Mukteshwar

Sits high in the Kumaon Hills at an altitude of 8,000 ft, Mukteshwar is a perfectly beautiful, quiet, and enjoyable hillstation in Uttarakhand State. Situated 350 kms from Delhi and 51 kms from Nainital, Mukteshwar gets its name from an 350-year-old temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

A scenic picnic spot, it offers the visitors a 180-degree view of the captivating snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges. On a clear day, Mukteshwar offers a superb and wonderful view of Nanda Devi Peak (the second highest peak in India). Also one can see Neelkantha (Blue-throated Shiva), Trishul (Shiva’s Trident), Nanadaghunti (the Veil of the Goddess), and the Panchuli Group.

The hillstation Mukteshwar, was developed by the Britishers and they established here Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRC) in 1893. Still now it retains much of its colonial charm and its evidence can be found on bungalows as well as other old buildings. The town became popular after the novel, 'The Man Eaters of Kumaon', written by famous hunter, author and naturalist 'Jim Corbett'. He is famous for slaying a large number of man-eating tigers and leopards that had killed over a thousand men, women and children.

Many tourists visit Mukteshwar which is full of grassland and dense Pine, Deodar and oak forests. It is also home to a wide range of fauna like Leopards, the Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Dear, Stag, Wild Boar, Civets etc. Mukteshwar's lushgreen forests and the woodlands have bird species like Himalayan ruby throat, white-crested laughing thrush, red-billed leothrix, black winged kite and many mountain birds. The fruit orchards and farms in these forests are popular for apples, plums, peaches, apricots, and pears.

Besides its natural beauty, Mukteshwar offers tourists an opportunity for long treks, rock climbing, rappelling, camping and mountaineering also

Tourist Places to see in Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar Temple

One of the most famous attractions in Mukteshwar, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as ‘Mukteshwar Dham’, this is a 350 year old temple. Mukteshwar town has acquired its name from the name of this temple. The temple is adorned with a beautiful white marble Shivling with a copper yoni. The Shivling is enclosed by idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Hanuman, Ganesh and Nandi.

Situated at the highest point in Mukteshwar, one can be reached here by climbing a series of twisting and steep stone stairs. Trekking to Mukteshwar Temple is an experience and those who look for heavenly feelings can dedicate themselves to the blessings of Mukteshwar.

Timings : 6 am-7 pm

Chauli-ki-Jali

One can visit Chauli-ki-Jali a 200m deep cliff, situated near to the Mukteshwar Temple. The site is a natural latticework on the rock mountain-rocks that project out from the hill at a bizarre angle. It is believed to have the power of blessing barren women with a child, on touching it. The site offers a good rock climbing challenge. Chauli-ki-Jali also offers a breath taking view of both sunrise and sunset and panoramic view of the valley below.

Indian Veterinary Research Institute

A British legacy, the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) has a special significance in the development of veterinary sciences in India. It is ute is responsible for carrying out high end research in animal nutrition, genetics and bacteriology. It was established at the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory in 1889 at Pune on the recommendation of the Cattle Plague Commission, and was later relocated to Mukteshwar in 1893. The campus is spread in a large area and British architecture is reflected in all its buildings. A library and a veterinary museum are other popular attractions inside the instiute campus, which reveals historic events to the travellers.

Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow

A landmark of the town, Mukteshwar Iinspection Bungalow is a colonial architecture wonder. Also known as PWD Inspection Bunglow, it is situated close to the Mukteshwar temple. Surrounded by natural beauty, this bungalow has a unique charm that makes it a must-see in the hill station. A perfect place to stay in Mukteshwar, it also possess a rich historical significance - 'Jim Corbett' stayed here while hunting a man-eating tigress in 1929. A kettle used by him has been preserved in the guest house.