Ramnagar is a town in the Nainital district of Kumaon, India. It’s about 65 kilometers (40 miles) away from Nainital, which is the main city in the district.
Ramnagar is an important place because it’s the starting point for visiting the Corbett National Park, the oldest national park in India and a famous tourist spot. There are also two temples nearby, the Garjiya Devi Temple and the Sitabani temple, along with the Sitabani Wildlife Reserve, which attract a lot of visitors.
The Uttarakhand Board of School Education has its main office in Ramnagar. This board was created in 2001 and takes care of organizing classes, providing textbooks, and conducting exams for high school students in the state.
History of Ramnagar Uttarakhand
The history of Ramnagar goes way back to the time of the Mahabharata. According to local stories, Ramnagar used to be called ‘Ahichhatra,’ which was the ancient capital of the Northern Panchala Kingdom during the Mahabharata period.
But another story is also famous about Ramnagar that the town got its name from a British commissioner named Sir Henry Ramsay. He set it up in 1850 when the British were in charge of India. Back then, they made tea gardens in Ramnagar and nearby places in Uttarakhand, but these gardens have been closed for a long time now.
Ramnagar is well-known because many people visit it to go to Corbett National Park. This park is named after Jim Corbett, who used to be a hunter but later worked to protect nature. It’s the oldest national park in India, established in 1936.
In Ramnagar, there are also ancient temples like Garjia Devi Temple and Sita Bani Temple. These temples have a lot of stories and legends linked to them, and that’s why a lot of visitors come here every year.
Geography of Ramnagar
Ramnagar is situated at coordinates 29.40°N 79.12°E.The town maintains an average elevation of approximately 345 meters (1,132 feet) above sea level. Nestled at the base of the Himalayas, Ramnagar is strategically positioned along the banks of the Kosi River.
The locale draws considerable tourist traffic owing to its proximity to Corbett National Park. Furthermore, its accessibility to Nainital, a renowned hill station in Northern India, enhances its appeal. Noteworthy is the presence of a Barrage on the Kosi River in Ramnagar, where a diverse array of migratory birds, including Ruddy Shelduck, converges during the winter months.
Reasons to Consider a Visit to Ramnagar:
Ramnagar offers a multifaceted experience ranging from adventurous pursuits to spiritual exploration, making it a compelling destination to break away from routine life. The town boasts a rich cultural heritage, beckoning visitors with a promise of a lifetime encounter with scenic beauty, simplicity, and adventure.
As a quaint town, Ramnagar serves as a showcase for Kumauni culture and traditions. While its market may not be abundant in extravagant offerings, a visit is highly recommended to delve into the simplicity and uniqueness that define the local ambiance.
The town hosts a variety of eating establishments, both modest and larger ones, each warranting a visit. Ramnagar’s architectural landscape is marked by a distinctive and uncommon style, likely to captivate the interest of photographers drawn to its simple yet unique market architecture.
Adjacent to Ramnagar, there are several small villages such as Kyari, accessible through local transportation, providing an opportunity to gain insights into the local rural life.
For those planning an extended stay in Ramnagar, the proximity to other nearby destinations like Ranikhet, Jim Corbett national park, Nainital, Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Bhowali, and others offers the chance to immerse oneself in the mystical and enchanting experience of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand.
Staying options in Ramnagar
Ramnagar is a famous place in Uttarakhand, especially because it’s near Jim Corbett Park. There are many places to stay for tourists. You can find fancy hotels and resorts like Manu Maharani, Aroma Havens with great facilities and also simpler guest houses if you’re on a budget. You even have the option of staying in tents or government guest houses (KMVN).
Touriest Activities in Ramnagar
Jungle Safari in Corbett:
Ramnagar serves as the gateway to Corbett National Park, making it a sought-after destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature aficionados.
Visitors can partake in exhilarating jeep rides, traversing through the jungle terrain, offering opportunities to observe a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, deer, langurs, leopards, and crocodiles.
