Nainital

About Nainital

Nainital popularly known as ‘Lake District’ is one of the most popular in Northern India. Nainital is located in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand state at an altitude of around 2,000 m above sea level. This beautiful town in surrounded by seven hills, popularly known as ‘Sapta-Shring’ – Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta and Sher-Ka-Danda.

Based on the story of the death of Goddess Sati, it is believed that the Naini Lake is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. Lord Vishnu had cut Goddess Sati body into 52 body parts, using Sudarshana Chakra, which fell on Earth to become sacred sites where all the people can pay homage to the Goddess. The lake is believed to have been formed when the eyes of goddess “Sati” fell at this spot while her body was being carried by Lord Shiva after her death. The goddess Shakti is worshiped at the Naina Devi Temple also called as Naini Mata Temple which stands on the edge of the lake.

The beautiful mountains and the sparkling waters of the lake add an immense lot of beauty to the town. And the lake appears beautiful with the sailboats. The Naini Lake offers several water sports options such as kayaking, canoeing, yachting and boating among which Kayaking and paddle boating are the two most popular activities here. One can opt for a relaxing trip around the lake in a luxurious gondola. There is also the British-era Nainital Boat House Club to visit.

Other Places To Visit In Nainital

Nainital Yacht Club located along the lake is run by the Boat House Club. It is the highest yacht club in India and one of the highest clubs in the world. Tourists can pay for a sailing session on the yachts.
Nainital zoo located on Tallital, Sher Ka Danda Hill at a height of 2,100m above sea level.
Mall Road is known for its various shops, cafes and restaurants.
Eco Cave Gardens which has 6 caves formed in the shape of animals and it is present close to the Mall Road.
Snow View Point in Nainital stands at an altitude of 2270 meters above sea level and from this point all three important peaks- Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot peaks can be seen.

Things to do in Nainital

Trekking: Naini Peak-Pangot trek is the most popular one in this area which is a two day adventurous trek. The other one is Nainital to Betalghat which is a three day trek. The easiest route is Nainital to Khurpa Tal trek.
Paragliding: At Bhimtal-Jangli Gaon road and Kotabagh one can enjoy paragliding guided by experienced guides.
Hot Ballooning: Hot-air ballooning camps are setup in and around Nainital mainly at Sukhatal.
Water Sports: Naini Lake offers kayaking, canoeing, yachting and boating.

Best Time To Visit

March, April, May, June

Climate

July to September is the monsoon season with heavy rainfall. October to February is the winter season. The average temperature ranges around 15°C. Nainital has a relatively cool summer(March to June). The hottest month is July with temperature ranging from 16.4 °C to 23.5 °C , while the coldest month is January with temperature ranging from 1.7 °C to 10.7 °C. To experience snow one can visit in January.

Address

Nainital, Nainital District, Uttarakhand state, 263001.

Hotels

Hotels Near Nainital

How To Reach

Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport to Nainital. From their one has to take bus or cab to a distance of 70 kms. One can also reach Delhi Airport and travel another 300 kms by road.

The nearest station is Kathgodam Railway Station which is 23 km away from Nainital. From their one has to bus or cab.

Uttarakhand Transport Corporation is a public sector passenger road transport corporation providing services in the state of Uttarakhand and other adjoining states in North India. Click Here to see their services.