Mukteshwar is a small hill town on a ridge in the Nainital district of Kumaon, at roughly 2,200 to 2,300 metres. It has none of the crowds of Nainital, and that is exactly why people come: forest, fresh air, big views and very little to hurry for. Here is the list we give guests at reception, in the order most people end up doing things. (Still deciding when to come? Read the best time to visit Mukteshwar first.)
1. Climb to Mukteshwar Dham
The old Shiva temple sits at the very top of the ridge, reached by a flight of stone steps through the trees. It is the reason the town exists, and the view from the top, down over the valleys and, on clear days, across to the snow peaks, is one of the best in the area. Go early, when it’s quiet and the air is clearest. Read our guide to Mukteshwar Dham.
2. Stand at the edge of Chauli ki Jali
A short walk from the temple, the rock cliff of Chauli ki Jali drops away into the valley. Stand back from the edge for the view, or try rock climbing and rappelling with the operators who set up there in season. It is also one of the most photographed spots in Mukteshwar. More in our Chauli ki Jali guide.
3. Walk to Bhalu Gaad waterfall
From Chaukhuta village, where our resort is, a forest trail leads down to the Bhalu Gaad waterfall. It’s an easy half day with a picnic, through oak and rhododendron forest, and the falls are at their best after the monsoon. See how to walk to Bhalu Gaad.
4. Catch the Himalayan view at sunrise
On clear days, mostly from October to February, the snow peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul and their neighbours line the northern horizon. Nanda Devi, at 7,816 metres, is the second-highest mountain in India. Be up at sunrise: by late morning a haze usually rises from the valleys and the peaks fade out.
5. Walk the old town and the IVRI campus
The Indian Veterinary Research Institute has had a campus in Mukteshwar since the 1890s, and its stone buildings and deodar-lined roads give the town its colonial feel. Jim Corbett wrote about the Mukteshwar man-eater in Man-Eaters of Kumaon, which makes good reading before you come. Browse the small bazaar for local woollens and Kumaoni preserves.
6. Try something adventurous
Beyond rock climbing at Chauli ki Jali, there are forest treks, village walks and, in some seasons, tandem paragliding. We’ve collected the options, and what to check before you book, in adventure activities in Mukteshwar.
7. Explore the villages around
Sitla, Peora and Nathuakhan are quiet hill villages with old bungalows, orchards and walking trails, all within a short drive. Our guide to Sitla and the villages near Mukteshwar has the details.
8. Take a day trip
Nainital, Bhimtal, Kainchi Dham and the orchards of Ramgarh are all easy day trips. For longer journeys, Jim Corbett, Almora, Binsar and Munsiyari are within reach. See our Kumaon trips or read about the Nainital day trip.
9. Do nothing, properly
Many of our guests never leave the resort for a whole day: the swimming pool and game zone, the café, a book in a Swiss camp and the valleys changing colour through the afternoon. At night, away from city lights, the sky fills with stars.
Frequently asked
How many days do you need in Mukteshwar?
Two nights is enough for the temple, Chauli ki Jali, the waterfall walk and a lazy day. Add a third night for a day trip to Nainital, Kainchi Dham or Ramgarh.
Is Mukteshwar good for families?
Yes. It is quiet and green, and at a resort with a pool and game zone children have plenty to do. Read Mukteshwar with family.
What is Mukteshwar famous for?
The Mukteshwar Dham temple, the cliffs of Chauli ki Jali, Himalayan views on clear days, its forests and orchards, and the old IVRI campus.