About Rani Jheel
Rani Jheel is a quiet and scenic artificial lake located in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand. Built by the Indian Army’s Cantonment Board for rainwater harvesting, the lake now serves as a calm retreat for visitors. Set at an altitude of 7,500 feet and surrounded by tall pine forests and natural ridges, the place is perfect for those seeking peace and fresh mountain air.
Boating is the main activity here, and the lake is ideal for couples, families, and nature lovers. The atmosphere is slow and refreshing, away from the usual rush. You can take a walk along the narrow trails, enjoy soft views of the hills, or simply sit by the water and relax. With its natural charm and peaceful vibe, Rani Jheel is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Uttarakhand for a short day trip or picnic
Rani Jheel Highlights
• Visit Rani Jheel, a peaceful artificial lake in Ranikhet, originally built by the Indian Army’s Cantonment Board for rainwater harvesting.
• Ride a boat on the serene waters and admire the views of lush pine forests, natural ridges, and Ranikhet’s quiet valleys.
• Stroll along forested walking paths, enjoy a lakeside picnic, or try light adventure activities like zip-lining and kayaking near the lake.
• Explore nearby offbeat spots like the Mankameshwar Temple, Somnath Dwar, and Gandhi Chowk, all within walking distance from the lake.
How To Reach Rani Jheel
By Road- You can reach the Rani Jheel from Rani Khet, which is about 1.4 km away, taking approximately 21 minutes to reach via the Rani Jheel Road.
Best Time To Visit Rani Jheel
Peak Season (March to June)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather and clear skies with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 26°C.
- Things to Do: Perfect time for boating, picnics, photography, and peaceful nature walks around the lake.
Moderate Season (November to February)
- Weather Insights: Slight chill in the air, misty mornings, and golden-hued forests with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C.
- Things to Do: Scenic walks, peaceful boat rides, and nearby temple visits with fewer tourists around.
Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoons bring rainfall; winters can be quite cold with possible frost.
- Things to Do: Ideal for quick visits and enjoying the foggy, offbeat vibe amidst fewer crowds.
Rani Jheel Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go!
- Boating is available only in limited paddle boats due to the lake's small size; expect short, peaceful rides.
- The lake is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; plan your visit accordingly to make the most of the daylight.
- There are no major food stalls nearby, so it’s best to carry your snacks or a picnic basket.
- Light jackets or shawls are recommended year-round, as the weather can get unexpectedly cool, especially in the evenings.
- Rani Jheel is close to the main town of Ranikhet, so it can easily be included in a half-day itinerary along with nearby attractions like Mankameshwar Temple or Gandhi Chowk.
- Help preserve the peaceful environment and avoid throwing waste around the lake or in the nearby forest trails.
- Carry a small trash bag if you’re picnicking, and use designated dustbins without spoiling the surroundings.
Try Boating on the Serene Waters
Boating is one of the main things to do at Rani Jheel. The lake may be small, but the experience is peaceful and calming. You can rent a paddle boat and slowly drift across the water, taking in views of pine-covered ridges and quiet valleys. It's a gentle activity that allows you to enjoy nature at your own pace, perfect for couples, solo travellers, and families.
Take a Peaceful Walk Around the Lake
There’s a narrow walking path around Rani Jheel where you can take a quiet stroll surrounded by tall trees and mountain air. The area isn’t crowded, so you’ll often hear birds chirping and leaves rustling in the breeze. It’s a good spot to simply slow down, take a few pictures, or enjoy a moment of stillness with nature during your Ranikhet visit.
Visit the Nearby Mankameshwar Temple
Just about a kilometre from Rani Jheel, Mankameshwar Temple is a quiet place of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tucked away from the usual crowds, the temple has a peaceful setting with mountain views in the distance. Visitors often stop here after spending time at the lake, as it's a great way to add a spiritual touch to your day trip around Ranikhet.
Explore Gandhi Chowk for Local Flavours
Only a short distance away from Rani Jheel, Gandhi Chowk is a lively corner of Ranikhet with small shops, cafes, and local markets. After your peaceful time by the lake, you can head here to try local snacks, shop for souvenirs, or just walk around to soak in the town’s everyday charm.
Tourism Board Alliances
Rani Jheel FAQs
Is boating available at Rani Jheel?
Yes, paddle boating is available at Rani Jheel, though the number of boats is limited due to the small size of the lake. Each ride usually lasts around 30 minutes. The activity is quite peaceful and allows visitors to admire the surrounding forest views while enjoying the calmness of the water in a serene setting.
Is Rani Jheel suitable for children and families?
Absolutely. Rani Jheel is a family-friendly destination with calm surroundings and gentle walking paths. Children can enjoy the boat rides, nature views, and open spaces for light play or picnics. It’s a great spot for parents looking to unwind while giving their kids a safe and peaceful outdoor experience close to nature.
How far is Rani Jheel from Ranikhet town?
Rani Jheel is located just 1.5 kilometres from Ranikhet town and can be easily reached by walking, hiring a local taxi, or taking a short drive. It’s near landmarks like the Narasimha Ground and Veer Nari Housing, making it a convenient stop during a sightseeing tour of the area.
.jpg)
