a fantastic view of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Neelkanth on clear days. The garden is home to apple, peach, plum, and apricot trees, making it especially beautiful during the fruiting season. 

This is an excellent spot for those looking for Ranikhet tourist attractions to enjoy leisurely strolls along well-laid paths or simply sit and soak in the peaceful environment. The gardens also house a government fruit research centre, adding an educational aspect to the visit. 

Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or someone looking to unwind, Chaubatia Gardens is among the famous places in Ranikhet for a refreshing escape into nature’s lap.

  • Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 10 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

3. Bhalu Dam

If you are looking for unconventional spots to include in your honeymoon packages in India, Bhalu Dam is a top pick. It is a small artificial lake located in a secluded area surrounded by dense forests. Built during the British era as a water reservoir, it now serves as a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. 

The path to the dam involves a short trek, making it one of the best places to visit in North India for adventure enthusiasts. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the hills and listen to the soothing sounds of the forest. 

The dam itself is quiet and scenic, with clear waters and minimal crowds. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for Ranikhet sightseeing places away from the buzz of the town. 

  • Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 11 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

4. Majhkhali

Majhkhali is a small village near Ranikhet known for its sweeping views of the Himalayan ranges, especially Mount Trishul. It's one of the best places to visit in summer in India for those who enjoy peaceful walks, fresh mountain air, and uninterrupted views of nature. The area is surrounded by pine and deodar forests, offering a tranquil escape from town life. 

Majhkhali is one of the Ranikhet places to see for its rural charm and slower pace. Photographers and nature lovers find this place particularly rewarding, as sunrise and sunset views here are absolutely breathtaking. 

A visit to Majhkhali is less about sightseeing and more about experiencing nature at its purest. This spot should be on your bucket list if you are looking for places to visit in summer in India to experience the quieter side of the hills.

  • Opening hours: Open all day
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 13 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

5. Haidakhan Babaji Temple

Haidakhan Babaji Temple ranks high among the spiritual places to see in Ranikhet. It is dedicated to Haidakhan Babaji, a revered spiritual teacher believed by his followers to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is clean, peaceful, and spiritually uplifting. It also includes a beautiful garden and an ashram where visitors can meditate or simply enjoy the calm environment. 

The temple is ideal for those looking for places to visit in Ranikhet Uttarakhand to get panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Whether you're spiritually inclined or not, the tranquil setting of this temple offers a welcome pause during your trip. 

Many visitors speak of the peaceful energy they feel here, making it the best place to visit in Ranikhet for inner calm and reflection.

  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 4 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

6. Ranikhet Golf Course

Ranikhet Golf Course, also known as the Upat Golf Course, is one of the highest golf courses in Asia. This is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Ranikhet Uttarakhand, surrounded by rolling hills and lined with pine trees. The course is maintained by the Indian Army and is open to civilians as well. 

Even if you’re not a golfer, the location is worth visiting for a peaceful walk or a quiet moment overlooking the green. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Ranikhet to visit and unwind, take photographs, or simply enjoy the cool mountain breeze. The neat landscape and open space make it a popular picnic spot, especially during the summer months.

  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 6 km
  • Ticket Price: Free (nominal fee for golf equipment if renting)

7. Manila Village

Manila is a quiet and scenic village located a little outside Ranikhet. It is known for its dense oak and pine forests, rich birdlife, and spiritual atmosphere. The main attraction here is the Manila Devi Temple, dedicated to the village’s presiding goddess. It is less commercialised than other locations included in Uttarakhand tour packages. Manilla offers a more raw and untouched experience of the Kumaon region. 

The road leading to the village is beautiful and the cool breeze, chirping birds, and green cover make it feel like a hidden gem. It’s perfect for travellers looking for peaceful places in Ranikhet to visit. Staying overnight here is also a great option if you want to disconnect from the usual tourist flow.

  • Opening hours: Open all day
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 87 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

8. Sunset Point (Machkhali)

Sunset Point in Machkhali ranks among the top attractions in Ranikhet, where both locals and visitors can witness the beauty of the setting sun. Located slightly away from the busy parts of Ranikhet, this point offers a clear and wide view of the horizon as the sun dips behind the hills. The colours during sunset, including orange, pink, and gold, create a stunning backdrop for photos. 

If you are looking for quiet and less-crowded honeymoon destinations in India in summer, the sunset point in Machkali will reward you with beautiful views.  The surrounding area is open and peaceful, with benches and space to sit and enjoy the views in comfort.

