Nainital: City of Lakes in the Kumaun Hills

Nainital, known as the "City of Lakes," is a stunning hill station in Uttarakhand, India. Surrounded by seven majestic hills—Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta, and Sher-Ka-Danda—the town’s highlight is the serene Naini Lake, offering breathtaking views and tranquility.

Mythological Significance of Naini Lake

According to Hindu mythology, Naini Lake is sacred, believed to have formed when Goddess Sati’s eyes (Naina) fell here while Lord Shiva carried her body. This divine connection makes Nainital not only a scenic retreat but also a revered pilgrimage site.

Culture and Heritage

Nainital's culture reflects Kumaoni traditions, including folklore, music, and crafts. The town features colonial-era buildings and traditional wooden houses. Local handicrafts, such as woolen shawls, carpets, and carved wooden artifacts, are widely available. Festivals like Nanda Devi Fair and Phool Dei add vibrancy to the town’s cultural scene.

Top Tourist Attractions

Naini Lake: A hub for boating, scenic walks, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Naina Devi Temple: A revered Shakti Peeth, attracting devotees seeking spiritual solace.
Snow View Point: Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas; accessible via a thrilling cable car ride.
Eco Cave Gardens: A fun attraction with interconnected caves shaped like animals, perfect for families.
Tiffin Top: A scenic viewpoint, great for trekking, horse riding, and picnics.
The Mall Road: A lively street for shopping, dining, and evening strolls with lake views.

How to Reach Nainital

By Air: The nearest airport, Pantnagar (70 km), has flights from major cities, with taxis and buses available for further travel.
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km away) connects to Delhi, Dehradun, and Kolkata, with taxis and buses providing easy access to Nainital.
By Road: Well-connected to major cities like Delhi (320 km), Dehradun, and Lucknow, making it an excellent destination for road trips.

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit are March to June and September to November, offering pleasant weather. Summers (10°C to 27°C) are ideal for sightseeing, while winters (-3°C to 15°C) bring snowfall, making it perfect for snow lovers. Monsoons (July to September) should be avoided due to landslides.

Top Things to Do in Nainital

Boating on Naini Lake – A must-try experience with options like rowboats and paddleboats.
Trekking & Hiking – Popular trails include Naina Peak, Tiffin Top, and Snow View Trek.
Exploring Temples & Churches – Visit Hanuman Garhi Temple for sunrise views and St. John in the Wilderness Church for its Gothic architecture.
Shopping in Local Markets – Mall Road and Bhotia Market are great for buying woolen shawls, wooden handicrafts, and candles.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Nainital?

March to June and September to November are ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing.

How many lakes are there in Nainital?

Nainital has nine lakes, including Naini Lake, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal.

Does Nainital experience snowfall?

Yes, Nainital receives snowfall between December and February.

What are the best adventure activities in Nainital?

Boating, trekking, paragliding, and cable car rides are popular.

How far is Nainital from Delhi?

Nainital is approximately 320 km from Delhi, taking around 6-7 hours by road.