Nainital

Activities in Nainital

There are a number of places that one can pay a visit to while holidaying in Nainital. However, if one has less time, one can surely go for a place which interests him/her the most. Since Nainital offers a number of experiences which ranges from trekking, boating, shopping, picnic, sightseeing, Rope-way, spiritual one and others through a number of places which have these things to offer to the inquisitive and zealous traveler.

• Boating: The majestic Naini Lake is the centerpiece of Nainital and boating is one the most popular activity among tourists and honeymoon couples. Yachting is another form of boating that is gaining popularity in Nainital.   
• Shopping: Tourists can find few local markets in Nainital like Bara Bazar, Tibetan market and Mall Road market from where one can shop for apparels, handicrafts, artifacts and souvenirs. The markets in Nainital are known for scented candles, key chains, books and artificial jewelry. 
• Picnic Spots and Ropeway: Nainital has an aerial ropeway that connects the town with Snow View Point which offers breathtaking view of the lake as well as the surrounding places like China Peak, Tiffin Top and Snow View point. 
• Trekking / Hiking: There are several hiking trails in and around Nainital where adventure lovers can hike and explore the nature. Nainital-Betalghat Trek, Nainital-Binayak Trek, Nainital-Kainchi Trek, Nainital-Kilbury Trek and Snow View Trek are popular hiking trails in Nainital.

Staying in Nainital

Nainital is the crown jewel of tourism in Uttarakhand and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Finding an accommodation is not an issue at Nainital, as there are multitudes of star-studded hotels and resorts as well as budget guesthouses peppered all over the Nainital. The luxurious hotels offer many perks to its guests while budget guesthouses have basic facilities and limited amenities.                 

Nainital have plenty of staying options right from the luxury 5 star hotels, to budget low-cost lodges, homestays and bungalows. Nainital have accommodation for every class of tourists for every budget. You can also select your hotel based on its location from main markets, to secluded places or lake side hotels.

Nainital Food Guide

Due to its popularity all over the country, many restaurants and eateries have mushroomed all over the lake town of Nainital. Tourists can try various international cuisines including Italian, Thai, Continental and Chinese along with the scrumptious Indian cuisine. 

Many luxury hotels and resorts in Nainital have their own in-house restaurants and bar for their guests. The Mall Road of Nainital is full of eating joints and fine dining restaurants with a beautiful view of Naini Lake.

History of Nainital

After the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814-16, the Kumaon hills came under the British rule and the hill station Nainital was founded in 1841 when the first European house was constructed by P. Baron, a sugar trader from Shahjahanpur. The oldest buildings of Nainital includes the St. John's church snuggled in the wilderness of Nainital, followed by Belvedere, Alma, Asdale Cottage built in 1860.

Soon the lesser known town of Nainital became the hotspot of the British soldiers and colonial officials who came with their families to escape the scorching heat of the plain areas. Around 1880, Nainital came to be known as the exclusive British summer getaway in India. In the 19th century, some of the prestigious English schools were established in Nainital that only enrolled British children.

Mythology about Nainital

Nainital finds mention in various ancient myths and legends. The Naini temple at the banks of Naini Lake holds a lot of significance especially among the Hindus as it is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths in India.

According to the Hindu mythology, the Naini Lake one of the popular tourist attractions of Nainital is the place where the eyes or 'nain' of Sati fell, when Lord Shiva was carrying her charred body to Kailash. Therefore, the place came to be known as 'Nain-tal' or the lake of the eye. In the memory of this event, a Naina Devi Temple was built where Goddess Shakti is worshipped by the devotees. The temple is idyllically situated on the north shore of the aesthetic Naini Lake.

Why visiting Nainital is pure joy for honeymooners?

The picturesque lake city of Nainital is a honeymooner’s paradise as it has a lot to offer to the newlyweds. From the sapphire like lakes, the dewy mornings, the tangy sunsets, the lively streets and the solitary suburbs, you can explore every bit of the city. Get drenched in the beauty of the Naini Lake or enjoy having a romantic candlelight dinner with your lovely beloved at the lake facing lavish restaurants.

The couples can also enjoy boating at the emerald Naini Lake or go for yatching. On lazy evenings, one can stroll around the market side or enjoy a shopping spree at the Flatts. You can also seek blessings from the Gurudwara and the Naina Devi temple complex for your happy married life.

Some of the important places in the district of Nainital are Haldwani, Kaladhungi, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal.