Mukteshwar Tour

Located at an altitude of 2286 meters 7500 feet is a calm and rather secluded Garhwali town that sits in the lap of Kumaon Hills in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The name Mukteshwar is derived after a 350 year old temple Mukteshwar Dham situated at the top of the mountain which has Lord Shiva as its deity.

Mukteshwar is a rather untouched natural beauty offering 180-degree views of the Himalayan Mountain ranges.

Since, this town belongs to Nainital District and is just 51kms from Nainital it is a must visit for travellers in Nainital. Mukteshwar provides a doorway to a number of adventure activities, like rock climbing and trekking being the most popular. The trekking trails in Mukteshwar pass singing rippling streams of fresh mountain waters and dense wooded coniferous forest dressed in Oaks and pine. 

There are two trekking destinations from this point, one being Peora which is about 8 kms from Mukteshwar and is an excellent option for a day trek, however for those who wish to spend more time in the lap of these gorgeous Garhwali mountains, Almora is a better alternative. The trek to Almora is of about 2 days and the trail is about 16 kms from Mukteshwar.   Almora was established in the 16th century. The best time to visit Almora is between the months of March and October when the weather is pleasant. Nature and adventure lovers can also make trips during the winter months. The town is surrounded by beautiful pine, fir and rhododendron trees. There are a number of tourist attractions in Almora which travellers should visit Like the Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple, Jageshwar Temple and Binsar Mahadev temple being some beautiful Architectural expressions of Hindu culture. 

Mukteshwar is not only a religious destination but also a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts.

History Of Mukteshwar

 The name Mukteshwar is derived after a 350 year old temple Mukteshwar Dham situated at the top of the mountain which has Lord Shiva as its deity.

The name Mukteshwar comes from the word Mukti which means salvation. It is believed that Lord Shiva granted mukti to a demon here thereafter which a temple was created with Lord Shiva as its deity. The Mukteshwar Dham is nearly 350 years old.

Apart from the religious significance to the region, there has also been a significant development of the region by the British. 

In 1893 the British established the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory in Mukteshwar to study and combat cattle plague. This laboratory eventually evolved into the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), which still maintains a hill campus in Mukteshwar. This IVRI contributed to the tourism of the region. Famous author and hunter of man-eating tigers and leopards Jim Corbett visited Mukteshwar and he wrote about Mukteshwar in his book The Temple Tiger and More Man-Eaters of Kumaon in which he wrote about the various difficulties faced by the people inhabiting the villages in remote areas of the region.

Highlights Of Mukteshwar Tour

Mukteshwar Temple – Mukteshwar temple is a 350 yr old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can hike a short distance to reach the temple which is situated at the top of the mountain.

Chauli Ki Jali – Also known as Chauthi Jali is a popular tourist spot while visiting the region and its is located just 250 mts behind the Mukteshwar temple. According to the locals, a severe battle was waged between a goddess and a demon here. Today this spot is a perfect spot for adventure lovers with activities like rock climbing and rappelling for them to try.

Bhalu Gaad Waterfall – Bhalu gaad waterfall is a relatively undiscovered hidden gem which appears like a horseshoe from a height of 60 feet. This waterfall is accessible all year round and a must visit place for tourists looking for some peace and tranquillity.

Treks Around Mukteshwar – There are two trekking destinations from this point, one being Peora which is about 8 kms from Mukteshwar and is an excellent option for a day trek, however for those who wish to spend more time in the lap of these gorgeous Garhwali mountains, Almora is a better alternative. The trek to Almora is of about 2 days and the trail is about 16 kms from Mukteshwar. There are a number of tourist attractions in Almora which travellers should visit Like the Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple, Jageshwar Temple and Binsar Mahadev temple being some beautiful Architectural expressions of Hindu culture.

Difficulty Level Of Mukteshwar Trek

There are various treks in and around Mukteshwar. Peora to Mukteshwar Trek

is a 8km trek and is considered easy to moderate taking you through villages, forests, and meadows with majestic views of the snow clad Himalayas. One can even undertake a short 2km trek Bhalu Gaad Waterfall ideal for people with families and beginners.

The most common trek is Trek to Almora an easy to moderate level trek of about 16kms taking about 2- 3 days depending on where you start.

The trek is not suitable for families with young kids less 8-10 yrs old due to its uneven terrain and long walking hours. Acclimatization is also crucial as nights at high-altitude can be colder than expectations. During summer time, temperatures are normal but unpredictable weather can add difficulties.

For climbing technicalities, there are no technical sections, so no particular mountaineering skills are required. However, the guidance of a professional mountaineer or experienced guide is important. Solo trekking is not advisable. Trekkers should make the preparations after seeing all perspectives.

Best Time To Visit Mukteshwar

Summer – March To June

These months are ideal to visit the region. All sightseeing, treks are the surrounding natural beauty are well enjoyed in pleasant conditions.

Temperatures range from 15-27 degree C which makes the trekking in and around the region comfortable and enjoyable.

Monsoon - July To September

Uttarakhand receives a lot of rainfall during these months and the chances of landslides are very high. But with a light rainfall the scenery is lush and green.

Temperatures range from 10–25-degree C.

Winter – October To February

The region is covered in snow and if you are an experienced trekker or want to trek in snow then the place transforms into a winter wonderland.

Temperatures range from 5- 19-degree C. sometimes the temperatures can even be in minus.

How To Reach Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar is well connected to all major cities like Nainital, Delhi and Chandigarh. The nearest airport is Pantnagar which is approximately 100 kms.

Alternatively, one can come via Dehradun too which is approximately 330kms away. Private taxis and buses are available from both Pantnagar and Dehradun.

From Mukteshwar which is the starting point for treks around the region one can do a 8 km trek to Peora or a 16 km trek to Almora.

Things To Carry For Mukteshwar Tour

As with all treks one should pack all the trek essentials like a study backpack, good quality trekking shoes, comfortable yet warm clothing including waterproof jacket, thermals which can be easily layered according to your needs. Apart from this one should also carry a headlamp, torch, sunglasses and sunscreen. Some provisions of food and water must also be taken care of before beginning the trek.  A first aid kit should definitely be included in your backpack which should include all your basic medicines and even specific medicines if you take it on regular basis. A government Id proof like Aadhar Card must also be carried whilst trekking.