Nainital: A Picture-Postcard Perfect Hill Station In Uttarakhand

Introduction

Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in Northern India and for good reason. This charming town, nestled high up in the Kumaon Himalayas, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial heritage, and cultural diversity. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous escapade, or a cultural immersion, Nainital has something for everyone.

Naini Lake

Nainital derives its name from the emerald mountain lake Naini, which is shaped like an eye and is believed to be the spot where the eyes of goddess Sati fell when her body was carried by Lord Shiva. The lake is the centerpiece of the town and attracts tourists with its serene and scenic views. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, or yachting on the lake or simply stroll along the Mall Road that runs parallel to it.

The Seven Hills

The town is surrounded by seven hills, each offering a different perspective of the lake and the landscape. You can hike up to the Naina Peak, the highest point in Nainital, and enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. You can also visit the Tiffin Top, a picnic spot that offers a bird’s eye view of the town and the lake. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try paragliding or zip-lining from Snow View Point, which also has a cable car facility.

Colonial Heritage

Nainital is not only about nature and adventure but also about culture and history. The town has a strong colonial legacy, as it was the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British era. You can see many old buildings, churches, schools, and bungalows that reflect British architecture and style. You can also visit the Raj Bhavan, which is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and was built as a summer retreat for the British Viceroy.

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Naina Devi Temple – Nainital

The town is also home to the revered Naina Devi Temple, which stands on the edge of the lake and is dedicated to the patron goddess of Nainital. The temple attracts devotees from all over India and is especially crowded during the Nanda Devi Fair in September. You can also visit other temples in and around Nainital, such as Hanuman Garhi, Golu Devta Temple, Pashan Devi Temple, and Mukteshwar Temple.

Wildlife and Nature

Nainital is also known for its rich flora and fauna, as it is located within the Bhabhar region of Uttarakhand. You can explore the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many animals and birds, including leopards, deer, monkeys, bears, eagles, woodpeckers, and pheasants. You can also visit the Jim Corbett National Park, which is India’s oldest national park and is famous for its tigers and other wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

Nainital is an all-year destination but the best time to visit is between March and June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can also visit Nainital in winter to witness snowfall and enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

How to Reach Nainital

Nainital is well-connected by road, rail, and air from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, and Kathgodam. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (65 km), which has flights from Delhi. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (34 km), which has trains from Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and other cities. You can also take buses or taxis from Delhi (345 km), Dehradun (285 km), or other nearby places.

Conclusion

Nainital is a place where you can experience nature’s bounty, colonial charm, cultural diversity, and adventure thrill all in one place. It is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Nainital today and discover why it is called the Lake District of India.

For more information about Nainital and other destinations in Uttarakhand, you can visit the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board here.

If you want to read about other places in Uttarakhand, you can visit our blog page here. You will find interesting and informative posts and articles about the culture, history, nature, and adventure of Uttarakhand