Nainital: the land of lakes
The land of India is full of variations making it a perfect spectrum of culture, tradition, landforms, food, music and lot more. India has a place for every traveller. The varied landforms are the end of desires for some while for others it is just the beginning of exploring new opportunity. Uttarakhand is one such land of immense scenic splendour and vibrant geography of nature. Lying in the foothills of Himalayas, the state is epitome of beauty and one get enchanted once you visit this beautiful place.
Let us unfold the beauty of Uttarakhand. by visiting the lake city of Nainital.
Geography of Nainital
The quaint district of Nainital is named after the startling lake Naini. One of the many legends says that the district got its name from Goddess Naina while other legend says that the name came to this place because it was here Goddess Sati lost her eyes (Naina in English means eyes) when lord Shiva was carrying her and a lake was formed (Tal in English means Lake). The NainiLake is one of the many big and small lakes in Nainital. The unique shape of NainiLake makes it a jewel in the crown of Nainital. This legendary lake is situated at a height of 1,938metres. The locals of the place sing many folklores and legends about the lake. Nestled amidst the Kumaon Hills, the district is surrounded by seven hills together called ‘SaptaShring’ Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta and Sher-Ka-Danda.
Best time to visit Nainital
The picturesque and panoramic Nainital can be visited anytime in the year. So if you a cloud lover and as Badal important hai (clouds are important), visit Nainital and touch the clouds, walk amidst them, feel them. The best summer months to visit are from March to June and for monsoon July to September are a real treat for nature lovers. The winters in Nainital are all fun and challenging as the temperature ranges from 0 to 15 degree Celsius. Visit Nainital in winters from October to February.
Places to visit in Nainital
The talks of gleaming lakes, forested hills and twisting trails of Nainital are never ending. Let us take you to the enthralling destinations where you can explore boat rides, wildlife viewing, visiting several viewpoints, nature walks, shopping, sightseeing and more.
1) Naini Lake
There can be no better destination than Naini Lake to begin our trip of Nainital. The crescent or kidney shaped lake is very famous among travellers from across the globe. The dusk and dawn by the side of Naini Lake is mesmerising and unforgettable. The north-western part of Naini Lake is surrounded by Naini peak, south west is bounded by Tiffin Point. The northern part is captivated by snow-capped peaks all this making Naini Lake adobe of beauty. The lake is divided into two parts- northern part is called Mallital while the southern part is called Tallital. After crossing the lake the other side has the temple of goddess Naina. Here you can seek her blessing to have a beautiful life just like Nainital.
2) Snow view point
Standing at a height of 2,270 metres, snow view point offers mesmerising view of mighty Himalayas. Witness the panoramic sight of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot peaks from the huge binoculars installed at the snow view point.
3) Eco Cave garden
the place is famous for its natural caves. The amazing thing about this group of six small rocky caves is that they are in the shape of different animals. This fact adds to the charm of the place. The place also has hanging garden and musical fountains. The evenings at Eco Cave Garden are decorated with musical fountains with various audio video effects.
4) Naina Devi Temple
This temple is part of one of the 51 Shakti Peethawhere the remains of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her. The temple has special significance in Hindu Mythology. First the temple was built in 15 A.D. and the stastue of goddess was installed in 1880. But subsequent landslide destroyed it. Later in 1883 the locals restored the temple at the same location. This shows their devotion to their supreme Goddess.
5) Jeolikot
A serene hill station in the heart of Kumaon Hills. Jeolikot is known as Gateway to Naini Lake. The place is in its pristine form as it is still untouched of tourist rush. The place is known for floriculture and its beaming butterfly population.
There is no right or wrong time to visit Nainital. Don’t wait for someone or something. Just carry your backpack and head towards the place where your heart can rejoice and your soul can be set free. Visit Nainital and witness a new life.
