Nainital, An Enchanting, Fascinating & Alluring Destination

If there were a contest of hill stations, Nainital would have won without doubt. Located in the Lake District of Kumaon division in Uttarakhand, Nainital sits prettily beside Lake Naini. The hills here provide a beautiful backdrop to the serene waters and tall pines. Fragrant with blossoming flowers, the hill station welcomes you with crisp air and stunning vistas. In short, it is romantic, alluring, and charming, perfect for a trip in the mountains!

Historical Account

The history of Nainital is quite interesting. Post the Anglo-Nepalese war of 1814 – 1816, the Kumaon hills came under the jurisdiction of the British rule. The town around the Naini Lake was founded in the year 1841 when the first European house was constructed here – the pilgrim lodge by P. Barron, who was a sugar trader from Shahjahanpur.
As per the writing accounts by Captain Madden of the Bengal artillery, several settlements had sprung up and dotted the entire hilly landscape of Nainital by 1846. One of the earliest buildings to be constructed in Nainital was the church of St. John, and the surrounding areas here were a complete wilderness.
Later on, there were various constructions in 1860, such as, Belvedere, Alma lodge, and Ashdale cottage.
The place quickly gained popularity due to its refreshing atmosphere and rejuvenating environment. Very soon it developed into a serene health resort that was mostly favoured by the British soldiers and colonial officers. Finally, it developed as a summer getaway option for the British.

Mythological Account

The famous tourist attraction of Naini Lake is known for being 1 of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India. The story of this lake is linked to the famous mythology regarding the death of Goddess Sati. It is said that after her passing away, Lord Shiva carried her mortal remains, roaming the universe in deep mourning.
Lord Vishnu, in order to bring Lord Shiva out of this trance, decided to cut up her body into 52 different parts and put an end to his sufferings. Her eyes are said to have fallen right here, which is now known as Naini Lake. Located close to the lake is the famous holy Naini temple, where the goddess Shakti is worshipped.

Trekking Options in Nainital

Not just a picturesque location, it also spoils its tourists with adventure. In Nainital, you can find a myriad of rewarding trekking opportunities, such as:

China Peak

Also known as the Naina peak, it’s one of the most popular treks that people take from Nainital. Situated at a distance of 6 km from the main town of Nainital, this peak provides some of the most astounding views of the city below. This trail is one of the easiest and mildest treks that you can cover even with your family and loved ones within 6 to 7 hours.

Snow View Trek

Located at a distance of 3 km from the main town, the snow that greets the trekkers makes for an utterly delightful experience. In addition, you get amazing panoramic views of the surrounding snow capped Himalayas. A small temple consisting of idols of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman is another popular attraction. This trek, however, requires a little bit of mountaineering expertise. You will need to do some prior planning and acquire equipment or trekking gear.

Tiffin Top Trek

Also known as Dorothy’s seat, it’s dedicated to an English woman – Mrs. Kellet Dorothy (who passed away in an air crash on Tiffin Top). This 3 km trek takes almost 2 to 3 hours to cover, but the resulting view of the lush rolling hill below makes the entire trip worth it. The entire trail remains occupied with colourful and exotic birds like woodpeckers & songbird, making your trek extremely fun and vibrant.

Lesser Known Facts about Nainital

Let’s know the hill station on a deeper level, shall we?

• The very first myth regarding Nainital is that it was previously known as Tri Rishi Sarovar which literally translates into the lake of three sages during the early ages. This lake also finds its mention in the Manas Kund of Skanda Purana.
• Another myth involves the fact that if anyone is able to view all 9 corners of the lake in one go, then they are said to achieve nirvana or salvation.
• This enchanting retreat is said to be the creation of P. Barron, a European who fell in love with the beauty of the place and created here a retreat for Englishmen.
• Nainital actually consists of two parts: Mallital (area to the north of the Lake) and Tallital (the southern portion).
• Located at a height of about 2,084 metres, Nainital leads to gorgeous mountain peaks, such as the Naina and Devpata. You can get wonderful views of the landscape from here.
• Nainital has a huge religious significance. It is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths, and is a place of pilgrimage for devout Hindus.
• It is a widely known fact that the place was discovered first by Mr. P. Barron. However, people believe that before him, another British, Mr. GW Traill, had discovered it but left it, thinking that this was a holy place.

Places to See in Nainital

Nainital is sure to spoil you with its natural charm and surreal magic. Get the real taste of the hill station by adding the following to your itinerary:

Naina Devi Temple

Being one of the Shakti Peeths, this must-visit temple is packed with high religious significance. As per the legends, Devi Sati’s eye fell here after Lord Vishnu cut her body into 51 pieces. The temple treats the devotees with picture-perfect, serene lake views.

