Hello friends, welcome back to the Clans Stays blog! I am Mayank. If you are tired of the noise and traffic in Nainital and want a place that is truly peaceful, then Mukteshwar is the answer. Having worked in the travel industry for 5 years, including my time at MakeMyTrip, I have seen travelers shift their interest from crowded hill stations to quiet, hidden gems. Mukteshwar is exactly that gem. Sitting high at 2,171 meters (7,122 feet), this small town offers a 180-degree view of the majestic Nanda Devi peaks. It is calm, green, and full of fresh air. In this blog, I will share the best places to visit in Mukteshwar, the most exciting things to do, and some local tips that you won’t find easily on Google. Let’s start your journey to the “Abode of Lord Shiva.” Why Should You Visit Mukteshwar? Before we jump into the list of places to visit in Mukteshwar, let me tell you why this place is special. Unlike Mussoorie or Nainital, Mukteshwar does not have a crowded Mall Road. Instead, it has thick Deodar forests, fruit orchards (apples and plums), and old colonial bungalows. It is a place where you go to connect with nature. Top Places to Visit in Mukteshwar There are many beautiful Mukteshwar tourist places that you can cover in a 2-day trip. Here are my top recommendations. 1. Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple This is the heart of the town. The town gets its name from this 350-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated on top of a hill. To reach the main shrine, you have to climb stone stairs. The architecture is simple but very beautiful. Inside, there is a white marble Shivling. The Legend: It is believed that Lord Shiva killed a demon here and gave him “Mukti” (salvation). That is why it is called Mukteshwar (God of Salvation). Why visit? 2. Chauli Ki Jali Just behind the Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple is the most famous spot in town—Chauli Ki Jali. If you are looking for adventure and views, this is the number one spot on your list of places to visit in Mukteshwar. It is a rocky cliff that hangs over a deep valley. The name “Chauli Ki Jali” means “Rock with a Hole.” The Belief: There is a natural hole in one of the rocks. Locals believe that if women who cannot have children cross this hole on Shivratri, they are blessed with a child. What to do here: 3. Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls This is my personal favorite hidden gem. Many tourists miss this because it is slightly away from the main town (about 7-10 km). Bhalu Gaad is a 60-foot high waterfall. The water is crystal clear and cold. To reach the waterfall, you have to do a small, easy trek of about 30-45 minutes through the jungle. Why is it called Bhalu Gaad? In the local Kumaoni language, “Bhalu” means Bear and “Gaad” means River. Years ago, bears used to come here to drink water. Don’t worry, it is safe now! Local Tip: Take a spare set of clothes. You will definitely want to jump into the water. 4. Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) Mukteshwar has a deep connection with the British era. The IVRI is one of the oldest institutes in India, built by the British in 1893. The campus is huge and very beautiful. The buildings are made in the old colonial style with stone walls and red roofs. Even if you are not interested in science, you should visit just to see the architecture and the well-maintained gardens. 5. Dhanachuli If you have an extra day, drive a little further to Dhanachuli. It is a tiny village known for its apple orchards. It is even quieter than Mukteshwar. The drive from Mukteshwar to Dhanachuli is very scenic. Best Things to Do in Mukteshwar Apart from sightseeing, there are many exciting things to do in Mukteshwar. Whether you are an adventure lover or someone who just wants to relax, there is something for everyone. 1. Adventure Sports at Chauli Ki Jali For thrill-seekers, Chauli Ki Jali is a playground. Because of the rocky cliffs, it is perfect for: There are local operators there who charge a small fee (around ₹300-₹500) for these activities. It is safe and supervised. 2. Trekking and Nature Walks The best way to enjoy Mukteshwar is by walking. You don’t need a guide. Just step out of your hotel and walk into the forest. The air is so fresh that you will not feel tired. Popular Trails: 3. Fruit Picking in Orchards Mukteshwar is famous for its fruits. If you visit in the summer (April to June), you will see trees full of plums, peaches, and apricots. If you visit in late summer/monsoon, you will find apples. Many local orchard owners allow tourists to enter and pick fresh fruits for a small price. It is a great activity for kids. 4. Stargazing Because there is very little pollution and no city lights, the sky in Mukteshwar is pitch black. You can see millions of stars. If you are lucky, you might even see the Milky Way galaxy clearly. Best Time to Visit Mukteshwar As a travel agent, clients always ask me, “Mayank, when should we go?” Here is a simple table to help you decide. Season Months Weather Why Visit? Summer Mar to June Pleasant (15°C – 27°C) Best for fruit picking and sightseeing. Escape the city heat. Monsoon July to Sept Green & Wet The forests look lush green. Good for nature lovers, but carry an umbrella. Winter Oct to Feb Cold (0°C – 15°C) Best for clear mountain views. Chance of snowfall in Jan-Feb. My Recommendation: Visit in March-April for flowers and fruits, or October-November for the clearest views of Nanda Devi. How to Reach Mukteshwar Mukteshwar is well-connected. Here is how you can reach here. By Road (Most Popular): The drive from Delhi is smooth. By Train: The nearest railway station is