Nainital, also known as the “Lake District of India,” is a popular hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, including Naini Lake, Nainital is a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Historical Significance of Nainital
- historical site in Nainital is the Governor’s House, built in 1899 by the British as a summer residence for the Governor of North-Western Provinces.
- Nainital was also an important center for education, with the first school in the region being established in 1841, and the first college opening in 1922.
- The hill station played an important role in India’s freedom struggle, with many prominent leaders visiting and using the town as a base to organize protests and rallies.
Mythological Significance:
- Nainital is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peethas in Hindu mythology, where the left eye of the goddess Sati fell.
- According to legend, Lord Shiva was so grief-stricken by the death of his wife Sati that he wandered the earth carrying her body. When Lord Vishnu cut Sati’s body into pieces to stop Shiva’s mourning, her eyes fell at the site of the Naini Lake, giving it the name “Nain-tal” or “lake of the eye”.
- Nainital is also believed to be the place where Lord Krishna and Radha spent some of their time and where the Pandavas lived during their exile.
Famous Places to visit in Nainital
1. Naini Lake
It is located in the heart of Nainital, is the main attraction of this hill station town. The calm and picturesque lake is surrounded by lush green hills on three sides and provides an idyllic and peaceful atmosphere to those who visit. The lake provides a range of activities including boating, yachting, and paddle boat rides. One can also take a leisurely stroll around the lake for some amazing views and spend quality time with friends or family.
2. Eco Cave Gardens
They are one of the most popular attractions in Nainital as they offer awe-inspiring views of Nature’s beauty along with various fun activities for tourists to partake in. Take a leisurely walk through these mysterious caves and admire their naturally formed walls or even trek up to higher points for some terrific views from amongst the clouds! There’s also rafting and kayaking available at this location if you’re feeling adventurous.
3. Tiffin Top
This is one of the loveliest viewpoints in Nainital which offers panoramic views of its beautiful surroundings! Located near Ayarpatta Hill, tourists flock to this point due to its relaxing atmosphere along with the magnificent sights it has to offer of snow-clad peaks in winter months and rolling valleys when the snow melts away during summertime. Grab a cup of tea while soaking in some spectacular views here.
4. Snow View Point
It makes for an excellent pit stop after your tiring sightseeing tours around Nainital as it offers great vistas of snow-capped mountains from its rope way or from ground based points like Zero Point or China Peak depending upon how brave you feel! For those who want more adrenaline rush,a thrilling cable car ride across a steep incline towards Snow view Point surely adds more memories to such trips….dont forget your cameras!
5. Gurney House
One cannot complete their trip without visiting Gurney House which was once Jim Corbett’s personal abode before being converted into a museum that displays his relics as well as other works coveted by nature lovers everywhere today. Take ample time strolling among these artifacts or just enjoy the calming atmosphere in the lap of Nature here – either way it promises an unforgettable experience that none should miss out on when visiting Nainital.
6. Mall Road
It happens to be one of busiest hubs among tourists due to numerous shops calling out every passerby under various labels like clothing stores,pickles shops and eateries selling almost every cuisine known today! Make sure you pay at least one visit down here enjoying delicious food accompanied by fairy light lit decoration illuminating this busy area or shop till you drop – one thing’s guaranteed -you will not be bored while roaming here.
7. Bhimtal Lake
It is another scenic pleasure whose distance from Mall Road stands estimated at 23 kilometers offering stunning views amidst its serene atmosphere making it truly worthy if one opts to walk around surveyed by snow clad Himalayan giants all around them! Amazing adventures await anyone looking forward seeking thrill through boating escalators and mini trains over water adding relevant moments being circulated by locals over times endowing remembrance last longer than so journed visits…Be there cause Nainital awaits everyone with open arms.
Activities to do in Nainital
- Boating: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Naini Lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Trekking: Explore the beautiful hills and forests of Nainital through various trekking trails.
- Rock Climbing: For adventure enthusiasts, Nainital offers rock climbing opportunities on its challenging cliffs.
- Horse Riding: Take a leisurely horse ride around Naini Lake and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
- Wildlife: Visit the nearby Corbett National Park to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
- Shopping: Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at the Tibetan Market and Mall Road.
- Cable Car Ride: Experience a scenic cable car ride from Snow View Point to Nainital for breathtaking views.
- Paragliding: Soar above the mountains and enjoy panoramic views of Nainital through paragliding.
- Ayurvedic Spa: Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul with an Ayurvedic spa treatment in Nainital.
Delicious Local Cuisine
- Bal Mithai – A famous Kumaoni sweet made from khoya, sugar and cocoa powder.
- Aloo ke Gutke – A popular snack made from boiled potatoes, spices and herbs.
- Bhatt ki Churkani – A traditional Kumaoni dish made from black lentils, tempered with spices and served with rice.
- Baadi – A popular Kumaoni dish made from buckwheat flour, spices and ghee.
- Sel Roti – A traditional Nepalese dish made from rice flour, yogurt and sugar.
- Patande – A crispy snack made from gram flour and spices.
- Baadi Ka Chutney – A tangy accompaniment made from baadi and spices.
Where to stay in Nainital ?
Nainital is a popular hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is known for its picturesque surroundings, scenic beauty, and serene atmosphere. There are many staying options available in Nainital, each offering different facilities and amenities at different prices. In this article, we have compiled a list of some of the best staying options in Nainital, along with their prices and facilities.
| Hotel Name | Price per Night | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| The Manu Maharani | INR 6,000 | Luxury rooms, swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant, and bar |
| The Naini Retreat | INR 4,500 | Heritage rooms, garden, restaurant, and bar |
| Hotel Suman Paradise | INR 2,500 | Deluxe rooms, restaurant, and bar |
| Hotel Naini Retreat | INR 2,000 | Standard rooms, restaurant, and bar |
| Hotel Himalaya | INR 1,500 | Budget rooms, restaurant, and bar |
Special Events to attend in Nainital are
- Nainital Winter Festival: This annual event celebrates the winter season with a range of cultural activities, sports, and musical performances.
- Nainital Summer Festival: A perfect getaway from the scorching heat, this festival features exciting activities like boat races, paragliding, and food stalls.
- Nainital Adventure Sports Festival: Adrenaline junkies can enjoy activities like trekking, camping, and rock climbing at this festival.
- Nainital Lakeside Carnival: This carnival takes place on the shores of the Naini Lake and features a variety of cultural and entertainment programs.
- Nainital Yoga Festival: This festival promotes the ancient Indian practice of yoga and features sessions and workshops led by renowned yoga experts.
Averages Daily Temperture of Nainital
The best time to visit Nainital is between April and June, when the weather is pleasant and the greenery is at its peak. The monsoon season, between July and September, can also be a great time to visit as the region receives heavy rainfall and the natural beauty is at its best.
| Month | Average Daily Minimum Temperature (°C) | Average Daily Maximum Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3 | 15 |
| February | 4 | 16 |
| March | 6 | 18 |
| April | 8 | 21 |
| May | 10 | 25 |
| June | 12 | 28 |
| July | 14 | 29 |
| August | 14 | 29 |
| September | 12 | 28 |
| October | 10 | 25 |
| November | 7 | 20 |
| December | 4 | 16 |