Nainital
Nainital is a fascinating tourist spot of the Kumaon region. It is called the Lake District of India. This hill station is one of the ‘jewels’ of Himalayan region. The important areas in Nainital district include Haldwani, Ramnagar, Kaladhungi, Ramgarh, Bhowali, Sattal, Bhimtal, Mukteshwar and Naukuchaital.
History
Several ancient myths and legends mention Nainital. A European businessman, P. Barron, founded Nainital around the famous Naini Lake. This lake is significant for Hindus, as they believe it to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva did his ‘Tandava’ dance on this lake.
Nainital derived its name from the Naini Lake, where “Tal” means “Lake.”
How to Reach from Delhi
By Rail
Tourists can reach Nainital from Delhi through Ranikhet Express.
By Road
Bus journey from Delhi to Nainital takes around 8-9 hours. Volvo bus service is available. Buses usually run at night.
Attractions
The key attraction of Nainital is Naini Lake, which is pear shaped. Green mountains surround it. Tourists can do yachting, boating and paddling in this lake. During night, the lake reflects lights from hotels and houses. This gives it a magical appearance. Naini Lake is categorized into Tallital in the southern end and Mallital in the northen end. Both sides feature shopping centers.
The highest peak of Nainital is Naina Peak or China Peak. There is a facility of trekking and horse riding some 6 km from the town of Nainital. This takes tourists to the peak where they can enjoy the panoramic view of the grand snow-capped Himalayas and a splendid view of the town.
The Nainital Zoo is located a kilometer away from the bus stand and is a popular tourist spot. Animals in the zoo that attract tourists include Barking Deer, Palm Civet Cat, Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Silver Pheasants, Siberian Tiger, Rose ringed Parakeet and other Himalayan birds.
The newest attraction of Nainital is the Eco Cave Garden. It is an excellent place for kids to learn about ecosphere. Do you know Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) is situated on Manora Peak, which is about 9 km from Nainital! This is the hub for astronomical studies.
The Snow View Point, as the name suggests, gives a breathtaking view of the snow clad Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot. Tourists can access this point through cable car, aerial ropeway and by road. The peaks render a spectacular view, which looks like a trip to heaven.
The Raj Bhawan or the Governor’s House is an inviting double-storied mansion consisting of 113 rooms, golf court, swimming pool and a big garden. It is designed in Victorian Gothic style.
This and more attractions in this stunningly beautiful hill station of Uttarakhand draw tourists from across the globe. Nature’s bountiful beauty is jaw-dropping here.
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