Nainital is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush green hills and the sparkling Naini Lake, the town offers a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
This town was discovered in the 19th century by the British, who were immediately enchanted by its natural beauty. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over India and the world.
I found one of the main attractions of Nainital is the Naini Lake, which is a beautiful body of water that is said to be one of the 64 shaktipeeths (sacred places of power) in Hindu mythology. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the lakeside.
Another popular spot in Nainital is the Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of the lake.
In addition to these religious sites, Nainital also offers a number of opportunities for adventure and recreation. The town is a popular spot for hiking and trekking, with many trails leading through the surrounding hills. There are also several places to go paragliding and rock climbing.
Nainital is also home to a number of museums, such as the Governor’s House, which offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the town. The town also has a number of beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Nainital Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals and birds.
Finally, Nainital is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which features a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Visitors can sample traditional Kumaoni dishes, such as bhatt ki churkani and aloo ke gutke, as well as more contemporary options like pizza and pasta.
In conclusion, Nainital is a perfect place for those looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway. With its natural beauty, religious sites, adventure activities, historical landmarks, and delicious food, it has something to offer for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Nainital, make sure to include it in your itinerary.
Nainital has a well connectivity by road, rail, and air. Here are a few options for reaching the hill station:
By Air: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is located about 70 km from the town. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Nainital. Alternatively, one can also fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and then take a domestic flight to Pantnagar Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is located about 35 km from the town. There are regular trains from major cities in India that stop at Kathgodam. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital.
By Bus: Nainital is well connected by road and there are regular bus services from major cities in the state of Uttarakhand and nearby states like Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
By Car: If you are planning to drive to Nainital, the town is well connected by road and is easily accessible by car. The drive from Delhi to Nainital takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Once you reach Nainital, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your hotel or other desired location.
Places to visit in Nanital
Nainital is a hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, known for its natural beauty and various tourist attractions. Here are a few places you should consider visiting while in Nainital:
Naini Lake: The Naini Lake is the main attraction of Nainital, a beautiful body of water that is surrounded by lush green hills. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the lakeside.
Naina Devi Temple: The temple is dedicated to the goddess Naina, and is considered to be one of the most important places of worship in the region. It is located on the northern shore of the Naini lake.
Governor’s House: This colonial-era building offers a glimpse into the history of Nainital and is now converted into a museum.
Nainital Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals and birds. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and kids.
Hanuman Garhi: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It offers a panoramic view of the town and is located at an altitude of 1951m above sea level.
Snow View Point: This viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas, particularly Nanda Devi peak. Visitors can take a cable car ride to reach the viewpoint.
Tiffin Top: Also known as Dorothy’s Seat, it offers a picturesque view of the surrounding areas and is a popular spot for photography.
Sariyatal: Sariyatal is a small lake located in the heart of the forest. It is a peaceful spot for picnics and nature walks.
Khurpa Tal: Khurpa Tal is a small lake located in the Khurpa village, which is famous for fishing.
Land’s End: This viewpoint offers a beautiful view of the Khurpatal and is located at a distance of 4km from the main town.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Nainital. With its natural beauty and variety of activities, Nainital is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday.
Food to try in Nanital
Nainital is known for its delicious local cuisine, which features a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Here are a few local foods you should try while in Nainital:
Bhatt ki churkani: This is a traditional Kumaoni dish made with black lentils, yogurt, and spices. It is typically served with rice and is a must-try for those looking to sample local cuisine.
Aloo ke gutke: These are small dumplings made with mashed potatoes and spices. They are deep-fried and typically served with yogurt and chutney.
Bal Mithai: It is a traditional sweet made with khoya, sugar, and cocoa powder. It is a popular sweet among locals and visitors alike.
Kaapa: This is a traditional Kumaoni dish made with fresh spinach, green chilies, and a variety of spices. It is typically served with rice and is a great option for vegetarians.
Arsa: This is a traditional sweet made with rice flour, jaggery, and ghee. It is typically served during festivals and special occasions.
Gahat ki dal: A lentil-based dish made with a local variety of lentils called Gahat. It’s a hearty and nutritious dish and is often served with rice.
Rasbhari: A sweet dish made with milk and dry fruits. It’s a perfect dessert to end a meal.
Kumaoni Raita: Raita is a yogurt-based side dish, but Kumaoni Raita is made with fresh local herbs like coriander, mint, and fenugreek.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can try while in Nainital. The town also has a number of restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of Indian and continental dishes, as well as fast food options for those looking for something quick and easy.
Best time to visiti Nainital
The best time to visit Nainital is from April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
April to June is the summer season in Nainital and the temperature ranges between 20 to 25 degree Celsius, making it perfect for visiting the town’s many lakes and gardens. The town is also relatively less crowded during this time of the year.
September to November is the post-monsoon season and the weather is cool and comfortable. The town is also surrounded by beautiful fall foliage during this time, making it a perfect time for photography and sightseeing.
It’s important to note that Nainital is a hill station and it can get quite cold during the winter months (December to February), so it’s advisable to carry warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. Also, the monsoon season (July to August) can be unpredictable, with heavy rains and landslides, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
