Lovely Road Tripping to Ranikhet – in the Lap of Nature
“We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect.”
– Anais Nin
Ranikhet trip made me think that most of us spend a large portion of our adult lives doing more or less the same thing daily, to make a living and make something out of life. To spice up my mundane routine, I try to drive to nearby places on occasional weekends to feel a whiff of fresh air caressing my face and unwind from a stressful week. Upon my return to Gurgaon, I relive those moments by penning down my experiences and sharing some pics and videos.
Writing has a magical power to transport us back to moments we’ve experienced, allowing us to relive and savor them once again. Each word we choose becomes a brushstroke, painting a vivid picture of the world again in retrospect. We become time travelers, relishing the sights, sounds, and feelings that had once enveloped us.
Ranikhet – the plan
The prediction was that it would be overcast, foggy, and drizzling. A big rain might be in the queue which will further drop the temperature.
Amid these predicaments, we drove to Ranikhet in Uttarakhand from 23rd December to 25th December 2022. Our abode for the next two nights was decided to be The Alpine Rhapsody at Ranikhet, near the Golf Course.
My Road Trippin’
Driving to Ranikhet was a delight, as the journey took us through winding mountain roads adorned with lush greenery. As I navigated the twists and turns, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The sheer joy of taking the road less traveled, away from the crowded tourist spots, added a sense of adventure to the trip.
Ranikhet’s roads are known for their hairpin bends that twist and turn with every passing mile. It was like a choreographed dance, with me and my car swaying to the rhythm of the road. Each bend brought a surge of adrenaline, and I found myself leaning into the curves as if trying to match the rhythm of the mountains. It was an exhilarating experience that tested my driving skills and left me with a grin plastered on my face.
The drive, which began around 6 a.m. from Gurgaon, seemed to go on forever after Nainital. Everyone was already exhausted, but the last 60 kilometers were excruciatingly painful because the road never seemed to end. Finally, after hours of driving and anticipation, we arrived in Ranikhet. The panoramic views of distant snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and the tranquil beauty of the town made every mile worth it. As I parked my car and stepped out, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and awe at the marvels of nature.
Ranikhet Hotel – The Alpine Rhapsody
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque valleys of Ranikhet, The Alpine Rhapsody offered a perfect blend of comfort, serenity, and breathtaking vistas. Each room in the hotel was strategically designed to provide a panoramic view of the valley, where misty clouds danced over the green meadows. As the sun descends behind the mountains, the valley gets painted in the golden hue of mesmerizing sunset.
The hotel boasts a range of facilities and services, including a multi-cuisine restaurant serving delectable dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For a change, we tried pizzas and pasta, which was delicious, unlike my personal favorite, the usual dal-roti-subzi.
Ranikhet attractions
Though Ranikhet boasts of many attractions like Chaubatia Gardens, Bhalu dam, Majkhali, museum, and War memorial, we just visited these places leisurely. Instead this time, we focused on relaxing ourselves, basking in the sun. I forgot to mention that it is the Kumaon Regimental Center of the Indian Army too.
The Return Drive
As I bid farewell to Ranikhet, I relied on my trusty GPS for directions. However, much to my amusement, the navigation system seemed to have a mind of its own. It led me through narrow lanes, past confusing signs, and even suggested turning onto non-existent roads! I couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation, as I found myself in an impromptu exploration of the town’s hidden corners.
In a moment of adventurous spirit, I decided to take a “shortcut” through a seemingly uncharted path. Little did I know that it would lead me on a bumpy ride through pothole-ridden lanes and muddy tracks. It took some hilarious maneuvering and some verbal exchanges with my family before we returned to the main highway.
It again took a marathon drive to Gurgaon via Nainital’s nightmarish traffic before we reached home late at night on Christmas. Overall, it was an exciting but a bit tiring trip.
Drive Drive Drive…
A road trip to Ranikhet is an adventure like no other, with its scenic roads, unexpected challenges, and the joy of discovering hidden treasures along the way. Driving through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Himalayas, braving hairpin bends, and experiencing the unpredictable weather added a dash of excitement to the journey.
If you’re an avid road tripper looking for a destination that combines natural beauty and thrilling driving experiences, Ranikhet should be on your list. So, fasten your seatbelt, turn up the music, and get ready for a memorable ride to the enchanting hills of Ranikhet!
