Honeymoon in Nainital
General Info
Area : 11.7 Sq. km.
Population : 30,951 (1991 census)
Altitude : 1938 meters above sea level.
Season : March- June, mid September - October
Clothing: Summer - Light Woolens; Winters - Heavy Woolens
Language : Hindi, English & Kumaoni.
Local Transport : Rickshaws, Dandies, Ropeway, Ponies, Taxis.
STD Code: 05942
The first recorded discovery of this now popular hill station of Nainital, was in 1841 when a British, Mr. Barron, chanced upon the lake. Moved by the scenic beauty of the lake and thickly forested hills, he constructed a house named Pilgrim's Cottage. It was the first of many residences, which were to transform Nainital into a popular resort. By 1858, Nainital became a well-known hill station, and within a few years became the summer seat of the provincial government.
Nainital - Lake Paradise
According to local belief the origin of Nainital dates back to mythological times. Sati, Lord Shiva's consort committed suicide at the yajna of Daksha Prajapati. When Lord Shiva roamed across the universe carrying her dead body, Sati's eye fell near the lake, where the Naina Devi temple now stands. The waters of the lake are therefore considered sacred and the Naina Devi temple is the venue of an autumnal fair. In ancient times, the lake was know as the Tri-rishi Sarovar, the lake of three rishis-Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha.
Prior to 1839, the valley was covered by thick forests and inhabited by hill tribesmen. A major landslide in 1880 led to the formation of the flat level ground by the lake, where a variety of entertainment awaits the traveler.
Nainital's attractions range from quiet walks in meadows to the forests of pine and deciduous, the adventure sports as well as popular entertainment. This hill resort can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Nainital is also known as 'Lake Paradise'. In its beautiful 'lakes ', option of boating through yachts, paddle boats and traditional rowing boats are available. The Nainital Boat House Club exclusively holds the management of Yachting in Nainital. In Nainital district, Sat Tal, Bhim Tal and Naukuchiyatal also have water sport and boating facilities. Nainital is famous for its candles, woolens, woodcrafts and handicrafts.
Places to visit
1.Snow View
Situated at 2270 meters this popular vantage point is accessible by rope way. It offers an excellent view of the northern Himalayan ranges.
2.Naina Peak
At 2611 meters this is the highest peak bordering the lake. A popular picnic spot which offers a panoramic view of the resort.
3.Dorothy's Seat
Named in memory of an English woman who was killed in an air crash. This pleasant spot offers a partial view of Nainital.
4.Land's End
Situated at 2881 meters on the southern border of the lake, this hill affords a view of another lake, Khurpa Tal.
5.Hanuman Garhi
A place of religious interest, also good for viewing the setting sun.
6.State Observatory
Located on the top of a ridge, the observatory is open to the public in the evening.
7.The Mall
Nainital's popular promenade offers a variety of entertainment
The best time to visit any hill resort in India is certainly the summer months from March to June. The months of September and October are also pleasant to be visited. Though the monsoon season in between from end of June to August should be avoided.
How to reach
Rail
Nearest railway station is at Kathgodam -35 km, which is connected by meter guage to Agra, Bareilly and Lucknow.
Road
Nainital is connected by road to major centers of northern India, some of the major road distances are:
- Almora - 62 km.
- Agra - 379 km.
- Delhi - 277 km.
- Kausani - 117 km
- Ranikhet - 60km.
- Corbett (Dhikala) - 128 km.
- Bareilly - 141 km
- Fisheries Officer, Bhimtal.
Fishing
Permits for Nainital Lake from Executive Officer, Nagar Palika.
Boating
- Boats are available on hire near Boat House Club, Mallital and Tallital.
Yachting
- Hire yacht from Yacht Club, Mallital.
Mountaineering & Trekking
- Equipment can be hired from the Nainital Mountaineering Club and Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam.
