MUKTESHWAR...Shiva's land of salvation



"Nature is one of the most underutilized treasures of life. It has the power to unburden hearts and reconnect to that inner place of peace."
- Janice Anderson

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An appeal


Hi friends, here're my latest journey's best moments that I wish to share with you. But before I do so, let me remind you that when in hills, we are mostly at the edge of a pristine forest. So, I urge you NOT to make loud noises that may disturb the wildlife or litter the surrounding areas. Please avoid polythene and plastic...MOTHER nature will remain thankful to you...along with your coming generations!

Respect Nature. It Reciprocates!

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MUKTESHWAR via RAMGARH



ROUTE SUMMARY



#1. Delhi - Ghaziabad - Hapur - Moradabad - Tanda - Bazpur - Kaladhungi - Khurpatal - Nainital - Bhowali range - Mukteshwar



#2. Delhi - Ghaziabad - Hapur - Moradabad - Rampur - Rudrapur - Haldwani - Kathgodam - Bhimtal - Bhowali range - Mukteshwar



CONTENTS

INTRO : A crisp introduction to the Destination.


THE JOURNEY : Driving experience, General Information(Trivia) & Suggestions etc (Notes).


GROUND REPORT : A summary of the Destination & important Stopovers. Safe Pit Spots(refreshment breaks)during the journey. Details like Altitude, Distances, History, HOTELS' INFORMATION WITH TELEPHONE NO & Tourist Attractions etc.


INTRO


SUPER STOP


RAMGARH



A handful of freshness!
Drive through the dazzling landscapes and fragrant surroundings where, defying the gravity, the fruit-laden trees humbly bow in gratitude to welcome you and a sweeping scenic spectacle of Himalaya flabbergasts you...

The extraordinary passage of freshness that leads you to the divine doorsteps of the Lord...


Ramgarh is called the fruit bowl of Kumaon

DESTINATION



MUKTESHWAR



The company of wild...DEODARS!

GREAT SIGHTS  AT GREAT HEIGHTS...seems apt for Mukteshwar Mahadev temple! Perched at more than 7500 feet above sea level where valleys grow deeper, huger, colourful and the snow-capped Himalayas look overwhelmingly majestic.

...where extreme chilly conditions and strong winds make the leaves of stupendous deodars shiver


...Mukteshwar is Shiva's land of salvation



THE JOURNEY

Month : June 2018
Starting point : New Delhi
Destination : Mukteshwar
Mode of transport : Car


SHANVI goes to school now. On the first summer vacations of her schooling carrier, we decided to gift her a tour to the hills...MUKTESHWAR via the fruit basket of Kumaon, 'RAMGARH'.


As the tour was happening right in the middle of the peak season, we approached the KMVN's New Delhi office a couple of months before the actual date of journey. There we were informed that the dates we had planned were already blocked (perhaps, as there is only one family suit at Mukteshwar's KMVN rest house). But the ever-smiling staff of KMVN, New Delhi, as always, cooperated and planned our stay. For a clear six days' booking, we had to push our journey one week further.


I had never been to Mukteshwar ever, though it was on my wishlist for long. So, along with SHANVI, I too was quite excited about this journey. Finally, the D-Day arrived and we left for the Dev-Bhumi at around 3.30 A.M.


Delhi-Hapur-Moradabad is a very smooth stretch. It's tempting but try not to cross the speed limit. From Moradabad, we took Tanda - Bazpur route. Though it is a single road, yet mostly its good.





Good Morning...
NOTE : If you leave early, a morning safari(6 am) can also be planned at Jim Corbett national park en route to Nainital. Also, there is evening safari at 2 pm. These safaris can be booked online. The distance between Delhi and the Park is around 270 kms.

Our first major break came at KHURPATAL, 12 km before Nainital. Though we stayed at the highway and the lake was at some distance below, still the water body looked wonderful. Morning breeze coming from the lake was refreshing. After a twenty minutes break, we decided to move on. But here we were in for a shock. Though aware of the peak season rush, still we got trapped...



Refreshing...KHURPATAL
Nainital was around nine kms away from this point and we were in a massive jam. After enjoying an almost motionless drive for over 45 minutes, I decided to hand over the steering wheel to my daughter, Himani (in case she gets the chance to drive a few steps!) and left to understand the intensity of the situation. After having a chat with a few clueless neighboring drivers, I moved further up. Otherwise pristine surroundings, looked quite intimidating that day. The serpent road was choked with traffic. Jam looked endless. Weather too was quite hot. After all, it was the middle of June.

