IVRI Mukteshwar Campus is a historic British-era research facility established in 1898 as India's first Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory. Situated at 2,286 metres in Mukteshwar, Nainital district, it spans 1,500 acres of forest with Victorian-era stone buildings. Research areas are restricted; exterior grounds are viewable.
What Is IVRI Mukteshwar Campus and Why Visit It?
The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) Mukteshwar Campus (formerly the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory) is a historic British-era scientific research facility established in 1898, situated at 2,286 metres (7,500 feet) in Mukteshwar town, Nainital district, Uttarakhand. It was one of India's first modern scientific institutions — in 1905, this institute developed India's first successful rinderpest vaccine, which helped protect millions of livestock across British India (IVRI History, ivri.res.in). The research establishment also played a pivotal role in controlling anthrax and other diseases that devastated livestock in colonial India (IVRI Annual Reports, 1900–1910).
The grounds are spread over 1,500 acres of pristine Himalayan forest land and feature charming Victorian-era stone buildings that are architectural gems of the colonial period. The well-maintained estate includes manicured lawns, old horse stables, colonial bungalows and experimental farms. While the research facilities are restricted to authorised personnel, visitors can admire the architecture from outside, walk around the perimeter and enjoy the forested setting and Himalayan views.
The institute also has a small museum documenting the history of veterinary science in India, accessible on prior request. For history enthusiasts, architects and heritage lovers, this research station is one of the most distinctive Uttarakhand historical sites — a living piece of Kumaon heritage set within a stunning mountain landscape. Visitors often combine it with nearby Chauli Ki Jaali, Bhalu Gaad Waterfall and Mukteshwar tour packages for a complete hill-station experience.
As of 2026, IVRI Mukteshwar (Indian Veterinary Research Institute) remains an active research campus under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) — India's apex body for agricultural and veterinary research, established 1929 (Source: ICAR, icar.org.in). The Victorian buildings are preserved as protected heritage structures while active research continues on the campus grounds.
Visitor Experience: Visitors who have walked the IVRI campus grounds describe the experience as stepping back in time — the century-old stone buildings, sweeping mountain views and quiet forest trails create an atmosphere unlike any other heritage site in Kumaon. The absence of commercial tourism makes this a peaceful and authentic encounter with India's colonial scientific history.
Key Facts About the IVRI Mukteshwar Research Campus
When Is the Best Time to Visit the IVRI Campus in Mukteshwar?
How Do You Reach IVRI Mukteshwar Campus (Indian Veterinary Research Institute) from Nainital or Delhi?
By Train
Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (72 km from IVRI Mukteshwar Campus). Regular trains from Delhi and Lucknow. From Kathgodam, take a shared taxi or private cab to Mukteshwar (2 hrs). The Indian Veterinary Research Institute campus is within the town.
By Bus
Uttarakhand Roadways buses from Nainital and Haldwani to Mukteshwar. The IVRI institute is within Mukteshwar town — a short walk from the bus stand.
By Taxi / Car
51 km from Nainital (2 hrs via Bhowali). Drive to Mukteshwar town. IVRI Mukteshwar Campus gate is visible from the main road — no separate trek required.