Situated at an altitude of 6400 feet above sea level, this beautiful lake resorts town has emerged as one of the most important hill resorts of India that attracts lacs of tourist throughout the year. Set in a green valley the town revolves and drives its name from a beautiful pear-shaped lake Naini. Nainital is Surrounded by high mountain peaks Naina (8,579 ft), Deopatha (8,000 ft) and Ayarpatha (7,474 ft) from which we can enjoy magnificent views of the great snowy range and vast plain of the south. The major tourist attraction of Nainital are – Naini Lake, The Mall Road, Naina Devi Temple, Naini Peak (6 kms), Snow View (Scenic Spot- connected by ropeway) etc. The attractions around Nainital include Bhimtal (23 kms), Rankhet (55 kms) and Kasauni (112 kms).
BEST TIME TO VISIT: The climate in Nainital is moderately cool during summer (March to June), cool and chilly during winters (December to February). There is Spell off snow during December and January. The best time to visit is March to June.
SUMMER: March to May (14º C to 30º C)
WINTER: December to February (Sub Zeroº C)
NAINITAL ATTRACTION
1. NAINI LAKE
The eye shaped lake surrounded by lush hills is named after Goddess Naini and is the Icon of Naini Tal. According to legends, the lake was formed when the eyes of Goddess Sati fell here, while Lord Shiva was carrying her body. All the activities of Nainital revolve around this beautiful Lake. The lake offers ample opportunities for adventure lovers like Yachting, Boating and Paddling facilities. The lake is on its majestically height during the night time when the light of the houses, cottages and hotels reflects upon it and makes the view invigorating.
2. THE MALL ROAD
Situated around Naini Lake, The Majestic Mall road is the top landmark and life line of Nainital. Named after Shri Govind Ballabh Pant this busiest road of the town extents from Mallital to Tallital. All the popular Showrooms, Departmental Stores, Shops, Restaurants, and Cafes are located on Mall road. In the evening the mall roads becomes one of the main strolling street and major attraction for tourist.
3. NAINA DEVI TEMPLE
Located on the northern shore of Naini Lake. Nainia devi temple is said to be the exact spot where Goddess Parvati’s eye is said to have fallen. The deity of the temple is Maa Naina Devi represented by two eyes. Regarded as one of the Shakti Peethas, the temple of Naina Devi is one of the most important places of worship in Nainital. The temple is also a major attraction for the tourist visiting Nainital.
4. SNOW VIEW POINT
Located at a height of 7500 feet above sea leavel. Snow view point is one of the highest peaks surrounding Naini Lake. The snow view point offers the invigorating view of snow clad peaks of the majestic Himalayan range, Naini Lake and Nainital town. Snow view point is connected by aerial ropeway to Nainital town. Passenger can enjoy cable ride and in approximately two and a half minutes of time they can reach form the flats Nainital to snow view point. Tourist related amenities like restaurants, tea shops and photographers are available at the snow view point.
5.NAINI PEAK (6 KMS)
Located at a height of 8600 feet above sea level. Naini peak is the popular picnic spot of Nainital. Naini peak offers 360 degree Panoramic views of the Himalayas and entire lake region. Naini peak is meant only for pedestrians and trek lovers. The road to Naina Peak leads to a pleasant forest of vibrant rhododendrons, soaring deodars and cypresses. Nature at its best is the right word to describe this magnificent peak.
6. HANUMAN GARHI
Located 3 km from Nainital lies the famous temple Hanumangarhi dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple is noted for its splendid carved architecture. It is in the shape of a four-sided fort with circular bastions at each corner. It is said that Lord Hanuman once inhabited this spot and one has to take the curved flight of stairs to reach this spot. The temple is a major tourist attraction and pilgrimage centre for tourists. One can view the magnificent sunset from here.
ATTRACTIONS AROUND NAINITAL
BHIMTAL
Nested in a valley Bhimtal is the biggest and beautiful lake around Nainital. A small Island is situated in the centre of this blue water lake which can be approached by a boat. An aquarium has also been located at this island for tourist. Tourist can enjoy boating on the lake and can also explore the surroundings temples on foot.
KAUSANI (112 kms):
This picturesque hill station with uncomparable beauty is located around 50 kms from Almora. Lying amids dense pine trees, Kausani is famous for its scenic splendor and its spectacular 350 kms vide panoramic view of Himalayan peaks. Fascinated by the scenic grandeur of Kausani and due to similarity in landscape. Mahatma Gandhi called this place as the Switzerland of India. Places of attractions in and around kausani includes Anashakti Ashram, Pant museum (birth place of Sumitra Nandan Pant), Lakshmi Asharam, Tea gardens and Baijnath (famous for Lord Shiva temples).
RANIKHET (55kms)
Spreading across two ridges Ranikhet ridge 6000 feet and chaubatia ridge 6900 feet. Ranikhet, represents the very best of Himalayan beauty. The lust forest, magnificent peaks, exotic plant and cool peaceful environment and natural beauty has made Ranikhet a tourist paradise. Tourist attractions here include Army museum, Jhula Devi temple, Rama Mandir, and chaubatia Gardens (famous for Apple, Apricots and Peaches orchids, chestnuts plants).
SHOPPING LIST: Handicraft Products (like ornamental pieces finished with wood, Handmade Candles and Kumauni woolens), homemade jams, Squashes, Juice concentrates and fruit preservatives.
SHOPPING AREA: Bara Bazaar, The Mall Road, Bhotia Bazaar and Mallitaal.
RESTURANTS:
SNO | NAME | LOCATION | CUISINE | SPECIALITY |
1 | SAKLEY’S | The Mall Road | Indian / Chinese / Italian | Pastries |
2 | SHER-E-PUNJAB | Bara Bazaar | Indian – Veg. & Non Veg. | Lunch / Dinner |
3 | MACHAN | The Mall | Indian / Chinese / Italian | Lunch / Dinner |
THINGS TO DO:
- Boating & Yachting in Naini Lake.
- Stroll Along the Majestic Mall.
- Horse riding in the Mall area or pony for going to snow view point.
- Rock climbing and Trekking.
- Enjoy Cable Care ride to Snow view.
- Trek to Naina Peak or Tiffin’s Top.
- Enjoy shopping at Barra Bazaar.