The scary thing was that no traffic was coming downhill, perhaps indicative of some massive roadblock up there. Finally, I came across few police constables surrounded by a mini-mob. There I was informed that actually Nainital was fully chocked because of the thick tourists' traffic and the car parking etc are absolutely packed. So, to control the situation, no more traffic is being allowed towards the city. According to cops, the options for the ones going towards Nainital were limited, either wait till the situation improves(which according to cops may make you stay here overnight) or park your vehicle at the bypass, some 300-400 meters ahead, at owner's risk and use shuttle service to Nainital. On producing my hotel's(Mukteshwar) reservation slip, I was helped with a clear passage till the bypass from where we reached Bhowali via Jeolikot.

NOTE : Get your fuel tanks refilled at Bhowali Range area.



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Tarkeshwar Mahadev...a Siddh-peeth

Plan a journey with me to 22 SPECIAL TEMPLES around famous HILL-STATIONS, just click here:
Post Bhowali, we started to find much lesser traffic on the road. As we moved ahead, the effect of the change in elevation was evident on vegetation as well as on the weather. Clean and fragrant breeze with a feel of chill, a Jet-black winding road running through the pines' filled slopes and lush green deep valleys forced us to stop. To experience the nature in its most raw form, we got out of car...stretched our legs and enjoyed steaming hot tea^, sitting on the roadside parapet.

^Carry a hot water thermos, tea bags, sugar cubes, namkeen(salty snacks), biscuits etc. and enjoy the party at the place of your choice.

Rhododendron (Buransh) Tree
TRIVIA : Rhododendron is the NATIONAL FLOWER of NEPAL and STATE FLOWER of HIMACHAL PARDESH. The leaves of the tree are used to prepare organic fertilizer and the wood is used to make agricultural tools and furniture. In Himachal Pradesh, its flowers are used to make the popular fruit and flower wines. Most species of rhododendrons have bright coloured flowers...blood red, pink, white etc. The red flowers are believed to be full of medicinal properties. Ayurvedic medicines use its flowers and leaves for treating Gout, Inflammations, Rheumatism, Arthritis and Bronchitis. The flowers are also used for the treatment of Heart problems, High Blood Pressure, Liver disorders and Anaemia.

Soon, we reached Gagar, a small hamlet located at an altitude of 7,000 feet. This peaceful place had some home stays, guest houses and a humble marketplace.

With AC of the car already in the sleep mode, windows pulled down and jackets on, now we were actually breathing fresh on the almost traffic-less road. At less than 15 kms from here, we were moving towards our super stop and "the fruit bowl of Kumaon", Ramgarh.



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Mall Road - KASAULI
For Weekend Hill Stations around Delhi(THE 7 HOURS' DESTINATIONS), visit: https://hillheart.blogspot.in/2018/04/weekend-hill-stations-around-delhi.html 

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Perched at an average altitude of 1789 mts, with a magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachuli range, Ramgarh too like Nainital, has Talla as lower and Malla as the upper part of the town.

Drive slowly through the prismatic surroundings to witness and admire a memorable 'roadshow' of fruit orchards and wild orchids organized by mother nature. Heavily laden colourful trees carrying crunchy and juicy peaches and ripe plums hanging on the lush branches is an unforgettable sight, especially for the city guys who, in fact, are struggling to save some neem, keekar or peepal trees back home...for oxygen!









The FRUIT ROUTE

NOTE : In hills, controlled & safe driving is a prerequisite. Avoid overtaking at sharp turns. Also, DON'T OFFER PASS AT SHARP AND BLIND TURNS. Relax, have BREAKS to keep fresh & enjoy the nature around you and...don't litter around!

Find here some of the biggest peaches you have ever seen. As if a dream, move ahead to find an apricot orchard and then rows of trees loaded with bunches of yet unripe apples. Peaches, plums, pears and apricots usually are fully ripe by the end of May to mid-June but the apples will make you wait a bit longer. Also, let me assure you that the fruit tastes best and have a special aroma when plucked straight from the branch, something that you can try here, especially when you are staying here in some hotel or resort as most of them have their own orchards. Let's hope that some of the worlds remains underdeveloped or wonder(fully)developed like Ramgarh so that our coming generation too can understand the meaning of eating fresh and breathing fresh. Incidentally, Ramgarh is a major supplier of all these fruits across India.


