Nainital - A destination for All
Renowned as the home of noted conservationist Jim Corbett, Nainital is fondly called the 'Lake City of India'. Nainital is set an elevation of 1938 metres and considered the largest and one of the most popular hill resorts of Kumaon region. A glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, the hill station was discovered by a Britisher Lord Barron in 1841 and has grown around a 'tal' (mountain-lake). Nainital is blessed with pristine natural beauty and an enchanting landscape.
Nainital is always bustling with tourists who flock the city from far and wide. Today, the life of Nainital revolves around the Naini Lake, which mirrors the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds and mountains. The turquoise Naini Lake shimmers at the foot of the surrounding mountains, dotted with psychedelic sail boats. The tree flanked Mall runs parallel to the lake, teeming with tourists, hotels, shops and restaurants.
Nainital is the quintessential hill station, offering all trappings of civilization, while nestled in the beautiful Himalayan landscape. Spend your time walking leisurely by the lake, shopping at the Tibetan market or climbing up to Snow View in the ropeway to admire the brilliant vista of snow peaks. The town also offers some beautiful treks into the surrounding mountains.
Must Dos in Nainital
Naini Lake - Enjoy boating on the Naini Lake surrounded by lush green surroundings. There is no better way to unwind than to languidly float down water. Take a full tour of the lake, which brushes past the surrounding mountains and the greenery. The mountains dapple the water, a breeze ruffles your hair as you drift down lazily away from the Mall, it’s all serene.
Gondola Ride - Take a cable car or gondola to Snow View peak (2270 metres) from where you get a panoramic view of the snow covered Himalayan peaks and also surrounding valleys. The return ticket covers a one-hour stay. You can also trek up to Snow View, a fairly steep walk, to encounter dhabas and kiosks at the top.
St. John’s Church in the Wilderness - Built in 1844, St. John’s Church in the Wilderness showcases typical Victorian architecture, built in stone with thick walls and stained glass windows. The altar inside the church is inscribed with names of the 1880 landslide victims.
Shopping in Nainital
Shopping is a must do activity in Nainital. In fact, Nainital and its candles are synonymous. The Barra Bazaar at Mallital is lined with shops selling various types of candles. Nainital is also a great place to pick up natural preserves - an excellent variety of fruit squashes, jams, jellies, pickles and marmalades, all locally produced, are available in shops lining the Mall. Also visit the Tibetan Market at the Flats, a flea market area selling junk jewellery, bags, scarves, fake branded watches and so on. If you look closely, and haggle intelligently, you can pick up some good bargains.
Nearby Getaways from Nainital
Ranikhet - Siutated 64 kilometres away, Ranikhet is a quaint mountain town untouched by commercialisation. It offers awe inspiring views of the snow peaks spreading over 300 kilometres along with solitude, peace and tranquility. Heavily shaded by deodars and pine, life is gentle here and the world is dark green. With its colonial history, the town seems to be a chapter from the past. Highly recommended place for travelers to Nainital.
Sattal – Literally meaning ‘the seven lake’, Sattal is constituted by seven scattered lakes. A profusion of oaks and deodars and the gently dappling water charms you. The area around the lakes offers picturesque treks into the wilderness. Do go for a swim in the lake or a boat ride.
