The mystery of guardian ghost in Jeolikote Uttarakhand

When you search online for activities to do in Jeolikote, you may com e across various articles listing delightful pastimes like butterfly catching and floriculture, which may pique your curiosity about this quaint village.

Located at an altitude of 1219 meters, Jeolikote is a destination that can be visited year-round. Unlike the nearby lakeside towns where winters tend to be harsher, Jeolikote offers warm sunshine even during the colder months. For generations, Jeolikote has been a favoured holiday spot, first for the British who sought refuge from the chillier neighbouring hill towns, and later for hoteliers who transformed the old British bungalows, providing a glimpse of the bygone era for travellers visiting the area.

Haunted Warwick's Bungalow (Source: Tripoto)

Jeolikote was a favoured hill town among the British seeking to experience the joys of European summers in India, along with nearby towns like Nainital and Bhimtal.

During the late 19th century, Lt Col Warwick arrived in Jeolikote village near Nainital, where he fell in love with a young local woman, creating a romantic story that sounds straight out of a Bollywood movie. After getting married, Col. Warwick had a mansion built in the area, complete with a church and hospital, where they could live happily ever after. These structures, although in a state of disrepair, still stand in the area today. 

After his wife passed away from an illness just two years into their marriage, Col. Warwick lived alone in the massive 20-room house. He maintained a colonial mindset and prohibited servants from entering the house, treating local villagers as trespassers. He mostly kept to himself, living like a loner.

Following his wife's death, villagers began to notice something peculiar. Every night, they saw a woman riding a horse around the village, galloping loudly. Some curious villagers discovered that it was Warwick Sahab himself dressed up as his wife, riding his horse around the village every night. This eerie phenomenon became known as the "Ghost of Jeolikote”.

Aerial view of Warwick's Bungalow (Source: Wayward Wayfarer)

There are varying beliefs regarding the reason behind Lt Col Warwick's habit of dressing up as a woman and riding a horse at night. Some speculate that it was due to the despair he felt over losing his wife, while others suggest it was a manifestation of his sexual awakening. Nevertheless, the villagers of Jeolikote accepted their Sahab's behavior and began to see him as their protector at night, not just from dacoits but also from wild animals.

Even after many years, those who believe in the Guardian Ghost of the Village still claim to hear the sound of a galloping horse at night and see the figure of Warwick dressed as his wife riding on horseback.

What To Do In Jeolikote?

If you're in Jeolikote, you'll be in close proximity to several lake and hill towns known for their breathtaking mountain views and diverse wildlife. There's no shortage of activities to enjoy and day trips to embark upon. Here are some suggestions:

• Observe wildlife and go bird-watching in Pangot.
• Take a lake tour to explore Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal.
• Experience the thrill of paragliding in Naukuchiatal or Ghorakhal.
• Visit India's oldest 18-hole golf course located in Nainital.
• Explore the butterfly museum at Jones Estate Bhimtal.
• Take a day trip to Hairakhan, a riverside temple.

Directions for Getting to Jeolikote

By Air: The nearest airport to Jeolikote is Pantnagar Airport, which is located 55 km away. Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. A taxi ride from Pantnagar to Jeolikote costs between Rs. 600 to Rs. 1000.

By Rail: The closest railway station to Jeolikote is Kathgodam, which is approximately 20 km away. Taxis can be easily found outside the railway station.

By Road: Buses run daily from ISBT Anand Vihar to Haldwani or Nainital. You can take either bus and alight at Kathgodam. Jeolikote has located 20 km from Kathgodam on NH 87, and taxis are readily available to take you to your destination.

Where to stay in Jeolikote?

Reading nook at The Hosteller Jeolikote

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jeolikote in the Kumaoni Himalayas, where nature unfolds in its purest form. This serene destination offers unparalleled views of lush hills and a tranquil ambiance perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or seeking a peaceful retreat, Jeolikote promises a rejuvenating experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the pristine landscapes, take leisurely walks, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere that defines this hidden gem in the mountains. Plan your visit to Jeolikote and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Kumaoni Himalayas.