Nainital

Nainital is a picturesque hill station tucked away in the Himalayan ranges of Nainital district of Uttaranchal, India. Nainital derives its name from the beautiful Naini Lake, ('tal' means lake). This beautiful town is a favorite with tourists looking to escape the summertime heat in the plains. Nainital is a favored location for Bollywood film shoots.

Tourist Attractions in Nainital

The Naini Lake, nestled in a cluster of seven hills, is at the heart of Nainital town. The banks of the Lake are lit up at night and the place is transformed into a fairyland. For a small charge, you can also enjoy the boating facilities at the lake. Danth Bridge spans across the southern part of the lake, and somewhat surprisingly, has an old post office situated on it.

Naina Peak is the highest point in Nainital, commanding a view of not just the mountain peaks in Nainital, but also in Nepal. The panoramic view of the Nainital Town, with the Naini Lake shining crystal like in the center of the town, should not be missed.

Alongside the Naini Lake runs the semi circular GB Pant Road, popularly called Mall Road. On the opposite side of Naini Lake is the Thandi Road, leading to a small temple. Vehicular traffic is periodically barred on both the roads to enable tourists to take a leisurely walk. The Mall Road has major restaurants, hotels, shops and business concerns.

The Flats, on the lakeside, is the entertainment district of Nainital. It has a large expanse of level ground on which games, tournaments and cultural programs are organized. The major cinema theatres of Nainital are located here. Being very popular with tourists, the Flats are surrounded by buzzing bazaars selling items ranging from local delicacies to souvenirs.

The newly built Caves Garden lies one kilometer away from Naini Lake. 3 kilometers away from Naini Lake is the aptly named Snow View Peak that presents the visitor with the beautiful sight of snow covered mountain peaks. A temple is located on the summit of this peak.

Nearby Attractions

The Aryabhatta Reasearch Institute of Astronomical Sciences is located 10 kilometers away from Nainital. On certain days, the Observatory allows visitors to take a glimpse at the stars and planets through the telescope. 5 kilometers outside Nainital is the spectacular Tiffin Top peak, accessible through a narrow, mountainous road. But the travails of the bumpy journey are forgotten once you get to view the marvelous snow covered peaks from the 3000 meter high Tiffin Top peak.

Bhimtal Lake, a large lake 20 kilometers away from Nainital, offers boating facilities to tourists at a nominal price. A large temple stands beside the Bhimtal Dam.

How to Reach Nainital

Kathgodam Station, 37 kilometers away, is the nearest railhead. Trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Ramnagar (near Corbett National Park) and Dehradun halt at Kathgodam.

Pantnagar Airport is 63 kilometers away. A private carrier provides daily flights from Delhi to Pantnagar.

Well connected to Delhi, Dehradun and all the major cities of Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal through NH 87. Frequent Luxury and non-luxury bus service from these locations.

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