Popularly known as the gateway to Nainital, Jeolikot in Uttarakhand is located against the backdrop of Kumaon hills and offers beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Scenic vistas, salubrious weather, serene environment make Jeolikot one of the popular summer destinations in Uttarakhand. Jeolikot is ideal for those who are interested in floriculture and butterfly watching. Tourists from all over the world visit Jeolikot to watch several hundred of species of butterflies.
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Another important attraction of the hill station is the bee-keeping centre. It is a place where honeybees are bred and honey is extracted. One can see different beautiful flowers. Maintained by the horticulture department, every year visitors in large numbers come to the hill station to see flowers in bloom. One can also go on a nature walk, trekking and a jungle safari. The unexplored forest of Jeolikot offers exciting trails for trekking. The hill station is also an idyllic place for meditation. Swami Vivekananda and Sri Aurobindo, the well-known philosophers, spent a lot of time meditating in Jeolikot.
Jeolikot was a favourite haunt of the British during colonial era. There are many cottages and hotels in Jeolikot, which have been built as per colonial style of architecture. The house of Warwick Sahib, a retired major of the British army, is one of the main attractions. Another option for sightseeing in Jeolikot is the bungalow of a woman, who is believed to be a direct descendant of Napolean Bonaparte.
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Jeolikot is an all-weather destination. The Jeolikot weather in the summer enables unobstructed views of the mountain ranges. Tourists can also visit nearby village of Pangot, which is well-known for its Kilbury Bird Sanctuary. Other nearby areas to visit are Naini Tal, Sattal, Bhimtal and Ramgarh.
There are few accommodation options at Jeolikot. One can find budget and mid-range cottages. There are no restaurants or fast food outlets at Jeolikot. One can have food at the cottages or resorts. The best time to visit Jeolikot is between the months of March to June.
Photograph Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Nainital is as given below. The best time to visit Nainital is also specified.