Ranikhet is a place related with the legends of Himalayas. Historical accounts tell us the Queen Padmini of Kumaon was enchanted by this tiny hill paradise. King Sudhardev obliged her, by building a palace here for the queen and named the place Ranikhet (the queen's fields). No trace of the palace can be found today, but the place remained the same: captivating, abounding with flowers, trees and green meadows in the midst of heavenly Himalayan surroundings. Lost into oblivion for long, the picturesque hill station was rediscovered by the British. They bought the land from the native villagers and build it into a summer resort apart from establishing an army recruitment centre. Ranikhet still remains the head quarters of the gallant Kumaon Regiment. Situated at a height of 1,829 meters, with an area of 21.76 sq.

10 km south of Ranikhet are the famous fruit-laden orchards of Chaubatia. These orchards are known for delicious apples of several exclusive varieties, apricots, peaches and various other alpine fruits. These can be directly procured from the growers themselves. There is also a state-run Fruit Research Centre. Situated nearby is Bhalu Dam in the background of a beautiful lake created by this dam, which attracts tourists round the year.