About Mukteshwar

Uttarakhand

Overview

Mukteshwar is a ridge town in Nainital district of Uttarakhand, about 2,286 m up and 51 km from Nainital. It takes its name from Mukteshwar Dham, an old Shiva temple on the highest point of town, with the cliff ledge of Chauli ki Jali just behind it. The British set up a veterinary research station here in 1893, now a campus of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, and the town is still ringed by fruit orchards and deodar forest. On clear mornings the Himalaya, including Nanda Devi, stretches across the northern skyline.

Best Time to Visit Mukteshwar

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct to NovBest Window

Why visit

The clearest Himalayan views of the year, dry trails and quiet lanes after the monsoon.

Keep in mind

Nights get cold and Diwali weekend rooms fill early.

Mar to Jun

Why visit

Pleasant days, spring blossom in the orchards and good weather for Bhalu Gaad and Chauli ki Jali.

Keep in mind

Haze can hide the snow peaks, and summer weekends bring traffic from Haldwani.

Dec to Feb

Why visit

Crisp, sharp mountain views and a chance of snow.

Keep in mind

Very cold nights and icy patches on the road. Pack serious winter layers.

Jul to Sep

Why visit

Green forests and full waterfalls.

Keep in mind

Cloud usually hides the peaks and landslides can block the hill roads.

How to Reach Mukteshwar

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Kathgodam railway station is 74 km away and Pantnagar airport about 110 km. By road Mukteshwar is about 343 km from Delhi via Haldwani and Bhowali (40 km), around 8 to 9 hours. Buses run from Delhi's Anand Vihar ISBT to Haldwani and Nainital.

Getting Around Mukteshwar

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Shared and private taxis run from Bhowali and Nainital. The temple, Chauli ki Jali and the market are all within walking distance of each other.