  • Opening hours: Open all day
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 10 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

9. Tarikhet Village

Ranked among the top places to visit in May in India, Tarikhet Village is a quaint and picturesque village located near Ranikhet. It offers a glimpse into the rural life of the Kumaon region. This place is known for its lush fields and beautiful landscapes. Tarikhet appeals to history buffs looking for places in Ranikhet to visit, as it was the site of a freedom struggle during British rule. 

The village is home to the Gandhi Kuti, a simple structure where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visit to the region. The atmosphere here is peaceful, making it ideal for a short walk or a relaxed visit to learn about local history and traditions. The village’s simplicity and charm make it a perfect escape for those looking to visit the key attractions in Ranikhet and experience authentic Kumaoni culture.

  • Opening hours: Open all day
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 8 km
  • Ticket Price: Free

10. Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

For history buffs and people interested in military structures, the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. It is situated in Ranikhet and exhibit the history of the Kumaon Regiment, which participated in several wars and conflicts. 

The museum is one of the best places to visit near Ranikhet with a collection of artefacts like weapons and uniforms.

It also features details about the regiment's success so that guests can understand what the unit did during India’s martial history and the daring men who graced it. This is one of the attractions in Ranikhet that honours the loyalty and bravery of the warriors who belong to this esteemed unit.

  • Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
  • Distance From City Center Ranikhet: 3 km
  • Ticket Price: INR 20 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners

Best Time To Visit Ranikhet

The best time to visit the places of interest in Ranikhet is from March to October and from September to February. Both periods offer distinct experiences. March to October is ideal for outdoor exploration, and September to February is perfect for enjoying the serene winter beauty. Check out what you can expect during each period: 

March to October

If you are looking for places to visit in summer in India with family, Ranikhet is a top pick between March and October. It promises an escape from the heat and humidity of the plains. The weather is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the lush landscapes. 

The clear skies and mild temperatures create an inviting atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the places of interest in Ranikhet without the oppressive heat that often affects other parts of the country. 

Whether you’re planning to visit the local gardens and temples or simply stroll through the pine forests, the summer and early autumn months are the most comfortable and popular times to explore the best places to visit in Ranikhet.

September to February

As the temperature begins to drop in September, Ranikhet occupies a top spot on the list of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Ranikhet receives snowfall in the months of December, January, and February, which makes it a winter wonderland. 

It is important to bring some warm woollen clothing if you intend to make a visit during the cooler months. The cold climate and snow make for great photography, and the tranquil environment in winter draws tourists who wish to discover the Ranikhet best places to visit.

How to Reach Ranikhet

If you are planning a trip to the best places to visit in Ranikhet, you should know that the city is well-connected via flight, rail, and road. Here are the available transportation options: 

How to Reach Ranikhet by Flight

Ranikhet does not have its own airport, but the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (IXC), about 114 km away. Pantnagar is well-connected to Delhi and other major cities in India through regular domestic flights. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the places near Ranikhet to visit, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. 

While Pantnagar offers convenience, another option is to fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 350 km away. From Delhi, you can travel by train or bus to reach the places to explore in Ranikhet.

How to Reach Ranikhet by Train

Ranikhet is connected by rail to several major cities in India through the Kathgodam Railway Station, located 80 km away from Ranikhet. Kathgodam is the nearest railway station with direct trains from Delhi, Lucknow, and other cities. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ranikhet, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. 

There are a few other nearby stations such as Haldwani that are also well-connected by train. Once you reach Kathgodam or Haldwani, the rest of the journey to the places to see near Ranikhet is scenic and relatively short.

How to Reach Ranikhet by Bus

Ranikhet is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand and nearby states via bus services. Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) operates regular buses to Ranikhet from Delhi, Nainital, Almora, and other neighbouring towns. The buses offer various options ranging from regular to deluxe, and the journey is comfortable with scenic views of the tourist places near Ranikhet. 

You can board a bus from the ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi or major bus terminals in other cities. Once you arrive at the city’s bus station, local transport options like taxis or autos are available to explore the top places to visit in Ranikhet.

Book Ranikhet Tour Packages With The Help of Trip Planners India

At Trip Planners India, we are experts in organising custom-made tours to Ranikhet that promise to be hassle-free and unforgettable. Whether you are dreaming of an aesthetic getaway or a thrilling escape amid the awe-inspiring Himalayas, our handcrafted tour packages in India have something for every kind of traveller.

We manage everything from your stay to transport, offering you a hustle-free time so you can enjoy the picturesque landscape of Ranikhet. We collaborate with you to learn more about your interests and prepare an itinerary that suits your preferences. As one of the best trip planners in India, we provide both luxurious and budget-friendly options.

Reach out to us today to book your perfect Ranikhet holiday!

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