Have you been to Nainital Hill Station- The Eye of Nature amidst Himalayas?
The sheer appeal of the eye-shaped Naini Lake is simply enchanting, be it in days when boating goes on in full swing, or at nights when its bank is lit by numerous lights highlighting border.
The sound of Naina Devi Temple bells are enough to guide anyone looking for direction. From here, most of the tourists embark on their journey to learn more about this once British occupied capital.
If plans extend to nearby places, people busy in arranging fields for terrace farming meticulously could be seen in Ranikhet. Not every day one can view such hard work of human.
Nainital is a part of Kumaun Division in the state of Uttarakhand. It lies in the outer Himalayan Mountain Range. The town is the administrative headquarter of the district of the same name. The town is famous for its scenic mountainous views and is one of the most popular hill stations in India.
Nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is 71 Km. From there on, taxis take to the Nainital Hill station.
By Rail:
The place could be reached by Kathgodam connected with Delhi, Agra, Bareilly and Lucknow. It is the nearest railway station to Nanital, only 35 Km away.
By Road :
By road, reaching and enjoying Nainital is much more convenient being well connected to cities like Delhi, Almora, Ranikhet, Ramnagar, Haridwar, etc.
Time to start making plans!!
The meaning of 'tal' is lake and the town of Nainital is named after this lake. The lake is pear shaped and is surrounded by green mountains. It's the key attraction of this hill station.
The lake attracts lots of tourists who come and enjoy boating, yachting or paddling in the lake. As night descends the lake reflects the lights from houses and hotels surrounding the lake making it appear magical.
Naina Devi Temple
Category : Religious
The Naina Devi temple is an essential place of worship in Nainital. Situated atop the Naina hill, it attracts lots of devotees each year. It is believed that Goddess Sati's eyes fell at the exact same spot where this temple is built.
The temple can be reached by climbing to the top of the Naina hill. Apart from the main idol of Maa Naina Devi, inside the temple there are two idols, one of Mata Kali Devi and the other of Lord Ganesh.
Naina Peak or China Peak
Category : Nature
Placed at an altitude of 2611 m, it is the highest peak of Nainital. About 6 km from the town, a horse ride or trek can take you to the Peak.
The Naina Peak gives magnificent panoramic view of the snow capped Himalayas and an excellent view of the Nainital city.
The Mall Road
Category : History & Culture
The Mall road stretches from the north end to south end of the lake and is the famous and busiest road of the town.
The road has many street shops, shopping centers, banks, hotels, restaurants etc. During peak season vehicles are not allowed to enter mall road so that commercial activities keep going on smoothly.
Dorothy's Seat
Category : History & Culture
Placed on Ayarpatta hill at 2292 m, Dorothy's seat is dedicated in the memory of Dorothy Kellet. After her death in a plane crash, her husband built a memorial for her at this place. As her favorite spot, the hill spot was chosen and stonework was built here, hence the name 'Dorothy's Seat'.
The local name for this spot is Tiffin Top as it used to be popular for picnics during the British Raj. From here the visitors can view the beautiful green neighboring countryside.
Snow View Point
Category : Nature
Located at an altitude of 2270 m, one can reach here by foot or taking an option of the ropeway.
From the top one can see the breathtaking views of snow capped mountains and can also visit the small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi. Further ahead is the Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Monastery.
The Governor's House (Raj Bhavan)
Category : History & Culture
Built for the Governor of North West Province, currently it's the residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and also serves as a guesthouse to state guests.
A prior permission is mandatory for the stay. It's a well maintained beautiful property with swimming pool, golf links and a grand garden.
Nainital Zoo
Category : Wild Life
One km from the bus stand, the zoo stands at an altitude of 2100 m and is a favorite destination among tourists.
Some animals the zoo contain are the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, Siberian Tiger, Palm Civet Cat, Silver Pheasants, Rose ringed Parakeet and many other Himalayan birds.
St. John's Church
Category : Religious
Built in 1847, the church is an important tourist attraction and is one of the oldest buildings in Nainital.
A brass memorial is placed there in the memory of the people who died in the infamous landslide.
Eco Cave Garden
Located in the Mallital town, this natural park is a comparatively latest addition in Nainital travel package.
Nested in a valley, this beautiful lake is the biggest around Nainital. In the centre of this blue water lake lays a small Island, that can be approached by a boat and at the island has an aquarium too.
One can enjoy boating on the lake or explore the surroundings temples on foot.
