Garur is a small town located in the beautiful Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, known for its proximity to Baijnath and the historical Katyuri Valley. It serves as a local center for the surrounding villages and offers a glimpse into rural Kumaoni life. Ranikhet, often called the “Queen’s Meadow,” is a beloved hill station in the Almora district, celebrated for its sprawling golf course, charming cantonment area, and peaceful ambiance amidst pine and oak forests. Traveling between Garur and Ranikhet offers a relatively short and scenic journey through the captivating landscapes of Uttarakhand. This article will guide you through the best ways to reach Ranikhet from Garur.
Garur to Ranikhet Distance
The approximate road distance between Garur and Ranikhet is around 70 to 85 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken. The journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by road, making it a convenient and enjoyable trip within the Kumaon region.
How to Reach Garur To Ranikhet
Given the short distance and mountainous terrain, road travel is the most practical and efficient way to travel between Garur and Ranikhet.
By Road: The Most Direct and Easiest Way
Road travel is the most efficient and straightforward way to get from Garur to Ranikhet, offering flexibility and beautiful scenery.
1. Private Taxi or Car Rental
Hiring a private taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option for this journey. You can easily find local taxis in Garur, especially around the main market area or from local taxi stands.
- Journey Details: The drive from Garur to Ranikhet involves winding mountain roads that offer captivating views of the valleys, pine forests, and charming Kumaoni villages. A common route would involve heading from Garur towards Dwarahat and then connecting to Ranikhet. Another option might take you towards Someshwar and then to Ranikhet via Almora. The roads are generally well-maintained, but as with all hill roads, they can be narrow and winding in certain sections. The journey is relatively quick, usually completed within 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Benefits: This option provides maximum flexibility and comfort. You can depart at your convenience, make stops for photos or refreshments, and enjoy a private journey tailored to your needs. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with family or a group, or have significant luggage.
- Cost: The cost for a private taxi for this distance can vary depending on the type of vehicle (e.g., hatchback, sedan, SUV) and the specific taxi service provider. You can expect fares to be in the range of ₹2,200 to ₹3,700. It’s always a good idea to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
2. Shared Taxis or Local Jeeps
For a more economical option, shared taxis or local jeeps are often available and frequently ply the routes connecting towns in the Kumaon region.
- Journey Details: You would typically need to inquire at the Garur bus stand or taxi stand for shared jeeps or taxis heading towards Dwarahat or directly to Ranikhet. It’s quite common to find shared transport to Dwarahat. From Dwarahat, you can easily find another shared taxi or local bus to Ranikhet, as Dwarahat is a significant junction. These vehicles usually operate on a “fill and go” basis, meaning they depart once all seats are occupied. This might involve some waiting time.
- Benefits: This is the most budget-friendly way to travel, making it suitable for solo travelers or those looking to save on transportation costs.
- Considerations: Shared transport can be less comfortable and might involve waiting times until enough passengers gather. They also stop frequently to pick up and drop off passengers, potentially increasing the total travel time.
3. Local Bus Services (Indirect)
While direct, frequent bus services specifically from Garur to Ranikhet might be limited compared to shared taxis, local buses do ply the regional routes connecting major towns.
- Journey Details: You can check at the Garur bus stand for buses heading towards Dwarahat or Almora. From either of these towns, you will find regular local buses operated by Uttarakhand Roadways (UTC) or Kumaon Motor Owners Union (KMOU) that can take you to Ranikhet. The bus journey might take slightly longer than a private taxi due to scheduled stops and the overall pace of public transport. For example, buses from Garur to Haldwani often pass through or have connections to Ranikhet routes.
- Benefits: This is usually the cheapest mode of transport.
- Considerations: Bus schedules in smaller towns can be less predictable, and seating might be limited, especially during peak hours. It requires a bit more planning and patience.
By Train: Not a Practical Option
Neither Garur nor Ranikhet has its own railway station.
- Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station for both Garur (approx. 150-170 km) and Ranikhet (approx. 75-80 km) is Kathgodam (KGM).
- How to Travel by Train: To consider train travel, you would first need to take a road journey (taxi or bus) from Garur to Kathgodam (which is a 4-5 hour drive). From Kathgodam, you would then need to take another road journey (taxi or bus) to Ranikhet (about 2.5-3 hours). Given the short and direct road connection between Garur and Ranikhet, adding a lengthy and indirect train journey is completely impractical and inefficient for traveling between these two specific points.
By Air: Not an Option
Neither Garur nor Ranikhet has its own airport.
- Nearest Airport: The closest airport to both destinations is Pantnagar Airport (PGH). Pantnagar Airport is approximately 115-120 kilometers from Ranikhet and around 170-190 kilometers from Garur.
- How to Travel by Air: To consider air travel, you would need to travel by road from Garur to Pantnagar Airport (a journey of about 4-5 hours), and then, theoretically, take a flight (if available and connected) to another city before taking another road journey to Ranikhet. This is not a sensible or practical travel option for this short distance.
Important Tips for Your Journey
- Road Conditions: The roads between Garur and Ranikhet are generally in good condition for mountain travel, but they are winding. Drive carefully or ensure your hired driver is experienced with mountain terrain.
- Enjoy the Views: This journey offers charming views of the Kumaon countryside, including terraced fields, dense forests, and occasionally glimpses of the Himalayas. The serene environment makes for a pleasant ride.
- Local Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions or the best way to find shared transport. People in the Kumaon region are generally helpful.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you travel. Both Garur and Ranikhet have pleasant weather, but evenings can be cool, especially at higher altitudes.
In summary, the most straightforward and efficient way to travel from Garur to Ranikhet is by road. A private taxi offers the most comfort and convenience for this short trip, while shared options and local buses provide budget-friendly alternatives, often connecting via Dwarahat or Almora.
