Mukteshwar is a village and tourist destination in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It sits high in the Kumaon Hills at an altitude of 2171 meters (7500 feet), 51 km from Nainital, 72 km from Haldwani, and 343 km from Delhi.
Mukteshwar gets its name from a 350-year-old temple of Shiva, known as Mukteshwar Dham, situated atop the highest point in the town, on the veterinary institute’s campus. Close to it lie the overhanging cliffs, locally known as Chauli-ki-Jali, used for rock climbing and rappelling, with an excellent view of the valleys below. Mukteshwar is famous for its breezy waterfalls such as The Bhalu Ghaad, Tarikhet waterfalls, Rudradhari waterfall and Dhokaney waterfall. The sunrise point is at the government-run PWD guest house. Another tourist attraction is the small Satoli Village, situated just 21 km from Mukteshwar. One can also visit the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI).’
Some of the edifices of this town are the IVRI laboratories, orchards of the Central Institutes of Temperate Horticulture-Regional Station, an expansive deodar forest measuring 15 square miles, 22 pristine snow-peak views, and the adventure of living among wildlife such as tigers and bears are. The charm of visiting Mukteshwar lies in enjoying nature, listening to air gushing through deodar forests, bird watching, meditation, and seeking peace. The cleanliness, solitude, and nature attract people escaping urban life.
Mukteshwar is also home to a post office founded in 1905 which finds mention in Jim Corbett’s writing.