Naukuchiatal
It is known as the mystique lake with nine corners. Surrounded by forested hills on all sides it provides peace to the tourist.
It is said that whoever sees all the nine corners of the lake in one shot, attains Nirvana. Apart from the lake, more activities like trekking, angling and paragliding are available for tourist.
Sattal
Its name is derived from a group of seven lakes all grouped close to each other. One can witness nature's true beauty at its best.
The seven Lakes of Sattal are Panna Tal, Purna Tal, Nal-Damyanti Tal, Sita Tal, Ram Tal, Laxman Tal and Sukha Tal.
Kausani
The town of Kausani is also called as the Switzerland of India and provides an enchanting view of the Himalayas with a romantic environment.
The hill resort offers various accommodation options and requirements to the travelers.
Ranikhet
A simply beautiful town with pine trees, orchards, temples and the joy grounds.
Ranikhet means Queen's meadow in Hindi and gets its name from a local tale, that Raja Sudhardev was victorious in receiving the heart of his queen, Rani Padmini at the very place.
Fabrics and woolen garments are the most popular items for shopping in Nainital. Most of such woolens are woven by the women of Almora. A variety of sweaters, cardigans, caps and shawls in exquisite designs and brilliant colors would arrest your eyes.
You can also pick up intricately carved cane sticks and multicolored candles in unique designs while shopping in Nainital. Like all hill stations, beautiful wood-carved utilities and objets d'art are also huge hits for shopping in Nainital.
In the fruit market in Nainital, you can buy fresh-from-the-orchard apples, peaches and cherries.
Hang out at the teeming shops at The mall for shopping in Nainital. The shops are replete with artifacts and souvenirs from various parts of Uttarakhand. Never mind if you need to bargain a little bit with the shopkeepers to get the reasonable prices.
Rice or roti is an integral part of Nainital cuisine. It is a usually accompanied with different types of chutneys. People here use different varieties of rice for different recipes.
If you are a food gourmet and like to taste new delicacies, then you can try the local food at any restaurant in the Nainital town. You can easily find one while taking a stroll on the mall.
Some of the sumptuous dishes are mentioned here.
Ras
It is a delicious recipe having a high nutritive value. It is a semi-liquid preparation made from different varieties of dals. It is normally eaten with steamed rice and bhang ki chutney. Ideally, Ras is prepared in an iron pan on a low heat to let it cook slowly in order to retain its nutritional content.
Baadi
The dish is frequently prepared by the local inhabitants of Kumaon region. Like Ras, it is also prepared from a mixture of toor, moong, and channa dal in the right proportion. It gets tastier when taken with bhang seed or sesame seed chutney.
Bhatt ki Churkani
It is a delicacy prepared on special occasions. Rice paste and black bhatt are its main ingredients. For a variety in taste, it can also be prepared with plain flour.
Aloo Ke Gutke
It is a spicy dish prepared with boiled potatoes, coriander leaves, and whole red chillies. It forms a part of the snacks menu.
Some local delicacies are :-
Bal Mithai ("Chocolate" Mithai)
Bhatt Ka Joula
Muli ka Thechua
Gathi
Gaderi Ki Sabji
Gauhat ki Daal
Lason Ka Lur
Ras Bhat
Jholi Bhat
Bathue ka Paratha
Madwe Ki Roti
Bhatt Ki Churkani
Bari Bhat
Bhang Ki Chatnee
Kaapa Bhaat
Churkani
Dhai ka Jaula
Papad Ki Sabji
Peenalu Ki Sabji
Allu Gutuk
Chanda Devi aur Saladi ka Raita
Pinalu Gutuk
Local
Fruits :-
Malta
Kafhal
Khumani
Pulam
A perfect accommodation is a great way of opening holidays in Nainital.
Tourist Map of Nainital
The sheer appeal of the eye-shaped Naini Lake is simply enchanting, be it in days when boating goes on in full swing, or at nights when its bank is lit by numerous lights highlighting border.
The sound of Naina Devi Temple bells are enough to guide anyone looking for direction. From here, most of the tourists embark on their journey to learn more about this once British occupied capital.
If plans extend to nearby places, people busy in arranging fields for terrace farming meticulously could be seen in Ranikhet. Not every day one can view such hard work of human.
Nainital is a part of Kumaun Division in the state of Uttarakhand. It lies in the outer Himalayan Mountain Range. The town is the administrative headquarter of the district of the same name. The town is famous for its scenic mountainous views and is one of the most popular hill stations in India.