Naini Lake

Any visit to Nainital is incomplete without savouring the gorgeous views here! Located at the heart of Nainital, this lake is famous for providing a delightful boating experience too. Surrounded by hills, the morning and sunset views here are otherworldly!

The Mall Road

This one is definitely a true traveller’s go-to! Whether you want to try the street food, sip coffee at the local cafes, or just go looking around for souvenirs, it’s just the place to be! Running alongside Naini Lake, it’s always buzzing with tourists.

Snow View Point

Want to get the spectacular views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks in the best way possible? Then, look no further, your go-to is Snow View Point! Reachable both by a thrilling ropeway and a traditional road route, it offers you the views of famous snow-capped peaks, such as Nanda Devi and Trishul.

Nainital Zoo

Experience the majestic Himalayan wildlife from just a few metres away! Enjoy the howling Tibetan Wolves, roaring Bengal Tigers, or the contented purring Leopard Cats! You have a lot to see here.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

The best time to come here is hands down from March to June. The weather is amazingly pleasant during this period and is perfect for outdoor fun activities and sightseeing.
Another great time to visit is during the October–February bracket. If you like cold and want to see snow, this period is perfect for it!

Shopping

While shopping, these places are your best bet for buying souvenirs:

Mall Road

This is the main commercial market of the entire hill station! Always bustling with tourists, you can purchase here handicrafts and fragrant candles. While here, look for:

• Handicrafts and handmade candles
• Woollen clothes like shawls and gloves
• Wooden artifacts
• Local snacks and jams

Bara Bazaar

This market is popular for Tibetan goodies. Also, don’t forget to haggle here! Consider buying:

• Tibetan woollens and sweaters
• Tibetan-style souvenirs
• Decorative items
• Chunky jewelry and bags

Hotels in Nainital

There’s a range of hotels in Nainital, suiting the budget of every kind of pilgrim. Take a look down below and see what suits you best:
If you want to splurge, then go for Claridges Naini Retreat, Manu Maharani, Arif Castles and Woodside Retreat. Shervani Hilltop Inn, Vikram Vintage Inn, Hotel Alka, The Ramgarh Bungalows, Dynasty Resort, and Cedar Lodge are classified as deluxe hotels in Nainital.
Among the budget hotels in Nainital, the good ones are Hotel Krishna, Hotel New Bharat, Sarovar TRH, and Mountain Quail. Some of the well-known standard hotels in Nainital include Palace Belvedere, Hotel New Pavilion, and Jungle Lore Birding Lodge.
There are a considerable number of private villas in Nainital that are also rented out to tourists. Perfect for a private holiday, a stay in the Villas will be a new experience.

How to Reach

By Air: Pantnagar is the nearest airport, located about 70 km away from Nainital. From the airport, you can take either a bus or a taxi.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, about 35 km from the hill station. You can take the Ranikhet Express, which runs daily between Delhi and Kathgodam.

By Road: The road network leading to Nainital is well-maintained, and is easily travelled by bus or car. If you’re coming from Delhi, you can take government or Volvo buses from Anand Vihar ISBT.

Route Map for Nainital

Here’s the quick travel guide from all the major cities:

Delhi – Nainital

Distance: 300 km

Time: 7–8 hrs

Route: Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital

Mumbai – Nainital

Distance: 1,620 km

Time: 30–32 hrs

Route: Mumbai → Vadodara → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital

Chennai – Nainital

Distance: 2,200 km

Time: 42–45 hrs

Route: Chennai → Nagpur → Jhansi → Gwalior → Agra → Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital

Ahmedabad – Nainital

Distance: 1,260 km

Time: 24–26 hrs

Route: Ahmedabad → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital

Food Guide

Sample the Ras, Baadi, Bhatt ki Churkhani, Aloo ke Gutke, and Gulgulas, the local delicacies here will leave you satiated to your heart’s content.

Top Restaurants

• These are perfect for trying some scrumptious local and traditional food:
• Machan Restaurant: Located on Mall Road, this one is popular for its Tandoori dishes and North Indian cuisine. Relishing Paneer Butter Masala in its cozy settings is an experience of its own kind!
• Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop: Known for its Continental and Thai cuisine, it provides you with beautiful lake views while you enjoy your food! By the way, you must try their wood-fired pizzas!
• Chandni Chowk Restaurant: Get the real authentic taste of ‘Dilli’ in Nainital with flavourful dishes like Chole Bhature, Rajma Chawal, Lassi, and more. Mimicking the Delhi culture, you can live the capital experience, sitting right amidst the snowy mountains.
• The Chocolate Room: Craving for sweets? Then, head straight to this downtown bakery for some hot chocolate and shakes. Their brownies are a must-try!

Nainital is a must-visit hill station and should definitely be on your bucket list. It’s natural splendor and unique charm are sure to make you fall head over heels in love with it!