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CHOPTA
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This invigorating place is also known for ‘Ramgarh Bungalows’, a property constructed in British style architecture in the nineteenth century and run by the ‘Neemrana’ group of Neemrana Fort fame (Alwar, Rajasthan).


Several famous personalities such as 'Gurudev' Rabindranath Tagore, social worker Narain Swami and famous writers Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', Sachchidananda Hirananda Vatsyayan (popularly known by his pen-name "Agyeya") and Mahadevi Varma (who got the idea of writing her famous story 'Lachhma' here) had preferred this peaceful location to relax and alongside, satisfying their creative urge.


(To know more see HISTORY of Ramgarh, below)

After tasting a lot of fresh fruits, some by plucking and some by purchasing from the roadside vendors, we left for our destination, Mukteshwar.


NOTE : DURING WINTERS, SPECIALLY DURING MONSOON AND SNOWFALLS, CHECK WITH YOUR HOTEL ABOUT ROAD CONDITIONS BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY ON ANY LESS-FAMILIAR ROUTE IN THE HILLS. ALSO, ON THE WAY, KEEP CONSULTING WITH LOCAL DRIVERS ABOUT THE ROAD CONDITIONS.

Road to Mukteshwar was reasonably smooth, though quite narrow and with missing roadside parapets in patches, driving needed extra caution. Still, driving through lush green surroundings decorated with step farming and unknown wildflowers on the roadsides was a memorable experience, as always.


Everything seemed to be almost perfect till now, but we were missing the magical views of snow-capped Himalayas! After entering so much inside the hills, we were yet to spot a snowy peak. Though it was generally sunny all-through, still the distant Himalayas were hiding behind some misty layers.
Finally, we reached Mukteshwar. For the next 5-6 days, this place was going to be our home.


My first impression about Mukteshwar, the hill station was not very encouraging. The place looked quite overcrowded, where already narrow hill-roads were half occupied with parked vehicles. Though the greenery was very good, but to my surprise, there was a lot of dust flying around with the strong surface winds. The experience of driving through the jams in Delhi helped me to cross the entrance/parking of the Mukteshwar temple, which is around 100-150 meters before KMVN's tourist rest house.


Generally, the KMVN and GMVN tourist rest houses are the best located properties of the area as they offer best views of the surroundings. Here too KMVN TRH was no exception. The rest house was situated at the end of the road amidst dense woodlands, primarily Deodars, with an uninterrupted view of the snow cladded Himalayas. Though we could not enjoy the grand Himalayan view due to mist, still we were hopeful, as we were having an extended stay (...of 6 days) on this occasion.



KMVN, Tourist Rest House
The family suite, with a nice little balcony, was located on the first floor of the rest house. It had a good overall view through two large windows, one opening towards the Himalayan ranges and the other showing a dense jungle of old deodars. At 3600/- + taxes, including bed tea, breakfast and dinner, the deal was economical.

We checked-in at 1:30 PM and went straight to the dining hall as there is no room service in these rest houses except for the bed tea. After a simple lunch, we decided to take a nap.


After a refreshing nap, we decided to enjoy our evening tea-pakora party at the small yet colourful lawn of the rest house with an impressive view of the surroundings, though the Himalayas were still relaxing under the misty cover.


Thereafter we decided to stroll down the road going towards the temple which was just a few minutes walk through a redolent forest of deodars and pines.


The temple is located on a densely forested hilltop. There are two approaches to the temple. The first one, which is more popular, is at the car parking of the temple. Also, two most popular treks of the area bifurcate from the first approach(parking), one towards the Lord Shiva's temple and another towards 'Chauli Ki jaali', the next most visited tourist attraction of the town. Whereas the second approach which is about 30-40 mts away, is more peaceful, hence a bit more enjoyable for the nature lovers.



Way to the temple from KMVN TRH
Also, let me add an observation here...just about four hours ago, this place was jam-packed with the vehicles, whereas now there's hardly any. As we inquired about this from Joshi Ji of 'Joshi tea stall', he informed us that during the peak season (like it's now) and the weekends, 'day tourists' from Nainital and surrounding areas visit here in large numbers, normally between 11 AM to 4-5 PM. Once they leave, it's peaceful all-over. Quite similar to Jageshwar...though Jageshwar remains less crowded. And the catch is...Jageshwar is 100 kms from Nainital and Mukteshwar is only 50...!

