Ranikhet is a charming hill station in Uttaranchal.
This place was developed by the Britishers around ancient temples, undulating Himalayan hills, and forests.
Ranikhet is not only popular for its breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi Peak, but also for its trekking ranges, mountainous climbs, golf courses, orchards, and temples. And did I mention that it’s the Headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army? That’s right, this place is not just a pretty face, it’s got history and military might too.
The Kumaon range is one of the most verdant ranges of the Himalayas, and it spreads over the countries of India and Nepal. The Indian portion of the Kumaon range is mainly located in the Uttarakhand state of India, and let me tell you, the whole state is like a green paradise with the hills of the Kumaon Himalayas.
Legend has it that Rani Padmini, the queen of Raja Sukherdev, saw this place and was struck by its beauty. She was so captivated by the place that she decided to stay there, and the place came to be known as Ranikhet (literally, queen’s field). I mean, who can blame her? With views like these, I would also want to stay forever.
And let’s not forget the Britishers, who were just as captivated by Ranikhet’s beauty as Rani Padmini. They established Ranikhet as a military cantonment, and even proposed to make it the summer capital of the British Raj.
But don’t worry, Ranikhet is not all history and military might. It’s also a popular tourist destination with notable spots like the Upat Golf course, Chaubatiia Gardens, Ram Mandir, Majkhali, and of course, the town of Ranikhet itself. And if you’re a nature lover, you’re in luck because the reserve forest of Ranikhet is home to varied flora and fauna including Oak, Pine, and deodar. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some barking deer, Indian hare, jackal, langur, leopard, leopard cat, mountain goat, pine martin, porcupine, red-faced monkey, red fox, sambhar, or wild bear.
So, what are you waiting for? Come visit Ranikhet, the land of queens and military might, where history meets nature, and where even the animals are happy to call home.