Sattal, meaning “Seven Lakes,” is a beautiful group of freshwater lakes nestled amidst dense oak and pine forests in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It’s a tranquil retreat, popular for birdwatching, boating, and its serene natural beauty. Ranikhet, a peaceful cantonment town, offers a contrasting yet equally charming experience with its sprawling golf course, orchards, and colonial-era ambiance, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. The journey between Sattal and Ranikhet is a relatively short and picturesque drive through the heart of the Kumaon hills.
Sattal to Ranikhet Distance
The approximate road distance between Sattal and Ranikhet is around 55 to 60 kilometers. The journey typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by road, making it a comfortable and easy half-day trip.
How to Reach Sattal To Ranikhet
Given the short distance and the hilly terrain, road travel is the only practical and most efficient way to get from Sattal to Ranikhet.
By Road: The Most Direct and Scenic Way
Road travel is the primary and most recommended method for this route, offering a pleasant drive through the lower Himalayan ranges.
1. Private Taxi or Car Rental
Hiring a private taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Sattal to Ranikhet. Since Sattal is a smaller destination, you might need to arrange a taxi through your hotel or guesthouse, or find one in nearby Bhimtal or Nainital, which are larger hubs.
- Journey Details: The road trip usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. From Sattal, you will typically connect to the main road network that leads towards Bhowali and then on to Ranikhet via the scenic Bhowali-Ranikhet Road. The route is entirely mountainous, featuring winding roads that offer continuous, stunning views of valleys, pine forests, and charming villages. The roads are generally well-maintained, but an experienced local driver is highly recommended for navigating these hill roads safely.
- Benefits: This option offers maximum flexibility and privacy. You can decide your departure time, stop for breaks, meals, or photo opportunities at scenic spots. It’s ideal for families or groups, ensuring a comfortable and direct transfer to your destination.
- Cost: Taxi fares for this relatively short mountain route can vary. You can expect one-way fares to range from approximately ₹1,600 to ₹3,000, depending on the type of vehicle (e.g., hatchback, sedan, SUV), the taxi service provider, and the season. It’s always advisable to confirm the total fare with the driver before starting your journey.
2. Shared Taxis/Jeeps and Local Buses
For budget-conscious travelers, a combination of shared taxis/jeeps and local buses is a viable option, though it might involve a change.
- Journey Details:
- Sattal to Bhowali/Nainital: From Sattal, you might first need to take a shared taxi or a local bus to Bhowali (a major junction town) or even to Nainital (a larger hub from where more transport options are available). Sattal is very close to Bhimtal, so finding transport from Bhimtal to Bhowali/Nainital is also an option.
- Bhowali/Nainital to Ranikhet: From Bhowali, shared taxis and local buses for Ranikhet are quite frequent. If you go via Nainital, you’ll also find regular shared taxis and buses to Ranikhet. This leg of the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours from Bhowali, or 2 to 2.5 hours from Nainital.
- Benefits: This is a very budget-friendly way to travel, suitable for solo travelers or those looking to save money on transportation.
- Considerations: This option might involve a transfer and can be less comfortable due to shared seating and potential waiting times for vehicles to fill up. If you have a lot of luggage, it might be a bit cumbersome.
By Train: Not a Practical Option
Neither Sattal nor Ranikhet has its own railway station.
- Nearest Railway Station to Sattal and Ranikhet: Kathgodam (KGM), which is approximately 23 kilometers from Sattal and 75-80 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Train: While Kathgodam is the railhead for the Kumaon region, it’s not practical to use a train to travel between Sattal and Ranikhet given their direct road connection. You would first need to take a taxi/bus from Sattal to Kathgodam, and then from Kathgodam to Ranikhet. This would be a roundabout and less efficient way compared to a direct road trip.
By Air: Not a Practical Option
Neither Sattal nor Ranikhet has its own airport for commercial flights.
- Nearest Airport to Sattal: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 61 kilometers from Sattal.
- Nearest Airport to Ranikhet: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 115-120 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Air: Traveling from Sattal to Pantnagar Airport by taxi and then hiring another taxi to Ranikhet is highly inefficient and expensive for this specific route, as both destinations are easily accessible by road from each other.
Important Tips for Your Journey
- Road Conditions: The roads between Sattal and Ranikhet are mountainous and winding. They are generally well-maintained, but as with all hill roads, caution is advised.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you travel. Ranikhet’s weather is generally cooler than Sattal’s, especially during evenings. Pack appropriate clothing.
- Enjoy the Views: The journey itself is incredibly scenic, offering constant views of the lush Kumaon hills and forests. Keep your camera ready!
In conclusion, the most straightforward and recommended way to travel from Sattal to Ranikhet is by road, with private taxis offering the most comfortable and flexible option, and shared taxis/buses providing a budget-friendly alternative for this short and beautiful mountain journey.
