Mukteshwar is a pleasing destination situated at an elevation of 2,285mts above sea level in Nainital district of Uttarakhand state. Mukteshwar got its name from a 350year old temple Mukteshwer Dham whose residing deity is Lord Shiva. The top of the mountain on which Mukteshwar Temple is stood affords astounding views of the imposing Himalayan range. 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 affords distinctly visible 180 degree views of the majestic Himalayan 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 beauteousness. 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.

Place to Visit

 Mukteshwar Temple
The residing deity of Mukteshwar Temple is Lord Shiva. This sacred shrine holds immense importance amongst the people of Uttarakhand state. Mukteshwar temple is situated atop a hill from where vistas of nature are captivating. The Shivling is surrounded by idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Hanuman, Ganesh and nandi. Mukteshwar temple is situated at an astounding elevation of 2,312mts above sea level. Chauli Ki Jali is situated near this temple. The trek to Mukteshwar temple is a memorable experience and those who look for heavenly feelings can devote themselves to the blessings of Mukteshwar.

 Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI)
A British legacy, Indian Veterinary Institute is one of the leading advanced research facilities engaging in live stock research and is dedicated to the development of the region. It was established at the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory in 1889 at Pune on the recommendation of the Cattle Plague Commission, and was later relocated to Mukteshwar in 1893. Further, it was developed into the Indian Veterinary research Institute. There is a library and museum as well inside the institute campus.

 Chauli ki Jaali
Chauli ki Jaali was originally known as Chauthi Jaali. It is a mesmerizing place situated on the cliff behind the Mukteshwar temple. Leaning on the edge of the cliff you can have invigorating and panoramic views of splendid Himalayan range and enchanting valley of Kumaon region. There is a natural lattice around the rock here and it is believed that barren women who take their head out of the hole in the rock are blessed with a baby. According to myths a group of devotees were on their visit to Kailash Mansarovar and at this dangerous rock climbing point they prayed Lord Shiva to help them. Lord Shiva blessed the guru with power and asked him to hit the rock four times. A hole appeared on the hard rock surface when the guru hit it the fourth time.

 Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow
The PWD inspection Bungalow in Mukteshwar is an architectural wonder. It is situated close to the Mukteshwar temple and is a landmark in the town. The bungalow has lush green surroundings and beautiful views which makes it a must-see in the hill station. In fact, it is the perfect place to stay in Mukteshwar if you are halting for a couple of days. Blessed with amazing natural beauty and beautiful architecture, the bungalow has a unique charm.

 Methodist Church
Just before you hit Chowfulli on the way up, a black metal strip on a tree points out the way to the Methodist Church. The narrow path has been cut in rock and polished smooth over the years by passing hooves and feet, so watch your step. The church is homely, in keeping with the town it was built for. Its walls and tin roof are well preserved. The steeple has a bell presented by a certain Barbara, in memory of her parents, on Christmas Day. The only way to find out what treasures lie concealed behind the churchs low wooden door is to come between 3 and 4 pm on a Sunday. At other times, you will find it locked.

How to Reach us

By Air
Pantnagar airport is the nearest airport, which is located about 94kms from Mukteshwar. Taxis are easily available from the airport to Mukteshwar. Pantnagar is connected to Delhi with daily flights. Pant Nagar Airport is well connected by metalled road with Mukteshwar.

By Rail
Kathgodam Railway station is the nearest railhead to Mukteshwar situated at a distance of 62kms. Kathgodam is well connected by major cities of India like Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi, etc. There are two trains that run daily between Delhi to Kathgodam and vice-versa. Trains are frequent to Kathgodam as it is the gateway of Kumaon region. Taxis and buses are easily available from Kathgodam to Mukteshwar.

By Road
Mukteshwar is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Kumaon and cities of northern India. Buses are easily available from ISBT Anand Vihar to Haldwani, Nainital, Almora and Mukteshwar. Taxis are also available from major cities of Kumaon region and Garhwal region to Mukteshwar. Many private bus service providers operate luxury buses between Delhi to Kathgodam and Nainital from where you can easily get a taxi to Mukteshwar.