Mukteshwar

A Serene and Sleepy little Hill Town near Nainital, lesser known by regular travelers but extremely popular amongst nature loving, peace-seeking population. Perched atop a wonderful height of 8000 Ft above sea level, atop a 5 km. long ridge, Mukteshwar is famous for panoramic vistas of the sunrise and sunset, the deeply wooded valley views and the majestic Himalayan Range which is a 180-degree panorama from the Jim Corbett’s bungalow at Mukteshwar. Sir Jim Corbett himself called Mukteshwar as the “Most Beautiful spot in Kumaon”. Jim Corbett has shot many tigers and leopards around Mukteshwar forests and has written about them in his several books.  

The British set their veterinary research base at Mukteshwar because they found Mukteshwar to be having the best climatic conditions in the regions and the pure air in the dense forests also supported the cause. The scenic splendor came as a bonus. They established the Indian Veterinary Research Institute about 140 years ago and this huge campus still holds 25 sq. km. of conserved forest within its control. Mukteshwar forest is rich in flora and wildlife with Barking Deer, Sambar deer, Wild Boar, Leopard, Panthers, Civets, Himalayan Black Bear and about 250+ species of resident and migrant birds. Mukteshwar is frequently visited by Bird Watching groups for raptors and pheasants. Many photographies and wildlife groups also visit Mukteshwar for its natural treasures.

Being just 45 km from Nainital and 64 km from Kathgodam makes Mukteshwar one of the closest high altitude hill station to drive up to.  Mukteshwar has recently also become a hotbed for Adventure activities. Tourists who stay at Mukteshwar can enjoy short and long treks, rock climbing, rappelling, zip line, forest camping etc. The not so adventurous kids can opt for softer fun-filled nature activities like waterfall and stream picnics, forest walks, orchard visits, etc.

As in the recent years, Mukteshwar has gained popularity amongst domestic travelers, a lot of lodges, resorts and hotels have opened. In such a place one should look for a quitter, serene and green retreats. One of the oldest and greenest places to stay at Mukteshwar is The Mountain Trail Resort which is made inside a lush green fruit orchard. Another great lodge to stay at is The Gahanna Orchard Retreat. It’s a cute little place more like a homestay but you’ll be well taken care of. Having mentioned the above, the best views can still, only be enjoyed by the Government Guest House, which is located at the dead end of the road. It’s here only, around the Tourist Bungalow that you get to visit the Bog three at Mukteshwar, the century-old Lord Shiva Temple, The famous for stupendous views and adventures activities, cliff called ‘Chauli Ki Jaali’. Try if you can taste some local Rajma Chawal here, they are divine. 

Tourists can now enjoy amazing cafes and culinary experiences whilst their stay. The best place to have local food is the Chaandi Maati café and then there is the Choco-House Chocolate shop which sells hand-made center filled European chocolates along with brownies, fudges and more. You wouldn’t have tasted a better chocolate in India. It even beats some of the upmarket European brands Hollow. Right beside Choco-House is the Rosefinch café which serves burgers, sundaes, shakes, thin crust wheat-based pizzas which hits you with a big surprise element because you don’t really expect such amazing pizzas at an off-beat hill station at 8000 feet. 

Mukteshwar is truly a round-the-year destination for holidays for any age group and any kind of traveler because it is a great mix of nature, adventure, leisure, scenic, culinary, rejuvenating experiences all in one. A perfect weekend getaway for families and company groups, now connected with Delhi by a Shatabdi.