How To Reach There
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is 71 Km. From there on, taxis take to the Nainital Hill station.
By Rail:
The place could be reached by Kathgodam connected with Delhi, Agra, Bareilly and Lucknow. It is the nearest railway station to Nanital, only 35 Km away.
By Road :
By road, reaching and enjoying Nainital is much more convenient being well connected to cities like Delhi, Almora, Ranikhet, Ramnagar, Haridwar, etc.
Time to start making plans!!
Best Time To Visit
According to personal choices for a break, the best time could vary.
However, on a general note, Naintal tour is considered best during the
months of March to October.Places to Visit in Nainital
A place of tranquility (which is Nainital) amidst chaos (going in mind)
is a desperation of escape from rut. Coming up to the altitude of this
lake city, people of all faith find a way to connect to divine and
Nature together as one, be it in the clanging bells of temple or aroma
of burning candles in church or in the serene silence of understanding
Himalayas.
Naini Lake
Category : NatureThe meaning of 'tal' is lake and the town of Nainital is named after this lake. The lake is pear shaped and is surrounded by green mountains. It's the key attraction of this hill station.
The lake attracts lots of tourists who come and enjoy boating, yachting or paddling in the lake. As night descends the lake reflects the lights from houses and hotels surrounding the lake making it appear magical.
Naina Devi Temple
Category : Religious
The Naina Devi temple is an essential place of worship in Nainital. Situated atop the Naina hill, it attracts lots of devotees each year. It is believed that Goddess Sati's eyes fell at the exact same spot where this temple is built.
The temple can be reached by climbing to the top of the Naina hill. Apart from the main idol of Maa Naina Devi, inside the temple there are two idols, one of Mata Kali Devi and the other of Lord Ganesh.
Naina Peak or China Peak
Category : Nature
Placed at an altitude of 2611 m, it is the highest peak of Nainital. About 6 km from the town, a horse ride or trek can take you to the Peak.
The Naina Peak gives magnificent panoramic view of the snow capped Himalayas and an excellent view of the Nainital city.
The Mall Road
Category : History & Culture
The Mall road stretches from the north end to south end of the lake and is the famous and busiest road of the town.
The road has many street shops, shopping centers, banks, hotels, restaurants etc. During peak season vehicles are not allowed to enter mall road so that commercial activities keep going on smoothly.
Dorothy's Seat
Category : History & Culture
Placed on Ayarpatta hill at 2292 m, Dorothy's seat is dedicated in the memory of Dorothy Kellet. After her death in a plane crash, her husband built a memorial for her at this place. As her favorite spot, the hill spot was chosen and stonework was built here, hence the name 'Dorothy's Seat'.
The local name for this spot is Tiffin Top as it used to be popular for picnics during the British Raj. From here the visitors can view the beautiful green neighboring countryside.
Snow View Point
Category : Nature
Located at an altitude of 2270 m, one can reach here by foot or taking an option of the ropeway.
From the top one can see the breathtaking views of snow capped mountains and can also visit the small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi. Further ahead is the Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Monastery.
The Governor's House (Raj Bhavan)
Category : History & Culture
Built for the Governor of North West Province, currently it's the residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and also serves as a guesthouse to state guests.
A prior permission is mandatory for the stay. It's a well maintained beautiful property with swimming pool, golf links and a grand garden.
Nainital Zoo
Category : Wild Life
One km from the bus stand, the zoo stands at an altitude of 2100 m and is a favorite destination among tourists.
Some animals the zoo contain are the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, Siberian Tiger, Palm Civet Cat, Silver Pheasants, Rose ringed Parakeet and many other Himalayan birds.
St. John's Church
Category : Religious
Built in 1847, the church is an important tourist attraction and is one of the oldest buildings in Nainital.
A brass memorial is placed there in the memory of the people who died in the infamous landslide.
Eco Cave Garden
Located in the Mallital town, this natural park is a comparatively latest addition in Nainital travel package.
Tourist Destinations near Nainital
BhimtalNested in a valley, this beautiful lake is the biggest around Nainital. In the centre of this blue water lake lays a small Island, that can be approached by a boat and at the island has an aquarium too.
One can enjoy boating on the lake or explore the surroundings temples on foot.
Naukuchiatal
It is known as the mystique lake with nine corners. Surrounded by forested hills on all sides it provides peace to the tourist.
