Tanakpur, located in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, serves as a gateway to the Kumaon Himalayas and is a significant border town. It’s known for its religious importance, particularly for the पूर्णागिरि मंदिर (Purnagiri Temple). Ranikhet, on the other hand, is a charming hill station and cantonment town, famous for its lush green golf course, fruit orchards, and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Traveling from Tanakpur to Ranikhet offers a journey from the plains into the serene mountains.
Tanakpur to Ranikhet Distance
The approximate road distance between Tanakpur and Ranikhet is around 150 to 180 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken. The journey typically takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours by road, which makes it a comfortable drive through picturesque landscapes.
How to Reach Tanakpur To Ranikhet
Given the nature of the terrain and the available transport options, road travel is the most practical and convenient way to get from Tanakpur to Ranikhet.
By Road: The Most Direct and Preferred Way
Road travel is the primary method for this route, offering a scenic journey through the Kumaon region.
1. Private Taxi or Car Rental
Hiring a private taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Tanakpur to Ranikhet. Taxis are readily available in Tanakpur.
- Journey Details: The road trip generally takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours. From Tanakpur, you will typically follow NH9 towards Khatima, then onwards towards Nainital/Haldwani/Bhowali, and finally take the road towards Ranikhet. The route involves driving through plains initially and then ascending into the hills with winding roads, offering beautiful views of forests and small towns. The roads are generally well-maintained, but local drivers are best for navigating the hilly sections.
- Benefits: This option provides maximum flexibility. You can choose your departure time, stop for breaks, meals, or photo opportunities at various scenic points. It’s ideal for families or groups, ensuring a private and direct transfer to your destination.
- Cost: Taxi fares can vary based on the type of vehicle (e.g., hatchback, sedan, SUV), the taxi service, and the season. You can expect one-way fares to range from approximately ₹3,000 to ₹5,000. It’s always a good idea to confirm the total fare with the driver before you begin your journey.
2. Shared Taxis/Jeeps and Local Buses
For budget-conscious travelers, a combination of shared taxis/jeeps and local buses is an option, though it will involve changes.
- Journey Details:
- Tanakpur to Haldwani/Kathgodam: From Tanakpur, you can find local buses or shared jeeps/taxis that go towards Haldwani or Kathgodam. This segment will take about 2.5 to 3 hours. Tanakpur also has its own railway station which connects to places like Kathgodam via train, but a direct road journey might be quicker if connecting bus/taxi options are available immediately.
- Haldwani/Kathgodam to Ranikhet: From Haldwani or Kathgodam, there are frequent shared taxis and local buses operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and Kumaon Motor Owners Union (KMOU) that go to Ranikhet. This leg of the journey usually takes another 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Benefits: This is a very economical way to travel, suitable for solo travelers or those looking to save money on transportation.
- Considerations: This option might involve multiple transfers 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 challenging.
By Train: Indirect Option
While Tanakpur has its own railway station, Ranikhet does not.
- Tanakpur Railway Station (TPU): This station has connectivity to various parts of India, including a train named “Ranikhet Express” (15014) which actually runs from Kathgodam to Ajmer via Tanakpur and then to Delhi. However, this train does not directly go to Ranikhet town.
- Nearest Railway Station to Ranikhet: Kathgodam (KGM), which is approximately 75-80 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Train (Indirect): You could potentially take a train from Tanakpur to Kathgodam, and then from Kathgodam, hire a taxi or take a bus to Ranikhet. However, a direct road journey from Tanakpur to Ranikhet is generally more straightforward and faster than this multi-mode option.
By Air: Not a Practical Option
Neither Tanakpur nor Ranikhet has its own airport for commercial flights.
- Nearest Airport to Tanakpur and Ranikhet: Pantnagar Airport (PGH). It is approximately 104 kilometers from Tanakpur and 115-120 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Air: While Pantnagar Airport is the closest, flying into Pantnagar and then taking a taxi to Ranikhet from there is usually not the most efficient or cost-effective way to travel directly from Tanakpur to Ranikhet, given the direct road connectivity.
Important Tips for Your Journey
- Road Conditions: The route from Tanakpur to Ranikhet involves both plain and hilly roads. The hilly sections are winding. Generally, roads are well-maintained, but be prepared for turns.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast, especially if traveling during monsoon (July-September), as heavy rains can sometimes cause delays or road closures in hilly areas. Ranikhet is a hill station, so it will be cooler than Tanakpur.
- Scenic Route: The journey offers a change in landscape, from the foothills to the higher altitudes of Ranikhet, providing beautiful views of the Kumaon region.
In summary, the best way to travel from Tanakpur to Ranikhet is by road, with private taxis offering the most convenience and flexibility for a direct and scenic journey. Alternatively, a combination of shared taxis and local buses can be a more budget-friendly choice, albeit with more transfers.
