Mukteshwar is a pleasing destination situated at an elevation of 2,285 mts above sea level in Nainital district of Uttarakhand state. Mukteshwar got its name from a 350-year-old temple Mukteshwer Dham whose residing deity is Lord Shiva.
The top of the mountain on which Mukteshwar Temple stands offers astonishing and marvelous views of the imposing Himalayan range.
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Mukteshwar offers distinctly visible 180-degree views of the majestic Himalayan a range. The beauty of Mukteshwar is unpolluted and unaffected till date and accommodation options are growing here. It is believed that Lord Shiva killed a demon at this spot and he granted him salvation or Mukti.
The unspoiled beauty of Mukteshwar has a lot to offer. Wake up with the chirping of birds and sun rays kissing the cliffs and enjoy short treks in the woods. Jim Corbett, the world-renowned hunter and nature lover came to shoot a tiger here and fell in love with its natural bounteousness
Due to its proximity to other popular hill stations like Nainital and Ranikhet, plenty of accommodations have mushroomed in Mukteshwar in recent years. One can find luxury hotels and resorts with excellent amenities as well as budget guesthouses with limited facilities at Mukteshwar. Since Mukteshwar is a place which can be visited all year, options for stay are readily available.
Mukteshwar has quite a few restaurants and eating joints which offer multi-cuisines ranging from Chinese, continental to the scrumptious Indian cuisine – both North Indian and South Indian. Additionally, there are local restaurants and roadside dhabas serving popular north Indian dishes. Luxury resorts and hotels have in-house restaurants and bar.
The former name of Mukteshwar was 'Muktesar' as cited in Jim Corbett’s book “The Temple Tiger.” However, the place came to be known by its present name after 1947. Mukteshwar remained in the hollows until 1893 and was only known for its ancient temples.
Even the famous Nobel Prize winner scientist, Robert Koch has visited this place. The scientific equipment used by him are showcased at the museum managed by IVRI. The visitors attraction includes, the Hill carved cold room of the 1900s which is made up if biological materials.
As per a Hindu legend, Lord Shiva had a fierce battle with a demon at Mukteshwar, when the demon was annihilated Shiva gifted him the boon of immortality or ‘mukti’. Therefore, the place came to be known as Mukteshwar meaning ‘Mukti+Ishwar’.
Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Nandaghunti, Trishul and Panchachuli are the major peaks visible from Mukteshwar. One one side Mukteshwar is covered by dense forest and on the other side it offers splendid view of the enchanting valley and the Himalayas.
Mukteshwar was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. Perched atop a hill in a remote corner of Kumaon hills, Mukteshwar is bounded by fruit orchards and coniferous forests.
Mukteshwar is famous among tourist as Hill Station and pilgrimage.
Mukteshwar is recommended destination for Corporates, Couples, Family and Kids, Foreigners, Groups, Solo.
Mukteshwar is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Adventure, Camping, Christmas and New Year, Emerging Destinations, Hill Station, Honeymoon Destination, Leisure, Orchards, Paragliding, Romantic, Weekend Getaway, Yoga and Meditation.
Plan for Popular Winter treks of Uttarakhand - Kedarkantha Trek, Har ki Dun, Kuari Pass Trek, Chopta, Deoriatal, Brahmatal Trek.
Last Updated: 06 Sep 2023