Fishing:
The catchment area along the Kosi River presents various opportunities for fishing and angling enthusiasts. Several licensed fishing camps are established along the riverbanks, providing an ideal setting for angling, particularly for catching Mahseer fishes.
River Rafting:
Adventurous souls can engage in the thrill of river rafting in the rapid and turbulent waters of the Kosi River. This exciting experience is complemented by the organization of adventure water sports on the river.
Food Guide in Ramnagar:
If you’re looking for food, there are lots of small places to eat on the side of the road and a few restaurants that serve tasty meals. But the best food is usually found in the hotels and resorts in Ramnagar. You can choose from different types of cuisines like Chinese, Indian, Mughlai, Kumaoni, and local foods. Just remember that you can’t have non-vegetarian food or alcohol inside Jim Corbett Park.
How to reach at Ramnagar, Uttarakhand
Ramnagar can be reached by road and rail, but the airport is quite far from the town. Even though the airport is not very close, we’ll provide information about all the ways you can get there.
By Air
The closest airport to Ramnagar is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 81.6 km away if you take UT SH 41 and 77.3 km away if you take NH 87. It’s in the town of Pantnagar in Udham Singh Nagar district. But if you’re looking for an international airport, the nearest one is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is 255 km away.
Another important airport near Ramnagar is Bareilly Airport, which is about 145 km away. This airport is connected to cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru.
By Train :
As for railways, during the time of British rule in 1907, they extended the railway line in Uttarakhand from Moradabad to Ramnagar. The Ramnagar railway station is managed by the Izzatnagar division of the North Eastern Railway zone of Indian Railways.
It’s located about 65 km from Nainital and has direct train links to various places like Kashipur, Moradabad, Delhi, Bareilly, Lucknow, Haridwar, Chandigarh, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Agra, Jaisalmer, and Varanasi. The station code for Ramnagar railway station is RMR.
By Road:
For road travel, the Ramnagar bus station is close to the railway station. You can find regular buses from Ramnagar to places like Nainital, Ranikhet, Haldwani, Tanakpur, Haridwar, Dehradun, Kashipur, Moradabad, Meerut, and Delhi.
Bus services are also available to Jaipur, Gurgaon and many other big cities from this town.
In conclusion, Ramnagar emerges not merely as a destination but as an experience—a harmonious blend of nature’s bounty, historical echoes, and adrenaline-fueled adventures. Whether one seeks serenity, cultural exploration, or a rendezvous with the wild, Ramnagar stands ready to unfold its treasures to the discerning traveler.
FAQ
Ramnagar is renowned for being the gateway to Jim Corbett Park, the oldest national park in India. It offers a unique blend of nature, history, and adventure.
Ramnagar provides diverse accommodation options, including deluxe hotels, resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, and even tent stays for those seeking adventure.
The town boasts a variety of culinary delights, ranging from local specialties to Chinese, Indian, and Mughlai cuisines. Hotels and restaurants offer a diverse menu for every taste.
Yes, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited within Jim Corbett Park to maintain its sanctity and adhere to park regulations.
Ramnagar was established by English Commissioner Sir Henry Ramsay during the British rule. It holds remnants of British settlements and tea gardens, reflecting its colonial past.
Yes, according to local legends, Ramnagar was once known as ‘Ahichhatra,’ serving as the ancient capital of the Northern Panchala Kingdom during the Mahabharata era.
Ramnagar is the starting point for thrilling jungle safaris in Corbett National Park, offering jeep rides to spot wildlife. Fishing opportunities along the Kosi River and river rafting are also popular.
Ramnagar’s proximity to destinations like Ranikhet, Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Nainital, and Bhowali makes it an ideal base for further exploration in the Kumaon region.
Ramnagar is accessible by road and rail. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, and it is also well-connected by road to various cities.
The best time to visit Ramnagar is during the winter and spring months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are optimal.
