Places to See in Khatima

Surai Forest Range: Khatima is surrounded by the splendid Surai Forest Range. Surai Forest Range is rich in varied flora and fauna. It is an ideal spot for nature photography and bird watching. There is a Ghanta Ghar – ‘watch tower’ in the Dak Bungalow of the Surai Forest. Surai Forest Range is located near the river which serves as a watering hole for the animals. Watching animals in their habitat is a gripping experience. It is situated 20kms from Khatima on Khatima-Melaghat Road.

Bharamal Baba: It is located approximately 20 kilometres from Khatima in the Surai forest range. Bharamal Baba is considered as a holy place, a Shivalingam is worshipped by Hindus near the grave of Baba Bharamal, whereas the Muslims offer flowers and ‘Chadar’ to Baba Bharamal. This is an ideal place for example of Hindu and Muslim forbearance and brotherhood.

Banbasa Range: It is a barrage built on the river Sharda affording striking views of the lake formed by it. This old structure is capable to enthral the visitor and transport him back to that time. A park is also located here where people can enjoy picnics and spend placid afternoons. An old Dak Bungalow constructed by the Britishers in 1923 is also situated near Banbasa Range. Banbasa Range is situated on Khatima-Tanakpur road.

Vankhandi Temple: This temple is more than 200 years old associated with a peculiar legend attached to its inception. The herdsmen of the Tharu Community used to graze their cattle in this area. One day they found a cow pouring its milk over a heap of boulders. This phenomenon repeated itself with regularity. Observing this incident, some of the local people excavated this site and found a Shivalingam here. The local Tharu community then constructed the temple which is now revered by all communities. A fair is held on Shivaratri with people of all communities participatinf in it. Vankhandi is situated at a distance of 7 kilometres from Khatima towards Tanakpur.

Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid of Khatima was built in typical Muslim style of architecture before India attained independence. Jama Masjid is being maintained by a trust which is also running a Madarsa and a public school in this masjid.