Nested peacefully in the Kumaon Hills of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, Mukteshwar is a less touristy place. This charming hill town offers a blend of serenity and adventure, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. If you have 2-3 days in hand, here is a useful guide on places to visit in Mukteshwar.
1. Mukteshwar Dham Temple
Your journey isn’t complete without visiting the 300-year-old Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple. The town got its name from this temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mukteshwar Dham is perched on the highest point of the hill town. Amid the calming spiritual ambiance, the panoramic views of the Himalayas are a visual treat. The little hike to the temple through the pine forest feels quite refreshing and hits you differently. We halted at multiple spots to soak in the beauty and the warm sunshine.
Open from morning to sunset. No entry fee.
2. Visit Chauli ki Jali
Very close to Mukteshwar Dham is Chauli ki Jali, an iconic cliff point that has spiritual and religious significance. It earned this name from a cavity in the rock which looks like a hole created by a cannonball. Local fairs and events are organised at the base of the cliff on Shivratri, Holi, and other religious occasions. If you happen to stay back till sunset, the breathtaking views of the valley will blow your mind.
Open throughout the day. Entry fee- None
3. Go Cafe Hopping
Dhabas are the new-age cafes. Well, I am just kidding. Remote work models and unconventional jobs have given rise to new opportunities and businesses. One among them is the cozy, vibrant cafes that offer WiFi, peaceful work tables, and endless mountain views. These little joints are not just eateries but soulful spaces where modern meets traditional culture. Hence, cafes are among the most exciting places to visit in Mukteshwar. Treat yourself to a fancy hot cup of coffee or try the local Kumaoni thali; you would love to come back for more.
We recommend aloo ke gutke, bhatt ki churkani, gahat dal, and herbal teas.
4. Adventure Time! Rappelling and Rock Climbing
Feeling adventurous? Mukteshwar is known for its rock climbing and rappelling activities, especially near Chauli ki Jali. You can sign up with local adventure tour operators or ask your homestay to arrange it. Few agencies offer paragliding also, but we did not spot any paragliders around.
Even if you’re not into hardcore adventure, the views and photo ops alone are worth the short hike and time spent there.
Entry fee- None, pay for the adventure sports only. Open from morning till sunset.
5. Waterfalls and Nature Trails
Pack a picnic lunch or grab takeout from a local cafe and head to Bhalugaad Waterfall, about 40 minutes away. A short 1200-meter hike through the pine forest trails leads to a beautiful, secluded waterfall. Surrounded by nature’s bounties, the peaceful site is among the highly recommended places to visit in Mukteshwar. It was a refreshing experience amid chirpy birds and no crowd around. Spend around an hour and leave with beautiful memories captured in your camera.
Open from 9 am to 5 pm. Entry fee- Rs 60
6. Rejuvenate yourself: Bonfire and Stargazing
Back at your homestay, ask for a bonfire to be lit (most places happily oblige). Mukteshwar has minimal light pollution, so it’s a fantastic place for stargazing. The glittering lights and scenic beauty are a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Just unwind on the grass with a warm drink in hand and let the stars mesmerize you.
7. Visit the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI)
The IVRI might not be on most tourist lists, but it is one of the oldest research institutes in India. Built in 1893 as Imperial Bacteriological Research Institute, it was renamed IVRI post-independence. Spread across a 3000-acre land with colonial era buildings, the institute attracts students to research on animal diseases, vaccines, and cattle development. The vintage museum and library offer an insight into the institute’s contribution towards veterinary studies. Such unconventional locations are among the best offbeat places to visit in Mukteshwar. The forested lanes and silence of the surroundings reminded us of our impromptu visit to The Floriculture Institute in Chail, Himachal Pradesh.
Though there is no entry fee, you can enter with prior permission only.
8. Local Market and Fruit Orchards
Mukteshwar is known for its fresh produce, especially apples, plums, and apricots. Visit a local orchard or a village market early in the day. Some farms even let you pluck your own fruit during the harvest season.
Pick up handmade jams, organic soaps, and woollen goods as souvenirs. These thoughtful gifts support the local economy and sustainable tourism.
Travel tips for Mukteshwar
How to reach Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is around 340 km from Delhi and takes approximately 8-10 hours by road. You can also take a train to Kathgodam and then drive up (about 2.5 hours).
Best Time to Visit Mukteshwar
The hill town attracts tourists throughout the year. Winters are chilly and breezy (October to February). Summers from April to June are pleasant and see the highest footfall. Best to avoid visiting during the rainy season from July to September.
What to pack
Warm layers for winters. Walking shoes, irrespective of the season, and sunscreen. Carry a light jacket if you are visiting in early October. Dress up modestly while visiting Mukteshwar Dham. Advisable to carry medicines and a first aid kit since medical facilities are located far away.
Connectivity
Network is decent but patchy in some parts; carry offline maps. Few homestays or resorts on the outskirts have little to no network.
Stay Suggestions
A homestay is recommended to experience local culture. Budget-friendly options are available in hostels or dorms. Family or luxury travellers can choose resorts. We stayed in Neelkanth Retreat, which was away from the main town. Book early during peak seasons.
Places around Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is around 50 km from Nainital by road. A drive of 42 km will take you to Almora. You can also club Ranikhet or Munsiyari with your Mukteshwar trip. However, these places are in opposite directions, and many take a long time to cover by road.
Places to visit in Mukteshwar: In a nutshell
Three days in Mukteshwar can feel like a complete reset for the soul. Whether you’re sipping tea as the sun rises behind snow-capped peaks, trekking through forests to hidden waterfalls, or simply doing nothing at all—Mukteshwar invites you to slow down and reconnect.
So pack light, keep your heart open, and let the hills work their magic.
Have you been to Mukteshwar? Planning a trip soon? Tag us in your adventures as you explore these beautiful places in Mukteshwar or leave a comment with any query if you have any.