As we were still weighing the possibility of climbing up to the temple, suddenly the thunderous black clouds started taking charge of the surroundings. So, we had no option but to move back to the hotel. Reducing visibility forced us to quicken our pace as the clouds began to gather all over the place. We didn't pick the umbrellas as just a few minutes back, the sky had been postcard-perfect, but that's nature in the true colours. I got the first splatter of rain when we were halfway through, pushing us to jog a bit. Mammoth deodars swaying furiously and winds gushing through dense forest sounded scary. Fortunately for us, it was not far away and we entered the hotel just as it started to pour...in torrents!




Its raining...a view from the balcony
On reaching the room, we immediately ordered tea pakora (a salted snack) and settled in the balcony. The rainfall became more intense. The big and consistent drops were drumming over the canopy of the balcony...and the lights went off. It was pitch dark all around when someone knocked at the door. It was time the candlelight 'tea party' with a bit extra crusty veg pakoras.



DEODARS' Rain Bath

TRIVIA : In Sanskrit 'Devadaru' means the wood of God. Deva - God and Daru - Wood. Generally seen at an elevation of 6000 ft and above, these mammoth conical cedars, along with a durable fragrance, has anti-fungal and insect repellent properties.

Heavy rains lashed Mukteshwar last night, at least till I was awake. If sunny, I was hopeful of an early morning view of the snow clad Himalayas. But it didn't happen. It was a chilly fogy morning. So, we decided to relax and spent most of the day lazing around and playing with SHANVI. We left for the temple at 3 pm. As we were coming from KMVN, we preferred the second approach (one nearer to KMVN). Immediately after climbing a few steps there was a signboard indicating that the temple was only 200 mts away. We were almost alone all through the climb.



Trek(second) near KMVN

Trek to the temple
The trek to the top was scenic and very beautiful. A lush passage of deodars and pines made the walk memorable. Ascending through magnificent and refreshing surroundings, the trek was short and not very steep. So, I believe that almost everybody can make it except for someone due to medical reasons.

The temple complex was quite crowded with most of the devotees using the first approach (car parking) to reach here. This simple cluster of temples is on the hilltop surrounded by a lot of greenery, verdant valleys with pillows of clouds floating around and a panoramic view of multiple layers of Himalayas. Though for us, horizon was still opaque, and the wonder peaks remained elusive. A consistent cool breeze of inconsistent velocity with cloudy and fogy surroundings were adding to the charms of the serene temple. Lal Chunnies along with many bells (devotees offer them on fulfillment of their wishes) hanging all over the terrace must be the regular components of this highland. It looks like a tradition prevalent in this region, as the same can be seen in various temples around Kumaon, particularly Golu Devta temple(on the way to Jageshwar). To know more about Golu Devta temple (CHITAI TEMPLE), 
visit:











The main deity at Mukteshwar Mahadev temple is Lord Shiva. A white marble Shivalinga with a copper yoni is worshiped here along with the deities of Ganesh, Nandi, Hanuman, Vishnu and Brahma. According to Puranas, Lord Shiva's Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the 18 Temples that are highly revered.


Devi Mandir(Shiva's consort), Hanuman temple and Guru Ram Mandir(enshrines Lord Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman) are some other temples of this complex. An idol of Kalki, the future 10th incarnation of Lord Vishnu to end the kalyuga, is also there.


We spent around an hour enjoying the serene surroundings of the temple and came down towards the car parking. Except for being more crowded and less green, it was almost similar to the second approach. On the foothill, there are many stalls selling fast food like Maggie, dal-chawal, lemon drinks etc. From here a trek bifurcating towards the left, that will drop you at 'Chauli Ki Jaali', another major tourist attraction of Muktedhwar...but we headed
back to the hotel now!



A view of CHAULI KI JAALI from the TEMPLE
...To know more about Mukteshwar Mahadev temple and its 'HISTORY' see the ground report, below.

Most of the evening once again was dotted with moderate to medium intensity downpours which we thoroughly enjoyed while sitting in the balcony. The extended canopy above the area worked wonderfully, as we watched the rain-drenched tall deodars dancing in the winds and playing hide and seek with us...courtesy the thick floating fog.


Next morning, with the hope of the wonder-view, once again I got up early. But in vain. It was blanketed all over!


After the breakfast, though not exactly sunny, it was pleasant. With umbrellas ready, we left for Chaouli Ki jaali.


