Travel Information On Ranikhet , Uttarakhand

Ranikhet situated at an altitude of 1,829 m and 30 kilometres from Nainital is  is one of the most exciting  destinations in the Uttarakhand tour packages itinerary  ,India's 19th-century colonial rulers liked nothing better than to flee the suffocating heat of the plains towards cool breezes of the Himalayan ranges, and Ranikhet is one of many hill-stations established for the purpose. In 1869, the British established the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment in these pine-scented hills, and so loved the green meadows, game-rich forests and magnificent mountain views that it was even proposed that the British summer capital move here from Shimla.

Fortunately, for travellers who want a truly quiet, meditative holiday of long walks and star-lit nights, the proposal was rejected and, even today, Ranikhet remains a cantonment town with a population of barely twenty thousand. Perched at 1,829 m above sea level in Almora district, the hill-station is spread on two ridges called Ranikhet and Chaubatia. At 360 kms from Delhi, it is a comfortable eight-hour drive via Nainital (60 kms south).

The cantonment's presence ensures that construction is restricted here; there are no bazaars crowded with restaurants and hotels. Instead, there is a reserve forest of pine, oak and deodar in which leopards, deer, wild bears and many colourful birds thrive. Aptly named 'queen's garden', there are many picnic spots here: both Bhalu Dam (3 kms) and Khairna (22 kms) offer fishing, while Majkhali (13 kms) is a secluded haven along the forest, with lovely views of snowy peaks. Chaubatia Garden (10 kms) has vast apple orchards (with over 30 varieties!), flower beds and winding walks along the mountainside that provide views of snow-capped peaks.

Golfers can enjoy a round at the 9-hole course Upat (6 kms), in the midst of towering pine forests and with a Kali temple nearby. The golf course is maintained by the army, and civilians need to get permission from Kumaon Regiment headquarters in Ranikhet.

The Kumaon Regiment's Tweed and Shawl Factory is a great place to pick up some woollens at bargain prices, and even watch the looms in operation. The Army Museum here takes visitors through the brave history of the Kumaon Regiment.

   Kumaon Regiment headquarters in Ranikhet

Ranikhet offers some very interesting tours to the interiors of Kumaon. The drive to Corbett National Park (85 kms) follows a breathtaking panorama of the snow-capped mountains along a ridge road.

The Kumaon Regiment is the most decorated regiment of the Indian Army. Established in the 18th century, the regiment has fought every major battle of the British Indian Army and the Indian Army, including the two World Wars. Its recruits, the Kumaonis and Ahirs, are known for their valour, courage and honour. Historically, Kumaonis were mercenaries, and enlisted in the East India Company and the Nizam of Hyderabad's army, among others. The regiment has won several military accolades including two Param Vir Chakras and four Ashoka Chakras. 

For more information on Nainital , Ranikhet , Corbett and other destinations in the area contact Swan Tours , One of the top travel agents in India promoting Uttarakhand.

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