Nainital

Nestled in a lush, wooded valley of the Kumaon Himalayas lies a destination of singular charm and beauty: Nainital. What makes this town utterly unique is that its entire existence revolves around a shimmering, eye-shaped emerald lake. Unlike other hill stations that are spread across a ridge, Nainital is cradled around the magnificent Naini Lake, making the water its true heart and soul. From the vibrant, bustling Mall Road that hugs its shore to the quiet, forested hills that rise steeply from its banks, every aspect of life here is connected to the serene, ever-present water. It is a place that feels both like a lively holiday town and a deeply sacred spiritual center.

The very origin of Nainital is steeped in divine mythology. Legend holds that this is the spot where the charred eyes (nain) of the goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her mortal remains across the universe. This divine event not only gave the lake its name and its distinctive shape but also consecrated it as one of the most powerful Shakti Peeths in India. For centuries, it was a hidden, sacred spot known only to local pilgrims. Its modern history began in 1841 when a British sugar merchant, P. Barron, stumbled upon the lake and was so enchanted that he decided to build a European-style settlement on its shores. It quickly grew into a beloved summer retreat for the British, who left behind a legacy of beautiful colonial architecture, from quaint cottages and schools to the iconic Nainital Yacht Club.

This blend of sacred lore and colonial charm creates a truly captivating atmosphere. The town is divided into two distinct ends, Tallital (the ‘tail’ or lower end) and Mallital (the ‘head’ or upper end), connected by the bustling Mall Road. The local Kumaoni culture adds another layer of warmth, evident in the hospitality of the people and the delicious local cuisine. Nainital is also famous for its decorative candles, an art form perfected by local artisans. A walk through the town’s markets reveals a colourful array of these wax creations, making for perfect souvenirs. A visit to Nainital is a refreshingly complete experience—where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the morning, a lively market stroll in the afternoon, and a quiet moment of reflection by the temple as dusk settles over the sacred lake.

Key Attractions:

• Naini Lake: The heart and soul of the town. This stunning natural freshwater lake is the center of all activity. The most quintessential Nainital experience is to hire a colourful paddleboat or a traditional rowboat and glide across its serene waters. The Nainital Yacht Club, one of the oldest in India, fills the lake with the graceful sight of sailing yachts, especially on weekends.

• The Mall Road: This iconic promenade runs along the shore of Naini Lake, connecting Mallital and Tallital. It is the town’s main artery, a vibrant hub of activity. The road is generally closed to traffic during peak hours, making it a wonderful place for a leisurely stroll. It is lined with hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops selling everything from local handicrafts to trendy apparel.

• Naina Devi Temple: Perched on the northern shore of the lake in Mallital, this sacred temple is the spiritual anchor of the town. As a revered Shakti Peeth, it draws countless devotees. The temple’s serene location by the water, with the backdrop of the hills, makes it a place of immense peace and spiritual energy.

• Snow View Point: Offering the most spectacular views of the Himalayas, Snow View Point is accessible via a thrilling aerial ropeway that starts in Mallital. On a clear day, the viewpoint provides a breathtaking, unobstructed panorama of the snow-capped peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. It’s a must-visit for panoramic photography and to feel the grandeur of the high Himalayas.

• Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): A beautiful terraced viewpoint located on Ayarpatta Hill. It offers a stunning 360-degree view of Nainital town and the surrounding Kumaon hills. It can be reached via a scenic 4-kilometer trek or a memorable pony ride through a lovely deodar and oak forest. The spot is named after an English artist, Dorothy Kellett, whose husband built a seat here in her memory.

• Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo: Uniquely situated at an elevation of 2,100 meters, this is one of the best-maintained zoos in India. It specializes in the conservation of high-altitude Himalayan species, providing a chance to see animals like the majestic Siberian tiger, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and the adorable red panda in a habitat that is close to their natural one.

• Eco Cave Gardens: A fun and adventurous attraction, especially for families with children. This is a natural park consisting of a network of six interconnected rocky caves of different sizes. Visitors have to crawl and squeeze their way through the winding tunnels, which are named after various wild animals, making for a thrilling, maze-like experience.

• Tibetan/Bhotia Market: Located next to the Flats (a large ground near the Naina Devi Temple), this bustling market is a delight for shoppers and foodies. The narrow lane is lined with colourful stalls selling a wide variety of fashionable clothes, shawls, scarves, and handicrafts at bargain prices. It is also the best place in town to savor delicious, steaming hot momos and thukpa.