Located at an altitude of 2,286 meters above sea level; Mukteshwar is a perfect tourist spot in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand. It offers stunning scenic splendor with amazing views of the snow-capped Himalayas. This quaint place offers superb weather with a cold breeze blowing throughout the day.

Mukteshwar has loads to offer to the tourists and besides the fantastic views and fruits orchards of apples, pears, peaches and plums; there are several other offbeat places near Mukteshwar that you can explore without any disappointment.

We have come up with these top 10 offbeat places near Mukteshwar that will leave you blown away by their scenic beauty and tranquility;

1. Bhimtal

With splendid views and picturesque natural beauty; Bhimtal is a perfect destination to spend your holiday. This gorgeous lake city is named after Lord Bhima, the famous mythological character of Mahabharata. Situated at an altitude of 1,370 meters above sea level this peaceful weekend retreat is also well connected by roads.

Bhimtal has loads to offer besides the glittering lake in the city. It offers ample water sports activities, boating, and one can easily travel to Nainital, Sattal and Naukuchiatal from here.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 39km

2. Nathuakhan

It is a serene place in the Nainital district, located at a height of 1,940 meters above sea level in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.  Nathuakhan has alluring views of the sun-kissed Himalayas and dense forestry all around. Tourists can also explore nearby places like Ramgarh, Hartola and even Mukteshwar which lies in the close vicinity. It is a secluded village that offers several Eco-stay choices ranging from Farm stays to Luxury Resorts.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 19km

3. Chaffi

Chaffi is a beautiful and peaceful place perfect for nature lovers to explore in the quiet hills of Kumaon, Uttarakhand. It is a peaceful retreat that has a lot to offer. Chaffi has all-seasonal fruit trees like apples, apricots, plums, bayberries, raspberries and many more. Chaffi also gained popularity due to Shyamket Tea Estate in the close vicinity which is famous for a wide range of tea leaves including premium quality tea that is exported abroad.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 38km

4. Ramgarh

Ramgarh is one of the hidden jewels of Kumaon. It is popularly known as the “Fruit Bowl of Kumaon” as there are various fruits orchards of apple, apricot, peaches, and pears. Tourists coming to Mukteshwar must explore this serene place filled with tranquility and calmness.

At Ramgarh, you can explore from luxurious Resorts to Comfortable Cottages, from Eco-Stays to Villas in the area.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 28km

5. Gagar

With a majestic 180 degree view of the gorgeous Himalayas, Gagar becomes one of the best offbeat places near Mukteshwar that is truly amazing. Gagar is located at an altitude of 7000 ft (2134 meters) which offers magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 25km

6. Padampuri

Perched at an elevated spot of 5200 ft (1585 meters) above sea level, Padampuri is a quaint village located in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand. Covered with dense pine and deodar trees all around with beautiful mountains and sunset views. A perfect place for nature admirers with several hiking spots from the forests.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 23km

7. Bhalugaad Waterfalls

One of the magnificent waterfalls of Uttarakhand produces a roaring sound with crystal clear water flowing down. The Bhalu Gaad waterfall flows from 60 ft high and it flows continuously throughout the year. 

The word Bhalu means ‘Bear’ and Gaad means stream’ in the local kumaoni language. It is believed to be a good place for bear sightings, though it is pretty rare. There is a beautiful hike to reach the waterfall and the jungle trail makes it more idyllic.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 12km

8. Sitla

Nestled in the laps of the Himalayas lies a quaint village of Sitla that is located 7000 ft above sea level. Surrounded by the lush greenery and dense forestry, Sitla is a beautiful place to visit and explore. 

It offers magnificent views of the great Himalayan peaks of Panchachuli, Trishul, and Nanda Devi. Sitla lies in close proximity to Mukteshwar and is a perfect offbeat tourist destination near Mukteshwar. Sitla is an excellent spot for trekking, hiking, bird watching, and sight-seeing. One could also explore Colonial-style bungalows.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 6km

9. Peora

Peora is another idyllic eco-tourism destination in the hills of Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Peora offers great Himalayan views and is surrounded by pine, oak and rhododendron trees.  Dense forests serve as the natural habitat for several wildlife animals like leopards, wild cats, Indian black bears and several species of birds.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 20km

10. Dhokaney  Waterfalls

It is an unexplored and undiscovered vacation spot for travelers and nature wanderers. It’s a perfect tourist spot to spend your leisure trip and take a dip in the water in scorching summers. Only a few people know about this hidden waterfall near Mukteshwar.

Location: National Highway 109 connects Almora with Nainital.

Distance from Mukteshwar: 40km

Insider Tips to know about Mukteshwar:

When planning to visit the picturesque hill station of Mukteshwar, surrounded by peace and tranquillity, you must know these facts and tips:

• Mukteshwar is a quaint hill station and the weather is quite cold all the time. Even in the summers! So always, bring a thin sweatshirt or jacket if you’re traveling in the summers and for winters pack extra clothing.
• Mukteshwar is a perfect spot for hikers and adventure lovers. Bring your hiking shoes that are comfortable. You can go for village walks, jungle trails, and hiking.
• For nature enthusiasts, it’s a perfect spot for nature photography where you can capture the perfect 180 degree Himalayan View. You could also click the gorgeous scenic views, sunsets and exquisite species of birds.
• For adventure explorers, Chauli Ki Jali is an ideal location for rock climbing, rappelling, mountain climbing and much more.
• Carrying your travel gear is a MUST when visiting to magnificent town like Mukteshwar!

Conclusion

Mukteshwar is a perfect tourist destination for capturing fantastic views and it can also be called an off-beat Honeymoon destination in Uttarakhand with splendid experience and relaxation.

(NOTE: Distance has been calculated from the main Mukteshwar area close to Mukteshwar Dham).