Top 10 Things To Do In Ranikhet, Uttarakhand - Updated 2024

1. Enjoy the spectacular scenery from Himalayan View Point

This viewpoint is situated 2.9 km (1.80 mi) from the Tallital bus stand. One of the most popular and most visited tourist attractions, this one is located on the way to Kilbury.

It is nestled at an altitude of 2,300 m (7,545.93 ft) and tourists can enjoy breathtakingly beautiful views of several Himalayan peaks from up above along with scenic valleys and lush greenery. It is minutes away from the picturesque town of Nainital and you can catch a taxi to reach here.

Himalayan View Point

Address: Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002

Opening hours: 24 hours

2. Take a relaxing walk along the gentle slopes of Sarna Garden

If you need to take a break amidst towering trees while enjoying the view of the picturesque Uttarakhand, then head over to Sarna Garden. The garden is situated on a hill and offers plenty of lovely Instagrammable spots for your social media feed. Breathe in the clean mountain air, combined with the heady aroma of native oak and pine trees. Visiting during the summer means you get to stay cool while marveling at the verdant meadows filled with flowers and grass.

Sarna Garden

Address: JCXH+JJ5, Raneth, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645, India

3. Head to St Bonaventure Catholic Church for some quiet moments

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Nestled among the hills of Ranikhet, St. Bonaventure Catholic Church is a must-visit place. For over 120 years, this church has served generations of the town’s Christian worshippers.

Once you’ve finished crossing long and winding roads, you’ll be treated to a lovely landscape. Surrounding the old structure are towering trees and greenery. Catholic travelers can venerate the church’s several sacred images and even join the mass if they are lucky. Non-followers are also invited to appreciate the tranquil ambiance the property provides.

St Bonaventure Catholic Church

Address: JCQH+6FQ, Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645, India

4. Catch the gorgeous phenomena at Sunset Points

Located along the road that runs from Jhoola Devi Temple, Sunset Points are where you can get a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges nearby. There are several points along the road that are ideal for experiencing the sunset. However, the area that is nearest to Woodvilla Point is considered to be the best place to view the sun as its sets. During the day when the sky is crystal clear and free of clouds, the area provides a glimpse of the snow-capped Himalayas in the distance. Sunset Points are easily accessible and several hotels offer transportation so that visitors can arrive in time to watch the sun go down or rise in the morning.

Sunset Points

Address: Jhoola Devi Temple to Bhargaon Road, Near Woodvilla Point, Ranikhet 263645, India

Price: Free

5. Offer your prayers at Haidakhan Babaji Temple

Temples dot the Indian landscape and the same is true when it comes to Ranikhet. Among the many temples, the famous Haidakhan Babaji Temple draws a steady stream of visitors. The temple is located along the national highway and was built by Bhole Baba of Haidakhan who is believed by many in India to be a manifestation of a divine being in human form. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, one of the main Indian gods who is believed to have reincarnated as Shri Haidakhan Maharaj in the 18th century. It forms part of an ashram and is a popular destination for tourists and disciples of the Bhole Baba who passed away in 1984.

Haidakhan Babaji Temple

Address: NH 87, Chiliyanaula, Uttarakhand 263645

Website: Haidakhan Babaji Temple

Opening hours: 6:30am - 11am, 12pm - 8pm (daily)

Price: Free

6. Take a trip to Sadar Bazar

Visiting shops to find local crafts and stopping at restaurants to sample cuisine on offer are the highlights of a trip to Sadar Bazar. Located in a busy sector of the town, it is a haven for tourists who want knickknacks or handicrafts created locally and in the areas surrounding Ranikhet. Locals also frequent the area and look for a variety of mundane items ranging from food and mobile devices to the latest fashion. The area which has several shops is also a good place to get a glimpse of the traditions and lifestyle of the locals.

Sadar Bazar

Address: Khari Bazar, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 7pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

7. Bring your children to Ashiyana Park

Famous for its scenery and filled with play areas for children and teenagers to hang out, Ashiyana Park is located in the town. The park also goes by the name of Devdar Udhyan and it has a look and feel of a theme park. It has several attractions alongside large-sized statues of dinosaurs. Adults meanwhile can visit the colorful gardens filled with herbs, where fountains provide soothing background noise. The viewing point within the park is a popular attraction, and it provides a stunning glimpse of the surrounding mountains.

Ashiyana Park

Address: Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

Price: 5 INR (1 USD) per person

8. Pray for your family at Jhula Devi Temple

At Jhula Devi Temple which dates back to the 8th century, the reigning deity is Goddess Durga who is known locally as Jhula Devi. The temple is home to thousands of bells of various sizes, but these do not ring and are just arranged in clusters. Maintained by the Indian Army which has a significant presence in the town, the temple is a peaceful location and is often visited by locals who are devoted to the Goddess. Importantly, each of the bells in the temple has a name associated with it. The bells have been donated by people who visit and want their wishes to be fulfilled.

Jhula Devi Temple

Address: Chaubitiya Garden, Ranikhet 263686, India

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm(daily)

Price: Free

9. Plan a day out at Rani Jheel

Originally constructed to collect rainwater Rani Jheel is an artificial lake and is one of the top attractions in the town. The lake was built by the Indian army and initially managed by the cantonment board but now it is mostly used for recreational purposes. The area offers a splendid view of the surrounding hills which are often shrouded in mist, and the waters of the lake are calm and ideal for boating. Renovation to the lake has left the area cleaner and uncluttered and it is currently one of the top spots to visit.

Rani Jheel

Address: Airari, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand 263645

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free entry

10. Swing by Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

At the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, visitors get a glimpse of the history of the Indian Army. Importantly the museum is linked to the famous Kumaon Regiment which is based in the town of Ranikhet along with Naga Regiment. The Kumaon Regiment is comprised mainly of local Kumaoni and since its formation in the 18th century has fought in various wars including the two World Wars. The infantry regiment is currently the most decorated in the Indian Army and the museum gives visitors a tour of its history. The guided tour also provides visitors with a glimpse of various artifacts such as medals, uniforms, and flags captured during battles. Photographs are also a major part of the exhibits in the museum.

Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

Address: Ranikhet, Almora, India

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1 - 2 USD

Visit Ranikhet to soak in blissful greens

Cool summer climate, winter snowfall and the splendor of the nearby forests that are comprised of pine, deodar and oak trees make Ranikhet a popular destination for tourists. Especially during the summer months, the hill station attracts those who have grown tired of dealing with the oppressive heat in the plains of India.