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About Nainital
Located in the Kumaon district in Uttarakhand, the name Ninital means "lake-eye." As romantic as the name sounds, the legend behind this name is rather detailed. The town gets its name from the tale of the 51 Shakti Peeth, from Hindu mythology. According to the myth, after the unjust death of goddess Sati, lord Shiva was overcome with grief and rage. As a result, he broke into a fit of destructive dance all across the universe. When Shiva's destructive rage threatened all life on earth, Vishnu devised a solution. He dismembered Sati's body into 52 parts with his Sudarshan Chakra to abate Shiva's ire.
The areas upon which these parts fell came to be regarded as sacred and were named Shakti Peeths.
The ground upon which Sati's right eye or 'nain' fell became known as Nainital or the "lake-eye."
This is because of the eye-shaped lake that is immediately recognizable as one of the landmark features of the town. The Naini Lake is surrounded by numerous Himalayan Peaks. Some of the highest peaks of Ninital are:
- the Naini Peak, at an impressive elevation of 8,579 feet, located towards the north
- the Ayarpatha Peak, at 7,474 feet to the south;
- the Deopatha, at an amazing 7,999 feet to the west.
This blend of mythology, scenic beauty and history makes Nainital one of India's most bespoke hill stations. As a result, it receives tourists all year round.
What are some famous attractions in Nainital?
There are various attractions frequently sought by tourists visiting Nainital. Some of the most bespoke ones are briefly listed ahead:
- Visit the Naini Devi Temple: Situated at the bank of the Naini Lake, this temple is a pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees as it is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths.
- Climb the Naini Peak: As the tallest Himalayan summit in the town, this is a no-skip for hikers determined to conquer the summits.
- Float across the Naini Lake: Tourists frequently avail boat and gondola rides across the lake.
- Listen to returning voices at the Eco Cave Gardens: This cluster of 6 naturally formed caves in the shape of animals.
- Offer reverence at the St. Johns Wilderness Church: Built in 1852 after Saint John the Baptist, this is one the oldest Protestant churches in Nainital. It boasts of esteemed neo-gothic architecture and is situated within a deodar forest near Dharamshala.
- Visit the Jama Masjid: The Jama Masjid used to be the imperial mosque of the Mughal emperors until the fall of the empire in 1857. As a result, it is a symbol of our country's Islamic heritage.
What is the best time to visit Nainital?
As one of India's most bespoke hill stations, Nainital receives tourists throughout the year. That being said, the period between March and June is generally the peak season. This is because spring is when the beauty of lakes and hill stations bloom. It is neither too cold to get out of bed nor too hot for the trip to be exhausting. However, for people who'd rather embrace the cold and the frozen landscape, the period between December and January is prime.
Off-season visits are also sought after by passengers in a pinch. July to September are peak monsoons, which can lead to blocked roads or difficulty in commuting. However, if these factors seem not deterrents, visiting Nainital during this time for amazing offers on a brilliant trip is a great option.
Things to do in Nainital
The numerous tourist attractions in Nainital make for many possible activities for visitors. Some of the most popular activities in Nainital are listed below:
- Boating on the Nini Lake: One of the prime activities tourists choose in Nainital. It is a great leisurely activity for visiting families and travel mates.
- Trekking at the hills: For adventurers looking for rigorous activities, trekking at the foothills of Nainital is a thrilling experience and a memorable opportunity.
- Visiting the religious sites: Nainital has many places of great spiritual significance. Its temples, churches and mosques are among the places of pilgrimage and worship. The Naini Temple, the Jama Masjid and the St. John's Church are frequently visited by travelers.
- Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs: As a bespoke hill station, there are various craftspeople in Nainital in their shopping markets with beautiful apparel, sweaters and garments.
- Experience regional cuisine: Nainital has a plethora of lentil-based cuisines that are sure to delight anyone who tries them.
- See the sunrise from the top of the hills: One of the best parts of visiting the hill station is catching the sun as it rises over the hills, as if right out of a children's picture book. The numerous hills of Nainital offer just that.
- Visit the Tibetan Market: You can shop for Tibetan food, collectables and handlooms in Tibetan markets.
- Ropeway rides: Nainital has some of the most breathtaking ropeway rides from the hills all the way across the city.