Things to do in Nainital

Nainital is also known as “Lake District of India” is one of the most beautiful hill stations of North India. The beautiful mountains, lakes, temples, and greenery all around will make the visit worth loving. The name Nainital comes due to its beautiful dotted landscape with lakes mainly “Naini Lake“, there are also about 60 lakes spread across its borders. Located at an elevation of 1938 km above sea level, Nainital has a pleasant climate throughout the year and can truly be called a picturesque paradise for all travel lovers.

Nainital is considered one of the best tourist destinations in India for visiting both summer and winter. And this is the reason that the number of tourists visiting Nainital from abroad is quite high. Some of the popular tourist destinations are Naina Peak, Tiffin Top, and Snow View Point. Travelers planning a trip to Nainital can visit Hanumangarhi, which is famous for a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman. In addition, the Naina Devi Temple is an important religious site, which is counted among the 51 Shakti Peethas of India.

History of Nainital

Nainital is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state of India. Nainital was not a hill station before but was made a hill station by the British in the year 1841. In fact, after the Anglo-Nepali war that lasted from 1814 to 1816, the British had taken Kumaon under their control. After this, in the year 1841, it was transformed into a hill station in view of the finest beauty of Nainital. And this is the reason why many churches and schools built by the British in Nainital still exist.

The religious history of Nainital

As we all know, Uttarakhand is called Dev Bhoomi. And the history of Nainital is also associated with this land of devas. According to the Manas Khand of Skanda Purana in Hinduism, Nainital is the pool that was created by Rishi Pulastya, Rishi Atri, and Rishi Pulah.

According to the famous stories here, these three sages came to Nainital but when there was no water anywhere at this place, these three sages built this pool by digging a pit here by bringing water from the Mansarovar lake in Tibet. And as it is believed that bathing in Manasarovar lake gets rid of all diseases, similarly bathing in Nainital lake also gives merit and also gets rid of all skin diseases.

The Naini Lake is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths or religious sites where parts of the charred body of Sati fell on earth while being carried by Lord Shiva. Because of which the name of this rhythm came to be called Nainital. There is also a temple of Nanda Devi near Nainital and a fair is also held in this temple every year. In which one can get the best glimpse of Kumaon culture.

Places to visit in Nainital

Nainital is a city surrounded by hills on all sides, with a very beautiful lake in the middle called Naini Lake. There are many beautiful markets and tourist places around Nainital. There is a very beautiful temple of Nanda Devi near Nainital. Apart from this, there is a Snow View Point near Nainital from where the Himalayas are clearly visible. Nainital also has a beautiful Zoo and Bird Century, Bhimtal is 2 km away from Nainital. Whose beauty is no less than Nainital.

Naini Lake

The charisma of this place is Naini Lake which is very beautiful. The water of this lake will always make you look green and absolutely calm. You can enjoy boating in Naini Lake. It is wonderful to sit at the edge of the lake and watch the beautiful scenery. You must visit this lake in Nainital.

Eco cave

There is a place here Eco Cave where there are many caves. Many things of ancient history are contained within. When you enter them, you feel as if you have come to a different world. The most important thing is that whatever the weather is, these caves are always cold. You should visit this place once.

Raj Bhavan

A grand building that is built according to the old culture. It is the residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. There are only a few Governor’s houses in the country which are open to the public and this is one of them. The Governor’s House, spread over 220 acres, is visited by people from far and wide. Vishal Bhawan and the large grounds and greenery around it will make you happy. You must visit this place of Nainital once.

Naina Devi Temple

The temple of Nanina Devi situated near Naini Lake is a historical heritage of this place. It is said that the name of this temple was named Nainital. The amazing temple situated on the banks of the lake and the artwork made in it is very attractive. You should visit Naina Mata once.

Hanuman Garhi

This place is one of the most beautiful places in Nainital. It was founded by Neem Kiroli Baba who was possessed with divine power. It is a Hanuman temple located on the highest peak of 1951 feet. A wonderful view is visible from here. With this, you also get to roam a better place. If you are going to Nainital then definitely go to this place.

Observatory

It is one of the better observatories in the country. You can easily see every small and big event happening in the sky by going to Nainital Observatory. Its most important thing is that it is very old and with the same new technology. You must visit this place.

Snow view

Located about two kilometers from Nainital, this place is visible on sight. This place is situated at a high altitude and gives you a grand view. The rising and setting of the sun hardly look better from here. You must visit this place once.

Mall road

It is a road running along the banks of Naini Lake. A wide road is called Mall Road. The most important thing here is that you will get all the facilities for eating and drinking. It connects the two choros of the city. Must visit this place in Nainital.

In Nainital, you can ride a cable car which gives a spectacular view of Naini Lake. Other adventure rides for adventure sports enthusiasts include water zorbing, paragliding and trekking activities. Taking advantage of the proximity of Punjab and Delhi, Nainital has some excellent restaurants that serve authentic Punjabi and North Indian food. There are dozens of cafes at the resort near Naini Lake and you can spend a pleasant evening.

Some mythological legends are also associated with Nainital, making the Naina Devi temple a very popular place for pilgrims. Another religious place is St. John’s Church, whose impressive Old World architecture and glass windows are worth visiting. There are many markets in Nainital, where you can buy everything from small trinkets and candles to jewelry, handicrafts, and stylish scarves and shawls. The locals of the city take into account the living traditions and customs of the bygone era.

Things to pack for Nanital trip

• Nainital is generally cooler in summer than in the plains. Choose your clothes carefully so that it suits the climate. Always carry some warm clothes such as shawls, socks, jackets, gloves, and mufflers.

• Hiking and trekking in Nainital is a wonderful experience. The shoes you pack should be convenient for walking or trekking the mountains.

• The sun’s rays are generally more scorched than in the plains. Make sure you use sunscreen lotion, moisturizer, and lip balm to protect your skin from the heat. A good flax block containing at least SPF 50 should be applied daily to avoid skin dryness and tanning.

• The famous football ground of Nainital is a great place to try your hand at some fun games amidst the charming hills. Bring your football, cricket accessories, badminton racket, or anything you like to add a sporty edge to your journey!

• If you are a shopping freak, do not forget to carry enough carry bags while going to Nainital, as you are going to get a lot to shop here. From candles to other traditional hill station products, Nainital has a lot to offer.

Getting There

Air: There is no direct connectivity to Nainital by air. The nearest airport is at Pantnagar, which is about 65 km.

Train: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, which is about 35 km from Nainital city. Regular bus services connect Kathgodam and Nainital well.

Road: You can travel to Nainital by road. If your budget is good, then you can reach Nainital by taking the facility of a radio taxi or taxi.