Chauli Ki Jali is the second most popular attraction of Mukteshwar. An approx 200 meters of not so steep, but an uneven and narrow trek from the base (car parking) took us to the destination. CHAULI means rock and JALI mean hole...so, there's a hole in a hard and firm rock. It is believed that if a childless woman puts her head in this hole, she'll soon conceive. Another belief is that the woman will have to pass through the hole to get her wish fulfilled. A wonderful view of valley and Himalayas can be enjoyed from here. Many small eateries manned by locals are available here.





CHAULI KI JAALI
Primarily, this place is meant for nature lovers, but as we visited the place in morning hours, it was really crowded. Adventure seekers too can enjoy a lot of activities here, such as Zipline, Repling, Rock climbing, Archery etc.

For HISTORY of 'Chaoli Ki Jaali', see GROUND REPORT, below.


With half the vacations gone, we were yet to spot the white Himalayan background to the graceful greens. But then, we are humans and we have limitations! By the virtue of researches though, we have extended those limits for the wellbeing of habitants of this planet. 
When in Mukteshwar, a must visit center for such activities is "INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTE". Mukteshwar houses the Division of Virology and the Division of Temperate Animal Husbandry. The Virology Division conducts basic, adaptive and applied research on viral diseases of animals. The Division of Temperate Animal Husbandry conducts research on livestock production under temperate conditions and improvement of goats for pashmina production. There is a proposal to develop the National Veterinary Museum at Mukteshwar.


INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, Mukteshwar
For further details and HISTORY* of the institute, see GROUND REPORT below.

As we came out of the Indian veterinary research institute, a small downhill trek, on the other side of the road, took us to a graceful Methodist Church. Reached through a small trek, this building is located on lush green slopes of Mukteshwar amidst towering cedars. This is a magnificent red and white Church with tin roof. A rocky and cramped path to the Church is like walking on the eggshells, so watch your steps carefully. The reason for the uneven trek, we were told was that this narrow path was cut by the locals who were regular users of this route. To know about the church's low wooden door, visit this Church on Sundays. Rest of the days, it's closed.







Methodist church, Mukteshwar
On our second last evening in Mukteshwar, we decided to have a long stroll through the bazaar of the town. It must be around a couple of kms long road but with only a few scattered shops and restaurants. With a valley view throughout and cool surroundings, it can be a good shopping destination. But to me, it's better the way it is. One umbrella, a hat for SHANVI and a few colourful candles (a local product) for friends, though most of the items come here from Delhi's Sadar Bazar etc. yet we enjoy taking them back as souvenirs!





Candle corner of a shop

At almost end of the market, there were a couple of decent looking restaurants. We selected the one with a good open-air sitting arrangement. With a nice cool breeze around, we began the snacking with ice-cream candies. In the meantime, I found Mr. Anuraag Pandey, the owner of the place, a very interactive person. I reconfirm from him when he tells me that they are inhabitants of Mukteshwar since 1922.

During an informal chat, I asked Pandey Ji whether he ever came across any wild animal here in the recent past. With a tennis cap on head and cute baby in arms, he replied in affirmative and went on to add that he has CCTV footage of a leopard, captured on the 8th of June (we reached here on 12th) passing right through the road we were sitting on, pointing towards the camera installed at his restaurant's wall. Along with a restaurant (Shri Hari AP's restaurant) he owns a general store and a resort too...I am thankful to Mr. Pandey for providing the clipping and more importantly, making me fearless. Now I can proudly say that the road I used to walk on in Mukteshwar was the one used by none less than a wild, fully grown leopard, just a few days back.



The majestic walker...
(Recorded on 8th June 2018, 1.32 AM)

(THOUGH IT IS SMALL CLIPPING OF ONLY A FEW SECONDS, STILL IT'S STRONG ENOUGH REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THE WILDLIFE IN AND AROUND MUKTESHWAR IS QUITE LIVE & KICKING)

Here's our last evening of the tour. We planned to celebrate it out in the lawns of the rest house. For the first time perhaps, the mist floating over the calm and green surroundings was not rejuvenating anymore...the heartbreaking truth was that the mist stayed like a wall between us and the most precious view of Mukteshwar, the magnificent snow-capped Himalayas. Though I could not see the silvery peaks, still while sitting in the lawn of the rest house, I imagine that photographically this wonderful place would make a splash of colours against the bright and white backdrop of majestic Himalayas.

Anyway, we ordered pizza to Deepak, the cook. His pizza was special. We requested him to bring it to the mist-filled lawns along with some hot coffee. Another information that we gathered at hotel's reception today morning was that, most of the times during summers, the peaks are not visible due to mist. The best time to view the peaks is from September to March.




