Nainital, a haven for nature enthusiasts, stands as the largest and one of the most beloved hill resorts in the Kumaon region. Nestled at an elevation of approximately 1938 meters, Nainital boasts a diverse and captivating topography. This picturesque district is encircled by seven magnificent peaks, including Naina Peak (2611 m), Alma Peak (2432 m), Sher-ka-Danda (2405 m), Laria Kanta Peak (2485 m), Ayarpatta or Dorothy Seat (at an elevation of 2292 meters), Handi Bundi (at 2179 meters), and Deopatta, also known as Camel’s Back (reaching 2422 meters).
History
According to the ‘Manas Khand’ section of the Hindu Skanda Purana, Nainital is known as the ‘Tri Rishi Sarovar,’ meaning ‘The Lake of Three Sages’ – Atri, Pulastya, and Pulaha. Legend has it that the ‘Naini Lake’ came into existence when these sages excavated a cavity in this area and filled it with water from the sacred ‘Mansarovar’ lake to quench their thirst. It was in 1841 that this hill town gained recognition as a prominent tourist destination when British explorer Lord Barron discovered its natural beauty and allure.
Adventure Sports
Nainital beckons adventure enthusiasts from across the globe to partake in a variety of exhilarating sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and parasailing. The summer season is particularly ideal for hot air ballooning, mountaineering, and rock climbing in Nainital. As for shopping, the primary markets in Nainital, including Mall Road, Bohtia Bazaar, and the Mallital market, offer an array of high-quality woolen garments, candles, and ornamental wooden items for avid shoppers to explore.
Notable Attractions in Nainital
Naini Lake
Naini Lake takes center stage in Nainital’s breathtaking scenery, drawing a multitude of tourists each year. It also provides boating facilities, and the lake’s northern and southern ends, known as Mallital and Tallital, respectively, serve as vibrant shopping hubs.
Naina Peak or China Peak
Naina Peak, the highest summit in Nainital, is located approximately 6 km from the town. From this vantage point, visitors can behold stunning vistas of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks and the entire town.
The Flatts
The Flatts is a renowned leisure destination, featuring the statue of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant, a mosque, Naina Devi Temple, a Gurudwara, and an enchanting fountain. Other attractions in the vicinity include the Bhotia market, Boat House Club, Masonic Hall, and a spacious playground for various activities.
Nainital Zoo
Perched at an elevation of 2100 meters, the Nainital Zoo is conveniently situated close to the bus terminal. Here, visitors can spot a variety of rare animals, including the Himalayan Black Bear, Siberian Tiger, Leopard, Himalayan Monkey, Wolf, Palm Civet Cat, Silver Pheasants, Sambar, Barking Deer, Ghoral, Hill Fox, and Rose-ringed Parakeet.
Snow View
A delight for all age groups, Snow View, situated at 7450 feet, is accessible via an aerial ropeway. It treats visitors to breathtaking panoramas of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
