Nainital – the city of lakes can only be described as a small slice of heaven nestled in the grand Kumaon mountain ranges. The city is situated in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand and is a mesmerizing hill station renowned for its serene lakes, majestic mountains, and natural beauty. The name is derived from the legend that this place is one of the ‘Shakti peeths’, a place where Sati’s charred body fell as Shiva carried it around. Her eyes are said to have landed in this city and hence the name Naini meaning eyes and tal meaning lake were combined to form the name of the city.
Apart from the beautiful Naini jheel, the city boasts of other lakes such as the Sattal, BheemTal, and Naukhuchiatal each surrounded by mountains and providing sustenance to the people of the city for ages.
Famous Lakes of Nainital
Nainital is renowned for its tranquil lakes, which add to the town’s charm and allure. The centerpiece of Nainital is Naini Lake, a pear-shaped freshwater lake surrounded by verdant hills. The famous Naini Devi temple is present very next to Naini Lake in the center of the city. Boating on the lake is a popular activity, allowing visitors to soak in the serene ambiance. Other lakes worth exploring in and around Nainital include:
- Bhimtal: Located around 22 kilometers from Nainital, Bhimtal is a pristine lake known for its island in the center, featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Naukuchiatal: Situated around 26 kilometers from Nainital, Naukuchiatal is a captivating nine-cornered lake, fringed by dense forests and hills. It is a haven for birdwatchers and adventure enthusiasts. Don’t forget to hop on the famous Shikara boats at Naukuchiatal.
- Sattal: Just a short distance from Bhimtal, Sattal is a cluster of interconnected lakes that offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Notable Mountains in Nainital
Nainital is nestled amidst the Kumaon Hills of the outer Himalayas, offering breathtaking vistas of lush green valleys and towering peaks. The town is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,084 meters (6,837 feet) above sea level, providing a pleasant and temperate climate throughout the year. Some notable mountains surrounding Nainital include:
- Naina Peak: Also known as China Peak, it is the highest point in Nainital, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the entire town of Nainital.
- Tiffin Top: Located at Ayarpatta Hill, Tiffin Top provides stunning views of the Himalayas, Nainital Lake, and the surrounding countryside. It is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Snow View Point: Situated atop Sher-ka-Danda Hill, Snow View Point offers a breathtaking vista of the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot.
Nearby Attractions in Nainital
Apart from the mountains and lakes, Nainital boasts several nearby attractions that are worth exploring:
- Naini Devi Temple: Situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake, is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is an important pilgrimage site. Naini Lake and Naini Devi Temple are the first things to spot when one visits Nainital.
- Mall Road: A bustling thoroughfare, Mall Road is the heart of Nainital, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. It offers a vibrant atmosphere for leisurely strolls and shopping.
- Eco Cave Gardens: Located near Mall Road, the Eco Cave Gardens is a network of interconnected caves that provide an exciting and educational experience for visitors.
- Nainital Zoo: Situated on the steep mountains of Nainital, it hosts a wide variety of creatures including Siberian Tigers, Leopard, Wolf, Himalayan black bears, Hill Fox, Deers etc. You need to carry extra energy to climb the steep and cover the whole zoo.
- Jim Corbett National Park: Situated in close proximity to Nainital, this renowned national park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and various species of birds. If you are attracted to nature and wildlife, you don’t mind some extra travel.
During one of my treks, I was given an opportunity to interact with the locals of Uttarakhand village and understand the difficulties of their lifestyle staying in the Himalayas – Life at a High Altitude Village of Uttarakhand,
Nainital, with its awe-inspiring mountains, serene lakes, and captivating attractions, truly embodies the natural beauty and tranquility that Uttarakhand has to offer. Whether you seek adventure, spiritual solace, or a rejuvenating retreat, Nainital is a destination that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.