On a clear day, one could get to see as far as NANDA DEVI, the highest Himalayan peak in India, but I cannot testify to this statement, as I was mist-bitten. 'HIM DARSHAN' (with graphical details of the Himalayan peaks written over it) remained useless for us...

NANDA DEVI peak from CHAUKORI. To know more, visit:

TRIVIANANDA DEVI is the highest Himalayan peak that exists entirely in India. Kangchenjunga(8,586 mtr), though higher than Nanda Devi, is on the Indo-Nepal border.







COOL JUNE...
Mukteshwar is a place for peaceful vacations, where there are almost zero shopping options and no famous eateries...a perfect place to have a leisure stroll. Dense woodlands are all around the city. There are many peaceful places for Nature Walk. We hope the construction going on around Mukteshwar doesn't kill the place in future.

Mukteshwar is home to several medicinal herbs such as Kilmora, Hisalu etc. It is located amidst dense reserve forest of Deodar, Oak Kafal, Pine, Utis, Rhododendrons etc, measuring approx fifteen square miles. With a splendid panoramic view of 300 kms of the Himalayas with more than twenty named and unnamed snow-peaks on a clear day, and alongside the adventure of living among, though seldom visible, tigers, leopards and bears, Mukteshwar is a must visit destination near Delhi. The forests here are home to monkeys, langoors and lovely mountain birds such as Himalayan ruby throat, black winged kite etc.
Some of the most famous peaks visible from Mukteshwar-



Nanda Ghunti-20,699 ft.
Trishul-22360 ft.
Trishul east-23320 ft.
Nanda Devi-25645 ft.
Nanda Devi east-24391 ft.
Nanda Kot-22,510 ft.
Panchachuli-22651 ft.


There were several places to be visited around Mukteshwar, but due to the shy Himalayas hiding behind the mist, we had to scrap the itinerary. Places like Sona pani, Sitla, Dhanachuli(14 kms) etc are some other popular tourists' spots that offer beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges.

HISTORY*


Mukteshwar


Mukteshwar literally means " God of salvation" (Mukti+Eshwar),i.e., the God who releases you from the cycle of births and deaths. Legend has it that Lord Shiva killed a demon here. Later with the grace of Lord Shiva the demon attained salvation. Mukteshwar temple was built here by a Pandiya King from the Tamil kingdom during the 15th century.


It is believed that childless couples offer their prayers, with earthen lamps in their hand, on the Shiva-ratri to the Lord and get blessed with a child.


Yet another story about this land of meditation states that Lord Shiva impressed by the tapasya (meditation) of a Saint Shri Mukteshwar Maharaj ji, gave darshan at Mukteshwar. Later on, Maharaj ji went to Calcutta and attained samadhi there (Pushan Ashram, Bandhaghat, Halishahr, West Bangal). One of his disciples, Swami Sanshudhanand ji, still stays at SAMADHI MANDIR within Mukteshwar temple complex.


While following a man eater tiger, Jim Corbett too visited Mukteshwar and appreciated the pristine beauty of the region. He included his experiences in  his book "Man-Eaters of Kumaon" referring  Mukteshwar as Muktesar.


RAMGARH
Rabindranath Tagore, also known as Gurudev, a very respected Noble laureate, who reshaped Bengali literature and music, started writing one of his most famous works 'Gitanjali' at Ramgarh. He kept on visiting this place regularly for six years. He even planned to set-up Shantiniketan here, but eventually chose his home state, Bengal.


The renowned poetess Mahadevi Verma's home in Ramgarh is now converted into a library of her work.


CHAULI KI JAALI
Legend has it that a group of devotees heading to Mount Kailash when confronted this tricky and risky location, they prayed Lord Shiva for the help. Lord blessed the group leader with special powers and told him to punch the rock hard and the result is this hole.


INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTE*
Primarily famous for temples and shrines,on August 1893, this town was selected as a production centre of serums to protect animals from cattle plague. 
The Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory was relocated to Mukteshwar from Pune, under the recommendation of the Cattle Plague Commission headed by Col. J.H.B.Hallen, to facilitate segregation and quarantine of highly contagious organisms. For this purpose unpolluted natural environment and cold climate of Mukteswar was found to be congenial for the preservation of vaccines and sera and suitable for work on infectious microorganisms.  Indian veterinary research institute at Mukteshwar was completed in 1898, but a fire in 1899 destroyed it. Finally, it was completed in 1901.

