Mukteshwar is an offbeat hill station in Uttarakhand, only 48 kilometers from Nainital. Beat the crowd of Nainital and enjoy solace in the lap of nature in this exquisitely beautiful town of Mukteshwar for your next mountain trip. Mukteshwar is famous for its colonial style architecture, ancient temples and its natural hiking trails. Fruit orchards, bird watching, camping, coniferous trees, heart wrenching sunsets and adventure sports are some of many unique experiences that Mukteshwar has to offer.
Distance from Delhi: 358 kms (8 hours)
Distance from Nainital: 48 kms (2 hours)
Here are 5 unique places near Mukteshwar that you must visit:
- Mukteshwar Temple
Source: euttaranchal.com
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mukteshwar temple is believed to be constructed by the Pandavas during their 12 years long period of exile. This 350 years old temple is situated at a height of 2312 meters above sea level. Apart from its sacred relevance among Shiva devotees, the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from the temple is a sight not worth missing out on. The 180 degrees panoramic view from the temple shows the peaks of Nanda Devi, Nandakot, Nandaghunti, Trishul and Panchachuli.
- Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls
Source: Uttarakhandtraveltourism.com
Located at a distance of 10 kilometers from the main town of Mukteshwar, is this offbeat and newly discovered falls of Bhalu Gaad. Cover the first 8 kilometers by car and the last 2 kilometers is an aesthetically pleasing hike. The falls have a continuous flow of water throughout the year and can be visited at any time of the year. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see a rainbow forming at the bottom of the falls, the reason why Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls are also commonly known as the Rainbow Falls.
- Kilmora Shop
Source: kilmora.in
Situated on the outskirts of the town of Mukteshwar is this unique shop that sells authentic Kumaoni clothes and more. If you’re looking for some place to buy souvenirs for your family and friends, the Kilmora Shop is one of the best options to buy hand woven shawls, gloves, socks, local pulses, pickles, chutneys and a lot more.
- Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow
Source: uttarakhandtourism.gov.in
A unique piece of architecture situated in the hills of Mukteshwar is the Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow. Apart from its unique architecture, the view from the bungalow is one of a kind. The tall Himalayan ranges and the high peaks of Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Nanda Devi East are visible from this site. The famous tiger hunter, Jim Corbett had once lived in this bungalow during his brief visit to Mukteshwar, giving it another unique quality to attract tourists.
- Methodist Church
Source: shineyatra.com
Situated in the heart of the lush green town of Mukteshwar is this holy church. The hike leading up to the church is challenging so make sure you wear good quality hiking shoes and carry other hiking accessories to reach this site. The holy ambience of the church, a winsome view from the top and the challenging trek to the top are some of the many things that make this site unique and exciting.
The church only opens on Sundays between 3PM to 4PM so make sure you plan your trip accordingly.