We were near the Naini Jheel when we got the news..THE HOLIDAYS HAVE BEEN EXTENDED TILL FURTHER NOTICE. Shocked and pleasantly surprised, my friends and I refused to go back to Delhi after our holiday extension. But, spending a whole week at Nainital we did not know what more to explore until the tea seller told us about his hometown Mukteshwar.

50 Kilometers away from our present location, Delhi to Mukteshwar distance was only a few hours of road trip from our present destination. Next day, we packed our bags and left for the location early in the morning to avoid the sun in the afternoon and to enjoy the sunrise while we traveled to this tiny village in Uttarakhand. As we came nearer to the destination, every mountain seemed taller than the other, the view was so beautiful that not even my camera could capture what we were physically seeing.

About Delhi

Delhi, the capital of our country, is surrounded by many states,one of them being, Uttarakhand. It is because of the easy connectivity between these states that tourists from Delhi can have an escape to the place, weather and view they like. Delhi is in touch with the growing technological advancements and there’s also a side to the capital that is rich in history and culture. 

Qutab-Minar-Delhi

People from Delhi or NCR seek a vacation to have time for themselves, detached from the busy lives they have created for themselves. It is then that places like Mukteshwar, situated 360 kms from the union territory gain attractions. 

A switch from Heat, sweat, the hustle and bustle, honking horns, tall buildings, North Indian food, rich historical architecture to serene climate, mountains, solitude, temples, pahari food is more or less required to connect oneself with nature again. A quick gateway to the Kumaon hills, a sneak peek of Nanda Devi is easily accessible through the easy medium of transportation from Delhi to Mukteshwar.

About Mukteshwar

Delhi-To-Mukteshwar-Distance

Named after the divine Mukteshwar temple, The village is situated at the height of 2171 meters and at a distance of 51 kms from the popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand, Nainital. This place is best suited for the tourists who seek oneness with nature, solitude, to behold the orchards, falls, valleys and everything rarely sighted in our day to day lives.

This small village situated around 340 kms from Delhi, has made its presence in Jim Corbett’s book “The Temple Tiger and More Man-Eaters of Kumaon ” but as “Muktesaar”. The author and hunter of man-eating tigers is said to have enjoyed the beauty of Mukteshwar and carried his work around the place. In reverence to his work and presence, tourists can visit the Jim Corbett National Park situated 163 kms from Mukteshwar.

Delhi-To-Mukteshwar-Distance-Sunrays

Sitting on the Kumaon hills in the Nainital district, Mukteshwar is known for its spirituality and science. The village was chosen for serum production to protect the fauna from livestock disease or cattle plague in the year 1893, becoming the hotspot for the studies of Veterinary science in India. IVRI, earlier called The Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory is one of the renowned institutes in this field of study.

Delhi to Mukteshwar distance is famous for its fruit orchards along with shawls and scarves. There are shops especially dedicated to the local handicrafts and agro products. To enjoy the freshly harvested fruits and vegetables like plums and apricots, June is the perfect time to visit. The local craft speak for themselves and are managed by the Kumaun Grameen Udyog.

Delhi to Mukteshwar Highlights

AreaNainital, Uttarakhand 
Elevation2171 m
DurationMarch to June 
Best SeasonSummer 
WeatherMild and Moderate 

Places to Visit In Mukteshwar

1. MUKTESHWAR TEMPLE

The ancient temple is the inspiration behind the name of the village. This holy shrine is dedicated to the mighty lord Shiva, it is believed that it is Shiva who killed a demon in this land and granted him Mukti and hence the name, Mukteshwar. Situated 1 km away from the main market, this 350 years old temple is the major attraction for all the believers of Hindu faith and culture.

2. CHAULI KI JALI

This cliff near the Mukteshwar temple is the perfect spot for tourists seeking adventure and excitement. Apart from blessing us with the wide range, panoramic view of the valleys,mountains and the vastly scattered flora and fauna,Chauli ki Jali is best suited for trekking and paragliding. This place has a spiritual connection too, as there are notions that crossing the hole carved at the cliff on the holy day of Shivratri blesses couples and especially women in conceiving a child.

3. BHALU GAAD WATERFALLS

The word literally means bear sightseeing. This beautiful, pristine and peaceful waterfall is a 2km trek and is nearly 40 feet deep.  The waterfall is Tall (55 ft) and is horseshoe-plunge shaped. Being a new tourist attraction, the fall is quiet, clean and the water gushing down throughout the seasons. As the name suggests, apart from trekking, enjoying the mesmerizing view, bear sightseeing is an additional advantage here but only when you’re lucky. The tickets cost ₹50 per head and the fall is open from 6 AM- 6 PM.

4. INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTION

Earlier known as The Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory was established in 1893. This place reminds the locals as well as the tourists that Mukteshwar is a cumulation of both science and religion.  The entry however is restricted but you can visit the campus and adore the history and glory of the place.

5. NANDA DEVI

The second highest peak Nanda Devi is visible from the hill station Mukteshwar along with other ranges like Nandaghunti, Trishul and Nanda Kot.

