Nainital - Land of Lakes
Nainital is a lake district in the state of Uttarakhand situated in the foothills of the Kumaon range. Set at an elevation of 1,938 meters above sea level, the town of Nainital offers panoramic views. It is a popular tourist destination in the country known for its placid lakes and valleys. The Naini Lake is a tourist hot spot and is bounded by hills.
Other prominent lakes here are Bhimtal, Khurpatal and Sattal. Boating, cruises and yachting are important activities at these lakes. Nainital is also among the charming hill stations that has attractive villas and cottages drawing honeymoon couples from India and abroad. The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, a drive of 35 km from the town. Indian Holiday offers information on places to see in Nainital and its nearby attractions.
Top Places to See in Nainital
Check out the various places of visit in Nainital
Naini Lake - This pearl-shaped lake stretches across 3.5 km and is one of the interesting places of visit in Nainital. This natural lake is well known for its surrounding beauty and several adventure activities such as boating and yacht rides. During winter season, the blooming flowers all around offer a beautiful sight. Tourists and honeymoon couples spend hours strolling down its banks. This lake also divides the town in two halves - northern part is called Mallital and the southern end is popular as Tallital. There is a foot bridge connecting the two banks.
Naina Devi Temple - This temple is located adjacent to the Naini Lake and Nainital gets its name from Naina Devi. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in the country. The temple is built on the site where the eye of Goddess Durga fell during the Shiva Tandav ( according to legend, the violent and cosmic dance form performed by Lord Shiva after the death of his wife Parvati). This shrine in Nainital is one of the prominent pilgrimage places in the state. The Kushan kings constructed this temple in the 15th century. After a landslide demolished the temple in 1880, it was rebuilt in the year 1883. The principal deity here is Mata Naina Devi flanked by the idols of Kali and Ganesha on the two sides.
Naina Peak - At an elevation of 2611 meters, the Naina Peak is the highest in the districts and overlooks Naini Lake. There are opportunities for pony rides and trekkers can have a delightful experience.
Bhimtal - A drive of 22 km from the heart of town will take you to the Bhimtal Lake, the largest in Nainital. This lake is named after one of the Pandava brothers, Bhim. The island on Lake Bhimtal is home to a number of flora and fauna and aquatic species. Besides an aquarium, the Bhimeshwar Temple is a great attraction here. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be established by the Pandavas.
The Mall Road - The point of intersection of Mallital and Tallital (two sides of Naini Lake) is popular as the Mall Road. It is the commercial nerve of the town popular for its market place, restaurants, food outlets and hotels. The area of Mall Road stretches up to Nainital Boat Club measuring around 1 km. Shops here sell various imported items, bags, accessories and artifacts.
Governor's House - Popularly referred to as the Raj Bhavan, Governor's House was constructed in 1899 and reflects the Victorian architecture. The premises comprise a swimming pool, well maintained garden and a golf course. It is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. You need entry permission.
Sariyatal - It is a small meandering stream and one of the unexplored destinations in the district. This stream passes by the Kaladhungi Road.
Guano Hills - These hills surround the Pangot village. Aside from the scenic beauty, you will enjoy the wilderness of the nearby forest of oak and deodar that is home to black babbler and grey woodpeckers species. Bird watching and forest trail walking are activities that tourists indulge in.
Gurney House - This place is popular for housing the memorabilia of Jim Corbett, a renowned conservationist.
St John's Church - A charming church built amidst deodar and oak forests is also called 'St John's in the Wilderness'. It is a tranquil place of worship constructed in 1844 at the northern end of Nainital (Mallital)
Snow View Point - Situated at an altitude of 2270 meters above sea level, this point offers stunning views of the Kumaon Hills and the Naina Peak. The best way to get in there is by availing the Aerial Express Ropeway services.
Excursion from Nainital
Few other places to visit from Nainital are:
Corbett National Park - This park is situated in Ramnagar and is a drive of 60 km from Nainital. Named after wildlife conservationist Jim Corbett, the park encompasses an area of 521 square kilometers. It has the distinction of being the first declared national park in the country. It is known to be the habitat and conservation center for royal Bengal tigers. You can opt for a jeep or elephant safari, under expert guidance, to tour the park.
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram & Temple in Kainchidham - Kainchi is a drive of around 18 km from the town of Nainital. It falls on the way to Almora. This ashram and temple is dedicated to a Hindu saint Neem Karoli Baba
Nainital Zoo - This zoo is home to a number of native Himalayan species of animals and birds.
