Ranikhet is one of the best hill-stations in India to witness nature at its fullest! Soak yourself in the marvels of lush forests, majestic mountains and thriving plant and wildlife. Ever since it was discovered, Ranikhet has been characterised as a romantic town with a refreshing breeze flowing from the mountains, the chirping of birds everywhere and the enchanting view of the Himalayas. In spite of its proximity to the busy hill spot of Nainital, Ranikhet is a completely quiet town and an excellent escape for those who seek solitude.

• Jhula Devi Temple: A temple believed to be more than 5000 years old, it is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The highlight of the temple is the huge cluster of bells that people tie to get their wishes granted from the goddess.

• Upat-Kalika Golf Course: A major attraction in Ranikhet, this is a natural nine-hole course, and is one of the highest situated golf courses in Asia. It is entirely surrounded by lush pines and blooming orchards and provides a picture perfect view. Close to the Golf Course is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali as well as a forest nursery.

• Chaubattia Garden: A famous apple orchard, it was started by the Government Fruit Research Centre. As many as 36 varieties of apples are grown here! Fresh apples and juices can be bought from here. Apart from these, honey and other fresh fruit juices are also available here. This spot is also famous for the commanding views of Himalayas, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandaghunti and Nilkanth peaks.

• Hairakhan Temple: A temple dedicated to Shri Hairakhan Maharaj, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple offers spectacular views of the Himalayas.

• Dronagiri Temple: The temple is situated on the site where it is believed that the Sanjivani herbs fell while being carried by Lord Hanuman. The temple is accessible by almost four hundred steps.

• Golu Devta Temple: A rather unusual temple, it is dedicated to an erstwhile ruler of the region who was known for his impartial justice. In fact, so great was he considered that even today people apply their petition to him for justice. Watch the hundreds of bells hung here as offerings by devotees.

• Majkhali: This is one of the best places to get picturesque views of the Himalayas from close quarters. Especially visible is the Mount Trishul at a height of 26,500 ft.

• Chaukhutia: Literally meaning four legs, Chaukhutia derives its name from the four ways that lead out of it. The place has ruins of old forts and remnants of the Katyuri Dynasty. Also located closeby are Kali and Vaishno Devi Temples. The area is also famous for its fishing options.

• Baijnath Temple: A temple dedicated to goddess Parvati, it contains a black stone idol of the deity.

• Binsar Mahadev Temple: Located close to Ranikhet, this temple has idols of Ganesh, Har Gauri and Maheshmardini. The temple is surrounded by tall deodar trees and has intricate carvings on the walls. The temple is especially busy during its annual fair in June, which is attended by women who seek the goddess’s blessings for a baby.

There aren’t too many stand-alone restaurants in Ranikhet, so it is advisable to eat at the hotels where you stay. The West View Hotel on the Mall is a nice option to sample some good Mughlai, Thai, Indian and Chinese fare. If you wish to try out some local, regional fare ask for their pahadi raita or Nepali dal. A rather upmarket option to dine would be Chevron Rosemount, whose multicuisine restaurant offers quite a choice of dining fares. Similarly popular is the Cloud 9 restaurant at Woodsvilla Resort. Other multi-cuisine dining options can be tried at Parwati Inn, Cosmos Ventures and Trishul Lodge. Ranikhet is famous for its sweets, which you definitely shouldn’t miss. The Baal Mithai, made of condensed and concentrated milk and covered with little sugar beads should not be missed. Another sweetmeat Singaudi is rich in sugar and ghee and is a popular take home.

Though Ranikhet lacks big malls, there is no dearth of knick-knacks that you can carry with yourself. KRC Shawl and Tweed Factory and Outlet make excellent shopping stops. The woolens sold out here are of high quality and are much in demand. Shawls of various hues and patterns are also popular. Equally popular are the Bal Mithai and Singaudi, which are popular sweets.