6. KILMORA SHOP

This shop in Mukteshwar is a must visit to have a peek into the diverse range of local products. From hand woven shawls, textiles, natural culinary herbs, jams, chutneys and many more agro and handmade products, this shop has it all. More importantly, Kilmora is the brand owned by Kumaun Grameen Udyog to promote the local products of the Kumaon hill region.

Read more: Dehradun

Places to Visit Near Mukteshwar

1. BHIMTAL

The beautiful Bhimtal lake is the major attraction of Bhimtal which is located 50 kms from Mukteshwar, 1375 meters above sea level.Interestingly, it is believed that this place is named after the Pandava Bhima. Once a part of the old silk route, Bhimtal is now the mini headquarters of the Nainital district.

2. NAUKUCHIATAL

Located 20 kms from Mukteshwar , Naukuchiatal is a nine cornered lake. It marks itself as one of the deepest lakes with 40 meters depth. This lake is surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants that adds to the view.

3. ALMORA

Situated nearly 41 kms from Mukteshwar, Almora. Located at the southern edge of the Kumaon hills, this land is covered with pines and oaks making it a picturesque location. It has numerous options to explore including the scenic beauty, handicrafts, cuisines and cultural heritage. It is a  taxi or cab ride from Mukteshwar.

4. JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK

The Jim Corbett National Park is 114 km away from Mukteshwar. It is a wildlife sanctuary, closer to Nainital. The rich flora and fauna is a tourist spot for many adventure lovers. The entry fee as per the official site is ₹450 per person.

5. NAINITAL

Located 51 kms away from Mukteshwar, Nainital is one of the most sought after hill stations. The famous Naini Jheel, Naini devi temple,Tiffin top and many more are the major attractions of the district. 

Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance Connectivity

Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance by Bus

Delhi is nearly 360 kms from Mukteshwar which is located in the state of Uttarakhand. Buses can be taken from ISBT Delhi, whose estimated travel time is 8-9 hours. Buses to Nainital, Kathgodam are available from Delhi after which taxis, or buses can drop you to Mukteshwar. Apart from this, direct buses from Delhi to Mukteshwar are also available at the bus stations.

Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance by Train

The nearest railway station to Mukteshwar is Kathgodam Railway station situated nearly 62 kms from the village. Trains from Delhi are frequently run to Kathgodam as it is the major gateway to the Kumaon regions. Nearly 2 trains run from Delhi to Kathgodam on a daily basis. After reaching Kathgodam, which is approximately 52 kms from Mukteshwar, trains or buses provide easy and available connectivity to Mukteshwar.

Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance by Flights

The nearest airport to Mukteshwar is Pantnagar Airport situated 94 kms from Mukteshwar. Pantnagar is well connected to Mukteshwar, and buses or cars are the easy mediums of transportation. Flights taken from the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi is 226 km from Pantnagar( aerially). Almost four flights on a weekly basis are run between the two places.

Final Thoughts for Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance

There are various hill stations in our country, but it is rare that we get to enjoy the view in the solitude we aspire to have. Visiting Mukteshwar, gives the much desired solitude with our natural surroundings. Kumaon hills have a pleasant climate, mesmerizing scenic beauties and a rich cultural heritage. Mukteshwar is one such place located there.

Delhi-To-Mukteshwar

Bhang ki chutney,  aaloo ke gutke and other yummy pahari dishes are finger licking good. The uniqueness of the place, the rich flora and fauna, its touch with history, religion, spirituality and its mention in various books and epics makes the place even more desirable. However, it is good and bad that the place is still not much sought after, maybe because of its neighboring famous locations like Nainital, Almora, Bhimtal which too are equally good and larger in area.

While coming back from Mukteshwar, be sure that your bags will be heavier with freshly harvested fruits, herbal skincare, beautiful scarves and shawls keenly hand crafted by the skillful artisans of Mukteshwar.

Frequently Asked Questions for Delhi To Mukteshwar Distance

Is Nanda Devi Peak visible from Mukteshwar?

Yes, you can enjoy the view of Himalayan ranges from Mukteshwar. Including, 
Nanda Ghunti, Trishul and Nanda Kot.

Is there any entry fee at Mukteshwar temple?

No, the temple is open between 5:00 AM in the morning to 7.30PM in the evening throughout the year.

Are roads trips to Mukteshwar safe?

It is absolutely safe and there is no issue of safety while traveling through the lanes of the Kumaon region to reach Mukteshwar.

Are there direct transportation from Delhi to mukteshwar?

Yes, some buses do lead to Mukteshwar facilitating the Delhi to Mukteshwar connectivity. However, most of the mediums of transportation are indirect and ask for a change in buses, or taking a taxi from the drop location which mainly is Kathgodam, Nainital or Pantnagar.

What are the two ways to reach the Mukteshwar temple?

There is a steep staircase from the parking area that is very easy and can be taken. However, there also is a sloped path that too is an easy trek to the temple.

What is the best time to visit Mukteshwar?

Mukteshwar is a beautiful, and a less explored place. The weather here is pleasant and there is not extreme heat as it lies in the Kumaon hills. You can visit anytime of the year, but avoid monsoon as it can be a little taxing. However, if you intend to see snow capped mountains then winteres is the ideal time for you to visit.

When do you get the best fruits in Mukteshwar?

Fresh peaches, apricots, plums are harvested in the months of June-July and are very delicious and organic.