Nainital – “Misty lakes and mountains”
Uttarakhand is a land of diversities and countless mannerisms and is known for its spirituality. Uttarakhand is blessed with few best hill stations in north India and Nainital is one of them. Nainital is Commonly known as the “Lake District of India”, Nainital is one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India. Surrounded by mountains on three sides Nainital is located around the beautiful lake Naini Tal. This lake resort is situated at a height of 1,938 meters. There are many legends associated with the place. According to one, Nainital has derived its name from the Goddess Naina while the other legend says that when the Goddess Sati lost her eyes, she was being carried by Lord Shiva and a lake was formed. (‘Naina’ means eyes and ‘Tal’ means lake.) This beautiful small town in surrounded by seven hills, popularly known as ‘Sapta-Shring’ – Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta, and Sher-Ka-Danda. The majestic mountains and the sparkling waters of the lake add an immense lot to the beauty of the town.
Nainital is the perfect Place for rejuvenation from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. People of all ages from young generation to old age is attracted towards the mesmerizing views Himalayan ranges. Being a sparkling jewel in Himalayan region, Nainital is blessed with beautiful lakes and is renowned as ‘Lake District’. Naini lake is one of the prime lakes surrounded by wooded hills. Tourists are profoundly moved by the scenic beauty of lake and enjoy boating in the serene and peaceful environment of lake. Historical temple of Naina Devi is located on the northern bank of lake. There are plenty of popular places in Nainital such as Sher-Ka-Danda ridge, Tiffin top, Eco cave gardens, Guano hills and zoo. There are many rare species of animals in Nainital zoo like steppe eagle, Himalayan bear, snow leopard.
Nainital, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Bhimtal, Mukteshwar, Sattal and Haldwani are few important places in the Nainital district. Nainital is known for paragliding activity and hotbalooning across India. Every year Golf, Boxing, Hockey, Football and Cricket tournaments are organized here. A variety of hotels, resorts, guest houses are available. Nainital is well connected to NH 87 and regular buses are available from many surrounding cities. January is extremely cold and snowfall may occur. Weather from April to Mid June is pleasant and June to September rainfall occurs.
The city is a beautiful mixture of all the hues of nature. Naini lake is the pride Nainital and the many gaily coloured yachts on the sparkling lake have now become synonymous with this beautiful picture-postcard resort. A national level yachting competition is organized here during the season.
Nainital used to be the summer capital of United Provinces (Uttar Pradesh) during the British era and remained so for many years even after Independence. The British were the first to ‘discover’ Nainital as a holiday resort in 1841. Today, it has grown into a highly popular tourist destination. The emerald waters of this mountain lake continue to retain their charm and beckon tourists from far and wide.
Read more at: Uttarakhand Tourism
Image source: Uttarakhand Tourism