Mukteshwar spread over 3450 acres of land, now houses the Division of Virology and the Division of Temperate Animal Husbandry. The Virology Division conducts basic, adaptive and applied research on viral diseases of animals. The Division of Temperate Animal Husbandry conducts research on livestock production under temperate conditions and improvement of goats for pashmina production. There is a proposal to develop National Veterinary Museum at Mukteshwar.

GROUND REPORT


PIT STOPSGajraula : Approx 125 kms from Delhi. Bikanerwala, Haveli and many more good restaurants & dhabas.


Moradabad : Approx 175 kms from Delhi. Tadka restaurant(at Bharat Petroleum), McDonald's.


TOP STOPS


TOP STOP #1


NAINITAL
Altitude -2,084 mtr.(6,837 ft.)
State    - Uttrakhand
District - Nainital
Division - Kumaon


DISTANCE

Nainital Delhi - 298 km.approx.
Nearest railway station - Kathgodam(41 km)


Nearest airport - Pant Nagar (72 km)


Main attraction - Known as 'Lake City', Nainital is famous for the pear-shaped NAINI LAKE (with approx 2 miles circumference).


WHERE TO STAY*

KUMAON MANDAL VIKAS NIGAM
(KMVN), Delhi Office (booking, information & guidance)-
Address : 103, Indra Prakash Building, 21, Bara Khamba Road, New Delhi. Phone No.: (011) 23319835, 23712246. +91 9312633181(M). Fax No.: (011) 41519366. E-mail: kmvnnewdelhi@yahoo.comkmvnjanpath@yahoo.co.in


1. KMVN, Oak Park House, Mallital
Ph - 07055 715 251/08650 002 501


2. KMVN, Thandi Road, Nainital
Ph - 05942 231 436


3. Alka hotel
Add.: The Mall, Nainital, Uttrakhand -263002
Ph.- 05942 235 220


Many Luxury & budget hotels & resorts.


SUPER STOP


RAMGARH
State : Uttarakhand 
District : Nainital 


Elevation : 1400 mts to 1900 mts


Approx Distance fromDelhi : 322 kms
Mukteshwar : 28 km


Main attraction


Known as 'The Fruit Bowl Of Kumaon', Ramgarh is famous for the the fruit orchards and mesmerizing Himalayan views.

WHERE TO STAY*
KUMAON MANDAL VIKAS NIGAM
(KMVN), Delhi Office (booking, information & guidance)-
Address : 103, Indra Prakash Building, 21, Bara Khamba Road, New Delhi. Phone No.: (011) 23319835, 23712246. +91 9312633181(M). Fax No.: (011) 41519366. E-mail: kmvnnewdelhi@yahoo.comkmvnjanpath@yahoo.co.in


1. KMVN tourist rest house
Address: Ramgarh Market,, Ramgarh, Uttarakhand
Phone: 094337 26909


2. The Ramgarh Bungalows
Address: 19th C,Kumaon Hills District, above Nainital Ramgarh (Malla), Nainital, Uttarakhand 263137
Phone: 094111 08156


3. Cedar Lodge
Address: Ramgarh, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Phone: 098111 09596


4. OYO 12142 Home 1BK Cottage Talla, Ramgarh
Address: The Burans, Malla, Ramgarh, Uttarakhand 263137
Phone: 083770 04514


5. Suvaasa The Resort
Address: Bohrakote, Village Khopa, Ramgarh District Nainital, Nainital, 263137
Phone: 05942 281 306


6. Aamari Resort
Address: Main Bhowali-Mukteshwar Road, Malla Ramgarh, Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263137
Phone: 095608 97672


7. Taradale Cottage
Address: Village Bohrakot, Tehsil,Ramgarh, Kumaon, Uttarakhand 263137
Phone: 05942 281 189


8. V Resorts
Address: Malla Ramgarh, Ramgarh, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263137
Phone: 0120 666 6900

DESTINATION


MUKTESHWAR
State : Uttarakhand 
District : Nainital


Elevation : 2,171 m (7,123 ft)


Approx Distance from
Delhi : 350 kms
Nainital : 54 kms


MAJOR PEAKS visible from Mukteshwar, with elevation -


Nanda Ghunti-20,699 ft.
Trishul-22360 ft.
Trishul east-23320 ft.
Nanda Devi-25645 ft.
Nanda Devi east-24391 ft.
Nanda Kot-22,510 ft.
Panchachuli-22651 ft.
We were told that on a clear day, 300 km. of the Himalayan range is visible from here.


