Nainital

A Perfect Gem

Area : 11.7 Sq.kms.
Altitude : 1938 mts.Above sea level

This attractive hill station was once the summer capital of Uttar Pradesh and is the largest town in Kumaon. This region is called the Switzerland of Asia like most hill stations homesick Brits who were reminded of the Cumbrian Lake District founded Nainital.
The first recorded discovery of this now popular hill station was in 1841 when a Britisher Mr. Barron chanced upon the lake. Moved by the scenic beauty of the lake and thickly forested hills he constructed a house named pilgrim’s Cottage. It was the the first of many residences which were to transform Nainital became a well-known hill station and within a few years the summer seat of the provincial government.
According to local belief the origin of Nainital dates back to mythological times. Sati Lord Shiva consort committed suicide at the yajna of Daksha Prajapati.When Lord Shiva roamed the universe carrying her dead body Sati’s eyes fell near the lake where Lord Shiva roamed the universe carrying her dead body Sati’s eyes fell near the lake where the Naina Devi temple is the venue of an autumnal fair. In ancient times the lake was known as the Tri-Rishis Sarovar the lake of the three Rishi-Atri Pulastya and Pulaha.Perior to 1839 the valley was covered by thick forests and inhabited by hill tribesmen.
A major landslide in 1880 led to the formation of the flats the level ground by the lake. Nainital’s range from quiet walks in meadows and forest of pines and deciduous to adventure sports as well as popular entertainment. This hill resort can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
The hotels and popular villas of this popular resort are set around the peaceful Naini Lake or Tal hence the name. This is certainly one of the most pleasant hill stations to visit and there are many interesting walks through the forests to point with superb views of the Himalaya.

Places of attraction
Snow View: Situated at 2270 mts. This popular vantage point is accessible by ropeway.It offers an excellent view of the northern Himalayan ranges dominated by Nanda Devi.Alternatively anyone can take one of the beautifully groomed horses from Mallital to Snow View offering a pleasant alternative to the steep to 2 kms walk. A walk up to the steep to 2 kms walk. A walk up to Snow View can take in the tiny Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa of the gelupa order ( of which Dalai Lama is the spiritual leder).
Take the road uphill from the Hotel city Heart from where a path branches off towards the gompa (the colourful prayer flags are visible from the road).

Naina Peak: At 2611 mts., this is the highest peak bordering the lake. A popular picnic spot which offers a panoramic view of the resort. It is a 5 kms walk from the lake.from the top there are stunning views of the Himalaya including Nanda Devi and the mountains on the Tibetan border.

Dorothy’s Seat: Named in memory of an English woman who was killed in an aircrash this pleasant spot offers a partial view of Nainital. This is also known as Tiffin top from where it’s a lovely walk to Land’s End through a forest of oak deodar and Pine.

Land’s End: Situated at 2118 mts. On the southern border of the lake this hill affords a view of another lak Khurpa Tall.

Hanuman Garhi: Other destinations for walks include the Hanumangarhi temple 3 kms south of Tallital which is known for its sunset. It is a place of religious interest also good for viewing the setting sun.

State Observatory: Located on the top of a ridge the observatory is open to the public in the evening.

The Mall: Nainital’s popular promenade offers a variety of entertainment.

Naini Lake : This attractive lake is said to be one of the emerald green eyes a Shiva’s wife Sati ( naina is Sanskrit for eye).The modern Naina Devi Temple at the northern end of the lake is built over the precise spot where the eye is believed to have fallen.

Sat Tal: It is a large lake in an amphitheatre of hills with a wooded island which is a popular picnic spot also.

Nainital Zoo: 1.5 kms south-east. The zoo specializes in high-altitude species and is open from 10am to 5pm daily except Monday.