It is said that whoever sees all the nine corners of the lake in one shot, attains Nirvana. Apart from the lake, more activities like trekking, angling and paragliding are available for tourist.
Sattal
Its name is derived from a group of seven lakes all grouped close to each other. One can witness nature's true beauty at its best.
The seven Lakes of Sattal are Panna Tal, Purna Tal, Nal-Damyanti Tal, Sita Tal, Ram Tal, Laxman Tal and Sukha Tal.
Kausani
The town of Kausani is also called as the Switzerland of India and provides an enchanting view of the Himalayas with a romantic environment.
The hill resort offers various accommodation options and requirements to the travelers.
Ranikhet
A simply beautiful town with pine trees, orchards, temples and the joy grounds.
Ranikhet means Queen's meadow in Hindi and gets its name from a local tale, that Raja Sudhardev was victorious in receiving the heart of his queen, Rani Padmini at the very place.
Shopping in Nainital
Shopping in Nainital is a delightful experience. For a discerning
shopper, it is impossible to return from a tour without shopping in
Nainital.
Fabrics and woolen garments are the most popular items for shopping in Nainital. Most of such woolens are woven by the women of Almora. A variety of sweaters, cardigans, caps and shawls in exquisite designs and brilliant colors would arrest your eyes.
You can also pick up intricately carved cane sticks and multicolored candles in unique designs while shopping in Nainital. Like all hill stations, beautiful wood-carved utilities and objets d'art are also huge hits for shopping in Nainital.
In the fruit market in Nainital, you can buy fresh-from-the-orchard apples, peaches and cherries.
Hang out at the teeming shops at The mall for shopping in Nainital. The shops are replete with artifacts and souvenirs from various parts of Uttarakhand. Never mind if you need to bargain a little bit with the shopkeepers to get the reasonable prices.
Cuisines of Nainital
Nainital’s lip-smacking traditional cuisine is a must try for food
lovers. Just like in any other place of India, Nainital also has its own
unique combination of spices and herbs to create authentic dishes
having a nice aroma, delicious taste, and a tempting presentation.Rice or roti is an integral part of Nainital cuisine. It is a usually accompanied with different types of chutneys. People here use different varieties of rice for different recipes.
If you are a food gourmet and like to taste new delicacies, then you can try the local food at any restaurant in the Nainital town. You can easily find one while taking a stroll on the mall.
Some of the sumptuous dishes are mentioned here.
Ras
It is a delicious recipe having a high nutritive value. It is a semi-liquid preparation made from different varieties of dals. It is normally eaten with steamed rice and bhang ki chutney. Ideally, Ras is prepared in an iron pan on a low heat to let it cook slowly in order to retain its nutritional content.
Baadi
The dish is frequently prepared by the local inhabitants of Kumaon region. Like Ras, it is also prepared from a mixture of toor, moong, and channa dal in the right proportion. It gets tastier when taken with bhang seed or sesame seed chutney.
Bhatt ki Churkani
It is a delicacy prepared on special occasions. Rice paste and black bhatt are its main ingredients. For a variety in taste, it can also be prepared with plain flour.
Aloo Ke Gutke
It is a spicy dish prepared with boiled potatoes, coriander leaves, and whole red chillies. It forms a part of the snacks menu.
Some local delicacies are :-
Bal Mithai ("Chocolate" Mithai)
Bhatt Ka Joula
Muli ka Thechua
Gathi
Gaderi Ki Sabji
Gauhat ki Daal
Lason Ka Lur
Ras Bhat
Jholi Bhat
Bathue ka Paratha
Madwe Ki Roti
Bhatt Ki Churkani
Bari Bhat
Bhang Ki Chatnee
Kaapa Bhaat
Churkani
Dhai ka Jaula
Papad Ki Sabji
Peenalu Ki Sabji
Allu Gutuk
Chanda Devi aur Saladi ka Raita
Pinalu Gutuk
Local
Fruits :-
Malta
Kafhal
Khumani
Pulam
Hotels in Nainital
Whether it is excellent wood finish highlighted with innovative and
sensible lighting is sought or a room with the view of Sun and Naini
Lake, there is no dearth of accommodation in Nainital. Tourists can find
a stay place under their budget, be it a normal room or deluxe suite.
During the peak seasons, it is highly recommended to book hotels or
resorts beforehand because finding a nice place at the eleventh hour can
become a challenge for a place as famous as Nainital Hill Station.A perfect accommodation is a great way of opening holidays in Nainital.
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Tourist Map of Nainital