ACTIVITIES

Besides devotional and mythological significance Mukteshwar offers many activities such as long Nature walks, bird watching, Zipline, Repling, Rock climbing, Archery etc.

What to do
Breath in the real air,do nature walks, listen to the birds chirping around, feel the gentle breeze cutting through the lush green forest.


LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

1. Mukteshwar Mahadev temple
2. Chauli Ki Jali
3. Methodist church
4. Indian veterinary research institute
5. The sunrise point is at the government-run PWD guest house.
6. Mukteshwar's post office, founded in 1905 is near the car parking of the temple.


(For details, read the blog, above.)


AROUND MUKTESHWAR


BHALU GAAD WATERFALLS is a natural waterfall coming from some undiscovered source. An approx 10 kms drive till village Dhari and then a couple of kilometres intense trek going through rocky terrains and few small water streams. Water tends to make the rocks slippery, so watch your steps. This trek brings you quite close to nature.


SITLA  is a peaceful hill station and a popular tourist spot that offers a beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges. An Ideal place for camping and bird watching, Sitla is only about seven kms from mukteshwar.


NATHUAKHAN
Just a couple of kilometres away from Ramgarh is Nathuakhan, an appealing town sending a quiet and made environ. The town is roosted on in a hillock 6365 feet above ocean level. With dense woodlands and lush green landscapes, Nathuakhan is a peaceful and quiet destination.


WHERE TO STAY *


KUMAON MANDAL VIKAS NIGAM
(KMVN), Delhi Office (booking, information & guidance)-
Address : 103, Indra Prakash Building, 21, Bara Khamba Road, New Delhi. Phone No.: (011) 23319835, 23712246. +91 9312633181(M). Fax No.: (011) 41519366. E-mail: kmvnnewdelhi@yahoo.comkmvnjanpath@yahoo.co.in


1. KMVN tourist rest house
Address: Mukteshwar Mahadev Rd, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263138
Phone: 086500 02528


2. Shri Hari Resort
Address: Gross Bazar, Mukteshwar Rd, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263132
Phone: 098378 96965, 09411376718


3. Maa Gauri Resort
Address: Maa Gauri Resort, Sargakhet, Muktaswar District Nainital Uttrakhand Main Road, Muktaswar, Mukteshwar, 263138
Phone: 099713 92477


4. Peace homestay
Address: Near Mukteshwar Dham Temple, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263138
Phone: 095606 65015


5. OYO 10196 Home Raghav Heritage
Address: Shitla, near Kilmora handicrafts, Mukteshwar, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263131
Phone: 083770 04514


6. The Golden Peak Hotel
Address: Sargakhet, Bhatelia-Mukteshwar Rd, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263132
Phone: 081261 29729


7. Casa Dream The Resort
Address: Bhowali-Ramgarh-Mukteshwar Road, Satbunga, Uttarakhand 263132
Phone: 079002 34525


8. Ojaswi Himalayan Resort, Mukteshwar.
Address: Sitla Gram,Chatola, Shitla Road, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263138
Phone: 075330 06870


~~~~~***~~~~~

NOTE : ALWAYS drive carefully there...remember, mountains have a way of dealing with overconfidence.


~~~~~~*****~~~~~~






PILGRIMAGE in HIMALAYAS 






Respect Nature. She Reciprocates!

Mountains are the World’s Water Towers. Water, stocked as Glaciers, flows downwards in form of rivers. Besides satisfying our thirst, it also sustains most of the food production in addition to the maintenance of various green belts that generate the basic requirement of our life, the oxygen.

My birthplace, Delhi is a wonderful place, just a few hundred kilometers away from world's most famous water towers, The Towering Himalayas. And whenever we want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city we head straight into the lush green wilds of the Himalayas to breathe easy in the lap of raw nature. With an almost endless list of destinations, blessed with delightful landscapes and colourful trails for all tastes, capacities & capabilities, Himalaya, we believe is the abode of Gods. However, spending time in such serene surroundings brings its own responsibilities too...


...avoid littering around. Use eco-friendly produce during the journey.

********************************


The Himalayan escape...around Delhi


"Tourists don't know where they've been. Travellers don't know where they are going"

-Paul Theroux


~~*~~



Wanderer's Wonderland

* Compiled from Google

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